Will be interesting to see how loud FH tests are. On the one hand, we're talking about three F9 cores at once. On the other hand, it's partially underground so that should presumably absorb a lot of the sound energy.
It seems the FH teststand will be much like a launch pad. A flametrench with water for cooling and noise suppression. So the rocket will be visible. If I am right a full time firing for qualification will need a LOT of water.
I also wonder if the FH stand will replace the F9 stand, or perhaps relegate it to "backup" status. The F9 stand was inherited from Beal, right? Seems like the above-ground nature of the test stand makes it a bit of a noise nuisance. I would have to think the FH stand, for an F9, would be quieter than the current stand.That last bit is total speculation by me, I haven't read anything to that effect.
It would make sense. It looks like they'll just be able to use a simplified strong-back to drive a F9/FH up to the new stand, erect it, tank it up and start the test. (no crane needed to life a stage high)
Yes, but they have limited space there... And they want to contain most of immediate exhaust on their property.
I understand that they do single-engine acceptance tests all the time and that full-up F9 tests are still "louder than usual"... but F9 tests are no longer that unusual and as the flight rate increases they will become even more commonplace.Will be interesting to see how loud FH tests are. On the one hand, we're talking about three F9 cores at once. On the other hand, it's partially underground so that should presumably absorb a lot of the sound energy.I really want to see FH get acceptance tested this year. Make it happen SpaceX!
Quote from: Lars-J on 10/17/2014 08:21 pmIt would make sense. It looks like they'll just be able to use a simplified strong-back to drive a F9/FH up to the new stand, erect it, tank it up and start the test. (no crane needed to life a stage high)I have thought of a kind of strong-back or TE too. But I am not sure that a crane will not be cheaper to operate. Maybe a Heavy will need one though. That would make the operation even more launch pad like. They would need the full hydraulics to erect it.
OTOH, using a TEL is what they know and they've built at least three already (original F9 and two FH capable for Vandy and KSC). Maybe four if McGregor has one. Test like you fly.
ISTM a winch is simpler than hydraulics. The hydraulic rams on the pads are very large.
Quote from: docmordrid on 10/18/2014 09:45 amOTOH, using a TEL is what they know and they've built at least three already (original F9 and two FH capable for Vandy and KSC). Maybe four if McGregor has one. Test like you fly.I was assuming a TE (can you call it TEL if no "Launch"? :-) ) >