Development of a Low-Cost Valve for Liquid Propellant Flow Control

Location: Delft, Netherlands
Start Date: 1 September 2025
Duration: 5 months (Full-time)

Overview:
Controlling fuel flow is critical in liquid rocket engines. This internship centers on designing a main fuel valve tailored for a student-built propulsion system. You'll research existing valve designs, develop a concept that balances performance and manufacturability, and produce a prototype ready for physical evaluation.

Your Mission:

• Research valve designs for liquid propulsion applications

• Learn and apply basic computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools

• Design a main valve that meets performance, safety, and cost targets

• Simulate flow characteristics and assess feasibility

• Build a prototype and prepare it for testing

What We’re Looking For:

• Background in engineering (mechanical, aerospace, materials, etc.)

• Interest in manufacturing, fluid mechanics, and system integration

• Familiarity with design tools and willingness to learn simulation techniques

• Self-motivated and eager to be part of a student-led aerospace initiative

What We Offer:

• Internship compensation (approximately €350)

• Mentorship from experienced student engineers

• A chance to create a component that may one day launch skyward

• Access to resources, workspace, and supportive team environment

• Direct impact on AQUILO’s next-generation propulsion development