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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Status of Rankine-cycle technology for space nuclear power applications

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5419835

A substantial effort on the development of the liquid metal Rankine cycle space nuclear power system was carried out in programs jointly sponsored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) during the period of 1960--1972. Component tests were conducted which have established a considerable technology base for the concept. The development effort and technology status of each component are presented. The key technology issues remaining for development of the system are: refractory metal parts fabrication, turbine blade endurance, turbine bearings and seals, and generator winding seal. 5 refs.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
DOE; NASA; USDOE, Washington, DC (United States); National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
5419835
Report Number(s):
CONF-9109226-11; ON: DE91017859
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English