Active Thermal Control Design of COLUMBUS Pressurized Modules

This paper presents the active thermal control architecture of Columbus Pressurized Modules. APM (Attached Pressurized Module) and PM-MTFF (Pressurized Module, coupled to the Resource Modute to form the MTFF, Man Tended Free-Flyer).

Active thermal control architecture consists of:

• module- internal water loops collecting heat from directly interfacing P/L's and S/S's, avionic and cabin air loops
• external freon loop (PM MTFF only) providing removal and transportation of water loop heat loads to the heat rejection system
• SS (Space Station) based thermal bus providing removal and rejection of docked element water loops heat loads
• loop control and monitoring functions provided by modulating pumps and valves, temperature, pressure sensors interfacing with an intelligent control unit.

Aeritatia is involved as Prime Contractor for the APM and Element Contractor for the PM-MTFF and retains responsibility for the Thermal Control Subsystem of both elements.