Zero Gravity Proven Vortex Gas/Liquid Separator Accumulator Conference Paper

abstract

• The requirement for phase separation in microgravity is a technology barrier to the implementation of advanced spacecraft systems including the development of a Rankine power conversion system. Texas A&M has developed a novel vortex phase separator that is passive in operation. The device has no moving parts or seals like rotary separators nor does it require development of special material such as the mesh screens of the SP-100 separator/accumulators. The following paper describes the various limits that bind the successful operation of the vortex phase separator. Using SP-100 primary flow loop parameters, the minimum dimensions of the vortex separator are presented.

authors

• Kurwitz, Richard

published proceedings

• Proceedings of the Space Nuclear Conference

author list (cited authors)

• Kurwitz, R., Marsden, K., Ellis, M., & Best, F.

complete list of authors

• Kurwitz, Richard||Marsden, K||Ellis, M||Best, F

publication date

• June 2005

URL

• https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cable-Kurwitz/publication/290096968_Vortex_separator_for_use_in_microgravity_nuclear_power_systems/links/5ae8f15745851588dd815973/Vortex-separator-for-use-in-microgravity-nuclear-power-systems.pdf