Akronauts venture into cryogenics with first student-made regeneratively cooled rocket engine

The Akronauts Rocket Design Team has once again pushed the boundaries of collegiate rocketry, achieving a major milestone with the successful hot-fire of their first regeneratively cooled liquid rocket engine, named "Stinger." This accomplishment comes on the heels of their groundbreaking launch of VLV, the first collegiate liquid rocket to be launched in Ohio.

"Stinger" is fueled by ethanol and liquid oxygen, with the latter posing unique challenges as a cryogenic propellant commonly used in the space industry. The engine’s initial test produced an impressive thrust of over 2,000 lbf, and in a subsequent test, it sustained a 40-second burn time—an achievement that underscores the team's engineering capabilities.

The journey to this success was anything but easy. Working with liquid oxygen required the team to overcome significant safety and design challenges, including material compatibility, pressure management and the creation of an effective ventilation system. These hurdles, coupled with the high cost and complexity of liquid-fueled rocket engines, have deterred many collegiate teams from pursuing similar projects. However, the Akronauts embraced these challenges, using the experience to gain invaluable hands-on knowledge in propulsion systems while also managing to reduce costs by designing and manufacturing the engine and test stand in-house.

"The Akronauts have done in a few years what has taken most teams a decade to achieve," shared Seth Arkwright, System Manager and Safety Officer for the Akronauts. "I am extremely proud of what we have done so far and am even more excited for what this team will do in the coming years."

The development of "Stinger" is a testament to the resilience and innovative spirit that drives student-led design and manufacturing. The Akronauts meticulously crafted every component of the engine, from the complex design of the thrust chamber to the careful selection of materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions. Their focus on performance optimization, manufacturing ease, and reliability has paid off, setting a new standard for student achievements in cryogenic rocketry.

Dr. Manigandan Kannan, the faculty advisor for the Akronauts and an assistant professor of mechanical engineering, echoed this sentiment: "Words cannot say how proud I am of these amazing students. Keep aiming higher everyone, and I am sure a space shot is coming in this decade from you all."

With "Stinger," the Akronauts have not only solidified their reputation as pioneers in collegiate rocketry but have also paved the way for future innovations in cryogenic propulsion systems.

RELATED CONTENT:

• Akronauts make history again: Launch first student-designed liquid rocket from Ohio
• Student rocket team hot fire tests liquid propellants for the first time

Story by CEPS Marketing and Akronauts Rocket Design Team.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd@uakron.edu.