An Investigation of Boiling Water in a Porous Material as a Means of Separating Liquid and Vapor in Zero Gravity

摘要

The study consisted of an investigation of boiling water electrically in a bed of aluminum particles as a means of separating liquid and vapor in zero gravity. Successful separation of liquid and vapor against gravity indicates similar success in zero gravity. Very small pressure drops (12 inches of water or less) were required to force the vapor against gravity. All flow rates tested were successful (11.6 gm/min to 78.6 gm/min) in producing both saturated and superheated vapor (204 F maximum superheat). Temperature probes indicated boiling occurred on aluminum particles near heaters and on heater surfaces. Conductivity of the bed was 12% that of solid aluminum. (Author)