LIQUID METAL STIRLING TEST RIG
Fission Surface Power > Liquid Metal Stirling Test Rig
Installation of two P2A 1kW free-piston Stirling power convertors. Courtesy NASA.
Free-Piston Stirling power conversion has been identified as a viable option for potential Fission Surface Power systems on the moon and Mars. Studies examined the use of Stirling convertors coupled to a low-temperature (< 900K), uranium-dioxide fueled, liquid-metal-cooled reactor for potential lunar application in year 2020. The system is considered a low development risk based on the use of terrestrial-derived reactor technology and conventional materials. Like the moon's power system, a Mars-based system is expected to be similar in configuration, set-up, and operation. Additionally, all required materials and components will be compatible with its environment.
NASA has begun long lead technology development on multi-kilowatt Stirling power conversion under the Fission Surface Power Technology Project. Four main activities related to Stirling are:
- Liquid Metal Loop Integration
- Alternator/Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) Integration
- Convertor Scale-Up
- Technology Demonstration Unit (TDU)
Still photo of CFD simulation of NaK heat exchanger. Courtesy NASA.
The Liquid Metal Loop Integration involves a pair of 1kW commercial Free-Piston Stirling (FPS) convertors procured and assembled into a test rig. In parallel, a liquid metal heat exchanger will be designed and fabricated for use on the 1kW convertors to permit integrated testing with an existing sodium potassium (NaK) heat loop. The Alternator/PMAD Integration task involves the procurement of 10kW linear motor/alternator pressure wave generators plumbed together to simulate the input characteristics of a Stirling heat engine. In correlation with Foster Miller and Auburn University, the Convertor Scale-up is aimed at designing and fabricating a 5kW Free-Piston Stirling convertor with design aspects similar to the convertors built and tested by Mechanical Technology Inc. All activities aim at providing data to support a full-scale FSP convertor prototype in a TDU test. The Technology Demonstration Unit test will be conducted using 6kW opposed piston convertors coupled to a liquid metal reactor simulator and a full-scale radiator in thermal vacuum.
NASA Fact
Orville and Wilbur Wright made their first successful flight on December 17, 1903. Wilbur and Orville had two older brothers and a younger sister. None of the Wright children were given a middle name.
- NASA Official: Richard K. Shaltens
- Curator: Peggy A. Cornell
- Last Updated: June 21, 2008