Analysis of the operational characteristics and limits of a loop heat pipewith porous element in the condenser

This paper analyzes the operational characteristics and limits of a loop he at pipe (LHP) with Rat porous elements in the condenser and evaporator. A m athematical model, based on the nodal method, was developed to simulate the thermal and hydrodynamic behavior of this: specific type of LHP. Previousl y, the model was verified and validated by experiential data [I. Muraoka. F .M. Ramos, V. Vlassov. Int. Commun. Heat Mass Transfer 25 (1998) 1085]. The dryout failure mechanisms of this device were investigated and its operati onal limits identified in terms of the heat load dissipated in the evaporat or and the heat sink temperature at the condenser. Three distinct operation al regimes were identified and characterized, taking into account the volum e of vapor in the liquid core of the evaporator and the capillary pressure limit. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.