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ISSN Online: 2377-424X

ISBN CD: 1-56700-226-9

ISBN Online: 1-56700-225-0

International Heat Transfer Conference 13
August, 13-18, 2006, Sydney, Australia

LOOP HEAT PIPES - THEORY, EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENTS AND APPLICATION

Get access (open in a dialog) DOI: 10.1615/IHTC13.p30.190
22 pages

Abstract

Loop heat pipes (LHPs) belong to two-phase heat-transfer devices that operate on the closed evaporation - condensation cycle, in which capillary forces are used for the pumping of a working fluid. LHPs possess all the main advantages of conventional heat pipes, but owing to the original design and special properties of the capillary structure (wick) are capable of transferring heat efficiently for distances up to several metres at any orientation in the gravity field, or to several tens of metres in a horizontal position or in the conditions of zero gravity. Besides, the LHP conception allows a wide variety of different design embodiments, which essentially extends the sphere of functional possibilities and practical application of these devices. The paper is a review of results of theoretical analysis, developments and tests of LHPs performed at the Institute of Thermal Physics and some other organizations. It gives examples of successful application of these highly efficient devices in various fields of technology.