Towards Monolithic Branching-Heat-Pipe Radiators Produced with Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Effects of Print Orientation and Surface Oxidation on Wick Performance
This study investigates how laser powder bed fusion print orientation and post-print oxidation affect the wicking performance of monolithic Inconel 718 heat pipe radiators, revealing that optimal orientation depends on the fabrication strategy and that oxidation significantly enhances capillary action specifically when water is used as the working fluid.