Development of the Control System for SNAP Reactors

The SNAP 10A, 2, and 8 nuclear reactor systems are designed to provide electrical power on space vehicles or environments of ultrahigh vacuum. Although each system has different power capabilities, the control components are basically the same. Development of the various control components and subcomponents is discussed. The electromechanical actuator, bearings and gears for each SNAP system are reviewed in detail. A control-drum-drive mechanism that provides fail safe scram capabilities for ground testing of the reactor system has been designed and proof tested. The details of this design as it applies to SNAP 10A systems are presented.