Project
Ignis engine.

Construction

• This static test was the final test in the commissioning of the Ignis engine. Three engines were fired simultaneously to simulate a cluster of Ignis engines in a rocket. All engines were constructed with 16" lengths of schedule 40 PVC. Nozzles were cast in the engine casing as were the end caps and igniters. All engines weighed within 3/100th of a pound of each other even though they were constructed one at a time. The post fire weight of the engines was 1.67 lbs. each and the nozzle throat erosion was minimal at .15"

Pros

• Even though all three engines were built separately, they weighed within 3/100th of a pound of each other. The construction method is very predictable and reproducible.
• All engines fired at the same time. This will be important in the upcoming flight where four of them will clustered in a 6" frame.
• The Ignis nozzle update worked perfectly and prevented any exhaust gasses from breaching the casing.
• The engines meet all the criteria of the original Ignis concept. Low cost, easy to manufacture and proven reliability.

Cons

• None.

Pictures

• The three completed engines.
• The three completed engines on the test stand.
• The test tank filled with water.
• Engines in the tank with the lid closed ready to be fired.
• These engines were fired with 120 volts as opposed to a 12 volt battery so they would all fire simultaneously.
• One of the nozzles cut in half after the test.

Video

• Static test of three Ignis engines fired at the same time.