Evaluation of the ECAS open cycle MHD power plant design

Abstract

The Energy Conversion Alternatives Study (ECAS) MHD/steam power plant is described. The NASA c r itical evaluation of the design is summarized. Performance of the MHD plant is comoared to that of the other type ECAS plant designs on the basis of efficiencv and the 0 30-year levelized cost of electricity. Techniques to improve the plant design and the potential performance of lower technology LL, plants requiring shorter development time and lower develo pment cost are then discussed.