A European ministerial-level conference in November 2008 approved the continued development of the Vinci® cryogenic engine, intended for Ariane 5’s new upper stage. Snecma is the prime contractor for this engine, coordinating European industrial partners including Astrium GmbH, Volvo Aero and Techspace Aero (Safran group).
Rated at nearly 40,000 pounds of thrust (180 kN), the Vinci engine uses the expander cycle, giving it high performance and the ability to restart in flight. It incorporates a number of advanced technologies, including a high-performance inductor, powder metallurgy impellers, ceramic ball bearings and a nozzle exit cone that is extendible in flight, made by Snecma Propulsion Solide using a carbon composite.
The Vinci engine will combine high performance and reliability with economical operation. Because it can be reignited multiple times in orbit, it facilitates the orbital positioning of satellites launched on the same mission.
The first two examples of this engine have already undergone ground firing tests. Deployment tests of the extendible nozzle were carried out successfully in September 2008. A new series of tests on a third engine, including tests with the complete nozzle, are scheduled for 2010.