EVALUATION OF A MOLYBDENUM EMITTER, LOW VOLTAGE ARC THERMIONIC POWER CONVERTER.
Abstract
Results of life tests on the planar molybdenum emitter cesium-vapor thermionic converter operat ing under steady-state conditions are presented along with a description of the life-test equipment. Transient data on the effect of variations in cathode, anode, and reservoir temperatures, as well as step changes in the load, are also presented. The steady-state life tests were performed at a cathode temperature of 1450 C on a 5 sq. cm. cathode area converter design with the thermal input being supplied by a radiation-type furnace in order to more closely simulate solar cavity heating. Seven converters were tested for extended periods with nominal power outputs of 1.5 watts/sq. cm. to 2.5 watts/sq. cm. The maximum life of the state-of the-art 1cture on one converter was in excess of 3000 hours and four converters were operated beyond 1000 hours without major degradation in the power output. In addition, the analyses of two converters which operated for 1200 hours and 1400 hours are discussed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0402844
Entities
People
- E.a. Baum
Organizations
- General Electric