[Analysis of mass optimization of manned spacecraft ECLSS thermo-hydraulic network].
OBJECTIVE
To reduce the weight of manned spacecraft Environment Control and Life Support System (ECLSS).


METHODS
Based on network analysis theory, the flow and thermo-hydraulic network composed of gas and liquid loops in manned spacecraft ECLSS was explored to reduce the weight of ECLSS. The physical models and mathematical models of flow, heat transfer and weight calculation in the network were established. The thermodynamic parameters and weight of the network were calculated on the bases of energy balance, heat transfer relation and the component weight relation. And influencing factors on the system weight were discussed.


RESULTS
(1) There is an optimal pipe diameter in the system and the diameter is influenced by flow rate to a large extent; (2) The weight can be reduced by raising inlet temperature properly; (3) The best heat exchange layout makes the weight lightest.


CONCLUSIONS
The obtained results are of importance for reducing launching weight of manned spacecraft.
Zhang
X R
XR
Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
Ren
J X
JX
Liang
X G
XG
Guo
Z Y
ZY
D000389:Air Conditioning / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018504:Ecological Systems, Closed; D004867:Equipment Design; D006358:Hot Temperature; D008021:Life Support Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D013026:Space Flight / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018531:Spacecraft / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014893:Weightlessness