Tesla Valve Integration into Propulsion Systems for Water Hammer Mitigation

Water hammer is a pressure surge or wave caused when a liquid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly. Satellite and in-space propulsion systems exhibit this effect when valves, which can pulse several times per second, close quickly to isolate propellant from thrusters. The inherent nature of pulsing thrusters quickly has made water hammer a constant design challenge for these systems. Historically, the standard is to accept that the Maximum Design Pressure (MDP) of the system must account for a full worst case water-hammer event, which can be several times the Maximum Expected Operating Pressure (MEOP). An investigation is being conducted to determine the effectiveness of tesla valves in reducing water hammer amplitudes. Tesla Valves can be used in-line within propulsion systems to allow unrestricted flow in one direction and restricted flow in the opposite direction without the use of added mechanical or electrical components. Tesla valves use fixed internal geometry to allow for this unrestricted and restricted flow. With the increase and capability of Additive Manufacturing (AM), different configurations and concepts of tesla valves can be manufactured and tested at minimal cost. This concept could possibly be used to allow for a less complicated, or robust satellite and in-space propulsion system. This presentation will cover topics of additive manufactured design of tesla valves, testing, and variables to consider within tesla valve creation.