Thermionic reactors for space nuclear powerThermionic reactor designs for a variety of space power applications spanning the range from 5 kWe to 3 MWe are described. In all of these reactors, nuclear heat is converted directly to electrical energy in thermionic fuel elements (TFEs). A circulating reactor coolant carries heat from the core of TFEs directly to a heat rejection radiator system. The recent design of a thermionic reactor to meet the SP-100 requirements is emphasized. Design studies of reactors at other power levels show that the same TFE can be used over a broad range in power, and that design modifications can extend the range to many megawatts. The design of the SP-100 TFE is similar to that of TFEs operated successfully in test reactors, but with design improvements to extend the operating lifetime to seven years.
Document ID
19860036004
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Homeyer, W. G. (GA Technologies, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)
Merrill, M. H. (GA Technologies, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)
Holland, J. W. (GA Technologies, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)
Fisher, C. R. (GA Technologies, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)
Allen, D. T. (GA Technologies, Inc. San Diego, CA, United States)