Semicryogenic Propulsion System

Semicryogenic Propulsion System: Recently, ISRO has announced significant progress in the development of a Semicryogenic engine (Liquid Oxygen/Kerosene engine) with a high thrust of 2000kN for the Semicryogenic booster stage of Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).

• About Semicryogenic Propulsion System: Uses Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Kerosene as propellants, which are non-toxic and non-hazardous.

o Developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).

o SC120 stage, powered by the 2000kN Semicryogenic engine (SE2000), will replace the current L110 core liquid stage in LVM3, enhancing payload capacity.

o Works on oxidiser-rich staged combustion cycle.

• Key Subsystems of SE2000 Engine: Thrust chamber, pre-burner, turbo pump system, control components, and startup system.
  • About Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3): India’s heaviest launch vehicle, formerly known as GSLV Mk-III, used for launching heavy satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) and deep-space missions.

  o Features three stages: Solid rocket boosters (S200) → Liquid core stage (L110) – to be replaced by the new Semicryogenic SC120 stage → Cryogenic upper stage (C25).

  o Played a key role in Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and Gaganyaan missions.