Stirling technology development at NASA GRC

摘要: The Department of Energy, Stirling Technology Company (STC), and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) are developing a free-piston convertor for high-efficiency Radioisotope Generator (SRG) Space Science missions. SRG is being developed multimission use, including providing electric power unmanned Mars rovers deep space GRC conducting an in-house technology project to assist in the qualification mission implementation. Recent testing 55-We Demonstration Convertors (TDC’s) built by STC includes mapping second pair TDC’s, single TDC testing, electromagnetic interference compatibility characterization on non-magnetic test stand. Launch environment tests without its pressure vessel better understand internal structural dynamics dual-opposed TDC’s with several engineering mounting structures different natural frequencies have recently been completed. A preliminary life assessment has completed heater head, creep IN718 material be used flight convertors underway. Long-term magnet aging continuing characterize any potential strength or demagnetization resistance magnets linear alternator (LA). Evaluations now beginning key organic materials LA piston/rod surface coatings. also finite element analyses LA, part look at margin permanent magnets. world’s first known integrated dynamic system propulsion was achieved when Hall-effect thruster successfully operated source. Cleveland State University multi-dimensional computational fluid code significantly improve loss predictions identifying areas further improvements. This paper will update status results these efforts.