NK-15

The NK-15 (GRAU index 11D51) is a rocket engine designed and built in the late 1960s by the Kuznetsov Design Bureau. The NK designation is derived from the initials of chief designer Nikolay Kuznetsov. The NK-15 was among the most powerful LOX/RP-1 rocket engines when it was built, with a high specific impulse and low structural mass. It was intended for the ill-fated Soviet N-1 Moon rocket.

NK-15
Country of originSoviet Union
Date1960s
DesignerKuznetsov Design Bureau
Application1st/2nd-stage engine
SuccessorNK-33
Liquid-fuel engine
PropellantLOX / kerosene
CycleStaged combustion
PumpsTurbopump
Performance
Thrust (vac.)1,753 kN (394,000 lbf)
Thrust (SL)1,505 kN (338,000 lbf)
Throttle range50–105%
Thrust-to-weight ratio137
Chamber pressure14.50 MPa (2,103 psi)
Isp (vac.)331 seconds (3.25 km/s)
Isp (SL)297 seconds (2.91 km/s)
Dimensions
Length3.7 m (12 ft)
Diameter2 m (6 ft 7 in)
Dry weight1,247 kg (2,749 lb)

History

The engine equipped the N1 rocket which had four consecutive launch failures all due to this engine. Its successor the NK-33 allowing multiple fire resistance tests and increased life service was to be used on the N1F, a new version of the N1, but the program was canceled.

Versions

  • NK-15V (GRAU index 11D52): Modified NK-15 optimized for vacuum operation, used on the N1 second stage.
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See also

References

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