Multiple experiment processing furnace (MEPF) - An overview

A preliminary design has been developed for the MEPF capable of flying initially as a payload on the NASA/MSFC Materials Science Laboratory carrier in the Shuttle cargo bay and later on the Space Station as a rack-mounted payload in the pressurized volume of the U.S. Laboratory Module. The key requirements and the design approach are examined. It is noted that the MEPF modular design approach ensures maintainability and offers a reuse capability for up to 12 flights (with refurbishments and parts replacement between missions, if required). The design incorporates safety features, and adequate redundancy is built in to improve reliability of operations.