Dynamic capability of an operating Stirling convertor

The NASA John H. Glenn Research Center and the US Department of Energy are developing a Stirling convertor for use as an advanced spacecraft power system for future NASA deep-space missions. NASA Headquarters has identified the Stirling technology generator for potential use as the spacecraft power system for two of NASA´s new missions, the Europa Orbiter and the Solar Probe missions. As part of the development of this power system, a Stirling Technology Demonstration Convertor was vibration tested to verify its survivability and capability of withstanding the harsh dynamic environment typically seen by the spacecraft when launched by an expendable launch vehicle. The Technology Demonstration Convertor was fully operational during the random vibration testing. The output power of the convertor and other convertor performance indicators were measured during the testing, and these results are discussed in this paper. Numerous accelerometers and force gauges also were used to provide information on the dynamic characteristics of the Technology Demonstration Convertor and as an indication of any possible damage due to the vibration. These measurements are also discussed in this paper. The vibration testing of the Stirling Technology Demonstration Convertor was extremely successful. The Technology Demonstration Convertor survived all its vibration testing with no structural damage or functional performance degradation. As a result of this testing, the Stirling convertor´s capability to withstand vibration has been demonstrated, enabling its usage in future spacecraft power systems