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Gas Generator for Powering the Cavitation Erosion Cleaning Device of Project Number 4

Office/Division Program
TAP
Project Number
35
Category
Research Initiation Date (Award Date)
Research Performing Activity
Naval Surface Weapons Center/Daedalean Associates
Research Principal Investigator
Dr. Otmar Dengle & Dr. Riley Mayhall
Description

The Naval Surface Weapons Center (NSWC) is developing parameters to provide power for the cavitation erosion cleaning technology developed in Project No. 4. These parameters are required for a diver or a free swimming submersible to carry the device untethered. Hydrogen gas is generated by reaction of lithium and water. The energy density from the lithium batteries is expected to be much greater, saving weight and space. The pressure energy can be generated without converting to an electrically driven pump. Safety is not a problem.

Latest progress update

Complete. Test results indicate that required pressures of 10,000 psi. for a 1-minute operation requires 1-pound of lithium at a cost of $20.00 per pound. In-situ testing of the system was started but has been indefinitely postponed due to budget considerations, the project was Cancelled. See report from Project No. 7 titled 'EAVE-East Cavitation Cleaner Feasibility Demonstration, September 30, 1975.