Application of MAO‐processed ceramic layer in micro thrusters

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and assess the possibility of using ceramic coating layer as a heat‐resistant material in micro solid propellant thruster.

Design/methodology/approach

A ceramic layer is coated on the inner surface of the combustor of a micro thruster by applying micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) technology. The thermal property of the coating is analyzed with laser pulse method. To evaluate the heat‐resistant performance of the coating, the temperature history of the micro thruster inner surface is experimentally tested and recorded in a water thermostat bath. A numerical simulation of the thruster working condition is also carried out.

Findings

Both experimental and simulation results reveal that the heat‐resistant ability of the coating processed by MAO is proven to be effective.

Practical implications

This paper attempts to help designers choose material processing technology to improve micro solid propellant thruster heat‐resistant ability.

Originality/value

The paper shows that with a ceramic coating layer processed with MAO, aluminium can sustain higher temperature and it can be used as the structural material for short‐time‐work micro thruster.

Citation

Kang, X., Xin, T., Jin, F., Dong, L. and Zhao, W. (2011), "Application of MAO‐processed ceramic layer in micro thrusters", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 83 No. 1, pp. 21-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022661111119883