Potential and current distribution in MPD ARCS.
Electrode geometry effect on current and potential distributions in MPD arcs
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC ACCELERATION↗
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Dielectric breakdown properties of hot SF{sub 6}/He mixtures predicted from basic data
Sulfur hexafluoride (SF{sub 6}) gas has a quite high global warming potential and hence it is required that applying any substitute for SF{sub 6} gas. Much interest in the use of a mixture of helium and SF{sub 6} as arc quenching medium was investigated indicating a higher recovery performance of arc interruption than that of pure SF{sub 6}. It is known that the electrical breakdown in a circuit breaker after arc interruption occurs in a hot gas environment, with a complicated species composition because of the occurrence of dissociation and other reactions. The likelihood of breakdown relies on the electron interactions with all these species. The critical reduced electric field strength (the field at which breakdown can occur, relative to the number density) of hot SF{sub 6}/He mixtures related to the dielectric recovery phase of a high voltage circuit breaker is calculated in the temperature range from 300 K to 3500 K. The critically reduced electric field strength of these mixtures was obtained by balancing electron generation and loss mechanisms. These were evaluated using the electron energy distribution function derived from the Boltzmann transport equation under the two-term approximation. Good agreement was found between calculations for pure hot SF{sub 6} and pure hot He and experimental results and previous calculations. The addition of He to SF{sub 6} was found to decrease the critical reduced electric field strength in the whole temperature range due to a lack of electron impact attachment process for helium regardless its high ionization potential. This indicates that not the behaviour of dielectric strength but possibly the higher energy dissipation capability caused mainly by light mass and high specific heat as well as thermal conductivity of atomic helium contributes most to a higher dielectric recovery performance of arc interruption for SF{sub 6}/He mixtures.
74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗
A demonstration of dual spacecraft tracking conducted with the Viking spacecraft during the approach phase
The potential improvements in navigation capability of dual spacecraft tracking were demonstrated using Viking approach data. Under unfavorable conditions of large plasma noise, low spacecraft declination and large earth-spacecraft distance, the dual spacecraft tracking technique improved the Viking B approach accuracy based on short-arc radio metric data, by a factor of 7, to less than 200 km at Mars orbit insertion minus 3 days. From the results of an analytical expansion and the Viking demonstration with a large intentional error in Mars ephemeris, that dual spacecraft data types are shown to be insensitive to ephemeris error. Results also reveal the potential reduction of tracking time requirements during planet approach.
Chao, C. C.↗
Threshold voltage for arcing on negatively biased solar arrays
The arcing that has been found to occur when negatively biased high-voltage solar arrays in LEO lie at a critical voltage with respect to the plasma environment is presently proposed to be due to a breakdown of gas emitted under electron bombardment from the solar cells' cover-glass. The elements of the model for this phenomenon include an electron current flow from the interconnect to a neighboring cover-glass, which desorbs neutral molecules under the electron bombardment. The neutral molecules form a gas over the interconnect, and this gas breaks down when the voltage over the interconnect is sufficiently high. Specific scaling predictions are made on the basis of the geometric structure and gas in question.
