Table of Contents
How does an ion propulsion system work?
An ion thruster ionizes propellant by adding or removing electrons to produce ions. Most thrusters ionize propellant by electron bombardment: a high-energy electron (negative charge) collides with a propellant atom (neutral charge), releasing electrons from the propellant atom and resulting in a positively charged ion.
How do electric propulsion systems work?
Electric propulsion technologies generate thrust via electrical energy that may be derived either from a solar source, such as solar photovoltaic arrays, which convert solar radiation to electrical power, or from a nuclear source, such as a space-based fission drive, which splits atomic nuclei to release large amounts …
What is electric propulsion for ships?
Integrated electric propulsion (IEP) or full electric propulsion (FEP) or integrated full electric propulsion (IFEP) is an arrangement of marine propulsion systems such that gas turbines or diesel generators or both generate three-phase electricity which is then used to power electric motors turning either propellers …
How do diesel electric ships work?
In diesel-electric systems, multiple diesel engines, each driving an electric generator, produce the electric power that energizes the electric motors connected to the propellers as well as other electrical loads on the ship. Depending on electrical demand, not all diesel generators have to be operating at all times.
How fast can you go with ion propulsion?
200,000 mph
Spacecraft powered by these thrusters can reach speeds up to 90,000 meters per second (over 200,000 mph). In comparison, the Space Shuttles can reach speeds around 18,000 mph. The trade-off for the high top speeds of ion thrusters is low thrust (or low acceleration).
What are the disadvantages of electric propulsion system?
Disadvantages include a higher initial cost when compared to propulsion systems based on internal combustion engines, increased energy conversion loss from fuel to propulsion, and a larger system volume due to the large number of component parts.
What are the advantages of electric propulsion?
It provides improved maneuverability and high redundancy. Increased payload through flexible location of machinery components. Environmental benefits from lower fuel consumption and emissions. High performance in harsh ice conditions due to maximum torque at zero speed.