The Brayton cycle is recognized as a power-producing thermodynamic cycle that functions by the mechanical compression of a gas, further heating of the gas at constant pressure, expansion of the gas to produce mechanical energy, and rejection of the waste heat at constant pressure. Closed Brayton cycle (CBC) power conversion systems have several key characteristics which make them well suited for use in space and extraterrestrial environments. These systems provide a high cycle efficiency using any high-temperature heat source and operate on a single-phase, inert gas working fluid which is not affected by the environment. In addition, the ability to operate using different molecular weight gases and variable system pressure levels can allow a given design to operate efficiently over a wide power range. The systems designed and developed by the Fluid Systems Division of the Allied-Signal Aerospace Company (and its predecessor The Garrett Corporation) have additional features that further enhance their suitability for use in the space environment. In addition to technical features which are well matched to the space environment, closed Brayton cycle systems also represent a mature technology, benefitting from both a long history of closed cycle system development and an extensive technology base provided by the open cycle gas turbine industry. The purpose of this paper is to examine the background and current status of CBC power conversion systems for space applications, and then look at the future of these systems from both an application and technological standpoint.
The future of closed Brayton cycle space power systems
Energieumwandlungssysteme nach dem Prinzip des geschlossenen Brayton-Zyklus für Anwendungen im Weltraum
Space Power ; 8 , 1/2 ; 125-136
1989
12 Seiten, 13 Bilder, 13 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English