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Scottish rocket firm Orbex and Danish consultancy Force Technology will develop the high-energy system, which will investigate Orbex’s large scale engines to help eliminate any internal flaws.
Aimed at reinforcing the reliability and safety credentials of the Orbex Prime rocket, which could start launching from Space Hub Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands as early as late 2022, the project is the sixth development contract that the ESA has awarded Orbex.
The X-ray inspection system has already enabled non-destructive inspection of European launch propulsion systems, but the next phase of development will see it being used on very large structures, including Orbex’s fully 3D-printed rocket engine chambers.
The company’s custom-made 3D printer is the largest high-precision metal 3D printer in use in Europe, enabling production of the world's largest ‘monobody’ rocket engines.
The Prime is currently being tested in launch ‘dress rehearsals’ at Orbex’s LP1 launch platform in Kinloss, in Moray, Scotland. The micro-launcher is designed to transport small satellites weighing about 150kg to low Earth orbit.
“Orbex is set to be the first launch operator to be able to carry out high-energy X-ray inspection of rocket engines prior to flight, using the unique technologies and IP we are helping to develop as part of our work with the ESA,” said Chris Larmour, CEO of Orbex.
“As we move towards series production we will use this new capability to give peace of mind to customers, and assurance to licensing authorities that we have a fully comprehensive propulsion testing regime in place.”
Lars Vesth, COO of Force Technology, said: “Force Technology is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is technically possible, and operating in the space industry has enabled us to be at the forefront of technology innovation over many years. In the 1980s, Force delivered inspection systems for the US space shuttle; we were awarded our first ESA contract in 2005; and – more recently – have provided technology for the Ariane 6 launcher.
“The recently signed ESA contract with Orbex will create an efficient high-energy X-ray inspection system specifically optimised for the Orbex monobody engines – and Force Technology looks forward to seeing our technology contribute to Orbex progressing to commercial launches.”
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