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At least 1,045 records · Page 58
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

An Efficient Annual-Performance Model of a Geothermal Network for Improved System Design, Operation, and Control: Preprint

Geothermal district energy systems (DES), and specifically geothermal networks, provide a viable solution for decarbonizing residential and commercial heating and cooling loads. District energy systems of all kinds enable a thermal resource with a relatively high capital cost (such as a geothermal borehole field) to be shared among a large number of users. While district heating and cooling has been studied for many years, geothermal networks, fifth generation DES that utilize water-source heat pumps and an ambient temperature loop to meet heating and cooling loads, have not been implemented extensively and thus require additional technical and economic optimization to obtain maximum benefits. This paper presents a newly developed reduced-order model that captures the flow of energy within the network, including the commercial and residential users' electrical usage, at an hourly rate over a year. The model includes building loads, heat pumps, borehole fields, and auxiliary heat/cool input, all connected with an ambient-temperature thermal loop model. In the model, operational control is possible for the borehole fields, circulation pump, and auxiliary system. For a given system, the model can output the complete state parameters for each component, the thermal loop, and the collective system, such as flow rate over time, average thermal loop temperature over time, and total electricity usage. The model can also be used to optimize the system control for maximizing system efficiency or minimizing system operational cost. For example, one initial assessment of the borehole controller for an example system showed that a controller with on/off operation of the borehole field reduces annual electrical usage by 33%, compared with continuous operation mode. Hence, the model can assist in optimizing a given system's operation to get the most value out of a geothermal network installation. Future work will consider the model's application to a demonstration project, including the model validation against operational data and system operation optimization.

ambient-temperature loop↗
DOE OSTI2019

Instability of nonlinear Trivelpiece-Gould waves I: Wave degeneracies

Arguments based on energy conservation are used to evaluate the fluid theory of stability of nonlinear traveling waves (pump waves) in an ideal plasma system. Instabilities growing on the pump wave are associated with wave degeneracies. The relative signs of the energies of degenerate waves, as seen in the frame of the pump wave, determine whether their amplitudes grow exponentially or merely oscillate through resonant energy exchange. This energy analysis is carried out in detail for Trivelpiece-Gould (TG) waves and is compared to numerical calculations. It is verified that nonlinear TG waves are stable with respect to 3 wave processes, but weaker 4 wave, 5 wave, and higher order wave processes cause instability over narrow wavenumber bands. A modulational instability is also identified.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS1975

Design and test of a pump failure anticipator

Tests were conducted on two different types of pumps in order to refine the concept and to finalize design details of a positive displacement internal gear pump and a shroudless centrifugal pump. A concept and a system that could be used with pumps to allow a rapid judgement to be made of the suitability of the pump for futher service is developed. Test results and detailed data analysis are included.

Frarey, J. L.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Solar energy

The book opens with a review of the patterns of energy use and resources in the United States, and an exploration of the potential of solar energy to supply some of this energy in the future. This is followed by background material on solar geometry, solar intensities, flat plate collectors, and economics. Detailed attention is then given to a variety of solar units and systems, including domestic hot water systems, space heating systems, solar-assisted heat pumps, intermediate temperature collectors, space heating/cooling systems, concentrating collectors for high temperatures, storage systems, and solar total energy systems. Finally, rights to solar access are discussed.

Rapp, D.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Chemical/Hydrogen Energy Storage Systems

Electrochemical and thermochemical systems are reviewed. Chemical heat pumps, end-use applications and systems studies, and storage systems and materials are also discussed.

Miller, D. S.↗
NASA NTRS2018

Propulsion System Options for a Potential Sample Return Lander (SRL) for Mars

A potential Mars Sample Return (MSR) campaign would be very unique challenge and has been the focus of technology development and planning efforts at JPL for several decades. The latest mission concept study focuses on a potential Sample Return Lander (SRL). The potential SRL examined several propulsion system approaches using monopropellant and bi-propellants for the terminal descent phase. A ranking was developed based on a mathematical optimization program. This paper focuses on the evaluations conducted for these system options. Historically, monopropellant and bi-propellant propulsion systems are usually considered for this application; this study took a fresh look at both conventional State of the Art (SOA) pressure fed monopropellant and bi-propellant propulsion system and augmenting the system using small Electrically Driven Pumps (EDP) for both these propulsion systems.

