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Page 1: THIS DOCUMENT HAS BEEN REPRODUCED FROM … · Operation . . . . . . . . .. . ,. . ... NGM Test St^, yid ... The concept has progressed from individual N2/112 separator and N211L catalytic

N O T I C E

THIS DOCUMENT HAS BEEN REPRODUCED FROM MICROFICHE. ALTHOUGH IT IS RECOGNIZED THAT

CERTAIN PORTIONS ARE ILLEGIBLE, IT IS BEING RELEASED IN THE INTEREST OF MAKING AVAILABLE AS MUCH

INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE

https://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19820007907 2018-07-11T02:19:32+00:00Z

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NASA CO- '166192 j

LSITO.410.4

eI

a

tt

A \11

PREPROTOTYPE NITROGEN SUPPLYSUBSYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

(NASA —CR - 166192) PREPLIOTCTYPE NITEOGEN N8,:-157SU jSUPPLY SUBSYSTEM AEVE.LOPMLNT InterimReport, Jun. 1981 (Life Systems, Inc., i

Cleveland, Ohio.) 50 p HC A03/MF A01 UrirLv.,sC:SCL 06K 03/54 07176 E

INTERIM REPORTby

D. B. Heppner, T. M. Hallickand F. H. Schubert 'x

h0- 9F07t^paJune, 1981 1 ^.

^^ JAtrt 7 np

NASq SriPI)

AC FS FAQ/

ry

Prepared Under Contract NAS2-10673

by

ORS'lfSoms,, J)Yr

Cleveland, OH 44122

for

ALES RESEARI CH CENTER

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

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x0e swie s, AMC.

a.

TR-410-4

PREPROTOTYPE NITROGEN SUPPLYSUBSYSTEM DEVELOPMENT

INTERIM REPORT

by

U. B, Heppner, T. M. Hallickand F. H. Schubert

.Tune, 1981

Distribution of this report is provided in the interestof information. exhange. Responsibility for the conceptsresides in the authors or organization that prepared it.

z Prepared Under Contract NAS2-10673

by

Life Systems, Inc.Cleveland, OR 44122

tfor

Ames Research CenterNational Aeronautics and Space Administration

4

,Y

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"Ir 4

FOREWORD

'Vito development work described herein was conducted by Life Systems, Inc,during the period June, 1980 to tjay o 1981. T i,..e Program Manager was

Dennis 13, Reppnor, Ph.D, Support was provided as follows-,

Arel(-.s n Ijy) ,A(_kskR ^,kLj

Nitrogen Generotion Module (NGM) TestStand Design and Checkout

Mechanical Hardware Assembly and

Checkout

wi Testing and Data Reduction

NGH Test Stand Electrical Assemblyand Checkout

Franz 11. Schubert

System Design Support

Lowell 1,401fe

Gas Cht

'

-omatograph Setup, Clheckout

and Da ta Reduction

The contract's Technical Monitor was P. D. Quattrone, Chief, Advanced Life

Support Office, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA.

Personnel

Ken A. Burke

Steve Czernec

Tim H. liallick

Don W. Johnson.

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,^'tjc S s^iM►a ,^irc

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . , . . , . . . . . . .

LISTOF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ,

ASUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ♦ , ♦ , r . , • . . . .y!.

^r

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . r . . . . . . . . . . .

Background . . . . r . . . . . . 3Program Objectives . . « . . , . . • , , • 3

Program Organization . . . . . . . . r , 3Report Organization . . . . . . . . . , , , . , , 4

NITROGEN GENERATION MODULE DEVELOPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Concept Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . 4Hardware Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Physical Characteristics . . . . . . . . , . . . . , . 6

Operational Flexibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ♦ 11Maintainability . . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . , . . 11

Operation . . . . . . . . . . ,. . , . . . . . . . , . . . . . . 13

Hydraz ine Dissociation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13hy(Irogen Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . r . . . . . 13Anmioi?ia Dissociatio .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Operating Conditions . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

NGM T%ST VACILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

NGM Test St^, yid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . 14

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Control and Monitor Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . 18Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Support Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Hydrazine Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Recorders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Gas Chromatograph . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Ammonia Concentration Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

NGM DATA BASE GENERATION TESTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Test Procedures . . . . 25

continued-

i

f

IC .

t

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,Gift Systems, I=

`fable of Contents oontinued

PAGE;

Parametric T p 26 1es45 1 t F t f t t t a . ! 1 t t . \ t

Operating Pressure ♦ , r . a . . . a . t . 26Dissociator 'temperature ! f . . . . • 29N 114 Feed Rate . . . . . . . . . . • i f t 29S gparator Temperature • R f R ! • 33Catalyst Weight . . . . . . . f . . . . 33

PREPROTOTYPE NSS DESIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Design Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . 33Subsystem Schematic and Operation . . . . . . 36

Advanced NGM . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . 36Pressure Controller . , . . . . t . y . . . . 39Ancillary Components . . , • , . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Subsystem Characteristics . . . . . . . , ♦ . . . ♦ . s 4 1

CONCLUSION S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . 41

REFERENCES. . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

ii,ti

^j[

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,Gilt SYSICANa, AC.

LIST OF F1G1,ES

FIB PAGE

1 Candidate Nitrogen Source Trade -Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 NGM Staging Concept Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

3 NGM Functional Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . 7. 4 Assembled NGM (Front View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

5 Assembled NGM (!tear View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Disassembled NGM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

7 NGM Test Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . %8 NGM Test Stand Mechanical Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . 17

9 NGM Test Stand Front Panel . . . . . . . . 1910 NGM Mounted on Test Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

t 11 NGM Test Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2312 N }{4 Supply Schematic . . . . . . . . . . , 4 . . . . . .

Nam Performance as a Function of Pressure . . . . .2428? 13 Operating

14 H2 Recovery as a Function of Operating Pressure . . . . . . . 303115 NGM Performance (NH3 Concentration in Product N ) . . . . .

16 NGM Performance (H2 Concentration in Product N25 . . . . 3217 NGM Performance as a Function of N H 4 Peed Rate . . . . . . . 3418

2NSS Schematic .. . . . 37

19 NGM Design Modifications^Highlights . . . . 3820 NSS Pressure Controller Functional Description . . . . . . . 40

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE PAGE

1 NGM Characteristics . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 NGM Nominal Operating Conditions . . . . . . . 15

1 3 NGM Test Stand Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 Operating Parameter Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275 NSS Design Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 356 Subsystem Component Summary . . . . . . 42

fiy

lil

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Xilie Skimens, Mr.

