Run-Tank Hydrostatic Tests - October 26th, 2024
The ethanol and nitrous oxide run tanks completed hydrostatic testing on October 26th, 2024. Each tank was pressurized to 1,300 psi and held for 15 minutes. The PDR defines maximum expected operating pressure as 1,030 psi for the ethanol tank and 1,000 psi for the nitrous oxide tank, making the tests approximately 1.26 and 1.30 times MEOP, respectively.
Ethanol tank
The ethanol tank completed the hold with no measurable pressure loss. The gap between the bulkheads and casing increased by approximately 0.017 inches. The report attributes the movement to the clearance between the clevis pins, bulkheads and casing being taken up under pressure.
Nitrous oxide tank
The first nitrous-tank pressurization showed a leak at the capped 1/4-inch NPT relief-valve fitting. The fitting was tightened and the test was repeated. The tank then held 1,300 psi for 15 minutes. Its bulkhead-to-casing gap increased by approximately 0.024 inches; the report attributes the larger movement to greater manufacturing clearance in that tank.
The PDR verification matrix records no permanent deformation or yielding in either tank.
