Thermal control systems with variable conductance heat pipes for space application: theory and practice

Abstract

Passive variable conductance thermal regulation technology is promising direction in elaboration of thermal control systems for space and ground application. Inside this activity the use of variable conductance heat pipes as main instrument can find the wide range of application due to combination of the following features: heat transfer on defined distance without mechanical drivers, stabilization of heat source temperature at changeable power generation and heat sink conditions with minimal subsidiary energy consumption. The chapter makes an attempt to summarize the obtained results in the filed of creation of the high-efficiency thermal control systems for scientific space apparatus (electronic, optoelectronic, power equipment of spacecrafts) in near-Earth and far space missions, which operate in unpressurized compartments, with the use of heat pipes of variable thermal conductance, executing the functions of heat transport and temperature regulation by maintenance of thermal balance in the system “spacecraft – instrument – space environment” on required temperature level.