PROJECT PROFILE : EXCITER IGNITER
CLIENTS AND PARTNERS
SERVICES RENDERED
- Propulsion Engineering
- Innovative Fuel Technology Development
- Research and Assurance Testing
- Project Management
CLIENT FEEDBACK
"This story [of the Exciter Igniter] highlights the excellent partnership between NASA Glenn Research Center and our SBIR contract with Alphaport, Inc. This success story has been released by the company and will be used by NASA headquarters and forwarded to NASA publications."
Cindy L. Dreibelbis
AP Solutions, Inc.
NASA Glenn Research Center
Alphaport’s Exciter Igniter—Efficient, Reliable, Sustainable
Designed, built, and tested under a two-year NASA SBIR Phase II program following a Phase I design effort, Alphaport’s Exciter Igniter was initially developed for potential use in NASA space vehicles. Built to NASA specifications, the innovative and compact ignition system houses a miniature, custom-designed ignition coil that directly interfaces with the exciter electronics. A vacuum-tested stainless steel enclosure maintains internal atmospheric pressure under rigorous flight and orbital conditions.
Hermetically sealed and fully integrated, the Exciter Igniter reduces the risks of high-voltage pulse degradation caused by corona in ignition cables during space operation; in previous NASA ignition systems, components have been separated by up to four feet of cable. Integration of components allows for weight and volume reduction; by combining components, the system reduces engine complexity and increases consistency and reliability.
Handling of toxic fuel, traditionally used in space rocket engines, prompted NASA to turn its attention to using safer and operationally less expensive fuel sources. The Exciter Igniter produces reliable, high-voltage sparking for ignition of LOx methane and other less volatile green fuels which require with a higher point of ignition. The result is enhanced viability of sustainable, environmentally responsible, non-toxic propellants. Although intended for use onboard NASA’s Orion Crew Vehicle and Altair Lunar lander, Alphaport’s Exciter Igniter is also applicable to terrestrial engines as well: aircraft engines, power turbines, and even land vehicles and watercraft. Through cooperative testing, Alphaport and NASA have strengthened their partnership and have created exciting new opportunities for a safer, greener future for the commercial space transportation industry.
