A STRICTLY ANALYTICAL APPROACH TO THE INVESTIGATION OF THERMIONIC NETWORK RELIABILITY.
Abstract
An analytical model for the generalized evaluation of thermionic network reliability has been developed. This model, based on strictly analytical methods, can be used for any general system but is particularly attractive where failure events have low probability and approach a Poisson distribution, as is the case with thermionic power plants. Application of model yielded the following results: (1) Power output depends on load impedance and the numbers of rows and columns of thermionic cells in the array. The importance of load impedance matching is demonstrated by analytical results showing a range of over 2 to 1 in system power depending upon the array hookup. (2) The model can be used to optimize network hookup for maximum system reliability. Formulae were developed to determine the extent of parallel spanning for maximum power plant output with various assumed failures. Shorts-to-ground, external to elements and element open circuits were considered. (3) The usefulness of analytical methods for thermionic power plant reliability analyses was demonstrated by determining average relative powers for various combinations of elements in a specific system. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0487917
Entities
People
- J. L. Jaech
- K. B. Stewart
Organizations
- General Electric