Hastings, Daniel E.↗
Additive Manufacturing Advances to Facilitate Novel Robot and Remote System Construction
Additive manufacturing (AM) in both polymer and metal has advanced to the point where it can substantially facilitate robot and remote system design and implementation. While AM is not a panacea to fix bad design concepts, properly used AM can create features and capabilities otherwise not possible in machined or cast products. AM design rules are still being developed and must be applied differently based on the process and purpose of the final component, but progress is being made in practical implementation. Polymer-based AM has been available commercially for quite some time and is regularly used to facilitate prototyping and test fitting of parts later to be fabricated in metal or to produce low production quantity parts that do not require high structural strength. However Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has pioneered large scale polymer additive manufacturing with sufficient strength to print a car and frame, a small house, a “wet” submarine, and tooling to mold wind generator blades. While polymer processes use a variety of materials, all polymer printers basically lay down a heated extruded bead of a certain width and height. Print resolution is based on the deposition rate of the printer. The larger the deposition rate, the lower the print resolution. Large scale polymer builds often rely on post processing (machining) to provide a smooth finish to the part surface.Metal printing processes are much more diverse than polymer print processes. Electron beam (ebeam), laser, and binder jet are common methods to fuse metal powder-based systems. Metal powder spray can be done with laser or plasma. While metal powder systems produce high definition parts, part size is limited. Larger parts are currently done with wire feed systems based on laser or arc (metal inert gas (MIG) or tungsten inert gas (TIG)) processes. Part definition decreases, but part size can be on the order of tens of cubic feet and hundreds of pounds.Two implementation examples are presented in this paper to illustrate the possibilities and to identify issues that remain. A dual arm hydraulic manipulator was printed in titanium using the ebeam process. All hydraulics and electrical cabling passageways were printed into the manipulator; there are no external hoses or cables. The distal link of an excavator arm was printed using a wire feed metal inert gas (MIG) process. The excavator was then used for digging as part of an equipment exposition validating the metallurgy of the printed part.
Nycz, Andrzej↗
Jovian decametric arcs - An estimate of the required wave normal angles from three-dimensional ray tracing.
Three-dimensional ray tracing is applied to an analysis of variable radio wave normal angle effects on the associated decametric (DAM) arc structures in the Jovian magnetosphere. The analysis is bed on 1-40 MHz radio signature recorded during Voyage 1 and 2 passages. The frequencies considered are above the R-X cut-off, and several ratios of the emission frequency/source frequency. The ray tracing code is based on a cold plasma formula and integration of the Hasselgrove (1955) equations. It is assumed that the emission is in the R-X mode, the source lies at the foot of an Io flux tube, and the emission cone is hollow. Attention is focused on data for two intense, vertex-late, high curvature DAM arc. A possible source for the arcs is found to be doppler-shifted gyroemission from a beam of electrons with an energy of 10 keV. A value of 1.1 is set as the limit of the doppler shift of the DAM emissions.
Menietti, J. D.↗
Role of electrostatic and magnetic electron confinement in a hollow-cathode glow discharge in a nonuniform magnetic field
Glow discharge with electron confinement in an electrostatic trap has been studied. The trap is formed by a cylindrical hollow cathode, as well as by a flat target on its bottom and a grid covering its output aperture, both being negatively biased relative to the cathode. At a gas pressure of 0.2–0.4 Pa, the fraction of ions sputtering the target (δ = 0.13) in the entire number of ions emitted by the uniform discharge plasma corresponds to the ratio of the target surface area to the total surface area of the cathode, grid, and target. When a nonuniform magnetic field with force lines passing through the target center (where the magnetic induction reaches 35 mT), as well as through the grid, hollow cathode, and target periphery (where the field lines are arc-shaped), is applied to the trap, its influence on the discharge depends on the magnetic induction B{sub 0} at the target edge. At B{sub 0} = 1 mT, the electrons emitted from the target periphery and drifting azimuthally in the arc-shaped field insignificantly contribute to gas ionization. Nevertheless, since fast electrons that are emitted from the cathode and oscillate inside it are forced by the magnetic field to come more frequently to the target, thereby intensifying gas ionization near the latter, the fraction δ doubles and the plasma density near the target becomes more than twice as high as that near the grid. At B{sub 0} = 6 mT, the contribution of electrons emitted from the target surface to gas ionization near the target grows up and δ increases two more times. At cathode-target voltages in the range of 0–3 kV, the current in the target circuit vanishes as the voltage between the anode and the cathode decreases to zero.
