Hydraulic Propellant Valve
Summary
The goal of this project was to develop a low cost and lightweight propellant valve for small bi-propellant rockets.
How it Works
The valve is closed and held in place by the pressure of an incompressible fluid (water). When the water pressure line is severed, the propellant has a greater pressure than the water, and thus forces open the valve. These valves cannot close like solenoid or ball valves, and they must be reset after every use. However, their simplicity and size make them advantageous for use in small liquid rocket projects.