SUMMARY

Life Systems, working with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration,is developing a Nitrogen Supply Subsystem based on the dissociation of hydrazineinto a mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen. The latter is separated to providemakeup nitrogen to control the composition of spacecraft atmospheres. Recentadvances in specific hardware developments have resulted in the design andfabrication of a nominal 3.6 kg/d (8 lb/d) nitrogen generation module. Thedesign integrates a hydrazine catalytic dissociator, three ammonia dis5ociation3stages and four hydrogen separation stages into a 33 kg (73 lb), 14 dm (0.5 ftmodule. A technique has been devised to alternate the ammonia dissociationa:id hydrogen separation stages to give high nitrogen purity in the end productstream. Tests have shown the product stream to contain less than 0.5% hydrogenand 10 parts per million ammonia.-

The program accomplishments to date are presented in this Interim Report.Specifically, the Report describes the design and development of a test standfor the nitrogen generation module and a series of tests which verified itsoperation and performance capability. Over 900 hours of parametric testingwere achieved. The results from this testing are being used to design anadvanced nitrogen generation module and a self-contained, preprototype nitrogensupply subsystem. Preliminary results of this activity are included.

INTRODUCTION

Future long-term manned spacecraft missions will utilize an atmosphere ofnitrogen (N2) and oxygen (02). Space vehicle gas leakage and airlock reveres-surizatons following extravehicular missions necessitate on-board storage ofthe primary cabin atmosp.oric constitutents: N, and 0 . The N 2 component ofthe air can be stored as liquid hydrazine (N2'i4) and the

N2}i4 catalytically

L dissociated to an N and hydrogen (i1 ) mixture. The N2/H2 mixture can thenseparated to yield the makeup N2 . T?e byproduct 1{2 can be used in the reduc-tion of metabolically generated carbon dioxide (CO2) in a regenerative Environ-mental Control/Life Support System (EC/LSS).

This N? Supply Subsystem (NSS) concept using liquid N 2H4 as the stored form ofN2 reduces tankage and expendables weight compared to high pressure gaseous orcryogenic liquid N2 storage. The advantage of supplying Ng through N2i[4compared to other storage methods is shown in Figure 1. Tgiese trade curvesare for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA's) projectedSpace Operations Center (SOC), an eight-person mission with a 90-day resupplyperiod. The estimated air leakage rate for the SOC is 5.5 kg/d (12 lb/d)corresponding to the 4.4 kg/d (9.6 lb/d) N leakage rate indicated. At thisvalue, an NSS saves 25 to 35% of equivalent weight compared to gaseous orcryogenic storage. If the

112 is used for CO

2 reduction, art additional 300 kg

(660 lb), or 30% is saved.

Incorporating the N 2114 -based NSS into advanced missions like SOCproblems and has certain advantages. Hydrazine will, be availableused for otherpurposes (e.g., propulsion). Therefore, there arespecial transporting or handling considerations. The technologymature, The present concept and hardware development, sponsoredand Life Systems, Inc. (LSI), has progressed to a stage where NSShardware can be available for the SOC or other missions.

will cause nosince it isno addedis simple andby the NASA flight

e .f

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"le sy-PICNIC IN.

Background

The NSS utilizing N H catalytic dissociation and N.01 separation has evolvedthrough NASA sponsois gip under Contracts NAS2-70,57, NA92-8732 and NAS2-1.0096.The concept has progressed from individual N 2 /112 separator and N211L catalyticdissociator breadboards through the combination of the seperator and dissoc atorhardware into an engineering breadboard NSS and finally to the operation ofthe breadboard NSS as part of an integrated, experimental Air RevitalizationSystem. Included in these activities was the development of a staged NGMwhich integrates the dissociation and separation processes into a singleunit. Staging is employed (i.e., alternate separation and dissociation stages)to eliminate ammonia (NHS ) contamination of the product N2 s ► ream,

During an earlier program ( ' ) Life Systems, Inc. (LSI) identified two attractiveN2 generation systems based on the catalytic dissociation of N H 4 . In thefirst system, liquid N 11 was catalytically dissociated to yield an N /112 gasmixture. Sepaxation of the gas mixture to yield N 2 and bypro^2CVI &asaccomplished using a Polymer-Electrochemical N /1i Separator. ' in thesecond system, the N /H product gas from the d2is lsociator was separated in apalladium/ silver (PR/AJ) N2/112 Separator.

The program culminated in the successful design, fabrication and testing of anN H4 catalytic two-stage Pd/Ag Separator. Based on the results of this programii was recommended that an N generation system, and subsequently an NSS, bedeveloped based on N2114 catalytic dissociat,-'on and the Pd/Ag method of N2/H2separation,

During a following program, (4-6)

LSI developed and tested various componentsof the NSS including an NGM, N H4 storage and advanced instrumentation, 'Pestswere conducted to support the development of the NGM and to advance NSS technology,The current program continues the NSS development by designing a preprototypeNSS using an advanced NGM and computer-based instrumentation. This deve-lopment step is based on additional characterization and parametric testing ofthe prior NGM and incorporation of certain improvements in its design..

Program Objectives

The objectives of the current program are to develop a preliminary design of apreprototype NSS including an advanced NGM with passive thermal control andoptimized reactor/gas separation stages. Prior to beginning the preprototypehardware design, existing NGM hardware was tested to generate the technologydata base required for an advanced "NGM design. The advanced NGM is beingdesigned for incorporation in the preprototype NSS.

Program Organization

To meet the above objectives the program was divided into five tasks plus thedocumentation and program management functions. The five tasks were:

1. Design, fabricate and checkout an NGM test stand to support charac-terization and parametric testing of an existing NGM.

1 References cited are at the end of this report.

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Zile Sysiml, Ar.

2. Accumulate an NGM data base using the NGM developed under ContractNAS2 - 10096.

B. Design an advanced NGM based on the results of prior testing andhaving goals of passive thermal control and elimination of sealingsurfaces.

4. Design a preprototype NSS including the advancer INGM, N H storageand feed mechanism, ancillary components and advance d Cgnitrol/MonitorInstrumentation (C/M 1).

5. Perform a design of the NSS Test Support Accessories (TSA) needed tosimulate NSS and spacecraft interfaces and resources.

Results of the first two tasks, completed to date, are covered in this InterimReport along with preliminary results of the other three tasks.

Report Organization

This Interim Report covers the work performed during the period June, 1980through May, 1981. The following four sections present the technical resultsgrouped according to (1) NGM Development, (2) NGM Test Facility, (3) NGM DataBase Generation Testing and (4) Preprototype NSS Design. These sections arefollowed by Conclusions based on the work performed.

NITROGEN GENERATION MODULE DEVELOPMENT

The function of the NGM is to generate N and byproduct H from liquid N H4.The NGM consists of alternate catalytic iissociation and ^i separation stagesconfigured to give high purity N 2 and H2 . The dissociatioA and separator

stages are packaged as a single gnit to minimize heat rejection to ambientsince both operate at elevated temperatures. The single package concept alsoallows the heat generated during the dissociation of N

2 H 4

to reduce the heaterlower required to maintain the NGM at operating temperature.