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
Stark broadening for diagnostics of the electron density in non-equilibrium plasma utilizing isotope hydrogen alpha lines
Two Stark broadening parameters including FWHM (full width at half maximum) and FWHA (full width at half area) of isotope hydrogen alpha lines are simultaneously introduced to determine the electron density of a pulsed vacuum arc jet. To estimate the gas temperature, the rotational temperature of the C{sub 2} Swan system is fit to 2500 ± 100 K. A modified Boltzmann-plot method with b{sub i}-factor is introduced to determine the modified electron temperature. The comparison between results of atomic and ionic lines indicates the jet is in partial local thermodynamic equilibrium and the electron temperature is close to 13 000 ± 400 K. Based on the computational results of Gig-Card calculation, a simple and precise interpolation algorithm for the discrete-points tables can be constructed to obtain the traditional n{sub e}-T{sub e} diagnostic maps of two Stark broadening parameters. The results from FWHA formula by the direct use of FWHM = FWHA and these from the diagnostic map are different. It can be attributed to the imprecise FWHA formula form and the deviation between FWHM and FWHA. The variation of the reduced mass pair due to the non-equilibrium effect contributes to the difference of the results derived from two hydrogen isotope alpha lines. Based on the Stark broadening analysis in this work, a corrected method is set up to determine n{sub e} of (1.10 ± 0.08) × 10{sup 21} m{sup −3}, the reference reduced mass μ{sub 0} pair of (3.30 ± 0.82 and 1.65 ± 0.41), and the ion kinetic temperature of 7900 ± 1800 K.
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
Study on the characteristics of a two gap capillary discharge
The paper presents a new two-gap capillary (TGC) discharge structure. The prominent innovation is the introduction of the middle electrode, which divides the capillary into the trigger gap and the main gap. The discharge circuit of the TGC comprises the trigger circuit and the main circuit. The two circuits are used for the pre-ionization of the trigger gap and providing energy of 450 J for the main gap arc discharging, respectively. When the discharge initiates, the trigger gap is pre-ionized under high voltage pulse produced by trigger circuit, and meanwhile, the weakly ionized plasma is generated. The main circuit then maintains the expansion of the plasma, which is called soft capillary discharge. Afterwards, the main gap is shorted and discharges under a relatively low voltage. With the optimization of the circuit parameter, both the energy deposition ratio in main gap and the degree of plasma ionization are enhanced. The efficiency of the energy deposition is almost twice higher compared with that of the conventional capillary structure. The life performance test indicates that the erosion of the middle electrode and the trigger gap carbonization are the key factors that limit the life performance of the TGC.
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
Thermal fluctuations from an artificial ion beam injection into the ionosphere
Simulations of argon beam experiments flown on two sounding rocket flights (ARCS 1, 2) reveal two bands of electrostatic wave emissions, one at high frequencies around the upper hybrid mode, the other at low frequencies around the lower hybrid mode. The latter is significantly enhanced by the argon beam in the simulations, and the enhancement was clearly observed on ARCS 2. This enhancement at phase velocities greater than the beam velocity is suggested to be due to an increase in the thermal fluctuation level of the plasma when the argon beam is present. Inclusion of electron dynamics and oblique angles of wave propagation with respect to B allows investigation of electron heating. Electron tail heating is observed parallel to B for k-parallel/k-perpendicular proportional to the square root of m(e)/m(0), while background ions are heated perpendicular to B.
Hudson, M. K.↗
Age Induced Effects on ESD Characteristics of Solar Array Coupons After Combined Space Environmental Exposures
A set of multi-junction GaAs/Ge solar array test coupons provided by Space Systems/Loral were subjected to a sequence of 5-year increments of combined space environment exposure tests. The test coupons capture an integrated design intended for use in a geosynchronous (GEO) space environment. A key component of this test campaign is performing electrostatic discharge (ESD) tests in the inverted gradient mode. The protocol of the ESD tests is based on the ISO standard for ESD testing on solar array panels [ISO-11221]. The test schematic in the ISO reference has been modified with Space System/Loral designed circuitry to better simulate the on-orbit operational conditions of its solar array design. Part of the modified circuitry is to simulate a solar array panel coverglass flashover discharge. All solar array coupons used in the test campaign consist of four cells constructed to form two strings. The ESD tests were performed at the beginning-of-life (BOL) and at each 5-year environment exposure point until end-of-life (EOL) at 15 years. The space environmental exposure sequence consisted of ultra-violet radiation, electron/proton particle radiation, thermal cycling, and Xenon ion thruster plume erosion. This paper describes the ESD test setup and the importance of the electrical test design in simulating the on-orbit operational conditions. Arc inception voltage results along with ESD test behavior from the BOL condition through the 15th year age condition are discussed. In addition, results from a Xenon plasma plume exposure test with an EOL coupon under the full ESD test condition will be discussed.
