The lower central stage of the Ariane 6 launcher is powered by the Vulcain 2.1 engine. The LL-TVAS (Low Liquid Thrust Vector Actuation System) is the actuation system that allows gimballing the engine nozzle according to the Guidance and Navigation Control requirements. Due to the specificity of the Vulcain engine, a hydraulic actuation system with direct drive servo-valve has been selected.
This direct drive servovalve is to be driven by a LAT (Limited Angle Torque) motor with flooded rotor and accurate electrical and mechanical characteristics necessary for the open loop control of the valve (no position sensor on the spool).
Beside the need for Ariane 6 and other future potential launcher developments, this type of motor for a direct drive valve is also used by SABCA for aeronautic applications.
The organization driving the technical objective is ICPE, a manufacturer of special electric motors with proven experience at an international level, currently adapting for space its portfolio of electric motors under two ESA contract awarded as part of the new member state scheme. The proposal also involves SABCA, who will be focusing on the technical requirements, on the requirements definition, test plan and test activities.
Icpe has the opportunity in frame of this proposed work to develop a product needed in the space mechanism market and start in this first step a cooperation with SABCA – Belgium Company one of the supplier of space launchers systems for Ariane 6 and Vega.