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Ultrahigh temperature vapor core reactor burst mode space power system

Conference · · Transactions of the American Nuclear Society; (USA)
OSTI ID:6769372

Studies have been performed on innovative, ultrahigh temperature vapor core reactors (UTVRs) coupled with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator energy conversion for burst mode (hundreds of MW(electric) for thousands of seconds) space power systems. Use of UF{sub 4} as the working fluid in the UTVR/MHD generator allows for operation on a direct Rankine cycle and leads to space power systems with high efficiency (>20%), small radiator size ({approximately}4 m{sup 2}/MW(electrical)), and low specific mass (<0.2 kg/kW(electrical)).

OSTI ID:
6769372
Report Number(s):
CONF-890604--
Journal Information:
Transactions of the American Nuclear Society; (USA), Journal Name: Transactions of the American Nuclear Society; (USA) Vol. 59; ISSN TANSA; ISSN 0003-018X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English