DEVELOPMENT OF A POWER CONDITIONING AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A CESIUM CONTACT ION ENGINE.
Abstract
The objectives of this program were to design, develop and fabricate a lightweight breadboard electronic system, of 18 lb/kW or less to power an M-type cesium contact ion engine. The entire breadboard system was to be capable of operation in a vacuum of 0.0001 torr or less with no portion of the breadboard system sealed at atmospheric pressure. The primary method of cooling the breadboard was by radiation to liquid-notrogen-cooled surfaces. The power conditioning system was first operated with dummy loads simulating the contact ion engine operating parameters for a period of 186 hours. The power conditioning system was then used to power the M1-10 cesium contact ion engine and operated for a period of 1183 hours. After the engine portion of the life test, operation was again resumed with dummy engine load. The power conditioning system was operated for an additional 1631 hours. The power conditioning life test was concluded after 3000 hours of operation, 1183 hours of which was powering an M-type cesium contact ion engine. At test termination the power conditioning equipment was still operating normally with no degradation. The contractual life goals were exceeded on this program by over 100 %, and weight goals by over 25 %.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0803692
Entities
People
- John J. Davis
Organizations
- Xerox