CSEM, in collaboration with Thales Alenia Area and Lisi Aerospace Additive Manufacturing, has created an modern 3D printed pipe phase for superior thermal administration methods in satellites. The half was displayed on the LISI Aerospace sales space through the Paris Air Present.
Satellite tv for pc methods face excessive temperature fluctuations within the harsh atmosphere of geostationary Earth orbit, 35,786 kilometers above the equator. Satellites depend on mechanically pumped loops (MPLs) to take care of optimum working circumstances and switch warmth from sizzling spots to chilly zones. CSEM’s newly developed 3D printed pipe phase considerably enhances MPL performance by combining heating and in-situ temperature sensing right into a single, built-in element.
The chrome steel pipe ensures steady operation in demanding circumstances, is designed to face up to temperatures starting from -65°C to +85°C, and handles ammonia strain at 48 bars. The phase makes use of built-in electrical wires, designed with additive manufacturing methods, to offer uniform warmth switch across the tube—an enchancment over standard movie heaters restricted to localized heating.
The pipe phase leverages high-precision laser powder mattress fusion (LPBF) expertise to combine heating parts, sensors, and connectors right into a single 3D printed construction. This manufacturing methodology simplifies MPL set up by eliminating complicated bonding and wiring processes, decreasing dangers and enhancing reliability.
The idea’s feasibility required overcoming vital challenges, together with 3D printing lengthy, skinny electrical wires that stay electrically insulated from the pipe construction. This was achieved by way of a singular design involving sacrificial bridges, that are eliminated after insulation is cured. Saudan and his colleague Lionel Kiener filed a patent defending the modern design and manufacturing course of.
Initially developed for satellite tv for pc methods, the 3D printed pipe phase has potential purposes in terrestrial IoT and Trade 4.0, the place built-in heating and monitoring options can enhance effectivity and reliability in thermal administration processes.
