Advanced Particle Filters

 
This project set out to develop a range of advanced particle filters suitable for satellite propulsion applications. The idea was to utilize the extremely precise manufacturing processes available from Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) technology to manufacture ultra-precise particle filters with absolute rating between 2 and 20 micron.

Objectives
The objective was to develop a family of filters up to TRL-8 suitable for both high pressure gaseous feed systems as well as liquid propellant feed system using hydrazine, MON/NTO, and various “green propellants”.

Achievements
The outcome of this project was very successful in the sense that all filter variants increased their Technology Readiness Level (TRL) from the starting point.

One of the filter designs has even reach the first flight and is thus at TRL-8. The most challenging application is in a chemical propulsion system for a typical telecommunication satellite in GEO. For this filter design TRL-5 was reached, but this development is continuing within ESAs Artes program and a fully qualified filter is expected to be ready in 2017.

Benefits
The activity has developed new products for the market. These are novel, European and ITAR free products.

Next steps
Next step is finalise the development also for the very demanding telecom segment.