Alkali metal space power technology applicable to national energy research and development
The nation's space power program developed an alkali metal technology potentially applicable to its future energy needs. The space power system was designed to utilize a nuclear reactor with a primary lithium loop and a secondary boiling/condensing potassium loop driving a potassium vapor turbine/electrical generator. Considerable design, manufacture, test, and evaluation efforts were expended in the successful demonstration of the boilers, condensers, turbines, seals, valves, pumps, and other components. Much of that high-temperature, Rankine cycle technology can be used as a basis for advanced power conversion systems; these might include fossil and nuclear fueled plants, central solar power systems or solar power satellites.
- Research Organization:
- General Electric Co., Evendale, OH
- OSTI ID:
- 7089072
- Journal Information:
- J. Energy; (United States), Journal Name: J. Energy; (United States) Vol. 1:3; ISSN JENED
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
200102* -- Fossil-Fueled Power Plants-- Power Cycles
42 ENGINEERING
425002 -- Engineering-- Power Cycles-- Rankine-- (1980-)
ALKALI METALS
DESIGN
ELEMENTS
FLUIDS
GASES
METALS
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems
PERFORMANCE
POTASSIUM
POWER PLANTS
RANKINE CYCLE
RANKINE CYCLE POWER SYSTEMS
THERMAL POWER PLANTS
THERMODYNAMIC CYCLES
VAPORS