Closed-cycle gas turbine potential for submarine propulsion

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Closed-cycle gas turbine potential for submarine propulsion

McDonald, C.F.

Based on existing technology it is projected that the coupling of a helium closed-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) with a High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (HTGR) for marine propulsion could realize a power plant specific weight of around 12 kg/kW(e) (20 lb/hp). New and emerging technologies would offer even further performance advantages for future submarines that would see service in the early decades of the 21st century. This paper includes the 'enabling technologies' for advanced submarine propulsion, which include the following: high-quality fuel and small passively safe reactor; high-performance turbomachinery embodying magnetic bearings; compact heat exchangers; computer-controlled automated engine room; compact high-efficiency superconducting generator, motor, and energy storage system; and the possibility of a propellerless electromagnetic thruster. It is projected that the coupling of a gas-cooled reactor with a helium gas turbine could offer substantial performance improvement and weight reduction potential over variants studied heretofore.