China continues testing its 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene engine

China continues testing its 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene engine
by Staff Writers
Beijing, China (SPX) May 17, 2023
China's National Space Agency has announced a significant achievement in the country's space propulsion development. The Xi'an Aerospace Propulsion Research Institute, known for its independent research and design capabilities, has successfully initiated two test runs of the 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene afterburning cycle engine. This milestone was achieved on the Tongchuan high-thrust liquid power test bench, marking the first time this powerful engine has been started in this manner.

The test runs carried out on May 12 served multiple purposes, primarily to verify the synchronization between the two start-up engines and the test bench. Furthermore, the tests confirmed the reliability of the test bench supply system and its measurement and control system. This achievement not only expands the testing capabilities of Asia's largest liquid rocket engine test bench but also indicates new advancements in the domain of engine research and testing technology.

Considering the unique aspects of this test run - a new state, a new profile, and a new test area - the development team engaged in comprehensive technical exchanges. They deeply discussed the development test plan and risk identification, formulated contingency plans and control measures, and planned pre-test projects in advance to mitigate any potential risks.

The complete success of this test signifies that the engine has met the necessary conditions for the transition phase. The team will proceed to perform more rigorous engine performance and function assessment tests, accumulate reliability samples, and lay a solid technical foundation for the development and application of reusable vehicles.

This 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene engine is a significant upgrade from the previously utilized 120-ton variant in China, promising to serve as a new type of high-quality primary engine. This development is a testament to the boundless possibilities of space exploration and the ongoing commitment of China's National Space Agency to contribute robustly to this vital scientific field.