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U.S. Department of Energy
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CLAD CARBIDE NUCLEAR FUEL THERMIONIC POWER MODULES. Quarterly Report No. 3

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:4078565
A rhenium-clad carbide emitter, thermionic power module, which simulates nuclear reactor installation, design, and performance is evaluated. The module is an assembly of two series-connected converters with a single common cesium reservoir. The program goal is 500 hr cumulative operation at a power density of 7 watts/cm/sup 2/ and an efficiency of 12%. Progress made includes: completion of fabrication of all clad fuel structures, completion of heat treatments and subsequent initiation of metallurgical evaluations of clad fuel specimens, completion of fabrication of all module components, and assembly of the module. A rigorous leak-check revealed the presence of a very slight leak in one end of the collector insulator tube. The module is being reassembled with a new insulator. (auth)
Research Organization:
Atomics International. Div. of North American Aviation, Inc., Canoga Park, Calif.
NSA Number:
NSA-18-010831
OSTI ID:
4078565
Report Number(s):
AI-9362
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English