Parameters Distribution Along the Channel Axis in the Scaling Designed Stationary Plasma Thruster

Abstract

The study of the parameters' distribution along the channel axis in a stationary plasma thruster(SPT) helps one to understand the physical characteristics of the SPT's operation. In this paper, the axial distribution of the desired SPT parameters are predicted by combining the improved scaling theory and a one-dimensional hybrid model. The simulation indicates that the SPT parameters' distribution along the channel axis changes with scaling index variable ζ. If ζ is set properly, the similarity of the parameters' axial distribution between the model and a desired thruster can be ensured. In addition, the operation characteristics of the desired thruster, such as the ionization and acceleration processes, are also similar to those of the model. When ζ is set, the improved SPT scaling theory and the one-dimensional hybrid model can be used to predict the axial distribution of the desired SPT parameters with the same propellant (such as Xe).