Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Poulin, Elizabeth C..
Two meshing sets of tapered fins used as thermal interface with relatively low clamping forces. When in contact, fins provide large area for transfer of heat. Taper ensures easy mating and demating of fins and transfers clamping force to surfaces in contact; improving contact and transfer of heat. Fins arranged in rows, concentric rings, or other configurations.
An interface concept has been developed which produces high conductance at a thermal/mechanical joint without resorting to high clamping forces or potentially contaminating fillers such as thermal grease. This paper discusses the characteristics of several variations of the high conductance interface concept and compares them to those of existing interface concepts proposed for several Space Station applications. The application of the high conductance concept to thermal joints such as internal coldplate interfaces and external equipment module to heat acquisition plate interfaces would reduce the weight and complexity and increase the efficiency of the Space Station Thermal Management System.