LUMEN Demonstrator Project Overview

Abstract

In recent years the scientific focus of the DLR Institute of Space Propulsion was placed on experiments related to rocket engine combustion phenomena and thrust chamber aspects. A natural extension of this scientific portfolio is the step towards engine level competence by joining the existing component level competences. The DLR project LUMEN (liquid upper stage demonstrator engine) aims at developing and operating a modular LOX/LNG bread-board engine in the 25 kN thrust class for operation at the new P8.3 test facility in Lampoldshausen. This article discusses the background of the LUMEN project, its scientific goals and the means to achieve them. The planned bread-board engine is described and the reasoning behind propellant selection, choice of the expanderbleed scheme as the engine cycle layout and selection of technologies for key engine components is explained. This includes the API injector technology for increased combustion performance and heat exchange, a battleship turbomachinery setup and a hybrid ceramic nozzle extension design. The project logic, project timeline as well as recent advances and milestones are illustrated.