International Space Station Alpha Internal Thermal Control System Coldplate Development

A family of ten coldplates has been developed. These form an integral part of the International Space Station Alpha internal thermal control system (ITCS) and provide necessary cooling for electronics and experimental equipment. These coldplates are robust single-passage, single-pass, plate-fin heat exchangers. They provide surface-mounted equipment cooling with a minimum coolant pressure drop, minimum weight, and maximum service life at an economical cost. The ten coldplates vary in size, thermal performance, and equipment mounting configuration.

This paper describes the design and performance of each coldplate. Data from performance tests and performance derivations based on the test data are presented. These data are presented in a form suitable for use in the design of equipment applications.