Experience of applying the European standard PSS 49 in the development of heat pipes for thermal control of the Bird microsatellite

Abstract

The main aspects of conducting qualification and acceptance tests developed on the basis of the European standard PSS‑49 for aluminum heat pipes manufactured by extrusion, with longitudinal axial grooves and ammonia as the working fluid, are considered. The principal features of the testing methodologies and the design of test equipment are described. The main results of thermal tests, as well as tests simulating operational conditions, are presented.