Evaluation of LLC Resonant Converter in Anode Power Supply for All-Electric Satellites

All-electric satellites have been developed all over the world. These satellites achieve high fuel efficiency by replacing chemical propulsion systems with electric propulsion (EP) systems. It is possible to increase the payload and prolong the life of the satellite. In the future, it is expected to construct large-scale structures like Space Solar Power Systems which provide the earth with continuous energy in the space. The EP system consists of a Power Processing Unit (PPU) and Hall thrusters. The PPU’s mass is twice that of the hall thrusters. JAXA is studying the anode power supply of the for realizing the light weight PPU. The anode power supply is required to have high efficiency and wide range boost ratio. In this paper, an LLC resonant converter as the control topology of the power supply is evaluated. Two types of converters are designed using #1: 50V or #2: 24 to 32V primary voltage. The converter #1 realized 95% efficiency at 1kW. The converter #2 can output 300V at 93.1% maximum efficiency, and it can operate at about 5.5 pt loss in 8V of the primary voltage fluctuation. In this paper, it is revealed that LLC resonant converter can contribute to realize light weight of the PPU.