Exposee-Number
2824

FoamPipe

Heat pipes are used worldwide as efficient and passive
heat transport systems. Their performance relies on an
internal capillary structure, which, however, only allows
simple geometries without branching, since any
interruption of the structure causes the transport
mechanism to fail. For applications with more complex
geometries in space, only elaborate pumped systems
have been available so far.


Subject area
Institute of Technical Thermodynamics


Patent number
DE102024134 519


Contact person
Dr. Axel Sielaff
sielaff@ttd.tu-darmstadt.de
+49 6151 16-22272

Downloads

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2824_FoamPipe.pdf

State: 06.10.2026 | Pdf | 175 Kb

2824_FoamPipe_Englisch.pdf

State: 06.10.2026 | Pdf | 171 Kb

Optionale Headline

With FoamPipe, we have developed a novel thermal
management system that replaces the conventional
capillary structure of a heat pipe with a self-forming
liquid foam. This foam is generated inside the pipe by
adding surfactants and, for the first time, enables
complex, branched geometries with multiple heat
sources and sinks. As a result, heat transport becomes
more flexible, lighter, and more reliable – especially in
microgravity. In addition, FoamPipe offers potential for
more cost-efficient manufacturing and for use in
terrestrial applications.