Ceramic-Bearing Pump Systems (KEOPS)

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Project Description

The KEOPS project is developing innovative fuel transfer pumps for future space propulsion systems. The goal is to demonstrate two high-performance turbopumps for liquid oxygen (LOx) and liquid methane (LCH₄), designed for rocket engines in the 35-kN thrust class. The two units are being developed and tested in a back-to-back configuration until they reach demonstrator maturity.

The project’s unique technological feature is the use of novel fiber-ceramic fluid bearings. These bearings utilize the respective fluid being pumped for lubrication and are based on microporous ceramic matrix composites. As a result, they promise a significantly longer service life, increased reliability, and lower operating costs than conventional bearing technologies.

This will result in the first high-performance turbopump for space propulsion systems featuring this innovative bearing technology, developed as part of the KEOPS project. In addition, suitable electric drive systems will be integrated into the overall design and evaluated.

KEOPS will sustainably strengthen the competitiveness of German manufacturers of space-grade turbopumps and make an important contribution to more powerful, more economical, and longer-lasting propulsion systems for spaceflight.

To this end, Heilbronn University is collaborating with Blackengine Aerospace GmbH, Turbo Technik Innovation GmbH, and the Institute for Space Propulsion at the University of Stuttgart.