The launching engine system (fig. 4-4) consists of
most of the major components that are used in applying
steam to the launching engine pistons during launch
operation and stopping the launch engine pistons at the
completion of a launch. The major components that
comprise the launching engine system are as follows:
Launch Valve Assembly
Thrust/Exhaust Unit
Launch Valve Control Valve
Exhaust Valve Assembly
Pressure Breaking Orifice Elbow Assembly
Keeper Valve
Launch Valve Hydraulic Lock valve Panel
Assembly
Exhaust Valve Hydraulic Lock Valve
Launching Engine Cylinders
Cylinder Covers
Sealing Strip
Sealing Strip Tensioner Installation
Sealing Strip Anchor and Guide
Launching Engine Pistons
Shuttle Assembly
Water Break Installation
Water break Piping and Pressure Switch
Installation
Steam Cutoff Switch Installation
LAUNCH VALVE ASSEMBLY
The launch valve assembly (fig. 4-5) is located
between
the
two
steam
lines
from
the
steam
accumulator and the thrust/exhaust unit. Its consists
mainly of a steam valve assembly, a hydraulic cylinder
assembly, an operation control assembly, and the
launch valve stroke timer electrical installation. A
closed plate and an open plate are located on the
operation controls frame and an increment plate is
located on the operation controls crosshead. The
position of the valve can be determined by the
relationship of the increment plate to the closed and
open plates.
4-4
SEALING STRIP
CYLINDER COVER
SEALING-STRIP
ANCHOR
THRUST-EXHAUST
UNIT (REF)
EXHAUST VALVE
PRESSURE-BREAKING
ORIFICE ELBOW
LAUNCHING-ENGINE
CYLINDER
PISTON
ASSEMBLY
WATER
BREAK
SHUTTLE
SHUTTLE
TRACK
SEALING-STRIP
TENSIONER
LAUNCHING VALVE
ASSEMBLY
ABEf0405
Figure 4-4.—Launching engine system (typical).
