Thermal Management System for Tactical Airborne High Power Laser Applications Navy SBIR FY2009.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.2 Topic No.: N092-112 Topic Title: Thermal Management System for Tactical Airborne High Power Laser Applications Proposal No.: N092-112-1108 Firm: Aspen Systems, Inc. 184 Cedar Hill Street Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752-3017 Contact: Steve Casey Phone: (508) 281-5322 Web Site: www.aspensystems.com Abstract: An efficient, compact, and lightweight thermal management system (TMS) is needed to enable integration of a 30kW solid-state high-energy laser (SSHEL) system into tactical airborne applications. Ultimately, the TMS should be less than the final design target of 100 lbs and 8 ft3 in volume. Inherent limitations to state-of-the-art technologies must be overcome to meet program goals. Aspen Systems proposes to develop one of two promising system design concepts presented in this proposal. One system (JP5 Concept) transfers heat from a water/glycol-based liquid loop which cools the laser to a jet fuel (JP-5) through a high-performance liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger (HX) which is also very lightweight and compact. This high-performance HX and system is enabled by microchannel surface enhancement geometries which increase thermal transport mechanisms between the fluid and heat exchanger surface material. The other system (Radiator Concept) transfers heat from a water/glycol-based liquid loop which cools the laser to ambient air by means of a high-performance liquid-to-air heat exchanger (HX). However, due to the inherent limitations of the thermal transport properties of air, the HX and air fan/motor contributes to a system which also achieves a weight and size less than final program targets, but to a lesser degree. Benefits: Efficient thermal management systems for high power applications are applicable for all sorts of cooling applications on ships, aircraft, and vehicles. Whether for defense or civilian purposes, many cooling applications involve water-based systems. Applications include not only cooling for lasers but for electronics, HVAC, medical equipment, personal cooling, and space missions. The heat transfer enhancement technology will not only benefit water-based systems but other single-phase liquid systems as well. Return