Isobar Heat Pipes

Operating Principle

When energy is applied to any point along the length of the tube, the working fluid held against the inner wall at this point is heated and quickly vaporizes. Due to the internal pressures, this vapour rapidly migrates to a cooler section of the tube where it is condensed and gives up its latent heat. After this vapour cools back to liquid, a sophisticated solid-state pump returns the condensate to the evaporator site without regard for orientation, and the cycle repeats. The end result is a rapid diffusion of temperature along the entire length of the Isobar, and the setting up of a completely isothermal condition

Isobars are high speed, passive, heat transfer devices used in a variety of general heating and cooling applications. Although originally developed for use in plastic moulding applications, Isobars offer innovative solutions to many kinds of heat transfer problems relating to many different technologies, from aerospace to medical.

The Isobar system produces hot dies and moulds with exceptionally rapid warm-up times, significantly shorter recovery rates, and superior temperature stability at the mould face. Typically, the overall performance of the tool will increase by 10—25%.

Isobars are available in a wide range of lengths and diameters, as well as in special geometries. Fins can also be incorporated to maximise heat transfer to a fluid medium such as water, steam or oil.

The Isobar is an evacuated copper chamber, usually cylindrical, which incorporates a metallic internal wick structure and is charged with a suitable working fluid—typically distilled water.

Isobar Platens

Isobar technology is also available as part of a complete platen, offering the same advantages as Isobars, but over a larger area.

Features & Benefits

• 2,000 times more conductive than copper.
• Compatible with electric, steam or oil heat.
• Typical performance increase of 10—25%.
• Wide range of lengths & diameters. See tables below for stock sizes. Other sizes are available, please contact factory for details.
• Reduction in initial heat up time.
• Rapid thermal recovery

Technical Specification

Value

Operating Temperature Range

0 to 230^oC (32 to 450^oF). Specially constructed Isobars can operate as low as—68^oC (-90^oF).

Imperial Stock Sizes

Metric Stock Sizes

Ordering Information

Please contact the factory for further information on Isobars.