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Small Displacement, Long Life On-Orbit Compressor Design and FabricationThe focus is the generation of technology and fabrication of prototype hardware applicable to seven Space Station compressor system applications. The compressors are of the single acting reciprocating piston type and, in general, may be termed miniature in size compared with normal commercially available equipment. The initial technology development is focused on improved valve designs, and the control of pulsations and heating effects in order to increase compressor efficiency and reduce cycle temperatures, thus permitting significantly increased stage pressure ratios. The initial test compressor was successfully operated at pressure ratios of up to 50:1, and this significant extension of allowable pressure ratio will result in a reduction of the number of required stages and, hence, total hardware thereby reducing system weight and volume. These experiments have also identified the need to employ low shaft speeds, on the order of 250 to 500 rpm, to enhance heat transfer and increase life. The prototype compressor currently being designed, is to be driven by a low-speed brushless dc motor sealed in a case common to the compressor drive mechanism case. The compressor and motor case will communicate with stage suction pressure so that any minor gas leakage past the piston rings will be returned to the suction. Emphasis in this prototype design is being placed on simplicity, durability, commonality of components, and high efficiency.
Document ID
19900009173
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Gerlach, C. R. (Southwest Research Inst. San Antonio, TX, United States)
Schroeder, E. C. (Southwest Research Inst. San Antonio, TX, United States)
Deffenbaugh, D. D. (Southwest Research Inst. San Antonio, TX, United States)
Masetta, J. P. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1989
Publication Information
Publication: Johns Hopkins Univ., The 1989 JANNAF Propulsion Meeting, Volume 1
Subject Category
Engineering (General)
Accession Number
90N18489
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS9-18051
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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