Computer Code to Model Loop Heat Pipe Transients

Goddard Space Flight Center
2001 Phase II

Computer Code to Model Loop Heat Pipe Transients

Laurel, MD

INNOVATION

This is a plug-in code for transient modeling of Loop Heat Pipe fluid flow and heat transfer performance. The code features an efficient model runtime and gives stable solutions for startups and rapidly changing operating conditions.

Transient LHP Predictions

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Models up to 5 independent LHPs
Models multiple evaporators and/or condensers in a single loop (up to 5 each, connected either parallel or in series)
Models Loop Heat Pipe phenomena such as heat leak, heat load sharing, gravity effects, start-up transients, and programming options for modeling superheat
Predicts transient effects from changes in power loads, sink temperature swings
Has defaults for preliminary design evaluations or for non-LHP experts and options for inputting specific LHP parameters such as primary and secondary wick properties
Program takes care of all fluid flow calculations in the thermal modeling for LHP operations

COMMERCIALIZATION

Code being used by several Lockheed Martin facilities and the Naval Research Laboratory

GOVERNMENT/SCIENCE APPLICATIONS

Used to predict thermal performance of the ST8 Thermal Loop Experiment
Used on several classified projects with LHPs as part of their thermal design

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Curator: SBIR Support 08/21/06