Study on CPL for space use (new multi purpose theoretical model for predicting CPL performance)

The capillary pump loop (CPL), which employs the latent heat of vaporization and condensation and does not need a driving source, is considered as a promising candidate for space thermal control system because of its high reliability and lightness. Based on the experimental data base using a prototype capillary pump loop which has two flat-type evaporators and a reservoir, a new theoretical model for predicting CPL performance was developed in this study. In this theoretical model, the receding process of the vapor-liquid interface observed inside the evaporator was taken into consideration in order to make a more precise prediction. Because a successful agreement was found between the theoretical prediction and both the fundamental performance data base and the additional experimental data obtained using various combinations of wick size and working fluid, the validity of this theoretical method was confirmed.