News | < 1 minute Reading Time | 2017-11-09

Test Like You Fly, Fly Like You Test

When building a rocket there is a whole flight certification process, and qualification is an important part of that. It proves the hardware meets the requirements and performs the way it is designed to do. Of all parts of a rocket, the engine section is perhaps the most critical during launch. The weight of the massive rocket is pushing down, while the engines are pushing up with millions of pounds of thrust. Whether it is an engine for experimental rockets or for commercial spaceflight, adequate testing is critical to the success of each launch program.

Engine testing is done in the same way and for the same duration that will be needed during an actual launch. The idea is to replicate as close as possible how the engine will be used on a space mission. That is why there is a saying in the rocket business: “Test Like You Fly, Fly Like You Test”.

Because of the cost and risk associated with developing and testing an engine, a reliable test setup is vital. Maintaining system consistency and accuracy in a harsh environment is putting stringent requirements on the data acquisition equipment. DAQ systems must be able to record, display and process up to 2000 different parameters, varying from pressures, flow rates, vibrations and temperatures. Real-time sample rates may vary form 10 Hz to several kHz. The Q.series’s accuracy, flexibility and reliability makes it the data acquisition system of choice for world’s leading engine manufacturers and engine testing facilities.

Please read the full article on our measurement solution for rocket engine testing on page 76 in the Aerospace Testing International Showcase 2018.

Tips & Trends

Turn your TwinCAT automation system into a high-performance Data Acquisition System

Connectivity and flexible integration of our high-accuracy and high-speed I/O modules into any automation system is in our DNA. That is why we have made our high-performance Q.series X I/O modules available for easy and comfortable integration into TwinCAT, the EtherCAT master from Beckhoff.

News

Enhanced Functionality with GI.bench’s Newest Release: Revamped UI, Powerful Tools and More!

Introducing the latest update to our powerful and intuitive testing and measurement software - GI.bench. This update promises to elevate your testing capabilities with features designed to streamline your workflow and maximize productivity.

Events

GDevCon 4 Glasgow

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of graphical programming at GDevCon 2023 on the 20th and 21st of September, from 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, at the esteemed Glasgow Science Centre, Scotland. This conference is a must-attend event for anyone striving to push the boundaries in the fields of engineering and technology.

Events

Automotive Testing Expo Novi 2025

Get ready to supercharge your automotive testing game with Gantner Instruments at the Automotive Testing Expo North America 2025 in Novi, Michigan! From October 21 - 23, visit Booth 8060 to explore innovations that can help you achieve shorter product development cycles, greater efficiency, and better durability.