ESA Open Invitation to Tender AO10104
Open Date: 16/11/2020
Closing Date: 01/02/2021 13:00:00

Status: ISSUED
Reference Nr.: 19.123.23
Prog. Ref.: Technology Developme
Budget Ref.: E/0901-01 – Technology Developme
Special Prov.: BE+DK+FR+DE+IT+NL+ES+SE+CH+GB+IE+AT+NO+FI+PT+GR+LU+CZ+RO+PL+EE+HU
Tender Type: C
Price Range: 200-500 KEURO
Products: Satellites & Probes / Propulsion / Chemical Propulsion ¿ BB / Other
Technology Domains: Propulsion / Chemical Propulsion Technologies / Liquid Propulsion Systems
Establishment: ESTEC
Directorate: Directorate of Tech, Eng. & Quality
Department: Mechanical Department
Division: Propulsion & Aerothermodynamics Division
Contract Officer: Garre, Maximilian
Industrial Policy Measure: C1 – Activities in open competition limited to the non-Larg…
Last Update Date: 16/11/2020
Update Reason: Tender issue

To develop a rocket engine internal leak detection concept.Rocket engine/thruster leakage anomalies have occurred on multiple programs during ground testing and on orbit (e.g. ATV, Space Shuttle Orbiter, GOES East, NOAA-17, etc.). Engine/thruster leakage is typically classified as a critical or catastrophic hazard due to the toxicity, corrosivity and energy potential of the propellants. Detecting leakage is the first step in the FDIR process. However, leak detection capability to date has had limited effectiveness.ESA has established a concept that addresses the need for a robust engine/thruster leak detection device. This concept has been approved by the ESA patent board for patent application (ESA PAT 722). The proposed activity will develop this concept further. The following main tasks are foreseen: Evaluate material options including compatibility with propellants. Perform preliminary functional analysis of leak detector elements. Update the leak detector design. Build and test a breadboard leak detector.Procurement Policy: C(1) = Activity restricted to non-prime contractors (incl. SMEs). For additional information please go to EMITS news “Industrial Policy measures for non-primes, SMEs and RD entities in ESA programmes”.