Study of fuel cell thermal control systems for advanced missions.This study evaluated many heat rejection and thermal control concepts which could be applied to fuel cells for long term (600 hours) orbital and lunar surface missions. The concepts considered several types of radiators which utilized pumped gas, liquid and two phase working fluids and incorporated solid conduction fins as well as heat pipe (vapor chamber) fins. The comparison of the concepts was based on weight, area and other factors such as standby power, ability to accommodate heat load variation, control complexity, and meteoroid survival capability. A design selection matrix was established and an optimum (primary) and an alternate (secondary) heat rejection concept was chosen. Heat rejection techniques utilizing self-controlled heat pipe radiators dominate the results.
Document ID
19730041191
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Caputo, R. S. (General Electric Co., Space Div., Valley Forge Pa., United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Subject Category
Auxiliary Systems
Meeting Information
Meeting: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference; Energy 70