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THERMODYNAMIC CONSIDERATIONS FOR MHD SPACE POWER SYSTEMS

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4657828· OSTI ID:4657828

Thermodynamic efficiencies and radiator sizes of Brayton Cycle MHD generator systems, with and without regenerators, were obtained. A new gas cycle, the TriCycle, was synthesized. The Tri-Cycle has a radiator size as small as the regenerative Brayton Cycle, but a higher pressure ratio. A new cycle was discovered which operates on a dissociating chemical reaction and combines the advantages of a dry gas expansion, a liquid compression, and a Rankine Cycle size radiator. Entropy generation in supersonic MHD generators was analyzed, the polytropic efficiency was related to the generator operating parameters. Transient boil-off and refrigeration techniques were examined. Multiple radiation shield insulation thicknesses were computed. An optimum temperature ratio for heat rejection from an active refrigeration system was found for superconducting magnets. (auth)

Research Organization:
General Electric Co. Missile and Space Div., Valley Forge Space Technology Center, King of Prussia, Penna.
NSA Number:
NSA-17-038577
OSTI ID:
4657828
Report Number(s):
R62SD83; AD-291783
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English