High Seed Compressor for Propellant Densification

Propellant densification systems particularly for H2 require compression systems developing very large amounts of head. Development of this head requires multiple stages of compressors running at high speed. In the past these compressors have run on grease-packed ball bearings with very limited life. This project will utilize special foil bearings in place of the ball bearings and not only greatly increase bearing life but also permit even higher speed operation which will reduce the number of compression stages and increase system efficiency.

There are many commercial cryogenic applications where this technology could be used. Specifically H2 circulators for neutron sources and flux reactors could both use this technology in applications that currently use short maintenance interval ball bearing machines. Also many cryogenic high-speed He compressors are needed for cooling superconducting magnets. Finally, cryogenic refrigeration systems require high-speed ompressors and expanders that would greatly benefit from this technology.

This special foil bearing technology will allowhigh speed, more efficient and reliable operation of cryogenic turbomachinery used in many NASA applications. These include propellant densification, cryogen subcooling for long term space storage, LH2 or LOX turbopumps and many other cryogenic pumps and compressors for ground support or space application.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.