MLMI 8W Fission Power System

Peregrine developed an advanced Multi-Layer Metal Insulation (MLMI) technology to provide the exceptional thermal isolation required for long-life, high-performance 8-Watt Radioisotope Heater Unit (RHU) power systems. The isolation design achieves an effective thermal conductivity below 0.001 W/mK by utilizing multiple thin metallic radiation shields separated by high vacuum, eliminating conductive and convective heat transfer between layers and leaving radiation as the only—and highly inefficient—heat transfer mechanism.  Peregrine’s design allows for a low operating temperature of approximately 500°C enabling the use of titanium, whose significantly lower thermal conductivity greatly reduces overall heat loss. To further improve insulation performance, the MLMI incorporates ultra-thin internal shields connected by small, staggered interstitial nodes that create an extended, tortuous thermal path, minimizing conductive heat transfer while maintaining the structural integrity required for flight applications.

Peregrine has been supporting the National Labs with work on their test reactors and core components.  Replacing working parts as their useful life expires. Peregrine’s primary focus is working with beryllium materials to produce core components to act as moderators and reflectors for fission applications.