Comments on: 4th Starship prototype passes tank pressure test https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/4th-starship-prototype-passes-tank-pressure-test/ Tue, 28 Apr 2020 04:44:46 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 By: Tom https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/4th-starship-prototype-passes-tank-pressure-test/#comment-1079696 Tue, 28 Apr 2020 04:44:46 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=65317#comment-1079696 The hydraulic rams are being removed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhJ5EJykGBM

]]> By: Tom https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/4th-starship-prototype-passes-tank-pressure-test/#comment-1079687 Tue, 28 Apr 2020 01:36:14 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=65317#comment-1079687 I noticed that the lower tank was emptied first and the upper tank remained filled. To my eye, that indicates they maintained adequate gaseous pressures in the lower tank to the point that the outer skins retained tensile strength and provided the support needed for the huge weight of the upper tank (unlike SN3). As the article mentioned, the three hydraulic rams, attached to the engine mounts, were to simulate the pressures of the Raptor engines during this test. I would assume that aspect of the cryo test went well, too, if the static fire test is next on the project plan. Never a dull moment in Boca Chica, Texas theses days!

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