Gravity-Independent Heat Exchangers and Oil-Free Compressors for Modular Refrigeration System

A modular refrigeration system using a vapor compression cycle with gravity-independent heat exchangers and oil-free compressors will be developed to meet targeted space refrigeration needs for lunar and planetary missions, capable of near-term technology infusion. The system will be capable of scaling to meet capacities ranging from 200 W to 1000 W and will deliver an efficiency equivalent to 45% of Carnot. Linear compressor technology will be leveraged to provide oil-free operation. Together with optimized, small diameter tube heat exchangers, the system will be capable of providing robust operation in microgravity conditions. Phase I activities will focus on full design development based on analytical modeling as well as experimental validation of the linear compressor technology. These activities will enable development of a comprehensive design for full prototype validation in Phase II.

The proposed project develops a space refrigeration system in direct response to a request for a high efficiency, robust system that can be used to support Mars missions and provide improvement for ISS and other low-orbit applications. Phase I will focus on design development and confirmation of linear, oil-free compressor performance. Phase II will demonstrate a prototype to verify the full design. The project team does not have any other pending or current NASA applications or awards. NASA has indicated a specific need for a space refrigeration system targeted for Mars missions and improved refrigeration for the ISS, SMD, and low-earth orbit platforms. As such, development of a successful VCC refrigeration system capable of meeting efficiency targets and working in microgravity, has a targeted market opportunity for future development and commercialization. Components for the proposed VCC development are readily available off-the-shelf. The innovation is in the system configuration, modular design, and key component selections. Manufacturing of specialty components is not anticipated and would therefore only have to rely on assembly of the VCC system itself. While the OTS team is well equipped to assemble prototype systems, OTS is not a manufacturer and has no intention of becoming one. When the Phase II effort is successful and there is desire to replicate the design for additional space missions, OTS will partner with an appropriate system manufacturer to produce as many refrigeration systems as NASA may require. Opportunities for future manufacturing partners will be identified by leveraging existing network within the HVAC and refrigeration industries. The project team does not have any competing non-NASA applications or awards for essentially equivalent work.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.