Project Title:
Modular Cryogenic Insulation
13.04-2888
911412
Modular Cryogenic Insulation
Aerospace Design & Development, Inc.
P.O. Box 672
Niwot
CO
80544-0672
H.L.
Gier
303-530-2888
KSC
NAS10-11856
266
13.04-2888
911412
Abstract:
Modular Cryogenic Insulation
Many cryogenic storage vessels utilize powdered insulation materials. When these
vessels are filled with cryogens, the pressure vessel contracts, causing the powder
to settle and voids to form in the insulation. Subsequent thermal cycling can compress
the insulation, leading to decreased thermal performance and possible catastrophic
failure of the vessel. Use of multilayer insulation (MLI) in small pieces or contained
in packets can provide a high level of insulation, can be retrofittted to existing
storage tanks, and will not cause structural failure due to thermal cycling. Due
to its resistance to compaction, the MLI will expand to fill the space created by
the contracting cryogen vessel, thus preventing the insulation from settling to the
bottom of the annulus. Phase I will investigate various methods of packaging the
MLI. The ease and cost of manufacturing and retrofitting as well as thermal performance
of the various packaging concepts will be compared to determine which are most feasible.
From the various methods investigated, two will be chosen for preliminary laboratory
thermal performance testing. In Phase II, a preferred MLI concept will be designed,
produced, and installed in an existing powder insulated tank.
Candidate applications include tank farms at cryogenic production facilities and
cryogen transport trailers, as well as end users of cryogens ranging from industry
to the scientific and medical communities.
cryogenic insulations, thermal insulations, cryogenics, cryogenic systems safety