Development and Validation of a Multiphysics Coupling Model of the Pulsed Electromagnetic Inductive Valve for Planar Pulsed Inductive Plasma Thruster

Abstract

A pulsed electromagnetic inductive valve has been developed to achieve correct initial deposition of the propellant gas puff for the planar pulsed inductive plasma thruster. This paper aims to describe the method for modeling the valve. The most significant physical effects involved in the valve operation process are described by the electrical model, the magnetic model, the mechanical model, and the pneumatic model. These physical models are then linked together based on the couplings between them to form a complete multiphysics coupling model. In order to validate the proposed model, simulations and experiments are implemented for the prototype valve at different operating conditions. Response characteristics and throughput characteristics predicted by the model agree well with experimental data. The results demonstrate that the proposed model can be successfully applied to accurately capture the main performance of the valve. The principle of the analysis procedure is applicable to other electromagnetic valves of this type.