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Originally Posted by amrcg
Dear all
I have a doubt about the noise characteristics of nuclear submarines vs AIP diesel submarines. In several websites I use to read statements like this:
"A nuclear sub uses a compact nuclear reactor to generate steam to drive a turbine to turn the propeller. Except for modern adaptations, this differs little from old coal driven turbines. They are much quieter now, but they still make a lot of noise. Diesel submarines use reciprocating engines on the surface and while snorkeling, and battery driven electric motors while submerged. The first is noisy, the latter extremely quiet."
My dumb question: Theoretically, couldn't nuclear submarines also have batteries that would be charged by the steam-driven turbine? That would make nuclear submarines even quiter during an action.
Best regards,
Antonio
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AIP is not Diesel and not every AIP is the same.
Your quote above talks only about 'normal' Diesel vs. Nuclear. AIP means 'air independent propulsion' and it comes in different concepts. There are some 'older' AIP-systems which 'only' allow to run the diesel submerged without snorkel. With most modern 'true' AIP (fuel cell) you don't need the diesel at all.
