ISRO Develops Indigenous Satellite Nozzle Divergent for PSLV, Reducing Import Costs by 90%.

Science and Technology

In April 2025, ISRO achieved a major milestone by successfully developing and testing an indigenous nozzle divergent for the fourth stage (PS4) of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). This innovation is part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative and marks a significant step towards reducing dependence on foreign components.


      - The new nozzle divergent is made using Stellite (KC20WN), a cobalt-based alloy comprising Chromium, Nickel, Tungsten, and Iron. It replaces the previously imported Columbium (C103) material, enhancing India’s self-reliance in advanced space hardware.

      - ISRO's tests confirmed that the Stellite-fabricated nozzle can withstand extremely high temperatures of up to 1150°C, maintaining its structural strength during intense operational conditions, crucial for the success of the PS4 stage.

     

Main Point :-   (i) The final hot test of the nozzle divergent was conducted for 665 seconds on 8 April 2025 at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test followed three successful qualification tests, ensuring full readiness for operational deployment.

      (ii) This development brings multiple benefits—a 90% cost reduction in nozzle procurement, greater self-reliance in space technology, and increased strategic independence by reducing India’s reliance on foreign suppliers for critical rocket components.


About ISRO

Chairperson : Dr V. Narayanan
Headquarters: Bengaluru
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