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Objectives
Since the early 2000’s, TAS-B (ETCA) develops Power Propulsion Units (PPU) to operate Hall Effect Thrusters (HET). Current PPU (Mk1- Mk2) supplies 1.5kW – 2.5kW HET used for SATCOM North South Station Keeping. PPU Mk3 is dedicated to 5kW HET for SATCOM Orbit Raising with Electric Propulsion.
Challenges
Compatibility with the different European Platforms and thrusters.
Plan
- Performed PPU Mk3 QM manufacturing
- Performed PPU Mk3 QM qualification tests including performances, mechanical, EMC, vacuum and corona
- Hold the reviews MRR, TRR, TRB/DRB
- Performed components qualification such as relay, magnetics and SMD/through hole components according to the mission life profile and requirements
- Issue whole qualification data package
Current Status
The PPU Mk3 specification was reviewed with the Primes and thruster manufacturers.
The design has been completed. The PPU Mk3 has been fully qualified ; component qualification have also been completed.
Coupled test with SPT140-D, XR5 and PPS5000 thrusters have been successfully performed.
The whole data package have been provided and the final review held.
Several flight models have already been manufactured and delivered to different customers.