The Analysis of Turbine Propulsion Systems in Nuclear Submarines

Abstract

The article systematises submarines, which are presently in service, according to their propulsion types (both conventional and nuclear), power output, and submersion depth. Contemporary types of propulsion systems installed and used in submarines are discussed. Calculations were performed for the PWR type nuclear propulsion system and the supercritical turbine propulsion system (supercritical reactor cooled with light water). Preliminary designs of turbines have been worked out for these two variants, and the systems were compared with respect to cycle efficiency and turboset efficiency.