Indian startup Agnikul achieves milestone with successful 3D printed rocket launch- Details
Indian startup Agnikul has successfully launched its first suborbital test vehicle, marking a significant achievement after overcoming several months of delays due to technical issues. The launch, powered by the company’s innovative 3D printed rocket engine, took place at the Satish Dhawan Space Center on Sriharikota island in South India.
Advanced engineering in the workplace
Dubbed the Agnibaan SOrTeD (Suborbital Technology Demonstrator), the single-stage vehicle lifted off Thursday morning local time, marking a major step forward for Agnikul’s development of the orbital launch vehicle Agnibaan trade guide.
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The 6.2 meter tall rocket, constructed of carbon composite material, contains Agnikul’s proprietary 3D printed semi-cryogenic engines, each capable of generating 6.2 kN of thrust. These in-house built motors are manufactured efficiently, with significantly shorter turnaround times than traditional methods thanks to advanced 3D printing technology, explains CEO Agnikul Srinath Ravichandran, TechCrunch. reported.
Challenges and solutions
Ravichandran emphasized the uniqueness of Agnikul’s approach, highlighting the unibody structure of the core engine, which streamlines the manufacturing process and enhances flexibility. While other companies apply 3D printing to rocket parts, Agnikul claims the comprehensive use of the technology has made a difference, bringing great adaptability and customization to missions. space destiny.
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The choice of inconel as the engine material posed challenges, especially in thermal management, which led Agnikul to carefully study cooling channel designs. Additionally, the startup prioritizes safety by choosing a system based on liquid propulsion instead of solid fuel, minimizing hazards associated with explosive materials.
Agnikul’s journey from concept to launch includes rigorous engineering and multiple iterations, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation. With support from retired ISRO scientists and collaboration with academic institutions like IIT Madras, Agnikul is poised to revolutionize India’s space sector.
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The successful test launch not only affirmed Agnikul’s technological prowess but also reflected India’s growing prominence in the global space arena. With a growing space technology startup ecosystem and supportive government policies, India has the ability to leverage its capabilities for commercial space projects, ushering in a new era of space exploration and innovation.