Helical wick structures for gravity-assist heat pipes
Abstract
A program was undertaken to develop a wick structure suitable with potassium as a working fluid in heat pipes for thermal control of irradiation capsules having a high heat transfer capability in the temperature range from 870 to 920 K. The most suitable design appeared to be a multiple helix system which provides a low flow resistance, minimum liquid inventory, good liquid distribution, a relatively large vapor passage, and a means for reducing liquid vapor interaction. Seven different wick structures were designed and tested and heat transfer rates up to 10 kW were attained. The results indicated that high capacity heat pipes can be constructed to operate in the gravity assist mode in a lower temperature range than is possible with sodium. The tests also revealed a new heat pipe limit which has not previously been considered.
- Publication:
-
Presented at 2d Intern. Conf. on Heat Transfer
- Pub Date:
- 1976
- Bibcode:
- 1976hetr.conf.....D
- Keywords:
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- Helical Flow;
- Liquid Potassium;
- Structural Design;
- Tube Heat Exchangers;
- Cooling Systems;
- Fuel Capsules;
- Heat Transfer;
- Temperature Control;
- Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer