ISRO successfully tests indigenous alloy for PSLV engine, achieves 90% cost reduction
Bengaluru, April 19. In a major stride towards self-reliance in space technology, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the final qualification test of an indigenous alloy proposed for use in the fourth stage (PS4) of its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
The test, conducted at ISRO’s Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, marked the culmination of a series of hot tests on a new nozzle divergent made from Stellite (KC20WN), a cobalt-based alloy. This material is being explored as an alternative to the currently used imported Columbium (C103) to enhance Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives and reduce production costs.
Stellite, which contains chromium, nickel, tungsten, and iron, maintains high strength even at elevated temperatures up to 1150°C, making it well-suited for high-temperature aerospace applications. As part of its rigorous qualification programme, ISRO conducted three hot tests across two hardware units, with the final test lasting a full 665 seconds.
According to ISRO, replacing Columbium with the indigenous Stellite alloy could lead to a significant cost reduction of up to 90%, without compromising on performance.
