Two battery module configurations have been developed which, in addition to integrating cylindrical nickel-hydrogen (Ni-H2) cells into batteries, provide advances in the means of mounting, monitoring, and thermal control of these cells. The main difference between the two modules is the physical arrangement of the cells: vertical versus horizontal. Direct thermal radiation to deep space is accomplished by substituting the battery structure for an exterior spacecraft panel. Unlike most conventional nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) and Ni-H2 batteries, the cells are not tightly packed together. Testing included electrical characterization and a comprehensive regime of environmental exposures. Despite significant structural differences, the test results were similar for the two modules. High energy density was attained without sacrificing structural rigidity. The results of computer structural analyses were confirmed by a series of vibration tests. Thermal excursions and gradients during geosynchronous orbit (GEO) eclipse day simulations in vacuum were within the the nominal range for near optimum Ni-H2 cell performance. The designs are flexible with respect to quantity and type of cells, orbit altitude and period, power demand profile, and the extent of cell parameter monitoring.
Lightweight, direct-radiating nickel-hydrogen batteries
Thermisch direktstrahlende Nickel-Wasserstoff-Batterie in Leichtbauweise fuer die Raumfahrt
Journal of Power Sources ; 18 , 2-3 ; 245-258
1986
14 Seiten
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Englisch
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