Current developmental programs for space nuclear power systems have generated renewed interest in technology development for light weight, large area, heat rejection radiators with operating temperatures of greater than 600 K. Prime power systems now under study will require thermal rejection systems in the 2 to 100 megawatt range. Heat pipe radiators are potentially the lightest weight closed loop systems available in this power and temperature range and as such are baseline for most current studies. Technology requirements for the application of heat pipe radiators in these systems include the development of deployable structures in order to accommodate larger heat rejection areas than can be transported in deployed configuration. In addition, a need exists for improvement in specific radiator performance (kg/kW) through reduction in the weight of the structure. Technology requirements for heat pipe radiators, potentially among the lightest weight systems for space power applications, include flexible elements, and improved specific radiator performance (kg/kW). For these applications a flexible heat pipe capable of continuous operation through an angle of 180 deg has been demonstrated. The effect of bend angle on the heat pipe temperature distribution is reviewed. An analysis of light weight membrane heat pipe radiators that use surface tension forces for fluid containment has been conducted. The design analysis of these lightweight heat pipes is described and a potential appication in heat rejection systems for space nuclear power plants outlined.
Heat pipe technology development for high temperature space radiator applications
Entwicklung einer Waermeleitrohrtechnologie fuer Hochtemperaturradiatoranwendungen der Raumfahrttechnik
19th Intersociety Energy Conversion Engng. Conf. ; 1 , Aug ; 592-597
1984
6 Seiten, 7 Bilder, 9 Quellen
Conference paper
English
Heat pipe radiator technology for space power systems
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