Abstract
An ion thruster discharge cathode assembly (DCA) erosion theory is presented based on near-DCA NSTAR plasma measurements and experimental results for propellant flow rate effects on ion number density. The plasma potential structures are utilized in an ion trajectory algorithm to determine the location and angle at the DCA of bombarding ions. These results suggest that the plasma potential structure causes a chamfering of the DCA orifice. Results from tests with an instrumented DCA show that increasing DC propellant flow rate causes a decrease in keeper orifice ion number density, most likely due to charge-exchange and elastic collisions. Combining these two results, the known wear-test and extended life test (ELT) DCA erosion profiles can be qualitatively explained. Specifically, the change in the wear profile from the DCA downstream face to the orifice for the ELT may be a result of the reduction in DCA propellant flow rate when the thruster operating point is changed from the TH 15 to TH 8.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
