Schlieren Imaging of Microthruster Exhausts for Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis

• Abstract. Schlieren imaging is a method used to visualize differences in refractiveindex within a medium. It is a powerful and straightforward tool for sensitiveand high-resolution visualization of, e.g., gas flows. Here, heated cold gasmicrothrusters were studied with this technique. The thrusters are manufacturedusing microelectromechanical systems technology, and measure 22×22×0.85 mm. Thenozzles are approximately 20 µm wide at the throat, and 350 µm wide at the exit.Through these studies, verification of the functionality of the thrusters, and directvisualization and of the thruster exhausts was possible. At atmospheric pressure,slipping of the exhaust was observed, due to severe overexpansion of the nozzle. Invacuum (3 kPa), the exhaust was imaged while feed pressure was varied from 100 to450 kPa. The nozzle was overexpanded, and the flow was seen to be supersonic. Theshock cell period was linearly dependent on feed pressure, ranging from 320 to 610 µm.With activated heaters, the shock cell separation increased. The effect of the heaterswas more prominent at low feed pressure, and an increase in specific impulse of 20%was calculated. It was also shown that schlieren imaging can be used to detect leaks,making it a valuable, safe, and noninvasive aid in quality control of the thrusters.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Annan teknik -- Övrig annan teknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Other Engineering and Technologies -- Other Engineering and Technologies not elsewhere specified (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Schlieren imaging

microthrusters

MEMS

shock cells

Teknisk fysik med inriktning mot mikrosystemteknik

Engineering Science with specialization in Microsystems Technology

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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