Orbital HEXFlow — Water Ice Expansion Hydraulics for Intermittent Spacecraft Actuation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This conceptual white paper describes a proposed spacecraft mechanism that uses the expansion of freezing water to displace hydraulic fluid and produce a short mechanical stroke. The stroke could operate a latch or release mechanism directly, or charge an accumulator for later use. The paper compares a stationary cartridge with switched thermal links and a rotating ring that moves cartridges through warm and cold sectors. It presents screening calculations for a reference latch duty and outlines a proposed test programme. No prototype or flight-test results are reported.
Author: JAGGARD, SAMUEL
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225298192