Search Results

International Space Station (ISS) hardware is designed for operation in space, therefore, testing these on ground poses special problems. One such problem is the potential of water vapor condensation. Water condensation on electronics components may cause electrical short and/ or corrosion. ISS batteries are designed to operate within a temperature range of 32 to 50°F. In order to maintain batteries within this range, cold ammonia is circulated through their coldplates. During testing, ammonia chiller temperature setpoint is typically set at 20°F and the test room dew-point temperature is typically about 50°F. These operating conditions will result in considerable water condensation on cold surfaces. In order to minimize water condensation, test hardware is enclosed in a tent within which air dew-point temperature is controlled at 0°F or lower. This is more than adequate to prevent any moisture condensation on batteries.