The Boeing Company
Dual condenser loop heat pipe for satellites with sun-normal radiators

Abstract:

Systems, methods, and apparatus for dual condenser loop heat pipes for satellites with sun-normal radiators are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a disclosed method for a satellite thermal management system comprises heating, in an evaporator, a liquid to convert the liquid to a vapor. The method further comprises passively circulating within tubing, from the evaporator, the vapor to a first radiator not illuminated by a sun and to a second radiator illuminated by the sun. Also, the method comprises converting the vapor to the liquid when the vapor is within the first radiator not illuminated by the sun. Further, the method comprises passively circulating within the tubing, from the first radiator not illuminated by the sun, the liquid to the evaporator.