Preudhomme, Michael↗
NASA NTRS1987

Advanced radiator systems for space power

Space power systems generating powers of 1 MWe and higher will require new approaches in radiator design in order to reject large waste heat loads without the unmanageable weight burden of conventional pumped-loop radiator systems. This paper discusses recent design concepts for radiator systems which have the potential for reducing radiator mass by as much as an order of magnitude below the mass of conventional systems. These advanced concepts, including the heat pipe radiator, particle (dust and droplet) radiators, moving belt radiator, rotating membrane radiator, and several interesting variations of these, achieve low mass by reducing the armor requirement for protection against micrometeoroids. The design and performance of each of these concepts is discussed, along with technical issues which must be addressed to bring these concepts to fruition.

Mattick, A. T.↗
DOE OSTI2022

Start-up and Emergency Shutdown Modeling for a Coal-fired 10MWe sCO₂ Power Plant

As part of a Phase II Front End Engineering Design (FEED) study for the DOE Fossil Fuel Large Scale Pilots program, investigations of novel start-up and emergency shutdown methods for a stoker-fed, coal-fired, 10MWe sCO₂ power plant proposal were performed. These investigations were performed using 1D transient system models of the plant created within the GT-SUITE system modeling platform. The system model components were created using vendor quotation data (heat exchangers), performance maps (turbomachines), or FMU models (fired heater). Previously, Echogen Power Systems (Echogen) has used a sCO₂ power cycle start-up method that fills the system with liquid CO₂ to facilitate easy use of an electrically-driven start pump to transition the system from initial CO₂ fill to turbo-compressor initialization. The novel start-up method presented attempts this transition with a minimal filling of the system with liquid CO₂, to reduce the total CO₂ inventory required. This method leaves the start pump vulnerable to a two phase inlet condition as system pressure is below the CO₂ saturation pressure for the condenser cooling water temperature (Tcw). System model cases at Tcw of 18°C, 26°C, and 32°C, corresponding to cold, design, and hot ambient days, were analyzed to determine if the SP inlet condition could be kept as a subcooled liquid and estimate the CO₂ inventory reduction amount./p> Stoker-fed, coal-fired heaters continue to emit heat for some time even after emergency shutdown from events such as a power failure. This heat emission would lead to a failure of the fired heater, as the metal overheats, if the CO₂ flow is shut off. The emergency shutdown method presented utilizes CO₂ vented by a controllable vent valve (CRV) to provide CO₂ cooling flow to the fired heater. To determine the effectiveness of this method at keeping the fired heater peak tubing metal temperature below the ASME material temperature limit, for pressures below 5 MPa, of 816 °C, system model cases with CRV diameters ranging from 4” to 10”, and an alternative CO₂ vent routing with CRV size of 6”, were investigated./p>

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT↗
DOE OSTI2019

Optimization of Backfill Material Transport for the Future Belgian Geological Disposal Facility - 19071

In Belgium, long-lived, low- and intermediate level waste (B waste) will be conditioned in concrete monoliths B and high-level waste (C waste) in so-called Supercontainers (SC). It is planned to dispose of the waste packages in a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF). The B and C waste shall be disposed of each in one emplacement field at a depth between 200 m and 600 m below the surface. Two access galleries run through each field and connect the disposal galleries with a central shaft and support zone. After the emplacement of a specified number of waste packages, a stepwise backfilling of the voids is planned in order to stabilize the galleries, to limit the amount of voids, and to ensure a favourable chemical environment. Taking into account the objectives of backfilling and the specific material properties of the waste packages two mortars were developed to backfill the disposal galleries. In particular, for reasons of safety at work, the mortars should be hydraulically pumped through pipelines. Accordingly, in any case, it is necessary to operate storage facilities of the raw materials, a mix plant and a pump. The raw materials are foreseen to be supplied by trucks from external producers. Due to this fact, the better accessibility of the plants and with the aim of minimizing noise and dust emissions and the space for technical systems in the GDF, it is advisable to install the technical equipment above ground outside the GDF control area. However, the feasibility of this basic concept depends on the processing time of the backfill materials and the capacity of the transport system. Thus, although short transport times can theoretically be realized if pipelines with a small cross sections are chosen, in this case the required power of the pump increases significantly. If no suitable configuration can be found, the distance of the mixing and pumping system to the backfill segment has to be shortened. In this case a pneumatic conveyor system would have to be installed to transport the solids to a mix plant and pumping unit located in the underground galleries to be able to meet the desired backfill rates. In order to identify the optimum solution, the decision criteria and the advantages and disadvantages of existing and planned transport systems were evaluated. The investigations showed that it is technically feasible to pump the backfill material from above ground into the disposal galleries. As failures of the backfill system would result in interruptions of the general disposal operation, a redundant pump and pipeline system was developed. The two lines can be operated separately or simultaneously in order to realize high flow rates needed for the backfilling of segments far from the shaft. (authors)

