Performance Characterization of Micro-Cathode Arc Thruster (uCAT)

Vail, P. J.; Pancotti, Anthony; Zhuang, Taisen; Shashurin, Alexey; Keidar, Michael; Denz, Thomas

doi:10.2514/6.2011-5883

Cited by 6 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 4 publications

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“…The thrust value is determined by comparing the feedback signals when the actuator is on and off with the calibration signal from the electrostatic comb. Similar tests have been reported in [33,34].…”

Section: Full Elastic Thrust Measurement Systemsupporting

confidence: 87%

Plasma plume enhancement of a dual-anode vacuum arc thruster with magnetic nozzle

Qi,

Zhang,

Zhang

et al. 2024

Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.

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Vacuum arc thruster is a type of pulsed electric propulsion device that generates thrust based on vacuum arc discharges, it has great candidate for micro-newton force applications in orbit. To improve both the thrust and longevity of the vacuum arc thruster, a novel dual-anode structure, comprising a central anode and a ring anode, was developed. We conducted an investigation into the plasma discharge and acceleration process within the influence of a magnetic nozzle. The dual-anode architecture resulted in a reduction in the initial plasma impedance, thereby enhancing ion current and velocity. Analysis of surface parameters during discharge revealed a synergistic mechanism between the two insulator-conducting films, enabling a co-cyclic distribution of energy and resistance fluctuations within the discharge. Consequently, the dual-anode setup demonstrated a lifespan extension of at least twofold. Comparative analyses of arc energy, plasma velocity, ion current, and thrust variations with magnetic field strength were conducted between the dual-anode and single-anode configurations under magnetic nozzle influence. Results showed that the dual-anode structure increased ion current and velocity when subjected to magnetic nozzle influence, resulting in a thrust increase of up to 303%. Additionally, we developed a theoretical model for the diffusion coefficient to elucidate the adaptive splitting phenomenon of the arc within the dual-anode structure under magnetic field influence. This model suggests that the dual-anode structure can achieve a more significant enhancement in beam current from the magnetic nozzle compared to the single-anode configuration.

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Section: Full Elastic Thrust Measurement Systemsupporting

confidence: 87%