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Development of the Carbon Dioxide Removal System Blower Used on Space Station Freedom
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English
Abstract
Carbon dioxide removal from the Space Station Freedom atmosphere is an essential part of the crew's life support. Freedom must utilize carbon dioxide removal systems to prevent crew asphyxiation. This paper describes the design and development of the blower selected to operate as an essential part of the carbon dioxide removal assembly (CDRA) system.
The blower drives the process air through the CDRA, enabling the carbon dioxide laden air to contact the absorbing material. Multiple-speed blower operation is utilized to optimize carbon dioxide removal.
A mixed-flow blower was selected as the optimum design to meet the CDRA application requirements. The prime reasons for this selection are the unit's low weight, small size, and outstanding efficiency. In addition, the blower unit is equipped with air bearings for extremely long life.
Under contract to the Boeing Aerospace and Electronics Company, the Allied-Signal Aerospace Company, AiResearch Los Angeles Division designed and fabricated a research-class mixed-flow blower for the CDRA system. Development testing is currently underway, with successful preliminary performance results. The research-class unit fabricated for development testing is functionally identical to the final flight design. Some components such as the 120-vdc motor will be upgraded to meet Space Station Freedom specifications.
Authors
Citation
Hafele, B., "Development of the Carbon Dioxide Removal System Blower Used on Space Station Freedom," SAE Technical Paper 921188, 1992, https://doi.org/10.4271/921188.Also In
References
- Kay, R. Woodward, L. “Space Station Freedom Carbon Dioxide Removal Assembly,” SAE paper 891449 19th Intersociety Conference on Environmental Systems July 1989