NASA LogoNTRSNTRS - NASA Technical Reports ServerSearchmore_vertCollectionsAboutNewsHelpLogin Back to ResultsDynamic Capability of an Operating Stirling ConvertorThe NASA John H. Glenn Research Center and the US Department of Energy are currently developing a Stirling convertor for use as an advanced spacecraft power system for future NASA deep-space missions. NASA Headquarters has recently identified the Stirling technology generator for potential use as the spacecraft power system for two of NASA's new missions, the Europa Orbiter and the Solar Probe missions (planned for launch in 2006 and 2007 respectively). As part of the development of this power system, a Stirling Technology Demonstration Convertor was vibration tested at NASA John H. Glenn Research Center to verify its survivability and capability of withstanding the harsh dynamic environment typically seen by the spacecraft when it is launched by an expendable launch vehicle. The Technology Demonstration Convertor was fully operational (producing power) during the random vibration testing. The output power of the convertor and other convertor performance indicators were measured during the testing, and these results are discussed in this paper. Numerous accelerometers and force gauges also were used to provide information on the dynamic characteristics of the Technology Demonstration Convertor and as an indication of any possible damage due to the vibration. These measurements will also be discussed in this paper. The vibration testing of the Stirling Technology Demonstration Convertor was extremely successful. The Technology Demonstration Convertor survived all its vibration testing with no structural damage or functional performance degradation. As a result of this testing, the Stirling convertor's capability to withstand vibration has been demonstrated, enabling its usage in future spacecraft power systems.Document ID20010017163Acquisition SourceGlenn Research CenterDocument TypePreprint (Draft being sent to journal)AuthorsGoodnight, Thomas W.*(NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH United States)*Hughes, William O.*(NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH United States)*McNelis, Mark E.*(NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH United States)*Date AcquiredSeptember 7, 2013Publication DateNovember 1, 2000Subject CategoryEnergy Production And ConversionReport/Patent NumberNAS 1.15:210527NASA/TM-2000-210527E-12504AIAA Paper 2000-2839Meeting InformationMeeting: Intersociety Energy Conversion EngineeringLocation: Las Vegas, NVCountry: United StatesStart Date: July 24, 2000End Date: July 28, 2000Sponsors:American Inst. of Aeronautics and AstronauticsFunding Number(s)PROJECT: RTOP 839-20-00Distribution LimitsPublicCopyrightWork of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.Available DownloadsNameType20010017163.pdfSTIcloud_downloadcontent_copyvisibilityRelated RecordsThere are no records associated with this record.visibility_offNo Preview Available
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