A Review on Flexible Conductive Thermal Links for Space Applications

Abstract

The exponential growth of space technology can be credited to compact and crucial remote sensing payloads. These high performance devices require high degree of thermal control without any structural disturbance. Although, these devices are usually cooled by active cryocoolers which produce vibrations and rejects heat to the surroundings. A flexible conductive thermal link is introduced between the heat sink and remote sensing devices to eliminate vibration transmission and to provide good thermal performance to ensure optimum performance of these devices. The review focuses on various designs for thermal and vibration damping performance, and the survivability in space. Application of various materials for FCL fabrication and space application has been reviewed.

Keywords: Remote sensing devices, flexible strap, cryocooler vibration isolation, thermal strap