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗
NASA NTRS1979

A 15 kWe (nominal) solar thermal-electric power conversion concept definition study: Steam Rankin reciprocator system

A conceptual design of a 3600 rpm reciprocation expander was developed for maximum thermal input power of 80 kW. The conceptual design covered two engine configurations; a single cylinder design for simple cycle operation and a two cylinder design for reheat cycle operation. The reheat expander contains a high pressure cylinder and a low pressure cylinder with steam being reheated to the initial inlet temperature after expansion in the high pressure cylinder. Power generation is accomplished with a three-phase induction motor coupled directly to the expander and connected electrically to the public utility power grid. The expander, generator, water pump and control system weigh 297 kg and are dish mounted. The steam condenser, water tank and accessory pumps are ground based. Maximum heat engine efficiency is 33 percent: maximum power conversion efficiency is 30 percent. Total cost is $3,307 or $138 per kW of maximum output power.

Wingenback, W.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Automatic detection of anomalies in Space Shuttle Main Engine turbopumps

A prototype expert system (developed on both PC and Symbolics 3670 lisp machine) for detecting anomalies in turbopump vibration data has been tested with data from ground tests 902-473, 902-501, 902-519, and 904-097 of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME). The expert system has been utilized to analyze vibration data from each of the following SSME components: high-pressure oxidizer turbopump, high-pressure fuel turbopump, low-pressure fuel turbopump, and preburner boost pump. The expert system locates and classifies peaks in the power spectral density of each 0.4-sec window of steady-state data. Peaks representing the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of both shaft rotation and bearing cage rotation are identified by the expert system. Anomalies are then detected on the basis of sequential criteria and two threshold criteria set individually for the amplitude of each of these peaks: a prior threshold used during the first few windows of data in a test, and a posterior threshold used thereafter. In most cases the anomalies detected by the expert system agree with those reported by NASA. The two cases where there is significant disagreement will be further studied and the system design refined accordingly.

Lo, Ching F.↗
NASA NTRS2001

Phase 1 Space Fission Propulsion System Design Considerations

Fission technology can enable rapid, affordable access to any point in the solar system. If fission propulsion systems are to be developed to their full potential; however, near-term customers must be identified and initial fission systems successfully developed, launched, and operated. Studies conducted in fiscal year 2001 (IISTP, 2001) show that fission electric propulsion (FEP) systems operating at 80 kWe or above could enhance or enable numerous robotic outer solar system missions of interest. At these power levels it is possible to develop safe, affordable systems that meet mission performance requirements. In selecting the system design to pursue, seven evaluation criteria were identified: safety, reliability, testability, specific mass, cost, schedule, and programmatic risk. A top-level comparison of three potential concepts was performed: an SP-100 based pumped liquid lithium system, a direct gas cooled system, and a heatpipe cooled system. For power levels up to at least 500 kWt (enabling electric power levels of 125-175 kWe, given 25-35% power conversion efficiency) the heatpipe system has advantages related to several criteria and is competitive with respect to all. Hardware-based research and development has further increased confidence in the heatpipe approach. Successful development and utilization of a "Phase 1" fission electric propulsion system will enable advanced Phase 2 and Phase 3 systems capable of providing rapid, affordable access to any point in the solar system.

Houts, Mike↗
DOE OSTI2010

Carbon ion pump for removal of carbon dioxide from combustion gas and other gas mixtures

A novel method and system of separating carbon dioxide from flue gas is introduced. Instead of relying on large temperature or pressure changes to remove carbon dioxide from a solvent used to absorb it from flue gas, the ion pump method, as disclosed herein, dramatically increases the concentration of dissolved carbonate ion in solution. This increases the overlying vapor pressure of carbon dioxide gas, permitting carbon dioxide to be removed from the downstream side of the ion pump as a pure gas. The ion pumping may be obtained from reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, thermal desalination methods, or an ion pump system having an oscillating flow in synchronization with an induced electric field.

