A numerical model for the platelet heat-pipe-cooled leading edge of hypersonic vehicle

• The platelet heat-pipe-cooled leading edge is discussed for the thermal management of hypersonic leading edge.
• A numerical model is presented to analyze the behavior of the heat-pipe-cooled thermal protection structure.
• The temperature and pressure of heat pipe predicted is helpful to the design to avoid dry-out.
• The thermal protection structure can effectively maintain a nearly isothermal condition over the surface of leading edge.

A new design, the platelet heat-pipe-cooled leading edge, is discussed for the thermal management to prevent damage to hypersonic vehicle leading edge component. For calculating the steady state behavior of platelet heat-pipe-cooled leading edge, a numerical model based on the principles of evaporation, convection, and condensation of a working fluid is presented. And then its effectiveness is validated by comparing the wall and vapor temperature against experimental data for a conventional heat pipe. Further investigations indicate that alloy IN718, with sodium as the working fluid is a feasible combination for Mach 8 flight with a 15 mm leading edge radius.