CFD simulation of vane-type tank on-orbit refilling

In the microgravity environment, the position of the ullage bubble is uncertain. It´s hard to vent and control the center of mass for the receiver tank on mission of onor-bit refilling. The test tank of FARE II is taken as reference. using theory of the surface tension tank and the method of numerical simulation, the on-orbit refilling performance of the vane surface tension tank was studied. Calculation model is established. The VOF two-phase flow model is selected. Supposing hydrazine as working liquid, the process of vane tank on-orbit refilling is simulated. Simulation results show that the liquid is oriented effectively by the propellant management device. Vent and mass-center control in the process of refilling are realized. For various propellants, the critical flow rate is different. Wicking channel has an effect on the ullage position.