The objective of prior development activities was to develop the initial NGMhardware required to (a) demonstrate and verify the staging concept and thesingle unit NGM design, and (b) experimentally generate a technology base foruse in optimizing subsequent advanced NGM designs. Emphasis in these develop-ment activities, therefore, was placed on developing an NGM that could be usedas a test bed to generate necessary design data. Secondary emphasis was placedon optimizing NGM hardware design, such as weight and volume.

The following sections review the NGM design concept and its operation andpresent a summary of the hardware fabricated.

Concept Description

A block diagram showing the staging concept is presented in Figure 2. The NGMconsists of one N

2 H 4 dissociation stage, three NH3 dissociation stages and

S'

4

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Zile SPIOVA girt.

four H separation stages. The N H feed/N product stream flows in seriesfrom sage to stage. The calculam gas concentrations following each dissocia-tion and H separation stage illustrate how the staging concept yields the lowNH3 and H22concent.,^tions in the final product N2.

Hydrazine is catalytically dissociated in the first stage via the followingreactions:

N2H4 -- 1/3 N2 + 4/3 NH3 (1)

4/3 NH3 2/3 N2 + 2H2 (2)

N2H4 = N2 + 2H2 + 1.57 NJ/kg (676 BTU/lb) (3)

All the N H4 is dissociated in this initial stage. Not all of the Nit formednby equatio 1, however, is dissociated in the N2H4 catalytic dissociator.

The N19 H and unreacted NH gases from the first stage enter the first Hsepar tion stage. Most (90J) of the H entering this stage is removed anncollected at 103 kpa (15 psia) for use 2in a CO reduction subsystem. Theproduct gas from the first separation state is 2then manifolded to the firstNH dissociation stage. The high NH and N concentrations entering thedissociator favor further NH3 dissociation and the formation of more N2 and 112(equation 2).

Alternate II separation and NH dissociation stages are used to attain thefinal N2 prnduct purity. The A removed in the last three H separationstages is vented to space vacu;A and is therefore not availaile for furtheruse. The H2 separation to vacuum is required to attain the low H 2 concentra-tion needed in the product N2.

Figure 3 is a functional schematic of the NGM showing a representation of itsthree functions N2H4 dissociation, NH dissociation and H separation. Theaddition of an N H4 storage tank, sensoh and controls are ill that is neededto form a compleie NSS.

Hardware Description

Designed to operate at 1830 kPa (265 sia), the NGM consists of two majorsubassemblies - dissociator and separator - joined by an end plate. The endplate is manifolded to pass gases back and forth between the various dissocia-tion and separator stages, Gaskets permit disassembly for inspection. Frontand rear views of the assembled NGM are presented in Figures 4 and 5, respectively.Figure 6 shows the disassembled NGM hardware.

Poysical Characteristics

The temperatures of the dissociation stages and separation stages are maintainedusing three cartridge heaters located in the dissociator core and five bandheaters located around the outside of the separator housing. Thermocoupleswithin the NGM are used to provide closed-Loop, feedback temperature control.

6

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Zile Sys/m/s, A

The dissociator core is controlled at 1000 K (1340 F) and the Pd/Ag separatortubes are controlled at 644 K (700 F). Besides control thermocouples, severalothers have been added to monitor temperatures during development testing.

Physical characteristics of the NGM are summarized in Table 1. The NGM wasdesigned to give a nominal N generation rate of 3.6 kg/d (8.0 lb/d); however,testing has shown :hat the o tput can be controlled over a wide range, i.e.,1.8 to 6.8 kg/d ( 4 to 15 lb/d). Only five mechanical interfaces are needed:N H feed, N2 product, N2 purge, 11 product and 112 to vacuum, Several otherp9ris have been added for in.terstaie sampling.

Operational Flexibility

Since the NGM was used to generate performance and design data for future NGMdesigns, maximum flexibility in the design and operation of the NGM was required.The capability to monitor performance of individual stages and temperatureprofiles, and to individually control separator and dissociator stage tempera-tures was incorporated into the design. Gas sample taps between each statewere incorporated to allow quantifying individual stage performance duringparametric testing. The NGM temperature distribution/profile monitoringcapability was provided by 16 thermocouples. Both radial and axial tempera-ture profile determinations were possible. Separate temperature control ofthe dissociation stages and separator stages was provided through the heatersconnected to feedbact temperature controllers.

Maintainability

Maintainability is not a design requirement of a flight version NGM. Maintain-ability, however, for the NGM fabricated for development testing under thepresent effort was required to add testing flexibility. Operation at elevatedtemperatures and pressures, and the dimensional tolerances required for adequatesealing make disassembly and maintainability difficult. Operation at elevatedtemperatures causes the metal surfaces to adhere to each other through oxidationand scaling. In addition operation at elevated pressures and the large surfacearea required for sealing result in high sealing forces.

As was shown in Figure 6 the NGM was divided into several subassemblies andcomponents for ease in disassembly during mai.ntainance. Sealing between thesubassemblies is provided by graphite or flanged-backed gaskets. Bolts areused to hold these subassemblies together and provide the sealing forcesrequired. However, this design approach was shown to be inadequate. Follow-ing priU ) testing, an inspection revealed a weakness in the separator housingdesign. The bolt flanges of the housing (both inner and outer) showedsigns of high temperature yield and structural deformation which led to a lossin sealing. New inner and outer flange spacers were designed, fabricated andinstalled for the present testing. This approach solved the flange leakageproblems. Elimination of all seals, however, became a primary requirement forthe advanced NGM.

11

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sysirms. INC.

TABLE 1 NGM CHARACTERISTICS

Nominal N 2 Generation hate, kg/d (lb/d) 3.6 (8.0)

Weight, kg (lb) 33 (73)

volume, dm (ft 3) 17.6 (0.41)

Power, WStartup 8200Operatioma1 300

Time for Heatup, h 0.4

Mechanical Interface6 S

12

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Clk Systems, Ar.

Operation

The NGM operation has been described in detail previously. (6)

The followingis a summary of its operation. The NGM performs three functions: N H dissocia-tion, NH dissociation and lits eparation. The temperatures of the disoociationstages ad separation stages are controlled separately using two sets ofheaters. Heat is (a) generated in the N2H4 dissociation process, (b) requiredfor the Nil dissociation procesdi and (c) lost to ambient since the surface ofthe NGM (tRe It separator stages) is at 644 K (700 F). The NGH has two distincttemperature zones. The H separator stages must operate at 644 ±28 K (700 ±50F), The separation process is favored by higher temperatures but temperaturesabove 700 K (800 F) decrease the structural integrity and life of the Pd/Agtubes. The Nil dissociation stages require temperatures, greater than orequal to 811 K (1000 F). The center of the dissociator housing (i.e., theN2H4 dissociation stage) operates at approximately 1000 K (1340 F). Thetemperature decreases to 811 K (1000 F) at the surface of the dissociatorcore,

hydrazine Dissociation

llydrazine dissociation takes place in the center cavity of the NGM, LiquidN2H4 at a pressure of approximately 1830 kPa (265 psia) is injected into thedissociator through a capillary orifice in the header assembly. The diameterof the capillary opening is smaller than the quenching diameter for N 2H4 toprevent propagation of the dissociation reaction back to the supply. in thefeed: orifice, N 11 is converted from a liquid at ambient temperature to avapor slightly above the boiling point of N It at the operating pressure.Ilydrazine vapor enters the central dissociaor tube at an elevated temperatureand dissociates autocatalytically.

