The tank of the cryogenic Ariane 5 main stage (EPC) has a diameter of 5.4 m and a length of 24 m. It serves as a reservoir for 130t liquid oxygen and 25t liquid hydrogen. The tank is cylindrical with a bulkhead at each end and a further one in the interior of the tank, separating the two propellant components. Due to the cryogenic conditions the aluminum alloy AA2219 is applied. There is worldwide only one supplier, who is able to supply large sheet metals of the required size to produce non-segmented tank domes with a diameter of more than 5 m. Thus, at the present design of the Ariane 5 there are eight segments, which are spherically formed before being welded to one spherical dome. To obtain a complete Tank Bulkhead (Fig. 1), a Y-Ring and a Manhole-Flange or an End-Cap are finally welded to the dome.
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