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Thermal Conversion Device for Hydrothermal Vents

Award Information

Agency:
Department of Defense 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
 Program Year/Program:
2011 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
N111-071-0925 		Solicitation Year:
2011 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N111-071 		Solicitation Number:
2011.1
Small Business Information
Mechanical Solutions, Inc.
11 Apollo Drive Whippany, NJ -
View profile »
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 1
Fiscal Year: 2011
Title: Thermal Conversion Device for Hydrothermal Vents
Agency: DOD
Contract: N00014-11-M-0244
Award Amount: $80,000.00
 

Abstract:

Applications ranging from deep water drilling rigs and wells to in-situ seismographs and AUV recharging require subsurface electrical power. Undersea thermal vents create opportunities to generate significant levels of at-sea power. Effectively harnessed, benefits derived from subsea power sources range from increased station-keeping to persistent surveillance. Mechanical Solutions, Inc. (MSI) proposes an approach that will result in compact and durable closed Rankine cycle systems that provide electric power in deep sea environments. A single high-speed rotating machine, with oil-free, process lubricated bearings in a hermetically sealed package forms the heart of a system that will be durable, lightweight and small in size. Successful development of the MSI technology will help meet the ever-growing demand for more electric power in subsea environments. The MSI system will be maintenance-free, easy to deploy, with simple yet practical means to negate the fouling effects typically encountered in hydrothermal vents. Phase II will provide a prototype of a practical and cost-effective thermal-to-electric power conversion system. MSI"s Phase I pre-proposal analysis work included assessment of a sample cycle using a standard power fluid with good results. Phase I work will verify the feasibility of the approach against a definitive set of hydrothermal and subsea specifications.

Principal Investigator:

Thomas Walter
Principal Engineer
(518) 320-8552
tjw@mechsol.com

Business Contact:

Karen Rizzi
General Manager
(973) 326-9920
ksr@mechsol.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

Mechanical Solutions, Inc.
11 Apollo Drive Whippany, NJ -

EIN/Tax ID: 223476647
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees:
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No