Adapting to Changing Needs: Moog’s Flexible Pressure Regulation Assembly

Adapting to Changing Needs: Moog's Flexible Pressure Regulation Assembly

With rapidly evolving space technology comes an increasing need for a flexible pressure regulation system for electric propulsion solutions. Traditionally, control systems in spacecraft have relied on mechanical or bang-bang pressure regulators that are specifically designed to match the set point pressure required for optimal performance and stability. Typically, pressure cannot be changed or easily changed while in use. Recognizing this need for adaptability and flexibility, Moog has developed an innovative pressure regulation assembly that allows pressure set points to be easily adjusted while in flight.

Adjustability in Action: The Pressure Regulation Assembly

Moog's pressure regulation assembly is an all-welded stainless-steel assembly, with a normally closed proportional valve, and a downstream transducer. When used in a feedback control circuit, this system can be flexible for almost any electric propulsion regulation need.

While mechanical regulators are typically single set point devices that are not adjustable once the regulator assembly is complete, "the Moog pressure regulation assembly is unique because it has the flexibility to support the same application, or a different application using a different set point, with the same design," said Kevin Neff, Moog Fluid Controls Engineering Manager.

The main reason Moog's pressure regulation assembly can adjust to different pressure set points without modifications to the design is due to the Moog proportional flow control valve that can change its orifice size in proportion to input current. The controller is used in conjunction with Moog's pressure regulation assembly. It is also a vital component, as it adjusts the current command to the proportional valve based on the desired input pressure set point and the downstream pressure transducer reading. The controller can receive an input voltage command, which corresponds to the desired pressure, and adjusts the current output to the pressure flow control valve. By doing so, the controller ensures that the pressure output aligns with the command signal, ultimately achieving the desired regulated pressure.

"The pressure regulation assembly can also support future missions with different set points with no additional changes, as compared to the mechanical regulator solution that would require a different assembly set up, and possibly new parts, to meet different set point pressures," said Neff.

Traditionally, a mechanical regulator is designed and calibrated for a specific set point pressure. If the set point pressure needs to be changed for a different mission or application, it would typically require significant modifications to the assembly, including potentially replacing parts or even redesigning the entire system. However, the Moog pressure regulation assembly is designed to be easily adjustable and capable of accommodating different set point pressures without the need for additional modifications. By eliminating the need for extensive modifications or the use of different assemblies for different set point pressures, the pressure regulation assembly streamlines the process of adapting and reconfiguring systems for different missions or applications. This can lead to substantial time and cost savings, as well as increased operational flexibility.

Revolutionizing The Way to Space

Testing performed on the proportional flow control valve, and significant in-space flight heritage, has ensured its reliability in performance in demanding aerospace applications.

"The pressure regulation assembly is well-suited to support any type of electric propulsion spacecraft from LEO to GEO and beyond. The pressure regulation assembly can improve propellant efficiencies with the flexibility of adjusting set points for different phases of the mission," said Neff.

Interested in speaking with Moog? Contact us at [email protected]

Kevin Neff
Fluid Controls Engineering Manager