High Power Density, High Efficiency Advanced Generator for DEW Systems

Solid state RF and millimeter wave weapons systems require substantial power to operate. Pure solid state systems have limited energy density and require charging over the typical use cycle. The directed energy system must be compact enough to mount on a vehicle such as a HMMWV, a small trailer or a structure such as found within an embassy compound. Current power systems are much too large and heavy to meet the requirements of the system; therefore a higher power density solution is required. Candent Technologies is proposing a microturbine based power generation system, designed to provide up to 250 kW on a continuous basis, ready to use at any time with no limitations of on/off time or duty cycle that could render the system unavailable at a critical moment. The system consists of a small, single shaft gas turbine directly driving a high speed permanent magnet alternator at constant speed, with rectified output providing DC power. The turbine is fitted with a waste heat recovery system (recuperator), which results in fuel efficiency better than similar power diesels. This proposed system will have one fourth of the weight and one third the volume of equivalent diesel systems.