Wright, Kenneth H.↗
The formation of arcs in the dynamic spectra of Jovian decameter bursts
A model is presented that can account for several features of the dynamic spectral arcs observed at decameter wavelengths by the planetary radio astronomy experiment on Voyagers 1 and 2. It is shown that refraction of an extraordinary mode wave initially excited nearly orthogonal to the local magnetic field is significantly influenced by the local plasma density, being greater the higher the density. It is assumed that the source of the decameter radiation lies along the L = 6 flux tube and that the highest frequencies are produced at the lowest altitudes, where both the plasma density and magnetic field gradients are largest. It is further assumed that the decameter radiation is emitted into a thin conical sheet, consistent with both observation and theory. In the model the emission cone angle of the sheet is chosen to vary with frequency so that it is relatively small at both high and low frequencies, but approximately 80 deg at intermediate frequencies. The resulting emission pattern as seen by a distant observer is shown to resemble the observed arc pattern. The model is compared and contrasted with examples of Voyager radio data.
Goldstein, M. L.↗
Daytime Solar Heating of Photovoltaic Arrays in Low Density Plasmas
The purpose of the current work is to determine the out-gassing rate of H2O molecules for a solar array placed under daytime solar heating (full sunlight) conditions typically encountered in a Low Earth Orbital (LEO) environment. Arc rates are established for individual arrays held at 14 C and are used as a baseline for future comparisons. Radiated thermal solar flux incident to the array is simulated by mounting a stainless steel panel equipped with resistive heating elements several centimeters behind the array. A thermal plot of the heater plate temperature and the array temperature as a function of heating time is then obtained. A mass spectrometer is used to record the levels of partial pressure of water vapor in the test chamber after each of the 5 heating/cooling cycles. Each of the heating cycles was set to time duration of 40 minutes to simulate the daytime solar heat flux to the array over a single orbit. Finally the array is cooled back to ambient temperature after 5 complete cycles and the arc rates of the solar arrays is retested. A comparison of the various data is presented with rather some unexpected results.
Galofaro, J.↗
On Possible Arc Inception on Low Voltage Solar Array
Recent analysis of spacecraft failures during the period of 1990-2013 demonstrated clearly that electrostatic discharges caused more than 8 percent of all registered failures and anomalies, and comprised the most costly losses (25 percent) for operating companies and agencies. The electrostatic discharges on spacecraft surfaces are the results of differential charging above some critical (threshold) voltages. The mechanisms of differential charging are well known, and various methods have been developed to prevent a generation of significant electric fields in areas of triple junctions. For example, low bus voltages in Low Earth Orbit plasma environment and slightly conducting layer over cover-glass (ITO) in Geosynchronous Orbit surroundings are believed to be quite reliable measures to prevent discharges on respective surfaces. In most cases, the vulnerable elements of spacecraft (solar arrays, diode boards, etc.) go through comprehensive ground tests in vacuum chambers. However, tests articles contain the miniscule fragments of spacecraft components such as 10-30 solar cells of many thousands deployed on spacecraft in orbit. This is one reason why manufacturing defects may not be revealed in ground tests but expose themselves in arcing on array surface in space. The other reason for ineffectiveness of discharge preventive measures is aging of all materials in harsh orbital environments. The expected life time of modern spacecraft varies within the range of five-fifteen years, and thermal cycling, radiation damages, and mechanical stresses can result in surface erosion on conductive layers and microscopic cracks in cover-glass sheets and adhesive films. These possible damages may cause significant increases in local electric field strengths and subsequent discharges. The primary discharges may or may not be detrimental to spacecraft operation, but they can produce the necessary conditions for sustained arcs initiation. Multiple measures were developed to prevent sustained discharges between adjacent strings, and many ground tests were performed to determine threshold parameters (voltage and current) for sustained arcs. And again, manufacturing defects and aging in space environments may result in considerable decrease of critical threshold parameters. This paper is devoted to the analysis of possible reasons behind arcing on spacecraft with low bus voltages.
