Preliminary Research on Model and Computational Method of System Analysis Program in Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

Abstract

The nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) boasts advantages such as high specific impulse, substantial thrust, and extended operating time, giving it a clear edge in deep space exploration and orbital maneuvers. To fully harness the potential of NTP, a comprehensive system performance analysis is crucial to ensure reliability and efficiency under various operational conditions. This study provided an overview of the historical development and current status of nuclear thermal propulsion system analysis programs, both nationally and internationally. It also conducted an in-depth analysis of programs utilized in projects such as NERVA and SNTP. Building on an examination of historical international program advancements and current research requirements, system performance analysis is categorized into three primary components:steady-state performance design and optimization, steady-state off-design performance analysis, and transient performance analysis. Based on the independently developed program for analyzing nuclear engine systems (PANES) at Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology, Tsinghua University, an integrated NTP system analysis program framework based on "flow network-heat network" was proposed. The one-dimensional flow network model employed a concept similar to the staggered grid commonly used in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It separately handled the momentum conservation equation in the resistance/inertia segment and the continuity and energy conservation equations in the capacitance segment. The thermal network model was solved based on the solid energy equation considering heat capacity. Coupled calculations of the thermal network and flow network were achieved by considering heat exchange in the capacitance segment of the flow network. Specifically, a point reactor model based on backward Euler (BE) or Crank-Nicolson (CN) time discretization formats was established to facilitate the calculation of power produce processes. To enhance the understanding and optimization of turbine performance, a turbine model was developed, employing iterative methods to determine mass flow based on turbine inlet parameters, pressure ratios, and characteristic curves. Additionally, to accurately simulate centrifugal pump behavior, a centrifugal pump model based on Suter curves was implemented. The integration of these models provides a comprehensive approach for considering and effectively designing and optimizing the performance of turbine and pump components within the NTP system. This work lays a crucial foundation for further research and application of NTP system design methods, paving the way for future advancements in space exploration and offering exciting prospects for upcoming space missions.

Keywords

• nuclear thermal propulsion
• system performance analysis
• program development
• point reactor model
• turbo pump