Performance models for single port ETP (Electro‐Thermal Propulsion) devices are presented considering all significant efficiency factors. Single‐port ETP devices, which use the nozzle exit as entrance port for beamed power, are capable of high efficiency and high thrust with low mass penalty for both propellant and structure. Previously considered parabolic nozzle shapes have operated in pulse mode to exchange energy at a concentrated focal region, resulting in low efficiency. The proposed cone/bell shape diffuses the focal region prior to chamber entry to allow continuous combustion inside the chamber with high efficiency.

    Mechanical and thermal limits are evaluated. For vacuum operation, low chamber pressure operation is possible. Thin wall thruster construction results in low chamber and nozzle mass. Further, at low pressure, regenerative cooling is needed only for the chamber and throat region with radiation cooling for the nozzle exit region. These factors permit high expansion ratio and thrust‐to‐weight ratio needed for performance.


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    Title :

    Single Port Electro‐Thermal Propulsion—Performance Factors



    Conference:

    BEAMED ENERGY PROPULSION: Fifth International Symposium on Beamed Energy Propulsion ; 2007 ; Kailua‐Kona (Hawaii)


    Published in:

    AIP Conference Proceedings ; 997 , 1 ; 520-531


    Publication date :

    2008-04-28


    Size :

    12 pages





    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



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    Single Port Electro-thermal Propulsion-Design Factors

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