Product Adoption Case No. 16 Ultra-Compact Thruster Valve

Overcoming issues with customization, off to space! Ultra-small thruster valve.

Howe Industries is a startup company developing propulsion systems for spacecraft, including satellites, in Arizona, USA. They are considering the incorporation of our ultra-compact HVA series valves into the thrusters they are developing. This thruster primarily uses water instead of harmful propellants like hydrazine, which have traditionally been used, making it environmentally friendly and efficient amid the growing demand for small satellites. Previously, when the company used valves from other manufacturers, they had to cut the connecting pipes in-house after purchase because the length did not match. However, during the cutting process, metal shavings sometimes entered the valve, hindering its normal operation. [Challenges and Solutions] Initially, Howe Industries intended to process the pipes for our valves in-house, but they were very pleased to learn that we could customize the pipe length to their specifications. This allows them to avoid the hassle of internal processing and incorporate a reliable valve into their equipment. We hope this custom valve will be integrated into the thruster, enabling actual spaceflight in the near future.

valve