ISRO Develops Indigenous Nozzle Divergent for PSLV

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved milestone in its self-reliance mission. It developed an indigenous alternative to the imported Columbium material used in the nozzle divergent of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). This new component is made from Stellite, a cobalt-based alloy that includes Chromium, Nickel, Tungsten, and Iron. The successful tests conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, demonstrated the Stellite nozzle’s ability to withstand temperatures up to 1150 degrees Celsius.

Development of Stellite Nozzle Divergent

ISRO’s shift to Stellite for the nozzle divergent marks a strategic move towards self-sufficiency. The new material offers a substantial cost reduction, saving ISRO approximately 90% in expenses associated with imported Columbium. Rigorous testing, including a hot test lasting 665 seconds, confirmed the material’s performance and durability.

History of the Vikas Engine

The Vikas engine, named after Vikram Sarabhai, has been very important in India’s space exploration efforts. Developed in the 1970s by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, it initially relied on technology from French aerospace manufacturers. The first successful test of the Vikas engine occurred in 1985, leading to its integration into various launch vehicles.

Functionality of the Vikas Engine

The Vikas engine powers critical stages of the PSLV and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). It operates using a combination of Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) as fuel and Nitrogen Tetroxide (N2O4) as an oxidiser. The engine achieves a maximum thrust of 725 kN, with different models having varying fuel capacities.

Types and Variants of Vikas Engine

There are two main types of Vikas engines – the High Thrust Vikas Engine (HTVE) and the High Pressure Vikas Engine (HPVE). The HTVE is a modified version with a thrust of 800 kN, used in the GSLV. The HPVE is still in development, aimed at boosting performance for future launch vehicles. Variants of the Vikas engine include Vikas-2, Vikas-2B, Vikas-X, and Vikas-4, each tailored for specific launch requirements.

Future Prospects and Applications

The Vikas engine will play important role in upcoming missions, including the human-rated LVM3 G vehicle, which will carry astronauts into space. The continued evolution of the Vikas engine reflects ISRO’s commitment to advancing indigenous technology and enhancing its launch capabilities.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the significance of indigenous technology in India’s space programme.
2. Critically examine the impact of the Vikas engine on India’s satellite launch capabilities.
3. What are the advantages of using Stellite over Columbium in aerospace applications? Explain.
4. What are the key challenges faced by ISRO in developing indigenous rocket technologies? Discuss with examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the significance of indigenous technology in India’s space programme.

1. Promotes self-reliance and reduces dependency on foreign technology.
2. Encourages local innovation and development within the aerospace sector.
3. Enhances national security by maintaining control over critical technologies.
4. Supports economic growth through job creation and skill development.
5. Facilitates faster project timelines and cost reductions in space missions.

2. Critically examine the impact of the Vikas engine on India’s satellite launch capabilities.

1. Increases payload capacity for satellites, enhancing mission versatility.
2. Improves reliability and performance of launch vehicles like PSLV and GSLV.
3. Reduces costs by transitioning from imported components to indigenous solutions.
4. Enables advancements in technology, paving the way for future missions.
5. Strengthens India’s position in the global space launch market.

3. What are the advantages of using Stellite over Columbium in aerospace applications? Explain.

1. Significant cost savings, reducing expenses by approximately 90%.
2. Superior thermal resistance, withstanding temperatures up to 1150 degrees Celsius.
3. Enhanced mechanical properties due to its cobalt-based alloy composition.
4. Indigenous production supports national self-reliance initiatives.
5. Improves durability and longevity of aerospace components, reducing maintenance needs.

4. What are the key challenges faced by ISRO in developing indigenous rocket technologies? Discuss with examples.

1. Limited access to advanced materials and technologies compared to global players.
2. Need for extensive research and development to innovate and improve existing designs.
3. Challenges in scaling up production capabilities for new technologies.
4. Maintaining quality and reliability while transitioning from imported to indigenous solutions.
5. Competition from established international aerospace companies in the global market.