Lightweight, Low-Power Cryogenic Valve for Orbital Propellant Management

Orbital refueling of cryogenic propellants is a key enabling technology that will extend the usable life of spacecraft around Earth and facilitate the next generation of advanced exploration missions. Propellant management on orbit requires advanced propellant tanks, liquid acquisition devices, propellant transfer pumps, space-rated valves, and other subcomponents compatible with common propellants and designed for use at cryogenic temperatures. We propose to help meet this need by developing a space-rated valve for cryogenic propellants. Our valve uses a floating seal to provide low flow restriction without the bulky housing typically required of valves with large orifices. In Phase I, we completed detailed design of the valve and preliminary design of the actuator, fabricated a prototype valve, and made flow and leakage measurements to demonstrate compliance with NASA requirements. Our Phase I testing showed our valve offers higher flow capacity in a smaller, lighter package compared with commercial alternatives. In Phase II, we will update our valve design using lessons learned, integrate it with our space-rated actuator, and conduct valve testing under representative operating conditions (in a vacuum environment at cryogenic temperatures). At the end of Phase II, we will have a complete valve assembly with demonstrated performance, ready for spaceflight qualification and mission use.