Working medium circuit for alkali metal thermoelectric converters (AMTEC)

The possibility is studied to create a sodium circuit in an AMTEC type conversion device. The proposed circuit is based on a heat pipe that includes the evaporation-condensation cycle. Different layouts based on this principle are presented. The proposed circuit is characterized by the following advantages: no need for an electromagnetic pump; low load on the converter; and a better capability to control temperature drop at the converter.