Out-of-Pile Thermionic Space Power Systems Using a Gaseous Heat-Transfer Fluid

摘要

A study of the potential of space power systems composed of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor and outof-pile thermionic converters. Emphasis is placed on the creep-rupture problem and the optimization of the radiator-converter configuration. Expressions for thermionic-converter efficiency and power density as a function of emitter temperature and collector temperature are developed. For a system using 750-psi helium at a maximum gas temperature of 3600 1/4F, a specific mass of about 13 lb/kw is estimated, excluding power conditioner and shield masses. A 1000-psi system using neon would have a specific mass of about 17 lb/kw. (Author)