December 1, 2005 Web posted at: 12:58 PM EST
(ROL Newswire) -- In October of 2004, AeroTech began taking orders for a planned re-release of the 54mm fiberglass-cased K250W single-use high-power rocket motor. Since then, AeroTech's phenolic and fiberglass casing and liner suppliers have either gone out of business or have sold their product lines to other companies. AeroTech has obtained a sample of fiberglass casing from an alternate manufacturer, and will be running tests using this casing, but is skeptical of the performance and reliability of the material in production quantities.
AeroTech at one time used an aluminum case for the K250W, and later switched to a fiberglass casing in compliance with the terms of DOT-E
10996 (now DOT-SP 10996), an exemption that AeroTech obtained from the the DOT in the mid-'90s. This exemption allows motors and reload kits containing more than 62.5 grams of propellant to be shipped economically via carriers such as FedEx and UPS.In order to expedite the re-introduction of the K250W and also enable use of the shipping exemption, the motor is being redesigned using a "hybrid" of single-use and reloadable technologies. That is, the new K250W will combine a conventional motor reloading kit with a one-time use aluminum casing and existing 54mm AeroTech, Dr. Rocket or Rouse-Tech RMSĀ end closures (closures not included).
AeroTech is actively engaged in the redesign process and is currently awaiting the receipt of new EX-numbers from the DOT that will permit the shipment of the new configuration. Samples will be sent to the Tripoli Motor Testing (TMT) committee shortly after the shipping approval is received.
The price of the redesigned K250W will remain the same as previously announced at $249.95.
AeroTech appreciates the patience of its customers as this issue is resolved, and apologizes for the frustration and inconvenience the delay has caused.
Source: RCS Rocket Motor Components (RCS), Inc.