| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Symposium
|
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Presentation Title |
Design of a Test System for Hot Hydrogen-facing Components in Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Systems |
| Author(s) |
William Searight, Leigh Winfrey |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
William Searight |
| Abstract Scope |
Nuclear thermal propulsion is a promising candidate for deep-space crewed missions to Mars given their improved performance over chemical rockets. A pressing issue in NTP development is the testing of high-temperature components at prototypical conditions. To evaluate material performance of moderator elements, a hot hydrogen test loop, capable of producing circulating hydrogen at temperatures up to 1200 °C, is under construction at Penn State.
This work details the test loop design and development informed by Ansys Fluent to simulate the fluid behavior in the test section. Given that working fluid conditions affect material performance, the potential effects of hydrogen on test materials are evaluated under operating conditions. The design studies performed show laminar flow behavior in the hydrogen and delivered required temperatures to the test section. This work provides the basis for design choices in the test system and correlation of hydrogen behavior in interior components to materials performance. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |