Trunnion and Other Projects

As of now, Rocket Lab is mainly working on rebuilding Trunnion for a second test-fire in mid February. We will be using a new nozzle design that minimizes the effects of tensional stresses during the ignition stage of the burn. We will be using the same case as our previous static fire, which means we have to take apart and thoroughly clean the case before our next test, while also checking for damage from our last firing. Preliminary checks are looking good.

We also are nearing completion of the nosecone mold plug for Traveler. We plan on testing the nosecone design and manufacturing processes by flying it on the body of Del Grande, along with some changes in the avionics and recovery systems. Updates will follow as work progresses.

We finally have some photos of the Trunnion firing! (Thanks to Ian). Please enjoy:

Our thrust-stand setup, along with data collection system:

Static fire:


Now for some more recent photos: Mitch working on 8" nosecone plug:


Jordan attaches the thrust collector to a winch to pry out our de-pinned nozzle bulkhead:


Using mother nature to our advantage! (the trees were perfectly unharmed) - they helped us pry out the thrust bulkhead.