ISRO’s Indigenous Stellite Nozzle Cuts Import Costs

ISRO’s Indigenous Stellite Nozzle Cuts Import Costs

Why in News ?

ISRO has successfully developed an indigenous Stellite nozzle divergent for the PSLV’s fourth stage, replacing imported Columbium and reducing costs by 90%. The component passed its final hot test on April 8 at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.

Indigenous Material Breakthrough for PSLV:

• ISRO has developed a Stellite-based nozzle divergent for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), replacing imported Columbium material.
• Stellite, a cobalt-based alloy with Chromium, Nickel, Tungsten, and Iron, offers high-temperature strength up to 1150°C.
• This move boosts ISRO’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) mission in space hardware.

Successful Testing Milestone at Mahendragiri:

• The nozzle underwent three rounds of prior testing and passed a final hot test lasting 665 seconds on April 8.
• Tests were conducted at ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
• The indigenous nozzle will cut import costs by 90%, enhancing both cost-efficiency and strategic independence.

Strengthening Human Spaceflight Program

• ISRO also successfully tested the human-rated Vikas Engine, designed for the Gaganyaan mission.
• The LVM-3 G launch vehicle will use two Vikas engines to carry astronauts to space.
• The engine honors Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneer of India’s space journey.