Overview of key technologies of high power arc heater

Abstract

Arc-heated facilties play an important role in ground tests, such as appraisal of thermal protection systems(TPS) of various hypersonic vehicles and simulation of a high Mach scramjet's thermal structure and combustion chamber performance. This paper analyzes the requirements for developing a high power arc heater. Key technologies for developing it include high power, high voltage, high enthalpy and electrode erosion in high currents. Finally, the paper proposes the related ideas and methods for these key technologies, providing theoretical references for China's development of a super-high power arc heater.

Keywords

• high power arc heater
• hypersonic vehicle
• thermal protection system
• electrode erosion