Start Date
4-1968 8:00 AM
Description
The recent development and fabrication of a series of small radioisotope heaters has opened the door to an entirely new and unique tool for thermal control. The devices are completely passive and generate heat with a reliability of 1. The design, and construction of these heaters is discussed along with qualification tests to which the heaters have been subjected. These tests include crush forces of 20,000 pounds, thermal shock from 1700°F to -320°F, and impact into granite at a velocity of 355 ft/sec. Radiation 'shielding data are presented which will permit preliminary design estimates. General licensing requirements are also included.
Some applications are discussed with comparisons made between radioisotope and electrical heating systems. In these comparisons a radioisotope heater shows both a weight and cost advantage over solar cells or batteries. Typical radioisotope heater characteristics over a power range of 1 to 50 watts are presented.
Radioisotope Heaters for the Thermal Control
The recent development and fabrication of a series of small radioisotope heaters has opened the door to an entirely new and unique tool for thermal control. The devices are completely passive and generate heat with a reliability of 1. The design, and construction of these heaters is discussed along with qualification tests to which the heaters have been subjected. These tests include crush forces of 20,000 pounds, thermal shock from 1700°F to -320°F, and impact into granite at a velocity of 355 ft/sec. Radiation 'shielding data are presented which will permit preliminary design estimates. General licensing requirements are also included.
Some applications are discussed with comparisons made between radioisotope and electrical heating systems. In these comparisons a radioisotope heater shows both a weight and cost advantage over solar cells or batteries. Typical radioisotope heater characteristics over a power range of 1 to 50 watts are presented.
Comments
No other information or file available for this session.