SNPE Matériaux Energétiques: Propulsion

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Space propulsion

The space adventure would not have seen the light without solid propulsion control, keystone of most space launchers, together with liquid propulsion. Energetic materials are therefore the heart of launchers, since chemical energy is indispensable to provide the considerable thrust required for take-off and for placing satellites and other exploration probes into orbit.

Therefore, solid propulsion has indisputable advantages, namely performance and high reliability, with attractive economical conditions.

Know-how and skills

Since the sixties with the beginning of the European space adventure, SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques has been involved in all Ariane family evolutions. Pole of excellence for solidpropulsion, SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques mobilizes a unique set of skills to contribute to and meet customer needs.

• With its expertise in operating safety and safety, SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques was mandated by the CNES (French national space agency) and ESA (European Space Agency) to design and build the Guiana propellant plant (UPG) in Kuru.
• SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques contributes to the modernization and upgrading of the Guiana Propellant plant by providing constant support to REGULUS, a subsidiary created with AVIO. REGULUS operates this plant and produces the large central and rear segments of Ariane 5 Solid Rocket Motors (MPS). Segments contain more than 100 tons of propellant each and ensure over 90% of launcher take-off thrust.
• SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques supports the CNES/CSG regarding the safety range (economic interest group ESQS) and carries out safety audits for new installations or new production integration.

SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques also prepares for the future through Research and Development activities, namely:

• world top-ranking works on the internal operation of large segmented solid motors,
• process improvement studies, notably for the perpetuation and medium-term evolution of the Guiana Propellant Plant,
• energetic material developments and advanced solid propulsion architecture concepts for space launchers.

Other products

Other than solid propulsion, SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques, via its subsidiary PyroAlliance, is involved in the supply of pyrotechnic components and equipment ensuring functions such as stage or satellite separation.

SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques is now principally involved in solid propulsion, nonetheless, it used to supply liquid propellant UDMH for Ariane 4 and SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques currently provides MMH destined for Ariane 5 EPS stage propulsion.

Contact: Gilles Fonblanc