Development of power processing technologies for magneto-plasma-dynamic thrusters

Hundreds of kilowatts would be needed for Magneto-Plasma-Dynamic (MPD) thrusters to keep highest thrust densities. A MPD thruster was firstly supplied by a ground power processing unit (PPU), which contained three types of Alternating Current to Direct Current (AC-DC) converters. The dynamic electrical characteristics of MPD thruster were given under various modes. Based on this, a PPU space prototype for a 150 kilowatts (kW) MPD thruster is under development. The unit produces up to 1500 Ampere DC (ADC) with fifteen parallel 10 kW power supplies that operate from a 300 Volt DC (VDC) input voltage. Silicon Carbide power MOSFETs were used in this unit for high voltage stress, large current, high efficiency and low mass. Efficiencies of 96% were tested during testing with the MPD thruster. Electromagnet and ignition supplies were also developed and will be integrated with the power supplies into a vacuum-rated power processing unit prototype with full flight functionality. This unit will be evolved into a future spacecraft for deep space missions that require electric propulsion.