Steady-State Operation of a Loop Heat Pipe With Analytical Prediction

Abstract

The steady-state performance of an 800W, sintered nickel powder wick, loop heat pipe (LHP) has been analyzed using a modified Dynatherm LHP Thermal Model. Results from characterization tests of this LHP performed at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Albuquerque, NM are used as the basis for comparison and discussion of results for the analytical model. The analytical predictions gave excellent correlation to the measured data for power levels ranging from 50 to 1500W at condenser chiller settings between −40°C and 20°C, with the LHP in a horizontal orientation.