Malfunctioning Engine Statistical Survey
M.E.S.S.

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Manufacturer
AeroTech
Designation
G76-7G
Type
reload
Date code
06172004
Failure date
Nov 20, 2021
Location
Kofa Launch site (33.528074, -113.621306)
Temperature
75 ℉
Ejection end blown out
Burning propellant ejected
Comments
I assembled the reload according to the instructions with my ATI RMS 29/40-120 case. I have used that case 5 times previously with various ATI reloads without problem, including a G64-4W reload. The only changes I made to the reload was to use the ATI RMS Delay Tool and reduce the delay to approx. 3 sec from 7 sec (see photo). I place a piece of masking tape over the top of the fuel grain to stop the igniter since I placed the drilled out delay with the drilled out part facing downwards towards the grain. Normally, the igniter would touch the delay grain but with it drilled out it would have gone too far. The front closure blew off immediately after ignition and launch, ejecting the entire reload across the launch site. I was able to find the front closure and delay grain. The threads on both the front closure and the front part of the case are stripped from the force of the failure.
Photos
Failed 29_40-120 casing front closure - 2021-11-20.jpg
Status
pending