THERMIONIC CONVERTER LIFE AND REPEATABILITY INVESTIGATION.
Abstract
Twenty thermionic converters, of planar electrode geometry and identical over-all configuration, were constructed and tested. Five similar converters, built prior to the beginning of the reporting period, were also tested. Six converters built at the end of this program were subjected only to preliminary performance tests. The other nineteen converters were life-tested, with eight operating on a cyclic basis and the other eleven operating on a steady-state basis. The eight cycling converters operated at an average power density of 15.7 W/sq cm and withstood an average of over 800 cycles, with the lead converter completing about 2300 cycles. The eleven converters operating at steady-state produced an average power density of 15.6 W/sq cm and had an average test duration of about 6000 hours, with the lead converter logging over 15,000 hours. Two improved converters constructed later in the program are still operating and have completed 8500 and 9800 hours of steady-state operation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0811584
Entities
People
- L. Van Someren
- T. Athanis