EBARA to Jointly Develop a Turbo Pump for a Rocket with the Muroran Institute of Technology and Interstellar Technologies Inc.

In response to the rapid growth of the aerospace industry, Ebara Corporation (hereinafter referred to as Ebara) has begun developing electric pumps for rocket engines.

As the commercial use of space expands, the development of new transportation infrastructure connecting ground and space, which will serve as the foundation for that use, is accelerating rapidly under the leadership of private companies. Specifically, these include rockets dedicated to launching small satellites, space planes (spacecraft) for space travel, inter-orbital transport vehicles, and lunar takeoff and landing vehicles.

Pumps are used as key components in the engines used in these space transportation vehicles. We have a track record of providing technical support to external organizations for rocket turbopumps, utilizing the knowledge of rotating machinery technology we have accumulated over many years. The pumps installed in rocket engines, which are considered to be one of the most challenging technologies in rocket technology, play a vital role like the heart of the rocket, sending fuel and oxidizer to the combustion chamber. In order to contribute to the improvement of engine pumps and the means of transportation, we have begun development with a view to full-scale commercialization in the future.

- To generate thrust for the vehicle, the pump transfers fuel and oxidizer from the tank to the engine combustion chamber.
- Unlike conventional turbine-driven pumps*¹, an electric motor is used as the drive mechanism. By electrifying the engine, the company aims to provide new value, such as improved engine maintainability and ease of use in space, in the field of space transportation infrastructure, where demand is expected to grow in the future.

- Small satellites
- High-speed point-to-point transportation
- Debris removal and material transportation in space
- Transportation in low gravity environments such as lunar takeoff and landing

The market launch is expected to be after 2024, and development is also underway with a view to installing it on manned aircraft in the future. With our long-term vision "E-Vision 2030," we will contribute to "creating an ever-evolving, prosperous life."

[Contact for this matter]
For interview requests: ebr-pr@ebara.comopens in a new tab
For business and transaction inquiries: ebara-aerospace@ebara.comopens in a new tab

EBARA Group aims to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and further enhance its corporate value by addressing key ESG issues based on its long-term vision and medium-term management plan.

※ 1 A method in which a centrifugal pump is rotated by turning a windmill with high-temperature combustion gas, and the cryogenic fuel/oxidizer is pressurized.
※ 2 This makes it easier to control thrust.