Hydrogen vapors which occur during the main engine
start sequence expel into the engine nozzles just before ignition. This action
results in a hydrogen-rich atmosphere in the engine bells. To prevent damage to
the engines, six hydrogen burnoff pre-igniters have been installed in the Tail
Service Mast. Just before main engine ignition, the pre-igniters activate. They
then ignite any free hydrogen in the area below the engine bells. This avoids
rough combustion at main engine start.
Page Last Revised
Page & Curator Information
08/28/2000
Curator:
Kay Grinter (kay.grinter-1@ksc.nasa.gov) /
InDyne, Inc.
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