The Patented Multi-Function Valve Can Save Up to 50% on Weight and Cost

Montville, New Jersey (January 21, 2015) – Marotta Controls announces that its patented high performance miniature Multi-Function Valve (MFV) is now available as an ITAR-Free key component for satellite electric propulsion systems.
The unique patented MFV has been specially engineered for the demands of today’s satellite electric propulsion systems. This flight qualified (TRL9) component provides several functions in a single component, acting as a pressure regulator, flow regulator, and/or a positive isolation valve. Its multi-functionality and exclusive design has the potential to significantly reduce the number components in a Xenon feed system when compared with traditional regulation systems. This enables the user to reduce costs, mass, envelope and overall system complexity while increasing performance, reliability and mission flexibility.
As part of the Gravity Field and Steady-State Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE) mission, Marotta’s MFV provided the precise and dynamic control of Xenon to the electric ion thruster to continuously adapt the thrust level to compensate for any drag from the upper atmosphere due to GOCE’s extremely low orbit. The precise control provided by the MFV also enabled the optimization of fuel usage which contributed to the planned 20 month mission extending to 55 months.
“Our international customers have needed this capability for quite some time, as this exclusive design has the potential to not only significantly simplify their Xenon feed systems, but they can expect up to 50% savings on weight and cost vs. traditional systems,” said Michael Leahan, vice president and chief sales officer of Marotta Controls. “We are pleased that export restrictions have been lifted, making this technology easier to provide to international customers.”
The MFV is similar in construction to a normally closed solenoid valve, however it uses the unique physical properties of magnetostrictive materials as the actuation mechanism to modulate the valve between open and closed positions.
About Marotta Controls
Marotta Controls, Inc. is one of the fastest growing technology businesses in New Jersey. It is a two-time recipient of the George M. Low Award for Quality and Excellence, a U.S. Small Business Administration Regional Subcontractor of the Year and a 2013 Lockheed Martin Supplier of the Year. With over 200 patents and 70 years’ experience Marotta Controls provides global security and aerospace system designers the solutions they need for controlling pressure, motion, fluid, electronics and power. Marotta’s offerings include high performance valves, manifolds, electronic controllers and military power supply and conversion technologies for integration into military and commercial satellites, launch vehicles, weapon systems, control actuation systems, shipboard systems and military aircraft.
Media Contact:
Tara Collazo – [email protected]
Marotta Controls, Inc.