Tube Stagnation Experiments and Modeling Using a Safe, Non-Corrosive Dielectric Fluid for Radiator Thermal Control Systems Near Stagnation Regimes 2008-01-2005

Paragon Space Development Corporation is developing a single-loop, non-toxic, active pumped thermal control design for robust, reliable operation near stagnation regimes as experienced in low power/cold environments. This research uses a safe fluid named Galden® HT170, manufactured by Solvay Solexis that has lower temperature stalling characteristics over typical space-based radiator fluids such as propylene glycol/water (PGW). A test bed and stagnation test article were designed, built and then modeled using Thermal Desktop® software to explore tube stagnation using Galden. Tube stagnation was sequentially controlled in each tube in a predictable manner, while collecting data to validate models. The data compared well to the modeling results. Fluid-compatibility results also showed no degradation to the fluid or to the aluminum tubing and weld materials and structures