Analysis and Optimization of "Full-Length" Diodes
A method of analyzing the axial variation of the heat generation rate, temperature, voltage, current density and emitter heat flux in a thermionic converter is described. The method is particularly useful for the case of "long" diodes, each extending over the full length of the reactor core. For a given diode geometry and fuel distribution, the analysis combines a nuclear solution of the axial fission density profile with the iterative solution of four differential equations representing the thermal, electrical, and thermionic interactions within the diode. The digital computer program developed to solve these equations can also perform a design optimization with respect to lead resistance, load voltage, and emitter thickness, for a specified maximum emitter temperature. Typical results are presented, and the use of this analysis for predicting the diode operating characteristics is illustrated.
- Research Organization:
- Republic Aviation Division of Fairchild Hiller Corp.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- NE Office of Space and Defense Power Systems
- OSTI ID:
- 1033386
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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