// PROPULSION SYSTEMS AND ENGINE TECHNOLOGY TERM
Propellant Tank
A propellant tank is a specialized container within a rocket or spacecraft that holds the fuel and oxidizer needed for the propulsion system to operate. It ensures these propellants are stored safely and supplied to the engine when required.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A propellant tank is a critical aerospace component designed for the secure storage and controlled delivery of liquid or gaseous propellants, including fuels and oxidizers, to the propulsion system's engine in rockets and spacecraft, requiring robust structural integrity and thermal management.
BACKGROUND
A hybrid-propellant rocket is a rocket with a rocket motor that uses rocket propellants in two different phases: one solid and the other either gas or liquid. The hybrid rocket concept can be traced back to the early 1930s.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Fuel tank
- Oxidizer tank
- Propellant reservoir
- Storage tank
USAGE NOTE
Its design is crucial for overall vehicle performance, involving complex trade-offs in weight, material strength, and thermal management to prevent issues like propellant slosh.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Propellant Tank.
Develops and manufactures advanced cryogenic propellant tanks for its Falcon rockets and Starship vehicle, including stainless steel and composite structures for various propellants.
Engaged in the design, development, and manufacturing of propellant tanks for its New Glenn orbital launch vehicle and lunar landers, often focusing on cryogenic propellants.
A major supplier of propulsion systems and components for space, defense, and civil applications, including various types of propellant tanks and associated feed systems.
A European joint venture that develops and supplies Ariane launchers and propulsion systems, including the design and manufacturing of cryogenic propellant tanks for its rockets.
Designs, builds, and integrates propellant tanks into its wide range of spacecraft, satellites, and launch vehicle components for various missions, including exploration and national security.
A leading aerospace and defense company involved in launch vehicles and space systems, which includes the development and integration of propellant tanks for liquid and solid propulsion systems.
Pioneering the use of large-scale 3D printing to manufacture entire rockets, including the propellant tanks for its Terran 1 and Terran R launch vehicles.
Conducts extensive research and development on advanced propellant tank technologies, particularly for cryogenic propellants and in-space propellant storage and transfer for future exploration missions.