Abstract Title
Design and Construction of a Thrust Stand for Low Power Electric Propulsion
Faculty Mentor Name
Darrel Smith
Format Preference
Poster
Abstract
Electric propulsion (EP) project focused on the design and optimization of a simple electrothermal propulsion system. Focusing on parameters such as propellant mass flow rate, power supplied, nozzle shape/length, and tangentially injected propellant, we hope to optimize the thrust and specific impulse performance levels of the propulsion system. Due to the nature of EP devices, they have very low thrust outputs, and we currently do not have any equipment on campus that is capable of making accurate thrust measurements in the range required for EP devices. Electric propulsion systems are critical to extending the lifetimes of satellites and other spacecraft. They are an increasingly important area of research for space industry companies looking to offer the longest lifetimes for commercial satellites. Our expected outcomes include enhancing student understanding of electrostatic propulsion systems, laying the groundwork continued growth of the various electric thruster projects on campus. With the capability to take thrust measurements, we will be able to correlate thrust improvements to design changes and compare our thrusters to those in current use. We will gain a more thorough understanding of electric thrusters, and the variables that contribute to a more effective thruster.
- POSTER PRESENTATION
- IGNITE AWARD
Design and Construction of a Thrust Stand for Low Power Electric Propulsion
Electric propulsion (EP) project focused on the design and optimization of a simple electrothermal propulsion system. Focusing on parameters such as propellant mass flow rate, power supplied, nozzle shape/length, and tangentially injected propellant, we hope to optimize the thrust and specific impulse performance levels of the propulsion system. Due to the nature of EP devices, they have very low thrust outputs, and we currently do not have any equipment on campus that is capable of making accurate thrust measurements in the range required for EP devices. Electric propulsion systems are critical to extending the lifetimes of satellites and other spacecraft. They are an increasingly important area of research for space industry companies looking to offer the longest lifetimes for commercial satellites. Our expected outcomes include enhancing student understanding of electrostatic propulsion systems, laying the groundwork continued growth of the various electric thruster projects on campus. With the capability to take thrust measurements, we will be able to correlate thrust improvements to design changes and compare our thrusters to those in current use. We will gain a more thorough understanding of electric thrusters, and the variables that contribute to a more effective thruster.
- POSTER PRESENTATION
- IGNITE AWARD