This item is under embargo and not available online per the author's request. For access information, please visit http://digital.wustl.edu/publish/etd-search.html.
Abstract
The main purpose of the independent study was to design and validate a passive solid metal thermal heat switch, which is an alternative approach for a current project in Dr. Weisensee’s lab entitled “Development of Passive and Compact Liquid Metal Heat Switch”. Based on an initial wooden prototype and an analytical tip angle analysis, prototypes were generated using a polymer 3D printer. Multiple thermal actuation tests were conducted for each prototype. The actuation of the final polymer prototype was fully functional – the plug exits the gap without blockage when heated. It was found that a cold plate should be used instead of a hot plate for the thermal testing, and the bimetallic strip should be flipped. After this adjustment, the polymer prototype will be transitioned to a metal prototype for thermal measurements. Over the summer, multiple thermal tests will be conducted to ensure that the metal prototype functions as an effective heat switch.
Document Type
Final Report
Class Name
Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study
Date of Submission
5-10-2022
Recommended Citation
Park, Steve, "Development of Passive and Compact Solid Metal Heat Switch" (2022). Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Independent Study. 182.
https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/mems500/182