Demonstration Testing of a Vuilleumier Cryocooler with an Integral Heat Pipe/Thermal Energy Storage Unit.
Abstract
The performance of heat pipe/thermal energy storage unit (HP/TESU) powering a Vuilleumier (VM) cryocooler during simulated orbital eclipse periods was demonstrated. Operation with the HP/TESU was shown to have no significant cold stage performance penalty on the VM. The power consumption rate of the VM was determined to be approximately one-half the nominal design value (750 wt) due probably to high first stage heat leaks. VM cold stage performance was stable over large hot cylinder temperature variations (50-100 deg C). No thermomechanical or integration problems were incurred. Operation of HP/TESU as a combined thermal storage medium and hot cylinder heating mechanism is feasible. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA042786
Entities
People
- Jerry E. Beam
- Tom Mahefkey
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory