PROPOSAL NUMBER 99-1 17.04-3800D (Chron: 991862 )
PROJECT TITLE
Ultra-Compact Heat Exchangers for Space-Borne Cryocoolers
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Low-temperature cryocooler systems need recuperative heat exchangers with extremely high-thermal effectiveness (0.997 or greater) to achieve cooling in the 10 K range. For space-borne cryocoolers for sensor cooling, these recuperators must also be compact, lightweight, and cause minimal pressure losses in the gas stream. To meet these challenging requirements, we propose to develop a radial flow heat exchanger (RFHX) fabricated from advanced materials. These advanced materials must have an optimal combination of thermal conductivity, strength, and formability to create a highly efficient RFHX recuperator. During Phase I, we will prove the feasibility of an ultra-high efficiency recuperator by (1) demonstrating key steps in the fabrication process using advanced materials, (2) producing a conceptual design of the RFHX, and (3) performing cryocooler system trade studies that demonstrate the performance benefits of advanced materials.
POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
Advanced materials will enable sensor cryocooling systems that are compact, lightweight, and consume minimal power. Government applications include space-based sensors for reconnaissance and missile-defense systems, aircraft oxygen generating systems, and field hospitals. Commercial applications include oxygen production for medical purposes and laboratory- and industrial-scale cryogenic refrigeration and gas liquefaction systems.
NAME AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (Name, Organization Name, Mail Address,
City/State/Zip)
Michael G. Izenson
Creare Incorporated
PO Box 71, Etna Road
Hanover , NH 03755 - 0071
NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR (Firm Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)
Creare Incorporated
P.O. Box 71, Etna Road
Hanover , NH 03755 - 0071