The complexities involved in managing cryogenic fuels and conducting a static hot fire test in an open environment appear to have been the most challenging aspect of this project. The maker handled this challenge by constructing a comprehensive testing apparatus. This included mounting the vertical cylindrical propellant stack onto a steel test stand clearly marked Purdue SEDS.
Assembly required numerous components, such as frosted cryogenic plumbing lines and a steel flame deflector trench. The setup also featured a cart-mounted manifold panel housing multiple pressure gauges and manual valves. Automated actuator valves were integrated into the system, along with water spray systems and necessary anchor bracing. The operational sequence began with fluid purging, followed by ignition, which produced an initial fireball.
The engine fired downward into the blast deflector for several seconds, producing a bright, narrow yellow-orange exhaust flame. After the cutoff, cryogenic vapor vented from the nozzle along with a secondary combustion flash. The team successfully completed a second hot fire, and the next event will use remote DAQ triggers for all cameras.
An unfortunate trade-off noted was the damage sustained to the concrete pad next to the deflector. Furthermore, there remains an open question regarding the remaining steps before the rocket is ready for its scheduled launch in the fall.
Project by Purdue Space Program: A SEDS Chapter. Watch it on their YouTube channel: