Abstract
Abstract The SNAP-8 is a 35-kw turbo-electric nuclear space power system using a mercury Rankine cycle. It will operate continuously for 10,000 hr after remote automatic startup. Possible applications for SNAP-8 include manned space stations, manned lunar bases, and deep space probes. The unique features of the four-loop system are described. A brief report is given on the status of the program including the Nuclear Reactor System. The facilities for nonnuclear and nuclear testing of the power conversion system are described. The developmental design features and the confirming test data are presented on the following significant components of the power conversion system: the boiler, the condenser, the auxiliary start loop heat exchanger, the turbine-alternator assembly, the composite seal to space, the Hg motor pump assembly, the NaK motor pump assemblies, and the lubricant-coolant pump assembly. A 1/16 scale four-loop corrosion loop system which is being operated concurrently with the SNAP-8 program will be described. Extrapolation of this data is expected to yield performance data on the mercury containment materials ability to survive the 10,000 hr space requirement. The results of the nuclear radiation tests on materials and components are discussed.
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