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Successful Test of P160C Motor Marks Progress for European Launchers
On April 24, the European Spaceport in French Guiana witnessed a significant advancement in rocket technology with the successful test of the P160C qualification motor. This test took place on the solid-propellant booster test stand (BEAP), managed by the French Space Agency (CNES). The event is touted as a crucial milestone in enhancing Europe’s future Ariane 6 and Vega launch systems.
The P160C motor is an evolution of the previously developed P120C, created through a collaborative effort between ArianeGroup and Avio via their joint-venture, Europropulsion. It is recognized as one of the largest carbon-fiber one-piece solid-propellant rocket motors globally. The development initiative is under the jurisdiction and funding of the European Space Agency (ESA).
Measuring one meter longer than its predecessor, the P160C also accommodates over 14 tons of additional solid fuel, thereby significantly boosting the performance, payload capacity, and overall competitiveness of the Ariane 6 and Vega launchers.
The extension of the P160C design was achieved without compromising the integration with the Ariane 6’s central core. This development is in tandem with enhancements in production capabilities at ArianeGroup, Avio, and their partners, as well as the ongoing assembly and ramp-up of the existing P120C motors in preparation for upcoming launches of Ariane 6 and Vega-C.
The construction of the P160C consists of three primary components. Firstly, its composite structure is produced by Avio in Colleferro, Italy, utilizing advanced filament winding and automated processes involving carbon/epoxy pre-preg fibers. Second, the nozzle, crafted by ArianeGroup at its Le Haillan facility in France, is made from composite materials that can withstand the extreme temperatures of up to 3000°C generated during operation. This nozzle is equipped with gimballed functionality to direct the launcher’s trajectory. Finally, propellant loading and the final assembly of the motor are executed by joint subsidiaries of Avio and ArianeGroup, specifically Regulus and Europropulsion, in French Guiana.
The third key component of the P160C is an aluminum igniter, composed of carbon-fiber composite material, which guarantees effective ignition of the motor. These igniters are produced by Nammo in Raufoss, Norway, under the supervision of Avio.
This successful qualification test for the P160C comes just four years post-qualification of the P120C motor, which is currently utilized in both the Ariane 6 and Vega-C launch systems, and follows their inaugural commercial flight.
Citation: P160C fires up successfully, a new chapter for Ariane 6 and Vega launchers (2025, April 28) retrieved 28 April 2025 from phys.org
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phys.org