Aines, Roger D↗
DOE OSTI2014

Carbon ion pump for removal of carbon dioxide from combustion gas and other gas mixtures

A novel method and system of separating carbon dioxide from flue gas is introduced. Instead of relying on large temperature or pressure changes to remove carbon dioxide from a solvent used to absorb it from flue gas, the ion pump method, as disclosed herein, dramatically increases the concentration of dissolved carbonate ion in solution. This increases the overlying vapor pressure of carbon dioxide gas, permitting carbon dioxide to be removed from the downstream side of the ion pump as a pure gas. The ion pumping may be obtained from reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, thermal desalination methods, or an ion pump system having an oscillating flow in synchronization with an induced electric field.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗
DOE OSTI2025

Enhancing building resilience in cold climates: Integrating heat pump technologies with renewable energy

As electrification advances and Cold Climate Heat Pump technology progresses, ensuring grid stability becomes increasingly critical for effective heating in cold climates. However, natural disasters, especially during winter, pose significant threats to grid stability, impacting the reliability of air-source heat pumps. Despite these challenges, the integration of renewable energy sources and storage solutions in heating systems has not been extensively studied within the context of resilience. Here, this paper delves into the literature on renewable-powered heat pumps to assess their potential in enhancing building resilience in U.S. cold climate zones, which are particularly susceptible to extreme weather and grid disruptions. By leveraging renewable sources—solar, geothermal, and water—in conjunction with heat pump technology and supported by thermal or battery storage, this approach aims to provide a dependable solution for maintaining indoor heating during grid failures. Our analysis begins with a review of various renewable energy sources suitable for heat pumps, followed by an exploration of their application in cold climate regions across the U.S., and discussions on potential integration strategies with heat pump systems. This study highlights the advantages and suitability of solar irradiance and geothermal resources, emphasizing the importance of tailored, site-specific assessments to maximize energy efficiency and resilience. Additionally, it outlines the economic and environmental considerations necessary for implementing such systems and identifies potential challenges and areas for future research to facilitate the broader integration of renewable energy in heating solutions for enhanced resilience.

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATI↗
DOE OSTI2010

Large-Scale Pumping Test Recommendations for the 200-ZP-1 Operable Unit

CH2M Hill Plateau Remediation Company (CHPRC) is currently assessing aquifer characterization needs to optimize pump-and-treat remedial strategies (e.g., extraction well pumping rates, pumping schedule/design) in the 200-ZP-1 operable unit (OU), and in particular for the immediate area of the 241 TX-TY Tank Farm. Specifically, CHPRC is focusing on hydrologic characterization opportunities that may be available for newly constructed and planned ZP-1 extraction wells. These new extraction wells will be used to further refine the 3-dimensional subsurface contaminant distribution within this area and will be used in concert with other existing pump-and-treat wells to remediate the existing carbon tetrachloride contaminant plume. Currently, 14 extraction wells are actively used in the Interim Record of Decision ZP-1 pump-and-treat system for the purpose of remediating the existing carbon tetrachloride contamination in groundwater within this general area. As many as 20 new extraction wells and 17 injection wells may be installed to support final pump-and-treat operations within the OU area. It should be noted that although the report specifically refers to the 200-ZP-1 OU, the large-scale test recommendations are also applicable to the adjacent 200-UP-1 OU area. This is because of the similar hydrogeologic conditions exhibited within these two adjoining OU locations.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS1993

Nuclear Engine System Simulation (NESS). Volume 1: Program user's guide

A Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) engine system design analysis tool is required to support current and future Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) propulsion and vehicle design studies. Currently available NTP engine design models are those developed during the NERVA program in the 1960's and early 1970's and are highly unique to that design or are modifications of current liquid propulsion system design models. To date, NTP engine-based liquid design models lack integrated design of key NTP engine design features in the areas of reactor, shielding, multi-propellant capability, and multi-redundant pump feed fuel systems. Additionally, since the SEI effort is in the initial development stage, a robust, verified NTP analysis design tool could be of great use to the community. This effort developed an NTP engine system design analysis program (tool), known as the Nuclear Engine System Simulation (NESS) program, to support ongoing and future engine system and stage design study efforts. In this effort, Science Applications International Corporation's (SAIC) NTP version of the Expanded Liquid Engine Simulation (ELES) program was modified extensively to include Westinghouse Electric Corporation's near-term solid-core reactor design model. The ELES program has extensive capability to conduct preliminary system design analysis of liquid rocket systems and vehicles. The program is modular in nature and is versatile in terms of modeling state-of-the-art component and system options as discussed. The Westinghouse reactor design model, which was integrated in the NESS program, is based on the near-term solid-core ENABLER NTP reactor design concept. This program is now capable of accurately modeling (characterizing) a complete near-term solid-core NTP engine system in great detail, for a number of design options, in an efficient manner. The following discussion summarizes the overall analysis methodology, key assumptions, and capabilities associated with the NESS presents an example problem, and compares the results to related NTP engine system designs. Initial installation instructions and program disks are in Volume 2 of the NESS Program User's Guide.

Pelaccio, Dennis G.↗