Multi-Evaporator Loop Thermal Storage (MELTS) Navy SBIR FY2010.3 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.3 Topic No.: N103-198 Topic Title: Multi-Evaporator Loop Thermal Storage (MELTS) Proposal No.: N103-198-0611 Firm: Technology Assessment & Transfer, Inc. 133 Defense Highway, Suite 212 Annapolis, Maryland 21401 Contact: James Hom Phone: (410) 987-8988 Web Site: www.techassess.com Abstract: This proposal introduces the multi-evaporator loop thermal storage (MELTS) system for increasing F-35 capability during extreme thermal missions where component failure is expected. The MELTS system comprises of a fuel and/or PAO primary loop with a two phase loop technology, phase change material (PCM) condenser, and a PCM freeze loop to freeze the PCM while the fuel/PAO is cold. The freeze loop allows cooling to temperatures the initial cold fuel/PAO temperature instead of the maximum allowable PAO/fuel temperature. This lower temperature provides additional cooling capacity when needed. The MELTS system is scalable and can be sized to meet or exceed the 5 kW transport and 2.5 kW-hr (9 MJ) energy storage requirements. The goals of Phase 1 include defining parameters, such as heat loads, operating temperatures, etc., necessary for the F-35 aircraft cooling system, creating analytical models, carrying out research, and refining the MELTS concept. During the Phase 1 option period, testing of various components of the system will be carried out. This includes testing to minimize PCM condenser weight, and to configure evaporators for thermal coupling to the fuel/PAO and components. Phase 2 will include fabrication of a subscale MELTS system. Benefits: A variety of power electronic systems experience transient high heat loads that would most efficiently be handled by the proposed concept. The first anticipated product stemming from the SBIR development will be a thermal energy storage system to augment the existing cooling system on military aircraft. The technology could also be applied to various commercial power electronic platforms that experience transient high heat dissipation requirements such as commercial aircrafts. Return