Advancing Liquid Rocket Propulsion Education: Design, Fabrication, and Testing of the minTS Test Stand

The team was tasked with the design and construction of a minimal liquid fuel engine test stand (minTS) to facilitate the testing of rocket engines using liquid oxygen (LOX) and isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Several methodologies were utilized, including Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics for structural and flow simulations. A Python-based control program was developed for system management. Monitoring tools, including thermocouples, pressure transmitters, and load cells, were implemented for real-time data acquisition. Additionally, non-destructive and destructive integrity tests were conducted on tanks and structural components. The system can operate at pressures exceeding 50 psi for IPA and 80 psi for LOX, ensuring stable combustion. The engine is self-regulating and can maintain a fuel-to-oxidizer ratio within predefined parameters. The design incorporates a convergent-divergent (de Laval) nozzle capable of enduring a 10-second fire without material failure. To date, minTS has completed 25successful test fires, with ongoing tests planned. Over 200 pages of detailed documentation were developed, including a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, and a Standard Operating Procedure catering to the educational needs of future Portland State Aerospace Society students. The final design can fit within a standard-size SUV, set up within 30 minutes, and facilitate quick tank refills. Although the current system successfully acquires essential data, future improvements can include noise reduction in data collection and general refinement. minTS is a robust and efficient test stand, offering expansive opportunities for future developments and applications in rocket propulsion testing for the Portland State Aerospace Society.