Extended Operation of Stirling Convertors in a Thermal Vacuum Environment

A 110 w att Stirling Radioisotope Generator (SRG110) is being developed for potential use on futur e NASA exploration missions. The development effort is being performed by Lockheed Martin under contract to the Department of Energy (DOE). Infinia , Corp. supplies the free -piston Stirling power convertors, and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) provides s upport to the effort in a range of technologies. This generator features higher efficiency and specific power compared to alternatives. One potential application for the generator would entail significant cruise time in the vacuum of deep space. A test has been initiated at GRC to demonstrate functionality of the Stirling convertors in a thermal vacuum environment. The test article resembles the configuration of the SRG 110 , however the requirement for low mass was not considered. This test demonstrates the operation of the Stirling convertors in the thermal vacuum environment, simulating deep space, over an extended period of operation. The status of the test as well as the data gathered will be presented in this paper.