Performance optimization of two-phase passive loop system

ended

Innovative heat transport devices are needed to break-though the increasing need for smaller, faster and lighter microelectronic apparatus. A Pulsating Heat Pipe (PHP) is a promising two-phase passive loop device that has many advantages such as high heat transfer capacity, construction simplicity, lightweight, and low-cost. However, the practical use of PHP has been limited due to insufficiency of design tools, i.e. predictive models for hydrodynamic and heat transfer phenomena. The aim of this proposal is to establish a universal model to predict operating limit of PHP and provide an optimal design solution that maximize PHP heat transport capability. An innovative approach using advanced measurements with high-resolution and high-speed infrared cameras and Inverse Heat Conduction Problem (IHCP) techniques will be taken to reveal the local thermal phenomena of the liquid-vapor interaction and obtain important physical parameters to implement the model. Both an experimental and a modelling approach will be used to reach the project goal. The project will bring together two complementary set of skills, with the researcher’s expertise in PHPs and the supervisor’s expertise in thermal tomography. In addition, a secondment in a leading company of two-phase thermal devices is foreseen, to increase the researcher’s competence in manufacturing and testing. The fellowship will support the researcher’s professional development to be a leader in the thermal fluid dynamics field. The impact of the action will be maximized with scientific publications as well as a broad range of outreach activities such as video pills and public talks to non-technical audiences, with a special target to young females to booster research careers in technology and engineering. Results of this MSCA have the potential to strengthen the European research and industrial leadership, promoting the use of PHP in several industrial applications, including aerospace, automotive and energy sectors.