At the end of the central tulle the direction of the product gases is reversed.The product gases then flow in the annular housing concentric with the centraltube and exit at the hottest zone of the reactor. The decomposition of NHinto N2 and If (equatW 2) is favored kinetically and thermodynamically a^higher temperatures. The product gas from the N

2 H 4

dissociation stage isman:ifolded to the first H 2 separation stage.

If drogen Separation I

The four H separation stages are located around the periphery of the NGM.The Pd /Ag Tubes are connected to a donut -shaped header plate and are thermallyisolated from the central NGM core where N HL and Nil dissociation takes

i place. The H2 separation stages operate ai 644 K (700 F) while the dissociatorcore is maintained at 1000 K (1340 F). The N2/H22 mixture from a dissociationstage enters the inside ends (i.e., closest to tie center of the NGM) of thePd/Ag tubes in the sta;4e. The process gas passes through all of the Pd/Ag

` tubes in each individwil stage in parallel. The H -depleted gas stream from a

H2 separation stage is then manifolded from the ouilet of the tubes to thenext NH3 dissociation stage.

' In the first 1f2 separation stage H is collected at less than or equal to 172he

y.kPa 25 sia . The H removed in second third and fourth H separation

iostages exhausts the NGM through a common manifold and is vented vacuum.4

i^k

q13

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Zile Systens. Ae.

Ammonia Dissociation

The three Nil dissociation stages are located in the central NGH core aroundthe outside 9f the NOR dissociation stage. The product N gas stream, enrichedin N and NH3 after Pagsing through a H separation stage, 2is fed into a NOdissociation stage at the same and of th NGM as the N H4 feed. The producigas passes through the packed catalyst bed traveling Re length of the dis-sociation core. At the end of the first catalyst bed the gases are manifoldedto the second portion of the catalyst bed in the dissociation stage. Theproduct gas then travels back the length of the reactor core and exists at thesame end of the reactor as the reed stream. Each N11 dissociation stage,therefore, consists of two side-by-side passages paced with catalyst.

Operating Conditions

Table 2 gives the mominal operating conditions for the NGM. These values arefor a 3.6 kg/d (8.0 lb/d) N2 generation rate. The values shown in Table 2 for11 and N11 concentration in the N 2 product stream have been met or exceeded inRe testRg program.

NGM TEST FACILITY

An NGM Test facility was designed and assembled to support the data basegeneration testing of the NGM. This facility consists of an NGM test standand support facilities including N 2114 supply, instrumentation, recorders andchemical analysis equipment. These are described in the following sections.

NGM Test Stand

A test stand dedicated to NGM characterization and endurance testing wasdesigned, fabricated and checked out (see Figure 7). This test stand, builtaccording to Life Systems test stand development philosophy, permits continuous,automated operation with a minimum of operator or test engineer interface. Ithas self-protection features for unattended operation.

Description

Figure 8 shows the mechanical schematic for the test stand. In many respectsthe test stand contains all components neeeded fora complete NSS withoutautomated control for some of them. The automated features permit safe shut-downs and some control and monitor functions. Others are performed manually.

Considering the NGM (NMI)as the end item under test, the schematic consistsof those components which supply inputs and those which measure or controloutputs. Hydrazine is stored in a supply tank (11T1) and fed to the NGM underpressure through a manual shutoff valve (MV7), pneumatic shutoff valves (V1and V27), manual flow control valve (MV8) and a flow control orifice (RX5).The pressure of the liquid N 2

H 4

is controlled by a manual regulator (PR2)and sensed by a pressure gauge (P23). The source pressure is an external,high pressure N2 tank. The pneumatic valves V1 and V27 are controlled by the

ilkelectrical three way valve V2 which supplies a 520 kPa (75 psia) pressurethrough regulator PR3. The flow control office RX5 develops a pressure dropmeasured by pressure sensor P2. In this fashion a flow monitor (designated

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,CIA Sy-ftent, Jiro.

TABLE 2 NCH NOMINAL OPERATING CONDITIONS

Catalytic Dissoctator Temperature, K (F) 1000 (1340)Pd/A= Separator Temperature, K (F) 644 (700)Hydrazine Feed

Source Liquid HydrazineHydrazine Flow Rate, kgjd (lb/d) 4.15 (9.14)

do /min 2.9Composition, Weight %

Hydrazine 99.5 to 100Water 0 to 0.5

Temperature, K (F) 291 to 297 (65 to 75)Pressure, kPa (psi&) 1794 (260)

Nitrogen ProductFlow Rate, kg4d (lb/d) 3.64 (8.0)

dm /min (cfm) 2.2 (0.078)Composition, Volume %

Hydrogen 0.53Ammonia 1.9 x 10

Water <0.1Temperature, K (F) 644 (700)Pressure, kPa (psia) 1725 (250)

Hydrogen ByproductFlow Rate, kg4d (lb/d) 0.44 (0.96)

dm /min (cfm) 3.6 (0.13)Purity, Volume %

99.9(700to100

Temperature, K (F)Pressure, kPa (psis) 172 (25)

Hydrogen VentedFlow Rate, kg4d (lb/d) 0.08 (0.18)

dm /min (cfm) 0.68 (0.024)Temperature, K (F) 644 (700)Pressure, Pa (mm Hg) 0 to 1330 (0 to 10)

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zilc systems, imi : ORIGINAL PAGE ISnr nnno Q lAl ITY

FIGURE 7 NGM TEST STAND

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40 Solent, INC.

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FIGURE 8 NGM TEST STAND MECHANICAL SCHEMATIC

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Ale Spilesi, Jiro.

Q8) records the flow as a function of the upstream pressure (monitored by P18)and the downstream pressure developed in the module.

The high pressure source is also used for purging the system through valve V31and flow control office RX3. This was used to purge the N gas chambers ofthe NGM. A laboratory source of low pressure N provides urge of the H2chambers through V28 and RX1 and also coolant t^Irough W24 when required.

At the outlet of the NGM, three flow streams are considered. Witrogen exitsthe module and passes through a moisture trap (TR1), a back pressure regulator(PRO and flowmeter (F1). A portion of the stream can be diverted throughUV16 and MV10 to the gas chromatograph (GC) for analysis. As indicated, othersample streams can be diverted to the GC using valves MV13 through 15. The H2product gas stream passes through V24 and flowmeter F2.

