Saturday, March 3, 2007, 12:39 PM
We ran six more test today on the fuel side because our fuel pressure sensor wasn't working during last weeks run (our ground wire was loose). After that we had a safety class with respect to cryogenic liquids (in our case liquid nitrogen, LN2). We proceeded to do some neat tests with LN2; such as freezing carnations, banana’s, and marshmallows (yummy!). We filled up the LOX tank with LN2 but had problems closing the LOX Drain valve, seems it froze to the point that we could not close it. After we let the pressure equalized we were able to disconnect the LN2 and close the valve. We were happy to see that we were able to actuate the LOX Vent valve and the Main Valve under cryogenic conditions (-320 degrees).
Here is a picture of a few students in LN2 protective gear
The following picture shows the plumbing which connects the LN2 Dewer to the LOX-side (notice how frost is building up)
We have a LN2 leak at the main valve shaft (you can see the LN2 spewing out)
Next week will be final cryo testing..
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Saturday, February 24, 2007, 12:36 PM
The computer team worked with the propulsion team this week do execute many test runs. These runs were used to record pressure drops and determine flow rates. We captured all the data during these runs for further analysis by the prop team. Video available on the prop blog.| permalink
Saturday, February 17, 2007, 08:00 AM
Today we prepared for and executed a set of waterflow tests. The video can be seen here:
Video
We have been able to command all valves except two. Hopefully we'll find the problem with those this coming Saturday. All the sensors are working but we do have some ratty thermocouple readings that we need to investigate. The waterflow tests have allowed us to execute some much needed testing.
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