SPACE RADIATOR STUDY,
Abstract
Design techniques are presented for condenserradiators for condensing mercury, sodium, potassium, and rubidium vapors for Rankine cycle space power plants. Included in the design techniques are radiation heat transfer, fluid mechanics, meteoroid protection and materials considerations, with the fluid mechanics stability aspects emphasized. Parametric data for large alkali metal condenser radiators relating geometry to weight and area are presented. Tests were conducted with water, sodium, potassium, and rubidium to investigate flow regime and stability in vertical up flow condensing. A correlation is presented for predicting the transition from a stable annular film flow to a slugging regime. Techniques for estimating pressure drop and inventory are provided. Condensing heat transfer coefficients for potassium and rubidium are measured and found to vary from 200 to 4000 Btu/hr sq. ft. F at relatively low velocities and pressures. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0424419
Entities
People
- A. Koestel
- G. T. Stevens
- R. I. Shure
- R. J. Denington