SP-100 dynamic power and lithium-propellant MPD nuclear electric propulsion technology requirements

Conference · Sat Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1994

OSTI ID:418719

Frisbee, R H ^[1]; Hoffman, N J; Murray, K H ^[2]

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1. JPL, Pasadena, CA (United States)
2. Rockwell Energy Technology Engineering Center, Canoga Park, CA (United States)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the requirements for the propulsion and power conversion systems of a nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) vehicle using an SP-100 reactor with a dynamic power conversion system, Li-propellant magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters, Li-propellant storage and feed systems, and power conditioning electronics required to convert the power output from the power system to the form needed by the thrusters. Potassium-Rankine power conversion systems have the potential for the greatest mission benefit in terms of minimum mass and volume, but they require the most development. High-current, low-voltage turboalternators are needed for the MPD thruster system envisioned here. Power processing is not expected to be a major technology driver, but development of high-current, low-voltage space- and radiation-qualified components is needed. Finally, increases in MPD thruster life would reduce mass, system complexity, and packaging constraints; similarly, higher thruster efficiencies are desirable to reduce trip time.

• OSTI ID: 418719
• Report Number(s): CONF-940101--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS
DESIGN
LITHIUM
MAGNETOGASDYNAMICS
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
POWER CONDITIONING CIRCUITS
PROPELLANTS
RANKINE CYCLE
SPACE PROPULSION REACTORS
THRUSTERS