SNAP II Power Conversion System Topical Report No. 16, 2500-Hour Endurance Test of Mercury Rankine Cycle Power System
Description:
SNAP 1 is the designation for the 0.5-kw nuclear auxiliary power supply intended for application in a satellite. SNAP 1 was designed to convert thermal energy from the decay of a radioisotope into electrical energy using a Rankine engine with mercury as the working fluid. A successful 2500-hour endurance test is described of a complete developmental version of the SNAP 1 power conversion system utilizing a prototype turbomachinery package, an electrically heated boiler, and an air-cooled condenser. Indications from the data obtained during the test and from inspection of the system following the test were that many more hours of satisfactory operation could have been obtained on all major system components except the rotating unit pump. The mercury-lubricated bearings, the turbine, and the alternator, all demonstrated excellent endurance capability. Based on previous component tests, it is concluded that the pump performance deterioration was caused by air entrainment in the liquid Hg. (auth)
Date:
January 1, 1961
Creator:
Grevstad, P.E.
Partner:
UNT Libraries Government Documents Department