Conceptual Design of an 80,000-shp Fossil-Fired Closed-Cycle Helium Turbine Propulsion System for Naval Ship Applications

Abstract

A conceptual design was made of an 80,000-shp fossil-fired closed-cycle helium turbine system for naval propulsion applications. Various oil-fired heater and power conversion system configurations were investigated, and a reference system was selected based on a trade-off between the system performance and the component size and weight characteristics which would yield the maximum pay load capability for the ship type considered. The conceptual design of major components was made based on the parametric design results identified from a comprehensive computer program incorporating extensive past design experiences. The conceptual design drawing for the propulsion engine is presented, and a preliminary propulsion system layout applicable to a conceptual high-speed destroyer is shown. The analysis indicates that no severe integration problem is anticipated for this type propulsion engine for lightweight ship propulsion applications.