Lifetime expectancy test of RB 77 rocket engine

A lifetime expectancy test is reported for an engine belonging to RB77 HAWK that at the time of the test had reached an age of 24 years. The test included measurements of glass transition temperature, thermal stability, complex shear modulus and hardness. Furthermore, optical and radiographical investigations have been performed to ensure the integrity of the engine that prior to its arrival at FOI had been dropped. Finally, the engine was test fired at a temperature of 15 °C during which the thrust and the specific impulse were measured. All test and measurement results can be considered within normal ranges with respect to the engines age.