Investigation of channel interactions in a nested hall thruster part I: Acceleration region velocimetry

Velocity distribution function maps were acquired using laser-induced uorescence on the centerline of each channel in a two-channel nested Hall thruster. The inner channel velocity distribution maps showed that the acceleration mechanism behaves differently in single and dual channel modes By matching the local thruster pressure through gas injection, the behavior of the dual channel acceleration mechanism can be reproduced in single channel mode. The outer channel velocity distribution maps did not show distinct changes with pressure variation. A difference in the mean exit velocity between dual and single channel modes was measured. This difference in exit velocity could result in increased thrust in dual channel mode.

Duke Scholars

Author Alec Gallimore Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materia ...