Aug 12 1986
From The Space Library
NASA chose a new design for its solid rocket motors, a major step for returning the Shuttle fleet to flight. Each joint would be sealed by three o-rings constructed from a more resilient material than that used originally, and would seal at all times, not just from pressure produced by expanding gas inside the rocket. Other changes included a metal clip meant to force the joint to remain sealed, interlocking insulation to prevent hot gases from directly contacting the o-rings, and a bolt assembly between the rocket nozzle and the engine for providing an additional seal at the nozzle joint. Hundreds of tests for the new design were scheduled for the coming fall. (NY Times, Aug 12/86; Aug 13/86; W Times, Aug 12/86; W Post, Aug 13/86; C Trib, Aug 13/86)
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