A Simple, Low-Cost Gas Generator for Launch Vehicles and Space Systems

Microcosm proposed to develop a simple, high-performance, high-reliability, low-cost gas generator for launch vehicle and space applications. The system will be based on Microcosm's design for a low-cost mixing gas generator and Allied Signal's liquid monopropellant 1846 HAN/TEAN developed for the U.S. Army. Phase I will define the system requirements and create a preliminary design for a high reliability system capable of producing 50,000 liters of gas per minute and being manufactured commercially in small lots for a recurring cost of less the $5,000. Phase II will build and test gas generators with working pressures form 25 psia to 500 psia. The resulting system is applicable to SSTO or Space Shuttle liquid oxygen tanks, as a pressure source for turbopumps, and as a pressure source for any pressure-fed propulsion systems. In addition, the work can lead to other space applications for HAN/TEAN itself such as a secondary fluid injection control fluid, a highly reliable ignition source, or a low-cost, high performance upper stage propellant.