This project investigates the design, fabrication, testing, and demonstration of a lightweight, high efficiency, compactlinear alternator for free-piston-stirling-engine (FPSE) spacepower conversion systems. the feasibility, limitationsand potential of the new alternator concept is assessed through analyses and testing to determine: (1) Specific weight as a function of efficiency, size, and frequency, (2) Controllability, (3) Response to transient loads, (4) Voltage waveform and alternator efficiency as a function of the load, and (5) Cost-effectiveness. Based upon preliminary analysis, the linear alternator concept, when successfully developed and mated with a dynamically balancedfpse, offers a space-qualified electric power plant having potential specific weights of 1 kg/kw(e) and an overall bus-bar efficiency of 40% using 1500 k heat input by lithiumheat pipes and 750 k heat rejection by potassium heat pipe radiators.
