Two-phase thermal loops for use in future spacecraft
Abstract
In the two-phase thermal loops being developed by ESA for high heat-load space transport systems, such as the Space Shuttle and Spacelab, the working fluid is evaporated in the heat-absorbing 'cold plate' elements, whence it flows in vapor form to a radiator-like heat sink to be condensed as the heat is radiated into space. Attention is presently given to the design features and performance capabilities thus far experimentally established for mechanically-pumped, capillary-pumped, and hybrid versions of the two-phase loop. The hybrid thermal loops are especially promising for use aboard satellites with severe microgravity requirements.
- Publication:
-
Dornier Post
- Pub Date:
- 1988
- Bibcode:
- 1988DorPo...1...49W
- Keywords:
-
- Heat Transmission;
- Satellite Temperature;
- Temperature Control;
- Working Fluids;
- European Space Agency;
- Heat Pipes;
- Space Commercialization;
- Space Platforms;
- Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer