CAMFlow uses an innovative control scheme that uses a fixed frequency boulevalve state to enable stable operation, even at the low flow rates required for sub-kilowatt Hall effect thrusters. This methodology removes system complexity, blames valve cycle life for reliability, and, in combination with fixed operating frequencies, allows for a direct correlation between system life and valve cycle life. The CAMFlow control scheme was successfully implemented on the TRL5 system and tested and validated on the BHT-600. This includes open-loop, closed-loop, and cold-start operations. The control valve circulates in excess of 120 million pulses, demonstrating the potential for long life.