The H2-to-vacuum stream passes through a ahutoff valve (V26) and vacuum pump(M1). Pressure sensor P17 monitors the vacuum level on the test stand. ValveV37 as used to evacuiite both H, outlet chambers prior to startup. Pressuregauge P15 monitors the operati gig pressure of the system. Designed into thetebt stand is a method to induce a controlled leak of the system using MVIIand F3. The capability is for checkout purposes only and is seldom used.

Control. and Monitor Instrumentation

The NGM test stand control-and monitor instrumentation is a combination ofautomated controllers and mechanical gauges. It is grouped into six logicalfunctions as shown in the front panel layout of Figure 9. In the upper leftnand corner is the N2 supply control and monitoring function. It contains thesupply pressure gauge (P19) and the high pressure (MV1), low pressure (MV22)and coolant (MV24) shutoff valves. The N purge controller (NPC) permitsautomated purging of the system (energize V31) upon startup and shutdown.The purge time is selectable on the front panel of the NPC.

The lower left hand corner contains those components which establish hydrazinepressure and flow control. They include the source pressure regulator (PR2),source pressure guage (P23) and the tank shutoff valve MV21. Also the pneumaticvalve pressure control (PR3) and the pneumatic pressure gauge (P1) are shown.The N2if4 feed shutoff (MV7) and flow control (MV8) are located here.

The top central portion of the test stand panel is dedicated Vo control, andmonitor the NGM itself. Two electronic controllers maintain the temperaturesof the dissociator and separator. These are further- defined in Table 3. Apressure monitor senses and displays the WP across RX5 which establishes theN2H4 flow. The feed pressure is rM4,iitored with a pressure gauge (P18). Belowis a temperature sensor selector switch and display from which any of the NGMthermocouples can be monitored.

,aThe upper right section of the front panel is dedicated to N2 and H2 productgas monitoring. The N2 control/monitoring consists of the back pressure

` regulator PR1, pressure gauge P15 and flow meter F1. Hydrogen product gas isfmonitored by pressure gauge P16 and flow meter F2. The vacuum is monitored

k

with pressure gauge P17. Below the product gas monitoring section of the

I

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41le SyileWo AMC.

panel are five manual valves (MV10, 13 to 16) for controlling interstagesample streams to the GC.

Located in the lower right hand corner of the test stand are functions forcontrolling the test stand itself. An electronic operations controller (OpC)permits the operator to select the shutdown, standby and normal operating modes.Each actuator (valveu and heaters) can be overriden or placed under automaticcontrol. A timer is provided for accumulating the time that the test stand isin an operating mode and not just when power is applied, Finally circuitbreakers are provided for input power to the test stand and to the NGM heaters.

0 oration

The operation of the NGM and its test stand is straightforward. After the NGMis installed as shown in Figure 10, all cavities are pressurized with N andpressure gauges monitored to detect plumbing leaks. Then, the module is2purgedto eliminate all air from the module and lines. This can be done eithermanually or automatically using the NPC. The NGM is then pressurized byopening valve 'V31 and manually closing reaul.ator. PR3 until the desired operat-ing pressure is obtained. Regulator P92 is adjusted until a fixed delta abovethe P15 reading is obtained, usually 70 kPa (10 psid). Then MV21 is openedand the N2H tank pressurized. After the NGM has achieved operating tempera-ture, X211 flow to it is controlled manually and then automatically by valvesMV8 and Vil/27. At the same time the operations controller (OpC) is put tothe "normal" operating mode which controls the position of the remainingsolenoid valves. Once operational, removing all Gverri.de switches from thecontrollers and the actuators will permit the test stand to operate fullyautomatically. If any of the key sensors (Q8, T23 or T30) as identified inTable 3 go out of tolerance the test stand goes to shutdown. Also, if it isdesired during normal operation to go to a standby mode, the OpC allowspushing the standby button which automatically closes the N2H4 valves (V1/V27).

Support Facilities

Besides the NGM test stand, the NGM test facility consists of a source ofN H41 recorders, gas chromatograph and chemical analysis equipment. Figure 11sRows these support facilities located in the vicinity of the test stand.

Hydrazine Supply

Figure 12 shows the schematic of the NH 4 supply 3from the storage area to theNGM test stand. Hydrazine is stored ir2i a 0.21 m (55 gallon) drum which canbe pressurized up to 138 kPa (20 psia). In order to transfer the-N H fromthe drum located into the storage area to the tank located on the tist stand,pressures greater than 138 kPa (20 psia) are required. An intermediate, higherpressure transfer tank is used for this purpose.

Recorders

Two recorders are used in the NGM test facility. The temperature trend recordermonitored eight experimental thermocouples located on the NGM. This information

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CjlC SysMArs, INC.

gave temperature distribution data in various pottions of the dissociator andthe separator. A strip chart recorder monitored two key temperatures and theN

2 H 4

flow. 'these recorders were used primarily for observing long term datataken during periods of unattended operation (e.3., overnight).

Gas chromatograph

A gas chromatograph was used to periodically sample the product N 2 stream fromthe NGM and measure the N2H22 and NH concentrations. After testing was initiateda problem occured whereby ttie NH 3 concentration peak was obscured by a lowmoisture level in the N product stream. This produced unreliable Nil

3 concen-

tration data. A chemicel analysis technique was substituted.

Ammonia Concentration Analysis

Ammonia concentration of the N 2 product stream is a major measure of performanceof the NGM. A wet chemistry technique was adopted for analysis as opposed tothe gas chromatograph as discussed above. In this technique, the sample isbubbled through a gas washing bottle containing a hydrochloric acid (HCL)solution and a colorimetric indicator. The NH 3 concentration is given by theequation:

2205 (C)(V)Conc. NH3, % = -- (T)(F (4)

Where C = Conc. HC1, MV = Vol. HCl soln, literT = Time to color change, minF = Flow rate, liter/min

This technique, independently verified with known samples, gave very reliabledata.

NGM DATA BASE GENERATION TESTING

The test program was designed to measure the response in performance of theNGM as a function of changes in five operating parameters: operating pressure,N H feed rate, dissociator temperature, separator temperature and catalystweig ht. Performance was defined as concentration of H and NH in the productN2 outlet and % H2 recovered in the product }{2 stream versus Total H 2 produced).A total of 900 hours of operating time and almost 100 data points were achievedduring all phases of testing. The test durations and the number of datapoints taken met or exceeded test program goals.

Test Procedures

The overall approach of the test program was to vary one parameter at a timewhile maintaining the other parameters at nominal values, The nominal values

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Al SPleNr, 61irc.

were based on (a) prior operating experience (b) design analysis or (c) physicalconstraints. An example of the latter is the maximum amount of NH catalystas determined by the NH dissociator stage size. Table 4 shows tha nominalvalves and ranges of the operating parameters for which data was recorded.

