AIP conference proceedings · 2008 · 33 citations · 8 references
EngineeringMaterials EngineeringMaterials ScienceAerospace MaterialsHeat TransferThermal AnalysisHigh-temperature MaterialsInsulation MaterialsInsulation SystemsThermal DesignThermal InsulationThermal Properties Of MaterialsCryogenic InsulationCryogenic SystemsCryogenic Thermal PropertiesExperimental Characterization Of InsulationInsulation Materials CharacterizationInsulation TechnologyThermal Insulation PerformanceThermal Insulation Systems
Thermal conductivity testing under actual-use conditions is a key to understanding how cryogenic thermal insulation systems perform in regard to engineering, economics, and materials factors.The Cryogenics Test Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center tested a number of bulk-fill insulation materials, including aerogel beads, glass bubbles, and perlite powder, using a new cylindrical cryostat.Boundary temperatures for the liquid nitrogen boiloff method were 78 K and 293 K. Tests were performed as a function of cold vacuum pressure under conditions ranging from high vacuum to no vacuum.Results were compared with those from complementary test methods in the range of 20 K to 300 K. Various testing techniques are required to completely understand the operating performance of a material and to provide data for answers to design engineering questions.
8