Elijah was born and raised on the island of Maui where he graduated from King Kekaulike High School. He is currently pursuing a degree in both Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Florida located in Gainesville, FL. Upon graduating, Elijah hopes to break into the aviation or space industry with interest in a manufacturing, process, or support equipment engineering role. In his free time, he can be found in the gym, sewing, or hanging out with friends.
Home Island: Maui
High School: King Kekaulike High School
InstitutionĀ when accepted: University of Florida
Project Title:Ā Cooling the Sun: Thermal Analysis and Redesign of DKIST Heat Stop Coolant Loop
Project Site: Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope: NSO/DKIST, Pukalani, Maui
Mentors: Chriselle Nagata & Brialyn Onodera
Project Abstract:
The current cooling system of the National Science Foundationās Daniel K. Inouye Solar TelescopeāsĀ (DKIST) utilizes the chemical coolant Dynalene HC-20 to provide thermal load relief to the post-M1 optic train via use of a reflector and absorber. Though Dynalene is highly effective, environmentally friendly, and low-hazard to humans, the chemical has highly corrosive properties and puts critical observing equipment at risk of down time, obstructing observations. To mitigate this risk, DKIST is seeking an alternative coolant that could mitigate the heat load while effectively maintaining surface temperatures relative to ambient by Ā± 2Ā°C to reduce the risk of image degradation. The aim of this project is to conduct a thermal analysis on the current system to determine if water can serve as an alternative coolant. To determine the thermal outcomes of water in this system, temperature data from thermocouple temperature probes that lie within the reflector and absorber were collected and analyzed to find the rate of heat added to the system. Using the properties of water, a theoretical thermal analysis shall determine the thermal output and conformity to design specifications. This model will determine waterās viability by comparing the differences in final temperatures of Dynalene and water, ideally the final water temperature does not deviate far from the final Dynalene temperature. Thus, the final temperature of the water is expected to land between 48Ā°F to 50Ā°F depending on the season. Though to determine if water is viable, further analysis is required to determine freezing and boiling temperatures, pump capacities, as well as erosion velocities.