Orbital tank farm Starbase v1

Model based on real SpaceX tank farm for refuelling largest rockets called Starthship. Based in Boca Chica, Texas.
3h 11m
1× print file
0.15 mm
0.40 mm
20.00 g
8
95
0
907
updated February 12, 2022

Description

PDF

Basic model of SpaceX Boca Chica / Starbase orbital tankfarm for launches SuperHeavy Starship rockets. It is based on flyover video by RGV Aerial from January 2022 (video please find below - around time 9:50). In this first version, all shapes (made in Tinkercad) are just rough, initial, without representative dimensions and details. To be worked in next versions.

Tanks description:

  • Largest vertical tanks were all built by SpaceX using similar method like Starship itself, and then covered by cryoshell layer and space between filled by insulator. Two main types are present (plus water tank):
    • LOX - liquid oxygen for the Starship system rocket, successfully tested with nitrogen/LOX
    • CH4 - methane fuel tanks looks to have some issues probably in regulatory area and were not filled yet. Storage of highly explosive chemicals require special measures. Maybe that is the reason why 2 large additional horizontal tanks were installed.
  • 2 Horizontal tanks for methane - reinforced tanks build probably by third party were added due to mentioned issues with vertical tanks
  • Other parts in the model:
    • Only partially shown are heat exchangers and other smaller process tanks. To be improved in next versions

Instructions/experience:

  • Example print is PLA (Polymaker PolyLite White)
  • Printed 50% size took approx 3hr 20min
  • 15% fill

Fixes in print file latest version vs. print example

  • Main vertical tanks fixed roof gaps for some of them
  • Shortened horizontal methane tanks to better match reality & avoid “print in the air” 

Proposed future remixes

  • With Starbase orbital launch tower models
  • And with Superheavy/Starship models
  • Or other parts of BocaChica / Starbase - to create complete overview of launch complex

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