A computer program implements a thermal model of an insulated wire carrying electric current and surrounded by a vacuum. The model includes the effects of Joule heating, conduction of heat along the wire, and radiation of heat from the outer surface of the insulation on the wire. The model takes account of the temperature dependences of the thermal and electrical properties of the wire, the emissivity of the insulation, and the possibility that not only can temperature vary along the wire but, in addition, the ends of the wire can be thermally grounded at different temperatures. The resulting second-order differential equation for the steady-state temperature as a function of position along the wire is highly nonlinear. The wire is discretized along its length, and the equation is solved numerically by use of an iterative algorithm that utilizes a multidimensional version of the Newton-Raphson method.
This program was written by James Borders of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-41067.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Thermal Model of a Current-Carrying Wire in a Vacuum
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Overview
The document titled "Thermal Model of a Current-Carrying Wire in a Vacuum" is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, aimed at providing insights into the thermal dynamics associated with current-carrying wires in a vacuum environment. This technical brief is part of NASA's Commercial Technology Program, which seeks to disseminate aerospace-related developments with potential wider technological, scientific, or commercial applications.
The primary focus of the document is to present a thermal model that describes how heat is generated and dissipated in a wire when it carries an electric current. This phenomenon, known as Joule heating, occurs due to the resistance of the wire, leading to an increase in temperature. The model takes into account various factors, including the material properties of the wire, the geometry of the wire, and the surrounding vacuum conditions.
The document outlines the mathematical framework used to describe the thermal behavior of the wire. It includes equations that represent heat conduction, heat generation, and the temperature distribution along the wire. The model is designed to be applicable to different types of wires and can be adjusted based on specific parameters such as wire diameter, material conductivity, and the intensity of the current flowing through the wire.
Additionally, the document emphasizes the importance of understanding thermal management in aerospace applications, where components are often subjected to extreme conditions. Effective thermal management is crucial for ensuring the reliability and performance of electronic systems in spacecraft and other aerospace vehicles.
The Technical Support Package also provides information on how to access further resources and assistance through NASA's Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office. This includes contact details for the NASA STI Help Desk, which can provide additional support and information related to the research and technology discussed in the document.
In summary, this document serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the thermal modeling of current-carrying wires in a vacuum, highlighting its significance in aerospace technology and offering a foundation for further exploration and application in various fields. It is a valuable tool for engineers, researchers, and anyone interested in the thermal dynamics of electrical systems in challenging environments.
