CONTINUATION OF 3-KW STIRLING CYCLE SOLAR POWER SYSTEM PROGRAM

The second quarter activity on Phase II of the three-phase, 3-kw, Stirling Cycle Solar Power Systems Program is described. Phase I consisted of the design and experimental evaluation of a research model of the advanced Stirling engine, applied research of solar concentrators, heat receivers, thermal energy storage devices, radiators, orientation devices, system controls, seals, and studies preparatory to the design of a deployable concentrator orbital experiment. Phase II is directed toward improving the performance of the research advanced Stirling engine to ensure attainment of a net output of 3 kw of electrical power at a minimum brake thermal effi ciency of 30 in the flight-type engine design. hase II consists of three basic tasks 1 engine component investigations, 2 Model PD-46 research engine performance improvement, and 3 flight-type engine design and partial fabrica tion. The work to be accomplished during the second quarter included 1 continuation of PD-46 engine problem elimination and performance tests, 2 continuation of power piston seal development program, 3 evaluation of heat ex changer circuit pressure losses under pulsating flow conditions, 4 shakedown ground tests and flight tests of zero g lubrication test rig, and 5 completion of the design of the Model PD-67 lightweight engine components. Author