Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “PLASMA ENGINE”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 37 records · Page 2

Plasma engineering

Magnetohydrodynamic flow, surface properties, silicon solar cells, and thermoelectric properties of graphite compounds

Source record↗

Phenomenology of plasma engine cathodes at high current rates and low pressures

The effects of low surrounding pressures on cathodes of arc jet engines with electromagnetic acceleration are investigated for pressure and current energies of 20 to 100 Torr. and 400 to 1000 A. Experiments with 50 mm long and 8 mm diameter tungsten-thorium cathode in a coaxial gas flow show that pre-heating of the cathode reduces the duration of the instable arc discharge and thus material loss. The use of lighter gases also reduces instability effects, as well as the use of increased pressures and a massive gas influx.

Huegel, H.↗

The plasma separator ion engine.

Plasma separator ion engine allowing optimization of ion source and accelerator system independently, showing gains in thrust and less propellant consumption

PLASMA ENGINE↗

Operations of the ATS-6 ion engine and plasma bridge neutralizer at geosynchronous altitude

The ion engine on ATS-6 has been operated in daylight and eclipse. The effect on particle fluxes to the spacecraft was monitored. This data provides information on the potential of the spacecraft with respect to the ambient plasma and the local electric fields caused by the charge distribution on the spacecraft. Operation of the ion engine and/or the neutralizer clamps the spacecraft within a few volts of the ambient plasma potential. Operation of only the neutralizer tends to reduce the differential charge on the satellite, whereas operation of the ion engine reduces it below the sensitivity limit of the detectors.

Olsen, R. C.↗

Magnetic insulation for plasma propulsion

The design parameters of effective magnetic insulation for plasma engines are discussed. An experimental model used to demonstrate the process of plasma acceleration and magnetic insulation is considered which consists of a copper strap that is wound around a glass tube and connected to a capacitor. In order to adequately model the magnetic insulation mechanisms, a computer algorithm is developed. Plasma engines, with their efficient utilization of the propellant mass, are expected to provide the next-generation advanced propulsion systems.

Gonzalez, Dora E.↗