X-RATOS II

Concerning its configuration, the successor of X-RATOS I differs from its predecessor by the position of the launcher model which is now mounted on top of the hot water rocket motor. Thereby the length of X-RATOS II could be reduced to 60 cm. Despite the compact construction of the demonstrator, all inside areas remain easily accessible. The new tank is made of austenitic stainless steel. For all components of the demonstrator easy manufacturing and accessibility was emphasised. The exclusive use of bolts guarantees high ease of maintenance. This is an important difference to X-RATOS I, where many parts were soldered. The heating system now consists of a 950 W electrical heating resistor. The closure of the nozzle is still the one used in X-RATOS I.
 

Fig. 4:  AQUARIUS X-RATOS with skids, in a CAD-drawing (left) and exhibited on the International Aerospace Exhibition ILA 2000, Berlin, Germany (right)

The AQUARIUS X-RATOS II can be operated either on the 5 m track or by the use of a pair of skids on a newly developed monorail test track of 25 m length. The test track consists of conventional double-T-profile girders (65 mm in width), the upper part of them is embraced by the skids of the vehicle. At the end of the track, a brake system of 2.5 m length is installed to decelerate the demonstrator. The consistently successful use of purpose-built skids, having been chosen because of the beneficial friction in combination with steel, could be proved in numerous demonstrations.