Design and Simulation of a Miniature Hall-Effect Thruster
Faculty Mentor Name
Darrel Smith
Format Preference
Poster
Abstract
Hall-Effect Thrusters are one of the simpler designs of modern Electric Propulsion (EP) systems, with one of the highest efficiency rates. They use a crossed electric and magnetic field to generate the known Hall current from which the device derives its name. Electrons race in a circular pattern around the thruster channel, stripping the propellant gas’ outer electrons from their atomic orbits, thus positively ionizing the heavy atoms. These (now) positive propellant ions are then accelerated abruptly to astronomically high speeds as they are ejected from the thruster. This EP project focuses on research and design for a low-power miniature Hall-Effect Thruster. By simulating design parameters such as magnet type/grade, magnet placement, magnetic field line characteristics, performing cost analysis, etc., the team aims to generate an accurate model in the hopes of efficiently constructing such a miniature Hall-Effect Thruster in the future.
Poster Presentation
IGNITE Grant Award
Location
AC1-Atrium, Eagle Gym
Start Date
3-23-2018 11:00 AM
End Date
3-23-2018 9:00 PM
Design and Simulation of a Miniature Hall-Effect Thruster
AC1-Atrium, Eagle Gym
Hall-Effect Thrusters are one of the simpler designs of modern Electric Propulsion (EP) systems, with one of the highest efficiency rates. They use a crossed electric and magnetic field to generate the known Hall current from which the device derives its name. Electrons race in a circular pattern around the thruster channel, stripping the propellant gas’ outer electrons from their atomic orbits, thus positively ionizing the heavy atoms. These (now) positive propellant ions are then accelerated abruptly to astronomically high speeds as they are ejected from the thruster. This EP project focuses on research and design for a low-power miniature Hall-Effect Thruster. By simulating design parameters such as magnet type/grade, magnet placement, magnetic field line characteristics, performing cost analysis, etc., the team aims to generate an accurate model in the hopes of efficiently constructing such a miniature Hall-Effect Thruster in the future.
Poster Presentation
IGNITE Grant Award