AT I-211w question!

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Maxhiker14

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So I was assembling an AT I211w and I noticed that 3 of the grains were the normal grey color, but one was a lighter shade of grey and had white specks mixed in with It. Did AT make a mistake and put a different propellant grain by accident, or is this fine. It also has a code on it- o627c. Here is a picImageUploadedByRocketry Forum1459563740.693657.jpg
 
I think you are ok. I have had this happen before and had not ill effect. I am fairly certain that is a white lightning grain, and the specs are nothing to worry about.
 
Looks like it's just a little oxidation. Nothing to worry about.

Nate
 
Looks fine.

The lower one in the picture is from the top (or bottom) of the original casting of the propellant. It looks different because it hasn't been cut. It would look just like the others if it was from the middle of the casting and cut on both ends. I'll bet my life savings that if you flip over that grain, it looks like the others.
 
Looks fine.

The lower one in the picture is from the top (or bottom) of the original casting of the propellant. It looks different because it hasn't been cut. It would look just like the others if it was from the middle of the casting and cut on both ends. I'll bet my life savings that if you flip over that grain, it looks like the others.

Is THAT why some look all smooth on one end?! I have always wondered. My life is a little more complete having read that.

Nate
 
Yep what Griffin said, smooth shiny end is more than likely from the base of a casting cap or whatever AT uses at the end of the casting tube. Fly away!

Preston

Is THAT why some look all smooth on one end?! I have always wondered. My life is a little more complete having read that.

Nate
 
Sometimes, not all grains are individually sealed, allowing them react with atmospheric moisture. Certain propellants, like White Lightning, are more likely to exhibit this issue than others. The impact on performance is negligible, but it can adversely affect ignition. If you have different grains, put the good looking ones at the forward end of the motor, where the igniter is positioned and you won't have any problems. Should you encounter a motor where all grains are affected - for example one that was unpacked, but not flown for some reason - carefully clean them (especially parts that touch the igniter) with sand paper or similar means.

Reinhard
 
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