Methodology for the selection of working fluids for loop heat pipes based on their thermophysical properties

Аuthors

Goncharov D. A.^*, Goncharov K. A.

Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University), 4, Volokolamskoe shosse, Moscow, А-80, GSP-3, 125993, Russia

*e-mail: d.goncharov@heatpipe.ru

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology for selecting working fluids for loop heat pipes (LHPs) based on a comprehensive analysis of thermophysical and operational characteristics of working fluids, taking into account the specifics of various LHP application areas. A quality criterion for thermophysical properties is proposed, incorporating the Dunbar merit number adapted for LHP applications. A com-parative analysis of working fluids for LHPs is conducted with quantitative assessment of their effi-ciency across different temperature ranges. The mechanisms of non-condensable gas (NCG) genera-tion, including chemical interaction and radiolysis, as well as their impact on thermal performance and service life of LHPs, are examined. Experimental results and engineering solutions aimed at enhanc-ing the service life and radiation resistance of LHPs are presented. The validation of the working fluid selection methodology for LHPs in spacecraft applications is demonstrated.

Keywords:

loop heat pipes (LHPs), working fluid, Dunbar criterion, selection methodology, thermophysical properties, spacecraft

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