Development of a High-Intensity Heat Flux Gauge and Characterization Facility (Final Report)

Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and Hukseflux Thermal Sensors (HTS) collaborated to advance the design and calibration of high-intensity heat flux gauges capable of measuring 2500 kW/m². An industry trade study was first conducted and highlighted the need for enhanced gauge designs and calibration methodology & services suited for high-intensities and broadband flux. We then developed, tested, and evaluated three prototype gauge designs along with four distinct coating types, each designed to extend the measurable flux range of existing HTS products to higher intensity levels. Following a down selection process, the project team refined the focus to a final product design, incorporating updated features to enhance its robustness during high flux exposure.. Authors: Laubscher, Hendrik F. [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)] (ORCID:0000000259064602); McLaughlin, Luke Patrick [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)]; Garcia Maldonado, Luis [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)]; Schroeder, Nathaniel Robert [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)]; Bean, Benjamin Gabriel [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)]. DOE Contract: NA0003525. Subjects: 46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; 47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION