Figure 7.5 Possible Satellite Configurations with Solar Dynamic Systems Brayton Cycle The Brayton cycle, shown in Figure 7.8, is a power producing thermodynamic cycle that functions by the mechanical compression of a gas, further heating of the gas at constant pressure, expansion of the gas to produce mechanical energy, and rejection of the waste heat at constant pressure. This operates with a gaseous single-phase working fluid but is similar in principle to the Rankine Cycle. Experimental systems have used helium-xenon mixture to minimize compressor power consumption and enhance heat transfer. Stirling Cycle This is a closed cycle reciprocating piston engine that uses helium or hydrogen as its working fluid and is shown schematically in Figure 7.9. Heat energy is converted into electrical energy using a free-piston type engine integrated with a linear alternator. The regenerator is used as a heat exchanger to minimize waste heat and therefore increase thermal efficiency. A number of technological developments are required in order to develop space heat engines. These are listed in Table 7.1.
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