CRM Group regularly designs test benches and carries out customized tests for numerous customers. The following study was realized for the company Safran Aero Booster. The objective was to test the performance of static gaskets which will equip the isolation valve of the Vega Rocket new evolution.
Two bread bord models (BBM) were developed by Safran to test several dimensions and suppliers. The realization of the test campaign was entrusted to the CRM whose hydraulic department has the competence to carry out helium leak testing in extreme conditions.
In a first step CRM has developed a tailor-made pneumatic press to mount the gaskets in the BBM according the customer specification. To simulate the service conditions, the test campaign was realized during several weeks to determine the helium leak rates of the gaskets in function of the pressure, at room temperature and also in cryogenic conditions (liquid nitrogen).
The results of these fatigue tests allowed Safran to verify that the chosen gaskets met the performance requirements but also that one of them was really better than the other. They helped the company to chose the gaskets that will equip, in the future, the isolation valves of the European Vega Rockets.
