Experimental investigation of freezing blowby in a copper/water heat pipeAn experimental investigation designed to evaluate and better define the overall characteristics of freezing blowby in a copper/water heat pipe was conducted. The results from various rates of restart heat addition and channel blockage, indicate that upon breakthrough the depressurization of the evaporator may result in an effective heat transport capacity far in excess of the steady-state transport limit. The resulting transient conditions imposed on the heat pipe by the effective increased heat transport capacity can cause a loss of liquid in the evaporator and potential dryout. Evidence is presented which indicates that in order to prevent either temporary or permanent dryout, sufficient liquid inventory must be present in the evaporator wicking structure to accommodate the increased transient thermal load and allow sufficient time for the capillary wicking structure to reprime.
Document ID
19920065259
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Ochterbeck, J. M. (NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Peterson, G. P. (Texas A & M University College Station, United States)