NEWS

KITZ Corporation has been entrusted with the development of valves crucial to the life support of astronauts in the International Habitation module (I-Hab), which is part of the manned lunar orbiting station, Gateway, being developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.

We are developing the valves to be equipped on the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) . The ECLSS is a critical for sustaining crew life within the I-Hab. This system includes functions related to environmental control, including pressure control, oxygen supply, and the removal of carbon dioxide and harmful gases.

Mass production technology and Product reliability in severe environments were highly evaluated.
The reason Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. entrusted us with the development is due to our highly evaluated stable quality, mass production technology, and the reliability of our valves.
As a comprehensive valve manufacturer, our consistent production system from material selection to casting, processing, assembly, and inspection underpins our strong brand reliability. Our commitment to the hydrogen business as a growth market further strengthens our position.

Highest reliability is required in lunar orbit. We are tasked with maintaining fluid control under such harsh conditions and consistently operating the ECLSS. We have successfully developed valves capable of controlling fluid under the extreme conditions of -253℃ for liquid hydrogen and 98MPa for ultra-high-pressure hydrogen in our hydrogen business. Such intricate manufacturing techniques and our track record of highly reliable fluid control technology have been recognized. We have been entrusted with the development of valves for the ECLSS, in the field of space development, which calls for advanced technological innovation.

The market size of the space industry is predicted to expand in the future, and momentum for the private and commercial use of the lunar surface is increasing. For lunar development, the abundant water present on the moon is gaining attention as a potential energy source. As a valve manufacturer, we are dedicated to developing technologies necessary for manned space transportation, aiming to contribute to the success of manned lunar exploration.

Reference: materials from Lunar Gateway Habitation Project Team of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency(JAXA)

Overview of Valve Development
Currently, we are involved in the development of a valve unit that adjusts oxygen concentration in the I-Hab. This unit, which uses nitrogen and oxygen, is utilized to control cabin pressure and oxygen partial pressure, ensuring a comfortable environment for astronauts (④ Pressure Control System).
Within the confined space of the I-Hab, it is crucial to control the rise in carbon dioxide concentration due to the breath exhaled by humans. Our valve is incorporated as a fluid flow switch in the device that removes carbon dioxide (CO₂) derived from astronauts’ exhalations (⑥ Carbon Dioxide Removal System).

Inquiries about valve development
Hydrogen Business Unit
Aerospace Valve R&D Group.
e-mail: hydrogen@kitz.co.jp