In a fairly complex chemical reaction, as occurs in the NGM, changing several)parameters at one time could influence the optimization of other parameters interms of overall NGM performance. Ideally, a rigorous testing program wouldevaluate the effect of all pos;tible combinations of the selected parameters,with several replications to rule out measurement error. The approach takeninstead was to vary one parameter ohile holding the others constant. Also, itwas recognized early that operating pressure influences H outlet concentrationthe most, while dissociator temperature ',,"pacts NH 3 concentration and N }i4feed rate impacts both. Therefore, these three parameters were investigatedextensively.

The general procedure for data taking was as follows. After establishing anassumed steady-state, a data point was taken. This consisted of manual recordingof all measurements (pressures, flows, temperatures, etc.), a wet chemicalsample for NH and a GC sampling. The GC was used primarily to measure Hconcentration 3in the N2 product stream. For several of the test points, 2additional measurements (wet chemistry and GC) were made at intermediatestages within the NGM. In this manner,, the effect of NH 3 catalyst was determined.

The testing protocol maintained during; one period illustrated the potentialversatility of the NGM as part of an operational NSS. During this period oftesting, a total of 439 hours of continuous operation were accumulated.Generally, the N2 flow was adjusted to the level required during the workingday but kept at aaw value during the night to conserve N if . Changes inflow, while manual, could be automated to provide an "on-demand" N2 subsystem.This mode of operation worked extremely well.

Parametric Tests

The test results of the effects of the five operating parameters on NGM per-formance are presented below. The order of presentation was selected in termsof decreasing order of parameter importance on overall NGM operation.

Operating Pressure

Five levels of operating pressure were investigated: 450, 790, 1140, 1480 and1830 kPa (65, 115, 165, 215 and 265 psia). Figure 13 shows the NGM performanceas a function of pressure at nominal. N H feed rate and dissociator temperature.Unless otherwise stated, all performance4curves will note the test conditionsfor the results shown. Parameters not stated explicitly were at nominalvalues (see Table 4). For example, separator temperature would be 644 K(700 F) and catalyst amount would be 160 g (0.352 lb).

Figure 13 shows the general trend seen in all pressure-related tests. Ammoniaconcentration in the product N2 is a weak function of pressure while H 2 concen-

f 26

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TABLE 4 OPERATING PARAMETER RANGES

1 It Parameter.

Operating Pressure, )` ,Pa (psis)

Dissociator Temperature, K (F)

N 2 H 4 Feed Rate, kg/d (lb/d)

Separator Temperature, K (F)

Catalyst Weight, g (lb)

Nominal

1270 (265)

1000 (1340)

4.15 (9.14)

644 (700)

160 (0.352)

Range

430-1-270 (65-265)

866-1061 (1100-1450)

1.4-9.1 (3-20)

5F9-672 (600-750)

54-160 (0.119-0.352)

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FIGURE 13 NGM PERFORMANCE AS A FUNCTION OF OPERATING PRESSURE

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Operating Pressure, poia

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4A SYZIONr, Ar.

Ftration is strongly dependent on pressure. This is because H diffusionthrough the Pd/Ag tubes is strictly a function of the partial 2H pressure

x difference across the tube wall, The reason the H concentration does notdecrease linearly at higher pressures is probably gaused by a mass transfereffect since tube surface area is fixed. AL lower N 2H4 feed rates (not shown)

a sharp falloff with increasing pressure was noted.

Another important NGM performance parameter is the r,-aount of H actuallyrecovered in the product H2 stream compared to the available H2 in the N H4

typicalFig test. Two set of cutvefeed. Fi ure 14 shows the results of a t are_ shown for both percent H recovered and H2 concentration in the product Nstream. In one case, thi var.uum pump was on as in normal operation. In heother, the vacuum pump was turned off and the last three separator stages wereexhausting to ambient pressure. It is seen that whale more H is recovered foruse, the H2 concentration in the N stream is quite high, alm9st 9%, As expected,the vacuum stages, although causini a loss of available H 2 , are definitely neededto provide low concentrations of H 2 in the product N2.

Dissociator Temperature

Figure 15 shows NH concentration in the product N stream and a sample streamas a function of d?ssociator temperature. The sample stream is at the outletof th•: second separator stage, downstream of the first NH3 dissociator stage.

The endothermic reaction of NH dissociation (equation 2) is a strong functionof temperature and a catalyst temperature of around 1000 K (1340 F) is desired.The NH3 concentration measurements, determined by a wet chemistry technique,actually indicated values less than 10 ppm, but, due to measurement uncertainty,were recorded as 10 ppm. At temperatures below about 940 K (1230 F) NHconcentration rises considerably and can increase two orders of magnitude fora lowering of only 28 K (50 F) in dissociator temperature.

Initially, it was planned to explore the effect of dissociator temperature upto 1088 K (1500 F). However, there was some difficulty in maintaining theseparator temperature at or below 644 K (700 F) without cooling if the dis-sociator temperature rose above 950 K (1250 F). This is due to radiative heattransfer from the high temperature zone to the separator. This problem onlyoccurred with low (or no) N H4 flow since during, normal operation heat requiredfor NH3 stage dissociation ends to keep the external surface of the dissociatorcore 56 to 83 K (100 to 150 F) cooler. Therefore, under these conditions,separator temperatures can go higher than the desired 644 K (700 F). Becauseof this, an insulating sheath was wrapped around the dissociator to reduce theradiative heat transfer. The advanced NGM will have provisions to account for

this effect.

N244 Feed Rate

Figure 16 shows the percent of H2 in the N2 product stream as a function ofN H4 feed rate and system operating pressure. Obviously, this performanceparameter improves with increasing pressure as this assists in the removal ofH2 from the N2 stream. The increased H2 concentrations at lower feed rates

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41t Spin WS, AW.

Operating Pressure, psia

0 50 100 150 200 250

12

i

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N2 H4Feed Rate, cm3 /min (lb /d) 2.8-3.0 (9.0-9.6)

Dissociator Temperature, K (F) 983-1016 (1310-1370)

Q Vacuum On -Product H2 from first separation stage

0(^, Vacuum Off-Product H2 from All separator stages

)0 300 600 900 1200 1500 18'

Operating Pressure, kPa

rFIGURE 14 HZ RECOVERY AS A FUNCTION OF OPERATING PRESSURE

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Dissociator Temperature, FAM 1 A!A 4 AM A!A

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100,000

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q Second SefaratorStage Outlet

10 ---- -....r Q•Q.-.^ o

\—Limit in measurement technique

1) 1f 900 920 940 960 980 1000 1020

i x Dissociator Temperature, KFIGURE 15 NGM PERFORMANCE (NH3 CONCENTRATION IN 'PRODUCT N2)

a

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Dissoc. Tmp., K (F)988-1010 (1320-1360)

Pressure, kPa (psi&)Q450 (65)Q790 (115)

V1140 (165) Iq 1480 (215)

O 1830 (265) I

..

