The use of phase change materials (PCMs) and vacuum panel heat exchangers for energy conservation and thermal stability of electronic equipment enclosures

Advances in the development and application of new types of energy conservation systems and control devices to achieve thermal stability of electronic equipment enclosures are addressed. Phase change material (PCM) research conducted to find new types of self temperature regulating, energy conserving high-density thermal energy storage structures is described. Such systems have become the standard method of reserve cooling in smaller type telephone exchanges with PCM application now extending into larger type exchanges. Also introduced is a vacuum panel heat exchanger (VPHE) currently being developed in Australia. The VPHE is a superconductor of heat which will enable the building to behave as a thermal diode heat pipe. The authors conclude with a discussion of some novel design concepts which they believe will form the basis for future developments in communication equipment buildings that will be more in tune with natural energies and protection of the natural environment.<>