This was a repeat of test 57 with a single motor. This was to rule out any problems with two separate plasma sources. If the two plasma sources function as one then this test should show performance reduced by at least half. If the performance stays the same or increases it would indicate that the two plasma sources interfere with each other.
The data showed voltage slightly under half of the duel engine results. This is what we were expecting but we had to know before we could move on.
The team conducted our 57th MHD generator firing test Saturday. This was our third generation Hall Effect core. This was also our first time using two plasma sources (rocket motors).
Motor start and finish. The motors we use to create the plasma are made for small rockets. They have a reverse charge at the end intended to deploy a parachute.
The good news is that everything worked, the bad news is that the performance was poor. We have four more firing test planned for this unit. On each of the next tests a difference single parameter is adjusted. This should start pushing the performance up.
We just completed our third generation of Hall effect MHD generator core. Now it’s on to building a new mounting rig for the motors and magnets. We are hoping to do the first firing tomorrow.
