An underdeveloped class of oscillatory passive heat transport cycles are discussed that have the potential to transport significantly higher heat loads than current heat pipes. Prototype cycles employing inferior working fluids have demonstrated transport of higher heat loads over significantly greater distances than similarly sized heat pipes (including CPLs and LHPs) employing ammonia. Most of the proposed cycles do not require capillary forces to circulate the working fluid. They are also relatively insensitive to gravity and might best be compared to thermal systems using mechanical pumps. The history of development to date of such cycles is presented in relation to other approaches under consideration for various semi/passive thermal control applications. Specific operational characteristics of a select loop are presented. The obvious pros and cons of these systems are discussed as well as potential applications―particularly as regards electronics cooling.
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