low voltage solar array↗
Model of the boundary layer of a vacuum-arc magnetic filter
A model is developed to describe the electrostatic boundary layer in a positively biased magnetic filter in filtered arcs with low collisionality. The set of equations used includes the electron momentum equation, with an anomalous collision term due to micro-instabilities leading to Bohm diffusion, electron mass conservation, and Poisson equation. Analytical solutions are obtained, valid for the regimes of interest, leading to an explicit expression to determine the electron density current to the filter wall as a function of the potential of the filter and the ratio of electron density at the plasma to that at the filter wall. Using a set of planar and cylindrical probes it is verified experimentally that the mentioned ratio of electron densities remains reasonably constant for different magnetic field values and probe bias, which allows to obtain a closed expression for the current. Comparisons are made with the experimentally determined current collected at different sections of a positively biased straight filter.
75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
Population of the Metastable A{sup 3}Σ{sub u} State of Molecular Nitrogen under Conditions of Plasma Chemical Synthesis of Metal Nitrides
The absolute population of the B{sup 3}Π{sub g} state of molecular nitrogen is calculated from the intensity of electron-vibrational bands of the first positive system. The absolute population of the metastable A{sup 3}Σ{sub u} state of nitrogen molecules is calculated based on the solution of the balance equation. It is established that the population of the metastable state of molecular nitrogen increases with a decrease in the pressure and increase in the current intensity of the glow discharge. The results of determining the population of the A{sup 3}Σ{sub u} state of nitrogen molecules under conditions of simultaneous excitation of glow and vacuum arc discharges are presented.
74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗
Numerical Modeling of a Vortex Stabilized Arcjet
Arcjet thrusters are being actively considered for use in Earth orbit maneuvering applications. Experimental studies are currently the chief means of determining an optimal thruster configuration. Earlier numerical studies have failed to include all of the effects found in typical arcjets including complex geometries, viscosity, and swirling flow. Arcjet geometries are large area ratio converging nozzles with centerbodies in the subsonic portion of the nozzle. The nozzle walls serve as the anode while the centerbody functions as the cathode. Viscous effects are important because the Reynolds number, based on the throat radius, is typically less than 1,000. Experimental studies have shown that a swirl or circumferential velocity component stabilizes a constricted arc. This dissertation describes the equations governing flow through a constricted arcjet thruster. An assumption that the flowfield is in local thermodynamic equilibrium leads to a single fluid plasma temperature model. An order of magnitude analysis reveals the governing fluid mechanics equations are uncoupled from the electromagnetic field equations. A numerical method is developed to solve the governing fluid mechanics equations, the Thin Layer Navier-Stokes equations. A coordinate transformation is employed in deriving the governing equations to simplify the application of boundary conditions in complex geometries. An axisymmetric formulation is employed to include the swirl velocity component as well as the axial and radial velocity components. The numerical method is an implicit finite-volume technique and allows for large time steps to reach a converged steady-state solution. The inviscid fluxes are flux-split, and Gauss-Seidel line relaxation is used to accelerate convergence. Converging-diverging nozzles with exit-to-throat area ratios up to 100:1 and annular nozzles were examined. Quantities examined included Mach number and static wall pressure distributions, and oblique shock structures. As the level of swirl and viscosity in the flowfield increased the mass flow rate and thrust decreased. The technique was used to predict the flow through a typical arcjet thruster geometry. Results indicate swirl and viscosity play an important role in the complex geometry of an arcjet.
Pawlas, Gary E.↗