| Popis: |
There is a growing need for underwater vehicles both military and commercial to stay underwater longer without the requirement for surface support. Almost unlimited endurance can be obtained by having a nuclear power source. However, present nuclear powered vessels have displacements of at least 3000 tonnes, and although it is possible that small nuclear vessels could be developed, the costs involved may be prohibitive. Thus alternatives to the present lead acid battery systems have been sought. This paper examines the likely alternatives and discusses methods which may be used to aid the selection process between these alternatives. It is concluded that the three main candidates, the Closed-cycle Diesel, the Stirling and the Fuel Cell, are viable systems and that all three could find potential uses in the underwater environment. Deficiencies in current powerplant selection techniques are discussed. |
