Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 2 of 2
Full-Text Articles in Mechanical Engineering
Non-Intrusive Pressure Measurement In Microchannels, Derek Fultz
Non-Intrusive Pressure Measurement In Microchannels, Derek Fultz
Dissertations, Master's Theses and Master's Reports - Open
A non-intrusive interferometric measurement technique has been successfully developed to measure fluid compressibility in both gas and liquid phases via refractive index (RI) changes. The technique, consisting of an unfocused laser beam impinging a glass channel, can be used to separate and quantify cell deflection, fluid flow rates, and pressure variations in microchannels. Currently in fields such as microfluidics, pressure and flow rate measurement devices are orders of magnitude larger than the channel cross-sections making direct pressure and fluid flow rate measurements impossible. Due to the non-intrusive nature of this technique, such measurements are now possible, opening the door for …
Effect Of Segmented Anodes On The Performance And Plume Of A Hall Thruster, Alexander W. Kieckhafer
Effect Of Segmented Anodes On The Performance And Plume Of A Hall Thruster, Alexander W. Kieckhafer
Dissertations, Master's Theses and Master's Reports - Open
Development of alternative propellants for Hall thruster operation is an active area of research. Xenon is the current propellant of choice for Hall thrusters, but can be costly in large thrusters and for extended test periods. Condensible propellants may offer an alternative to xenon, as they will not require costly active pumping to remove from a test facility, and may be less expensive to purchase. A method has been developed which uses segmented electrodes in the discharge channel of a Hall thruster to divert discharge current to and from the main anode and thus control the anode temperature. By placing …