Airborne Coolant Circulation Module – ACCM

Coolant Circulating Module for Airborne Radars in Fighter Jets for Cooling Electronics

Airborne radar systems in fighter jets are critical for mission success, providing real-time detection, targeting, and surveillance capabilities. However, these radar systems generate significant amounts of heat during operation, especially when high-performance electronics are involved. To ensure reliable performance and prevent overheating, Coolant circulating Modules are employed to efficiently cool the electronics in these airborne radar systems. These systems are rigorously tested and qualified according to stringent military standards.

A Coolant circulating Module is a closed-loop thermal management solution that uses a liquid coolant to absorb heat from the radar’s electronic components and dissipate it elsewhere. This system provides more efficient cooling than air-based solutions, making it ideal for high-power radar systems in fighter jets, where space is limited, and cooling demands are high. These systems are built to withstand the extreme operational conditions of modern combat aircraft.

AESA radars used in fighter jets are known for their high performance and power output, which generates substantial heat. The liquid circulating system provides the necessary cooling to keep the radar’s high-power electronics operating efficiently and reliably.

In addition to radar, fighter jets use various other electronics for targeting, communication, and navigation, which also require effective cooling. The liquid circulating system can be extended to cool other heat-generating systems on the aircraft.

Key Components of a Liquid Circulating System:

1. Coolant:

   - The system typically uses a specialized liquid coolant, such as a water-glycol mixture or other heat-transfer fluids, designed for high thermal efficiency and low freezing points, ensuring operation in both high and low temperatures.



2. Pump:

   - The liquid is circulated through the system by high-efficiency pumps that ensure a continuous flow of coolant to the radar’s heat-generating electronics. These pumps are robust, lightweight, and designed to operate reliably in high-altitude, high-G environments.



3. Temperature Sensors and Control Systems:

   - These systems continuously monitor the temperature of the radar’s critical components and adjust the flow rate of the coolant to maintain optimal operating temperatures. This automated control ensures efficient thermal management under varying load conditions.



4. Expansion Reservoir:

   - The reservoir allows for thermal expansion of the coolant, accommodating changes in volume due to temperature fluctuations during flight or different operating conditions.



5. Filters:

   - Filters are integrated to prevent debris or particles from contaminating the coolant, ensuring long-term system reliability and minimizing maintenance requirements.

Advantages of Coolant Circulating Modules for Airborne Radars:

1. Efficient Heat Dissipation:

   - Liquid cooling is significantly more effective than air cooling in terms of heat capacity and transfer efficiency, making it ideal for high-power radar systems that generate substantial heat during operation.

   - By directly cooling critical electronic components, the system prevents overheating, ensuring that the radar maintains optimal performance even during extended missions.



2. Compact and Lightweight Design:

   - Fighter jets have limited space for additional systems, and weight is a critical consideration. The liquid circulating systems used in radar cooling are designed to be compact and lightweight, integrating seamlessly into the aircraft without adding excessive weight or taking up valuable space.



3. Durability in Extreme Environments:

   - The system is designed to operate in extreme environments, including high altitudes, freezing temperatures, and high-G forces, making it well-suited for use in modern fighter jets.

   - The system’s components are built to military-grade specifications, ensuring reliability in the field.



4. Reduced Maintenance:

   - The closed-loop design of the liquid circulating system minimizes the need for regular maintenance, reducing downtime and ensuring the radar system is available for mission-critical operations. Filters, pumps, and other components are designed for long service life, even in harsh conditions.



5. Very Silent Operation:

   - Liquid cooling systems are generally quieter than air-based cooling systems, which is an important consideration for minimizing noise in the radar compartment and improving the stealth capabilities of the aircraft.