Effect of shroud temperature on performance of a cryogenic loop heat pipe

Abstract

Cryogenic loop heat pipe (CLHP) is considered as highly efficient two-phase thermal control device in satellites, spacecrafts, electronics and structures. The initial thermal capacitance of the CLHP components has an important effect on the startup and operation of the CLHP, especially in case of a low heat load. It is difficult for the CLHP to start up with a warm shroud. This paper presents a CLHP operated in the liquid-nitrogen temperature range with nitrogen as the working fluid. Thermal conductance of the CLHP is tested at different shroud temperatures, and the measured temperatures with the heat load on the primary evaporator ranging from 0 W to 19 W are shown and discussed. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.