High-Performance Multi-Fuel AMTEC Power System
Abstract
AMTEC technology has demonstrated thermal to electric conversion efficiencies and power densities which make it an attractive option for meso-scaic power generation. This report details development of an integrated, logistics-fueled, 500 W AMTEC power supply. The development targeted 2O% AMTEC thermal efficiency and 16% system efficiency (fuel to net power) in a system that weights 9 kg. The heat source developed was a compact, recuperated combustion system capable of operating with most common liquid or gaseous fuels. Key technical issues that were addressed included: developing a cylindrical multi-tube/single cell AMTEC configuration with effective management of alkali metal flow; scaling down and integrating a multi-fuel micro-combustor technology to achieve soot-flee logistics fuel combustion and uniform heat flux to the AMTEC module hot side; and integrating a compact, light-weight recuperator to achieve high thermal efficiency. In addition, we evaluated and tested two alternative AMTEC design and manufacturing concepts aimed at reducing the cost and improving the manufacturability of the technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA393524
Entities
People
- Peter J. Loftus
- Robert K. Sievers
Organizations
- Arthur D. Little