Improved Pressure Recovery System for the ABL

Directed Energy Solutions (DES) and the University of Denver Research Institute propose a program aimed at revolutionary advancement of the current Pressure Recovery System (PRS) technology used in used in pumping high-energy chemical iodine lasers. The ABL laser system uses a steam ejector to pump the laser gas effluents. Our approach to PRS enhancement is through optimization of the steam ejector nozzle geometry and ejector discharge profile. Our goal is to enhance pressure recovery performance by at least a factor of five. In this Phase I effort we will survey and review innovative concepts for developing high performance ejector designs. We will develop a fluids model to analyze several unique ejector concepts. We will select the most promising ejector concepts using a criteria based on performance predictions, weight and volume simulations. Laboratory testing will be performed to experimentally validate this concept. A Conceptual Design for the ejector system and a Phase II program plan will be developed based on model and test results and systems engineering approaches.