Optimization and Simulation of Startup Control for Space Nuclear Power Systems with Closed Brayton Cycle based on NuHeXSys

TL;DR

This paper develops a dynamic simulation and optimization framework for a space nuclear power system using a helium-xenon Brayton cycle, significantly improving startup efficiency and reducing energy consumption for deep space applications.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive simulation code NuHeXSys and applies an evolutionary algorithm to optimize startup control, achieving notable reductions in startup time and energy use.

Findings

Startup time reduced by 1260 seconds.

External energy demand decreased by 17%.

Model verification shows deviations within 10%.

Abstract

This paper presents the development and optimization of a Space Nuclear Power System (SNPS) utilizing a helium-xenon gas-cooled Closed Brayton Cycle (CBC). A comprehensive dynamic system analysis code NuHeXSys (Nuclear Helium-Xenon Brayton Cycle Power System) was created, integrating non-ideal gas properties, a multi-channel thermal-hydraulic reactor core, and detailed turbo-machinery components. The innovation lies in parametrization of startup control sequence and application of an evolutionary algorithm (NSGA-II) to improve control performance, significantly reducing startup time and energy consumption. Model verification shows parameter deviations within 10%, confirming its accuracy. The optimized control strategy reduced startup time by 1260 seconds and lowered external energy demand by 17%, demonstrating improved efficiency and operational stability for deep space missions. This work provides a foundation for future advancements in optimizing space nuclear power systems.