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Energy conversion system optimization study for multimegawatt space nuclear power applications

Journal Article · · IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1109/23.3698· OSTI ID:6632789
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The major objective of this paper is to present a detailed description of the energy conversion system analysis and optimization procedures that were part of a broader preliminary study aimed at designing a multimegawatt (MMW) space nuclear power system. In optimizing the energy conversion system it is assumed that the most massive component of the system is the radiator and therefore the subject of optimization is the radiator mass. The closed loop Brayton and the liquid metal Rankine cycles are analyzed for a 165 MWe system. The radiator mass optimized systems based on both cycles are compared for a wide range of operating conditions. In addition, for a 165 MWe power output, the MMW power system mass is calculated using an open loop Brayton cycle. For the desired electric output, results show that the hydrogen cooled/potassium Rankine cycle is the recommended energy conversion system since it is superior to any closed loop Brayton cycle. Additionally, results show that the open loop Brayton cycle system with hydrogen working fluid has mass comparable to the selected Rankine cycle system.

Research Organization:
Dept. of Nuclear Engineering, Texas A and M Univ., College Station, TX (US)
OSTI ID:
6632789
Journal Information:
IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States) Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 35:3; ISSN IETNA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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Related Subjects

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS
210600* -- Power Reactors
Auxiliary
Mobile Package
& Transportable
ALKALI METALS
BRAYTON CYCLE
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
DESIGN
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
HYDROGEN
METALS
MOBILE REACTORS
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
NONMETALS
OPERATION
OPTIMIZATION
POTASSIUM
POWER RANGE 100-1000 MW
POWER REACTORS
POWER SUPPLIES
RANKINE CYCLE
REACTORS
SPACE POWER REACTORS
SPACE VEHICLES
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
THERMODYNAMIC CYCLES
VEHICLES