Thermionic system evaluated test (TSET) facility description

Thermionic system evaluation test (TSET) facility construction: A United States and Russian effort

“…Testing of the Russian hardware will help "jump-start" lagging US thermionic reactor development (Henderson 1991). The facility, following the completion of TOPAZ-II testing, can be used for other types of testing important to the space and reactor communities (Fairchild et al 1992).…”

“…The Thermionic System Evaluation Test (TSET) facility at the New Mexico Engineering Research Institute (NMERI) complex was prepared for arrival of Russian hardware in less than one year with minimal cost (Fairchild et al 1992). Numerous building structural changes were made in order to accommodate the Russian TOPAZ-II test hardware.…”

“…This provides time to bring the engine generator system on line. This backup power system is required to minimize the number of thermal transients to TOPAZ-II, which limit the lifetime of the satellite (Fairchild et al 1992).…”

Thermionic System Evaluation Test: Ya-21U System Topaz International Program

“…(1) Careful installation of the voltage taps to the TFEs to prevent electrical shorting; (2) Installation of the fragile TISA heaters and attachment of power cables; (3) Slow initial heat-up of the reactor and work section to ensure sufficient outgassing of the TISA heaters and TFE emitters; (4) Careful balancing and leveling of power to the TISA heaters required during startup, steady-state, and shutdown of the system; and…”