Abstract: An improved capillary pumped loop evaporator includes circumferential grooves formed in the outer heat exchanger portion of the evaporator. The grooves open to the interface existing between the heat exchanger and a centrally positioned tubular wick. Axially extending vapor channels are formed in the wick and also open onto the interface. The circumferential grooves continuously communicate with the interface and provide a vapor escape to the vapor channels which direct vapor passage from the evaporator. By shortening the vapor path from the interface, a thinner vapor barrier is possible at the interface which results in more efficient heat transfer.

Abstract: An in-line, non-condensible gas trap for a liquid line which includes an interior mesh tube through which fluid can flow to a trap outlet. Non-condensible gas is trapped outwardly of the mesh tube due to capillary action and periodically the collected gas is vented thereby ridding the liquid line of the non-condensible gas. The present trap operates well in outer space environments (zero gravity) as well as normal ambient conditions (1 g).