Nominal Design IPoint

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.5 2.0 2.5 3.01 1

3_S 4_A 4.S

N2H4 Feed Rate, cm3/min

FIGURE 16 NGM PERFORMANCE (H2 CONCENTRATION IN PRODUCT N2)

32

N ..

'ale Syrlewo 1mr.

Calculated N2 Production Rate, lb/d

0 4 6 8 10 122.0

1.8

1.6

1.4

7N

U7Is

1.2

csM

OM^ 1.01^1iJOC1VCSO

0.8N

0.6

o.4

0.2

C0,c

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Ale SPIMS, At.

(reversal of slope) were consistently observed and are probably due to a :lowerpartial, pressure. of N , The NH concentration shows a such larger dependenceon N H`` feed rake (sei Figure 1b. This is probably due to reaction rate andresidence time limitations of the fixed ,-sized NH3 dissociation stages.

Generally, these results supported the conclusion that the NON, as presentlyconfigured, will provide N generation rates at up to twice design valeswithout much impact on H impurity in the N product stream at design pressurebut NH3 concentration wih increase. Thereh re, the advanced NON will incor-porate additional NH catalyst and will do so without changing the size-of thedissociator housing Le to more efficient packaging,

Separator Temperature

No appreciable changes in H2 or NH concentration in the product N streamwere detected as a function of separator temperature variations. gue to thedifficulty in achieving low separator temperatures because of dissociatorradiative heating, only limited data was obtained in the range 589 to 672 K(600 to 750 y). No change in NH concentration was observed with increasingtemperature. Maintaining the NOR separator at-644 ±28 K (700 t50 F) is thedesired operating level.

Catalyst Weight

The effect of catalyst weight was achieved indirectly by analyzing samples atvarious NH dissociation stages. Figure 15 showed the results of one suchtest. Thee data indicated that NH dissociation performance is a function ofresidence time of the gas in the dissociation catalyst bed and not amount ofcatalyst directly. Bed length is more important than cross-sectional areaalthough larger area will reduce space velocity for a given flow. For thecurrent and projected advanced NON, pressure drops in the catalyst beds arenegligible.

PREPROTOTYPE NSS DESIGN

The primary function of the NSS is to generate N for cabin leakage makeupthereby controlling total cabin pressure. Devel9pment of an NSS has progressedto a point where a preprototype, self-contained NSS should be designed andbuilt to demonstrate its readiness for manned •habitability applications. Thisprogram is providing the design for such a subsystem.

A 4.4 kg/d (9.6 lb/d) capacity NSS is being designed based on further improve-ments in NON performance and to characterize the NSS concept in general, The4.4 kg/d (9.6 lb/d) capacity level allowed using the guidelines, philosophyand the specifications established

fg the Space Operations Center (SOC)

currently being considered by NASA. This selection simplifies direct com-parison of the NSS concept with onboard storage in the form of cryogenic orgaseous N2 as indicated previously in Figure 1. R

Y

Design Specifications

Overall design specifications for the SOC NSS were established and are presentedin Tattle 5. The requirements for the N 2 generation rate and product composition

33i

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KawN

^i

♦Ju^a0HP4

a00

f

G

wN

JJu C00HWr^

• C

ucs0U

N

c

1

i

14

!k S'pIWIMV..0. NC.

N2H4 Feed Rate; lb/d

n R a in 12 14

N 2 H 4 Feed Flow Rate, cm3/min

FIGURE 17 NGM PERFORMANCE AS A FUNCTION OF N H FEED RATE24

34

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,^^jc Sdatc^rs, ,^irc.

TABLE 5 NSS DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS

Hydrazine Feed Rate, kg/d (lb/d)

Nitrogen Generation Rate, kg1d (lb/d)

Product Hydrogen Generation Rate, kg/d (lb/d)

Pressure, kPa (psia)

Nitrogen Product Composition, Volume %HydrogenAmmoniaWater

Hydrogen Byproduct Purity, Volume %

Product Hydrogen Removal. Efficiency, %

Surface Temperature Guidelines, K (F)

5.0 (11.0)

4.4 (9.6)

0,56 (1.23)

1330 (265)

0.21 x 1030.1

99.9

90

322 (120)

_ a

q

I

35

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Zile Spleens, Ac.

were based on anticipated SOC requirements, Recent test experience and projectedimprovements in NGM performance confirm that they car to met at competitiveequivalent weights.

The overall goal of the design effort is to design an NSSas a spacecraftutility, The design features were selected based on both subsystem and designrequirements. The following is a list of the major design features incorporated.

1. The subsystem will be designed for location in an unpressurized areaexternal to habitable confiners.

2. A separate spacecraft N2H4 storage facility is assumed which willsupply

N2If4 to the NGM and other subsystems using N

2 H 4

(e.g., reactioncontrol units).

3. The byproduct H2 generated can be used by a Sabatier reactor for CO2reduction.

4. Control and monitoring functions are provided by computer -basedinstrumentation utilizing software programming techniques.

5. Four steady-state operating modes are incorporated: Shutdown,Normal, Standby and Purge.

6. Manual overrides and controls have been included for off-designtesting.

7. All materials of construction used are compatible with theirenvironment.

Subsystem Schematic and Operation

A schematic of the NSS is shown in Figure 18. The design is based on the con-cept shown previously for hydrazine dissociation. There are two principalcomponents of the NSS. Naturally, the NGM is the heart of the system. An N2pressure controller permits startup, attainment of subsystem pressure andmaintenance of the source pressure for feeding the N2H4 . These are discussedin detail below.

Advanced NGM

The preprototype NSS will incorporate the advanced NGM design, presentlyunderway. The two principal design improvements are: (1) eliminate allsealing surfaces, and (2) minimize heater power required to maintain steady-state operating temperatures.

The test results to date have confirmed that the current NGM configuration,size and staging concept will work even at an increased design N 2 productionrate of 4.4 kg/d (9.6 lb/d). A requirement for the advanced NGM design was tomaintain the current configuration but eliminate the sealing surfaces. A ±sketch of the current configuration and proposed changes are shown in Figure 19,All mechanical fasteners (bolts, studs, etc.) and gaskets will be eliminated

36

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77--w—

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u `^ .. o EM

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IH

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= % C

1

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m

aH

O

O

rn

P4

XiA SPY&M. INK

141

38

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ocile S#sICws. J#C_

as tine unit will be welded and brazed. This will permit elimination of theflanges and spacers of tine present unit, as indicated. A projected 20"25%weight savings will result.

