Search Results

An efficient finite difference (FD) computational code has been developed for the analysis and design of circular sector radiators for linear alternator output “Free Piston Stirling Engine” space power systems utilizing a radioisotope Pu-238 General Purpose (GPHS) heat source. The code calls on a subroutine developed by the author to solve the second order, fourth degree, ordinary differential equation (ODE) of a fin (extended heat transfer surface) radiating to the space environment. Although the code was originally written for a rectangular coordinates system, it was transcribed into polar (cylindrical) coordinates for the present application. The circular sector radiator panel analyzed has an embedded heat pipe at an arbitrary radial location conducting cycle reject heat from the Stirling engine cold end to the radiator.