A PEroxide Propulsion Element

Design philosophy

A propulsion system is one of the most critical parts of a space vehicle. Hence, from the very beginning of the design phase, the focus has been on the design simplicity and user-friendliness. The PEPE engines are highly throttable and work with storable, green and dense propellant combinations. The injector’s wetted area is highly variable, which allows for deep throttling without O/F mixture ratio shift and/or combustion instability issues.

Key design parameters of the concept

• Storable , non toxic , environmentally friendly propellants :
  –> H2O2 + Alcohol blended fuel
• Hypergolic (i.e. spontaneous) ignition by means of a special (starting) hypergolic fuel mixture:
  –> No ignition system required, no solid catalyst required
  –> Restart ability
  –> Allows to use a stabilized technical “T” grade peroxide
• Variable injector wetted area :
  –> Highly throttable (Thrust level lower limit only due to pump limitations and/or nozzle flow separation.)
  –> Gradual startup / shutdown sequences, low risk of a hard start
  –> An idle run possible (a “standby” mode)
• Lower chamber temperature , moderate chamber pressure:
  –> Better reusability (longer lifespan)
• Propellants supplied by means of electric pumps:
  –> Simple and reliable pumping system
  –> Low pressure propellant tanks for enhanced user friendliness and safety level