2006-08-25 04:15:39 · 6 answers · asked by reeree 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
Most ballistic missiles and rocket powered space vehicles are primarily made of aluminum assembled into stressed-skin structures.
Numerous lightweight and high-strength materials (for example, steel noble alloys, composites, and special ceramics) are also used.
As someone mentioned, liquid fuel rocket engine shells are made mostly of copper, according to a design sketched on a napkin in a Berlin restaurant by Werner von Braun in 1940.
A brain teaser: does anybody know what the one wooden part is in a space shuttle? (And don't say the toilet seat. This is zero gravity, remember?)
2006-08-25 18:41:42 · answer #1 · answered by aviophage 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
RE: [Colten] What material did you use for the engine to withstand 6000 degrees temperature?
Colten, There is no material which will withstand a 6000 degree exposure without cooling. The material which is easiest to cool because of its high thermal conductivity is copper. So rocket engines like the Shuttle main engine are usually made of copper or a copper alloy. We have worked on inventing a better copper alloy.
2006-08-25 12:16:46 · answer #2 · answered by dizzygillespie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They use a variety of materials depending on the rocket's purpose.
2006-08-25 12:12:46 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Parts made by the lowest bid contractor.
2006-08-25 11:18:17 · answer #4 · answered by eeaglenest 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Re-cycled beer cans âº
Doug
2006-08-25 11:18:31 · answer #5 · answered by doug_donaghue 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
butter and love
2006-08-25 11:18:53 · answer #6 · answered by bub15 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