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You're correct - the Atlas (ICBM as well as the current Centaur second stage) design that requires constant pressurization is known as a balloon tank.[0] SpaceX
by rory096 9y ago
You're correct - the Atlas (ICBM as well as the current Centaur second stage) design that requires constant pressurization is known as a balloon tank.[0] SpaceX doesn't use balloon tanks, but it does pressurize tanks with nitrogen during transport to keep the tank walls rigid and prevent damage.
[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balloon_tank https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balloon_tank
- concede_pluto 9y agoWhy nitrogen? Is air too corrosive?