Power regulation methods and regulation characteristics of the space reactor direct Brayton cycle with helium-xenon working fluid

Wenkui Ma, Xiaoyong Yang and Jie Wang

Energy, 2024, vol. 313, issue C

Abstract: The development of long lifespan, high power density, and efficient space power systems is crucial for advancing deep space exploration initiatives. Integration of space reactors with direct Brayton cycles (SR-DBC) represents a promising solution for future space power systems. Effective operation and control of SR-DBC require understanding of their power regulation characteristics. This study established a dynamic model for SR-DBC, from which three power regulation methods were derived: control drum, pump, and bypass valve. An investigation of SR-DBC performance under varying regulation methods elucidated application scenarios for these methods. Findings indicate that at 60 % of rated power generation, control drum regulation achieves the highest efficiency of 16.70 % and rapid response time of 80 s, making it suitable for off-design conditions. Conversely, pump regulation yields a moderate efficiency of 14.87 % but a slower response time of 347 s, primarily due to radiator thermal inertia. Bypass valve regulation exhibits the lowest efficiency at 12.65 % but compensates with the quickest response time of 14 s under reduced power generation conditions. This study provides valuable insights into SR-DBC system operation and control.

Keywords: Space reactor; Closed Brayton cycle; Bypass valve regulation; Control drum regulation; Pump regulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:313:y:2024:i:c:s0360544224037903

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.134012

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