Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

ElvisArcher t1_j7qwg3d wrote

Here's hoping they don't melt their launch pad!

28

CapSierra t1_j7rzfcv wrote

Heat isn't really the primary concern here. The big risk is vibration. The sound waves from 33 engines firing at once are enough compressive force to literally break apart steel.

17

tinny66666 t1_j7s0c03 wrote

I saw on one of the space blogs (that I'm too lazy to find) that they brought massive bags of super-strong concrete (refractory cement?) for the pad after the last damage, and those bags disappeared so it was assumed the new cement had been used, but they were later spotted elsewhere at the facility, so there was some conjecture that they may have used standard cement again and doing this knowing it is a sacrificial pad. So don't be too surprised, or too concerned if the pad is damaged - the fancy cement is on site.

9

BEAT_LA t1_j7s3qyl wrote

They did indeed use the special new concrete mixture that’s much more resistant. It’ll still get damaged obviously but not near as much.

10

Jaker788 t1_j7tixqt wrote

There was confusion once a while back. This time it moved and a lot of it is missing, presumed as used. They were 2 different events

3

[deleted] t1_j7rdf9d wrote

Pad can take it it’s got diverters I’m more worried about things that are meant for air flow for cooling. Assuming test is time limited.

−8