Scientists from the Harbin Polytechnic University (China) have improved the design of a cylindrical Hall effect engine. The corresponding study was published in the journal Physics of Plasmas, briefly reported by the American Institute of Physics.
“The most practical way to change the neutral flow dynamics in the discharge channel is to change the gas injection method or work with the geometric morphology of the discharge channel,” said co-author Liciu Wei.
Using the COMSOL software, the specialists selected the design of the inlet nozzle (opening angle), which provides high density and uniformity of the gas in the discharge channel. This allowed for more traction.
The results of scientists' modeling were confirmed by experiment. In particular, the specific impulse of the engine increased by 53.5 percent at a discharge voltage of 100-200 volts. In the future, the authors plan to continue improving the unit and test it in space.
Hall effect cylindrical thrusters are small in size, which allows them to be installed on small spacecraft in order to ensure their maneuvering. Hall-effect engines are distinguished from other ion units by greater thrust.