The design and testing of a cryogenic mixer pump

✍ Scribed by T.A. Martin; D.H. beekman; J.E. Dillard

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1992
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 812 KB
• Volume: 32
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0011-2275
• DOI: 10.1016/0011-2275(92)90274-e

✦ Synopsis

A primary driver of the design of a cryogenic tankage for on-orbit use is the pressure response of the system. It has been proposed to control the fluid state via the use of axial jet mixing. The concept behind this process is to circulate slowly a small amount of the cryogen thereby increasing the interfacial heat transfer, resulting in an isothermal fluid state. If the bulk temperature of the fluid can be known (i.e. the fluid is not thermally stratified), then accurate predictions of the tank pressure can be made, allowing one to determine the number and cycle times of any required pressure reductions. This paper presents the results of a mixer pump development programme for use in liquid nitrogen, liquid hydrogen or liquid helium, and the associated test programme that is to be conducted with this component. The pump requirements, design and operating parameters are presented along with a discussion of the full test programme and expected test results. This component will also allow the elimination of direct ullage venting via its incorporation into an active pressure control system.