One-dimensional steady-state mathematical model of a novel loop heat pipe with liquid line capillary wick

Abstract

A novel loop heat pipe used for data center with a liquid line wick is designed, and its one-dimensional steady-state mathematical model is developed based on the energy and thermodynamic equilibrium of each component and the simulation results were validated by comparing with the experimental data in this work. The compensation chamber of the loop heat pipe was removed, and a section of capillary wick was added in the end of liquid line in order to reduce heat leakage and vapor backflow and increase working medium circulation power. The mathematical model of the novel loop heat pipe can be used to predict the operating temperature of each characteristic point with small relative errors of <13%. A parametric study of the steady-state performance characteristics including the effects of material, diameter, length, and porosity of liquid line wick are conducted, which provides a powerful basis for the design of novel loop heat pipe experiment.