Mini Mechanically Pumped Loop for standardized Small Satellite Thermal Control: Engineering Model Design, Manufacturing and Testing

In the era of miniaturized space-borne sensors and small propulsion modules, the demand for high-performance payloads within small satellites is on the rise. New thermal concepts are needed to overcome the negative effects of heat generation in these payloads. This follow-up study extends our previous research, addressing the challenge of thermal control in small satellites with high power dissipation requirements and evolving mission profiles. Our prior work introduced a novel thermal control concept, the mini Mechanically Pumped Loop (mini-MPL), aimed at standardizing the thermal control of small satellites while mitigating the impact of varying orbital conditions. The central component of the mini-MPL is the multi-parallel micro-pump (MPMP), which offers a lightweight solution without compromising reliability. This paper reports on a critical phase in the mini-MPL's evolution – the design and manufacturing of an Engineering Model (EM). The EM represents a substantial step forward in the development of mini-MPL technology, aimed at advancing towards practical application. We present the design process and the successful fabrication of the EM, demonstrating its compatibility with CubeSats and diverse mission profiles. To evaluate the performance of the mini-MPL, environmental testing of the EM was conducted. The results presented not only affirm the system's operational efficiency but also offer insights into its functionality under a range of mission conditions. The paper concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the ongoing development of the mini-MPL technology & applications in the context of evolving small satellite missions.