Abstract
A simple computational code for simulating flowfields in direct-current arcjet generators was developed to understand inner discharge mechanisms and to clarify the correlation between operational characteristics and arc features in the discharge chamber. In this analysis, a quasi-one dimensional core-flow model including dissociation and ionization processes in thermodynamic equilibrium was used. The results showed that the arc radii for Ar gradually increased downstream in the constrictor and that the arcs attached to the constrictor wall. An increase in the mass flow rate for Ar located the arc attachment point more downstream. However, the arcs for N2 passed through the constrictor and did not attach even to the expansion nozzle because of dissociation process. The calculated arc features for Ar and N2 agreed with the experimental ones although a suitable interface condition between the arc and cold gas regions was required in the present analytical model.
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