Thermomechanical Numerical and Experimental Validation for New Materials in Space Applications

Paper number

IAC-05-C2.P.22

Author

Dr. Manuel De Benedetti, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Italy

Year

2005

Abstract

The enhancements in the performances of the modern ceramic circuits for the space applications is strictly connected to thermal dissipation and thermo-mechanical compatibility problems. 
The use of the miniaturization systems represents a technical, industrial and operational challenge in the realization of electronic units for satellite applications. 
The effect of the miniaturization is a heavy concentration of electronic components and functionalities in a single circuit with larger dimensions with respect to the traditional standards. 
This leads to new and more difficult thermal dissipation problems, since a higher and more concentrated heat source is present, with related thermal gradients.
These new requirements can no more be satisfied by the traditional materials that have been successfully used till today.
The primary objective of this numerical and experimental study is to propose, analyze and validate a methodology to qualify appropriate innovative materials, suitable for the demanding goals deriving from the thermo-mechanical loads induced by the hostility of the space thermal environment.
This paper provides an overview of the methodology and presents functional and validation test results, obtained by running the system in representative environments.
The numerical analysis is based on finite elements (FEM), and the results are compared with the experimental measures obtained during a dedicated thermo-vacuum test campaign.
The approach is composed by three parts: the theoretical analysis, the numerical analysis, and the experimental tests. The research starts from the technological heritage and expertise of Alenia Spazio, and it proceeds to the study of five different innovative materials. The approach has been applied in the design of a study case represented by the KU Band Linear Channel Amplifier electronic unit.

Abstract document

IAC-05-C2.P.22.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-C2.P.22.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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