PULSED VACUUM ARC THRUSTOR STUDY.
Abstract
Development of a wire-fuel, pulsed vacuum arc thrustor is described. Calorimetry, diagnostics, use of thrust stands, and life tests are described, as applied to this development. The prototype pulsed vacuum arc thrustor yielded a thrust range of up to 600 micropounds specific impulse in the range of 500 to 1500 seconds, total impulse up to 1000 pound seconds, and pulse life time of up to 6 x 10 to the 7th power pulses. Overall system weights based on measured performance are computed for missions ranging in duration to 10 years and total impulse to 5000 pound seconds. The effects of variation of power conditioning, specific weight, propellant mass utilization and pulse life are delineated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0838570
Entities
People
- A. S. Gilmour Jr.
- D. L. Lockwood
- H. Veron
- J. R. Graham Jr.
- R. J. Clark
Organizations
- Calspan