Cryogenic Flow Sensor for Densified and Two Phase Flows (Cryometer)

The innovation is a unique non-intrusive system that offers highly accurate density, quality, velocity, and mass flow measurements of two-phase and densified cryogenic flows. The system is called the Cryometer, and can greatly enhance the reliability, safety, and autonomous operation of multiple aerospace systems, including propulsion, space energy storage and generation, and life support. The Cryometer can be utilized in ground-based, space, or extra-terrestrial environments. ORBITEC proposes an innovative, non-intrusive approach for obtaining the instantaneous density of the fluid flow. This measurement along with temperature and pressure data yields the flow quality (volumetric gas void fraction). Average velocity of the flow is measured using an existing flow meter design along with new modeling techniques. Combining the velocity and density measurements reveals the real-time fluid mass flow rate. The Cryometer was specifically originated to measure both highly transient and steady state flows, and is expected to have a very fast response. Phase I has been structured to provide design, analytical, experimental, and data analysis groundwork towards the successful development of Cryometer concept. The Phase I work will culminate in the measurement of two-phase water-nitrogen flows. The Phase II program will produce and install a commercial Cryometer at NASA Kennedy Space Center.