As space missions push the boundaries of performance and efficiency, thermal control remains a critical challenge for satellite, payload, and instrument design. Pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) have emerged as a promising solution, offering lightweight, high-performance heat transport with the potential to complement or replace traditional thermal management technologies.
This 60-minute webinar explores the fundamental mechanisms behind PHPs, their manufacturing processes, and their role within modern space thermal architectures. A comparative analysis will highlight how PHPs perform against conventional conduction-based methods, constant conductance heat pipes (CCHP), space-rated copper water heat pipes (SCWHP), Cu-methanol heat pipes, loop heat pipes (LHP), and pumped fluid loops (PFL). Key factors such as mass efficiency, transport distance, heat flux limitations, freeze/thaw cycles, and system complexity will be evaluated to determine the best use cases for this emerging technology.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in PHPs, equipping them with the knowledge to assess and integrate these systems into future space missions. An audience Q&A session will follow the technical presentation.
Key topics include:
- The fundamental operation and design of PHPs
- Comparative performance of PHPs versus traditional and advanced heat transport technologies
- Practical considerations for implementing PHPs in space applications
- Best use cases for PHPs in satellite, payload, and instrument thermal control
Speakers:
Matt Schultz, Lead Engineer – Orbital and Space Systems Product Development, ACT
Matt Schultz is a Lead Engineer in the Orbital and Space Systems Product Development Division of ACT. He has more than five years of experience in a variety of thermal technologies in the space, defense, and industrial industries. Matt is a leading engineer in ACT’s spaceflight heritage of designing, manufacturing, and testing PCM heatsinks. He also helped develop ACT’s capabilities in structural and fracture mechanical analysis. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Penn State University.
Kimberly Mankosa, Manager – Domestic Sales, ACT
Kimberly Mankosa is the Manager of Domestic Sales at ACT, leading a team of territory managers to drive business growth across diverse markets. Throughout her years with ACT, Kimberly has contributed to a wide range of thermal projects across multiple industries. Her ability to assess complex thermal challenges and effectively communicate solutions ensures seamless collaboration between customers and ACT’s technical team. Kimberly holds a bachelor’s degree in energy engineering from Penn State and serves as the primary point of contact for all non-technical programmatic and contractual matters.
Moderator:
Amanda Hosey, Editor, SAE Media Group
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