Development of the MPCV ESM propellant tanks

Abstract

In November 2014 the development of the propellant tanks for the MPCV ESM (MultiPurpose Crew Vehicle, European Service Module) has passed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and is currently approaching the Critical Design Review (CDR). The MPCV is expected to carry out missions to the moon and the International Space Station ISS. This puts a strong emphasis on the propellant tank design which needs to be very flexible with respect to the mission scenarios. The propellant tanks are designed to carry MON / MMH respectively. Due to the high flow rate requirements of the MPCV mission a new PMD tank design was invented which combines high flow rate capabilities with low pressure losses, standard for satellite PMD tanks. Furthermore the tank is optimized considering its mass as a major design driver. As for all spacecraft propellant tanks, bubble free delivery of propellant is guaranteed at all times. The PMD design is very flexible which allows enhancing the missions beyond moon and ISS, e.g. for missions to Asteroids. This paper discusses the functional aspects of the tank development, e.g. the design of the surface tension propellant management device, including the anti-sloshing baffles, vanes, screens etc.