Skyroot Aerospace, a private space startup, has announced the successful test-firing of its second fully 3D-printed cryogenic engine, Dhawan-II, for 200 seconds. The engine, which is more powerful than its predecessor, Dhawan-I, will enhance the payload capacity of Skyroot's second-generation rocket, Vikram-II. The company plans to conduct multiple commercial launches with Vikram-I later this year and simultaneously develop Vikram-II. Cryogenic engines are better suited to power long-range and long-duration first stages of a rocket, leading to increased range and trajectories. Dhawan-II uses liquid natural gas and liquid oxygen and is more environmentally friendly than other rocket fuels.
The 3D-printed cryogenic rocket engine Dhawan-II is a major achievement for Skyroot Aerospace. The engine uses advanced 3D printing technology for the manufacturing of its components, including the torch igniter and cryo-injection valve. With the 3D printed technology the company was able to design a complex geometry that would not have been possible with traditional manufacturing, which led to greater reliability and lower costs. Skyroot's ability to 3D print rocket engines represents a significant leap forward in the development of private rocket technology and could help make space travel more accessible and affordable.
