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Flometrics solves engineering problems for other companies, but we generate our own problems to solve as well!
Flometrics has been extensively involved in the amateur liquid fueled rocket world since 1998. To date (March
2003) Flometrics has built and flown 4 liquid propellant vehicles and performed numerous static tests on our
various LR101 LOX and Jet A fueled rocket engines.
As things progressed with our vehicle designs and engine testing, a lot of good engineering ideas and designs
were discussed and created to solve various the problems we encountered. Currently Flometrics is working with
San Diego State University students to create the next generation of vehicles and drive systems. The following
pages document Flometrics rocket experimentation.
Currently, Flometrics is working on a testbed to test and fly our low cost rocket
fuel pump. This pump has the potential to reduce the cost and increase the reliability of rocket boosters.
Rocket turbopumps typically cost $1M or more and this type of pump could easily be produced for under $50K.
The weight would be the same as a turbopump (about 10 hp/lb)and it would be more reliable and easier to start
up and shut down. The design can be easily scaled for different applications.
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< Rocket Fuel Pump
The pistonless pump that Flometrics has developed is 90% less expensive than a turbopump, at comparable
weight. It is also more intrinsically safe and reliable than a turbopump. It offers 80-90% weight savings
over a pressure fed system with a minimal increase in complexity.
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< Rocket Testing
Flometrics static engine test stand for an Atlas Vernier engine (Rocketdyne LR-101). This test was a result of Dr. Harringtons 1998 advanced thermodynamics class, which reverse engineered the engine. |
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< Rocket Launch Page
Flometrics first vehicle rebuilt after a failed launch and fire using the LR-101 motor and staged LOX valve technology to mechanically insure a LOX lead.
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< Rocket Number 3
Flometrics second vehicle (V3) flew up about 20,000 ft and 6 miles downrange
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< Gimbal Rocket Test
Flometrics test of a fuel pressure powered hydraulic thrust vector control system.
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< Gyro Rocket
The rocket will use an airplane gyro to control its flight
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< September 2002 Launch
The Gyro rocket launched great, although we didn't use the gyro, as the winds were light and the control system was not fully checked out. .
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< SDSU Rocket Project
Flometrics and San Diego State University working on the next rocket which will include gimbaling,
in order to lift off with a higher mass, and the rocket fuel pump, in order to prove the technology. This
rocket will be the first to fly using the new pump technology.
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