PRELIMINARY EVALUATION OF GAS TURBINE REGENERATORS EMPLOYING HEAT PIPES

A preliminary study of heat pipe gas turbine regenerators for future Army aircraft power plants was carried out, and a feasibility evaluation was made. Heat pipe regenerators appear to be technically feasible, and they can readily be integrated with gas turbines with a minimum of duct pressure losses and engine modification. Regenerator weight is comparable to or greater than that of other regenerator types. Considerable development can be anticipated for both individual heat pipes and regenerator core modules prior to completion of a successful prototype. Regenerator costs are expected to be high.