Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
High Seed Compressor for Propellant Densification, Phase I
Project Introduction
Propellant densification systems particularly for H2 require compression systems developing very large amounts of head. Development of this head requires multiple stages of compressors running at high speed. In the past these compressors have run on grease-packed ball bearings with very limited life. This project will utilize special foil bearings in place of the ball bearings and not only greatly increase bearing life but also permit even higher speed operation which will reduce the number of compression stages and increase system efficiency.
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Anticipated Benefits
There are many commercial cryogenic applications where this technology could be used. Specifically H2 circulators for neutron sources and flux reactors could both use this technology in applications that currently use short maintenance interval ball bearing machines. Also many cryogenic high-speed He compressors are needed for cooling superconducting magnets. Finally, cryogenic refrigeration systems require high-speed ompressors and expanders that would greatly benefit from this technology. This special foil bearing technology will allowhigh speed, more efficient and reliable operation of cryogenic turbomachinery used in many NASA applications. These include propellant densification, cryogen subcooling for long term space storage, LH2 or LOX turbopumps and many other cryogenic pumps and compressors for ground support or space application.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barber-Nichols, Inc. | Lead Organization | Industry | Arvada, Colorado |
Goddard Space Flight Center
(GSFC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, Maryland |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Colorado
-
Maryland
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Organization:
- Barber-Nichols, Inc.
Responsible Program:
- Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Start: Feb 2011
End: Sep 2011
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 4 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TX01 Propulsion Systems
- TX01.1 Chemical Space Propulsion
- TX01.1.3 Cryogenic
Target Destination
The Moon
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