Book Description

A method is presented for the aerothermodynamic optimization of the net power and/or propulsive thrust per unit reactor free flow area of a nuclear power plant operating on the Brayton cycle. A system so optimized will translate into the minimum size, therefore the minimum weight, nuclear system for any selection of reactor materials, lifetime, and fuel loading. The theory and development of the thermodynamic optimization process, the importance and effect of various parameters, and specific methods to be employed in the optimization of the various forms of the Brayton cycle are discussed. A sample calculation for the case of the ramjet application is included. The results of the application of these techniques to any Brayton cycle system may be used in conjunction with nuclear sizing methods, for beryllia-moderated reactors, to determine the required reactor size as a function of fuel loading and reactivity requirements. (auth).