Au additional 20% (from 50 to 60) Pd/Ag tubes will. be added to tile separatorwithout increasing the diameter or length of the unit, This results from moreeffective utilization of dead space in the present header plate. The additionaltubes will increase the ft removal. capability sand permit a larger N 2 generationcapacity without increasi.I overall size.

Tile second design driver is to minimize hetatc^r power. Ct is recognized thatinput power call never be zero, or there would be no passive zone temperaturecontrol. On tine other hand, the design must accommodate variations in Ngeneration rate which means that internally generated float will vary. Readdition of more insulation with provisions for some float 'loss in the aft endwill permit a reduction in net heater power. A goal of 1.50 W steady-stateinput power has beers established,

Minor design changes include (a) use of welded thermocouple wells instead ofcompression fitted tilermocouples to eliminate sources of leakage, and (b)elimination of interstage sample ports. Only those mechanical interfacesabsolutely needed for the control, or connection with ether NSS components willbe ;included. Lust pekformance of the NGH has given confidence in the unit toperform its N 2 generation function without additional provisions for monitoringinterstage performance. 'Therefore, t=hose peovislons have been a liaaai,naated.

Pressure Controller,

Tile N 2 pressure controller permits subsystem startup from ambient pressure byusing an external, N2 source. This N2 source also provides ttae initial pres-surization of tlae N 2 11 4 to produce .flow to ttae NGM. Over a SOC mission, thisamount of N2 is less than 2 of the total, N2 generated at baseline conditions.This gas can be returned to tine cabin, Use of the high pressure N 2 source(and treated as a consumable) trades off favorably with a low reliability,power consuming 92 if4 pump to provide

N2}14 at the needed pressure,

The N2 pressure controller is similar to others built by ISI for controllingabsolute pressure and pressure differentials between two or more fluids, Itsfunctional operation is shown in figure 20. It combines in a single assemblytine sensors and actuators necessary to control and monitor fluid pressurelevels and differentials during all phases of operation including steady-state,startup, shutdown, etc. This is done with two motor-driven regulators, onetotal pressure level sensor, a differential, pressure sensor and two feedbackposition indicators. Tile controller has four .fluidic interfaces as shown in.Figure 20 and a standard connector for the electrical interface with thesubsystem instrumentation.

Ancillhr Cam anents

The major components are supported by valves, flow restriction orifices, a

x2114 storage tank, temperature and pressure transducers, instrumentation and

I

39

vt

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Zile System Ime.

40

V

ajnss8Jd

z0

HN

aN

Ea

0)"44E

L- -

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1471e SYSIMs. Joe.

packaging. The instrumentation is only that necessary to permit the NSS toperform its functions. Testing to this point has indicated that no additionalsensors would be required.

Subsystem Characteristics

Preliminary definition of the preprototype NSS included characterizing theweight, power and heat rejection of the major components, Tables 6 summarizesthe results. The subsystem total fixed hardware weight including packaging is59 kg (130 lb). Steady-state power requirements are 168 W of DC power. Theheat rejection requirements oil spacecraft are assumed to be negligiblesince the NSS is to be located in an unpressurized area. `1'I ►e use of passivecold plates or radiation to space will permit passive thermal control. Sincetl►e NSS will be located external near ail vacuum source and near thespacecraft

N2If4 storage, only one bulkhead feed-through (for N ) will be

required. An additional feed-through for lit

is necessary if t?e it is used.

CONCLUSIONS

The testing conducted with the NGM to date has given the confidence that theN It NSS will be a success. Low amounts of H 2 (less than 0.5%) and NH3(iess than 10 ppm) were measured in the N 2 product stream. Except for somehardware deficiencies, that will be addressed in the advanced NGM design,there are no major questions regarding the technology readiness of the NSSconcept.

Nitrogen storage will be required for future manned space efforts to replacegases which leak from inhabited volumes. A N 11 -based NSS has been shown tobe the most viable candidate for supplying theAn NSS employing theinherently simple dissociation of N

2 H 4 and subsequent separation of N 2 and H

is an exceptionally attractive subsystem. The NSS design will incorporate ailti►e operational concepts projected for a flight unit. The design of a prepro-totype NSS will be tile nerL step in developing prototype/flight hardware.Such a development effort will provide system planners and designers withdetails oil characteristics. Maturation of this system will thenprovide maximum flexibility in meeting flight: mission needs.

REFERENCES

1. Marshall, R. D.; Carlson, J. N.; Powell,, J. D, and Kacholia, K. K.,"Spacecraft Nitrogen Generation," Final Report, Contract NAS2-7057, NASACR-137567, ER-198-5; Life Systems, Inc., Cleveland, 011; December, 1974.

2. Marshall, R. D.; Wynveen, R. A. and Carlson, J. N,, "Evaluation of anElectrochmemical N2IfL Gas Separator," Final Report, Contract NAS2-7057,:NASA CR-114580, ER-168-8; Life Systems, Inc., Cleveland, Off; March, 1973.

3. Marshall, R. D., "Spacecraft Nitrogen Resupply Technology: Nitrogen/hydrogenSeparation," Paper 74-ENAs-9, presented at the Intersociety Conference onEnvironmental Systems, Seattle, WA; July-August, 1974,

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Zile Spinals, LAIC.

TABLE 6 SUBSYSTEM COMPONENT SUMMARY

HeatComponent Weight, kg (lb) Power, W Refection, W

NGM 28.2 ( 62) 75(a) 75

Pressure Control 2.7 ( 6) (b) --

N2H4 Feed Tank 2.3 ( 5) -- --

Valves 1.8 ( 4) 63 63

Instrumentation 14.1 ( 31) 30 30

Ancillary Componentsand Packaging 10.0 ( 22) -- --

59.1 130 158 158

(a) Steady-state operation only(b) Power required only on a momentary basis

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3d

CZA Systems, Ar.

4. Marshall, R. D. and Powell, J. D., "Evaluation of Spacecraft NitrogenGenerator," Annual Status Report, Contract NAS2-8732, NASA CR-137930,ER-251-10-1; Life Systems, Inc., Cleveland, OH; September, 1976,

5. Marshall, R, D.; Lee, M. K. and Schubert, F. H., "Evaluation of a Space-F` craft Nitrogen Generator," Final Report, Contract NAS2-8732, NASA CR-152097,

ER-251-6; Life Systems, Inc., Cleveland, OH; April, 1978.

6. Heppner, D. B.; Marshall, R. D.; Powell, J. D. and Schubert F. H., "Develop-ment of a Nitrogen Generation System," Final Report, NAS2-10096, CR-152333,

w TR-353-4; Life Systems, Inc., Cleveland, OH; January, 1980.

7. Andrietti, L. F. and Ogg, B., "The Chemistry of Hydrazine," J. Wiley andSons, Inc., New York, NY; 1951.

8. NASA Johnson Space Center, "Space Operations Center. A Concept Analysis,"Volumes I and II, JSC-16277, Houston, TX; November, 1979.