Device for thermal insulation of an organ at cryogenic temperature, vis-à-vis an external structure in contact with this organ.

摘要

Thermal insulation device for protecting a cryogenic mechanism from a non-cryogenic outside structure, comprises (a) at least one chamber (24) between the mechanism and the outside structure, filled with a microporous material which allows a slow and controlled circulation of gas between an inlet (26) near the mechanism and an outlet (28) near the outside structure, and (b) a feed chamber (30) in direct contact with the mechanism and containing a liquefied gas under pressure at the same temperature as the mechanism. This chamber is connected to the inlet through a controller (34). USE/ADVANTAGE - The insulation of a mechanism or a reservoir of fluid operating at cryogenic temperatures from the surrounding (non-cryogenic) structure. For example, the liquid hydrogen and oxygen in rocket launchers. The device prevents `hot spots` being formed where the external supporting structure contacts the cryogenic area. The microporous material is carbon-based, with a very high specific surface area. The gas is liquid nitrogen or pressurized helium.