Fluid dynamics and thermodynamics of a low gravity liquid tank filling method

Resupply of liquid in the low-gravity environment is a requirement for many future space systems such as the Space Station Freedom. This paper shows how CFD models, in conjunction with existing test methods, can be applied to large orbital systems. Specifically, a method of tank filling in low gravity is examined where the fluid dynamics (FD) can be used to simplify greatly the resupply process. The FD of the liquid-vapor interface during the fill process and, in the case of cryogens, the thermodynamics associated with the FD are discussed. Experimental work done by NASA and others in drop tower facilities are reviewed along with new analytical correlations of these tests using a CFD code.