An overview of the turbopump development programme in the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s aerospace systems research group

Abstract

Space technologies are becoming increasingly important to economic development in Africa. Despite this, the continent lacks a satellite launch capability and its reliance on foreign launch service providers may be seen as both limiting development and compromising economic independence. South Africa, with its well developed space infrastructure, is in a uniquely favourable position to lead the way to an African launch capacity. The presentation will also address the development of a pump test facility for use in improving the design process and validating impeller performance. The closed loop test rig will run scaled down impellers derived according to the pump affinity laws. The facility will enable an experimental investigation of the impeller’s head-rise, capacity, power consumption, efficiency and net positive suction head requirements. Pressure distributions in the impeller will investigated to improve understanding of the through-blade flow characteristics and assist in design optimisation. Data will provide a reference for future CFD work. The test rig will use a 65 kW hydraulic motor coupled to a 6:1 gearbox to drive the impeller up to speeds of 5000 rpm.