Operation characteristics analysis of high temperature alkali metal heat pipe based on OpenFOAM

High-temperature alkali metal heat pipes, crucial in energy system heat transfer, are examined for their multi-domain and multi-field complexities, focusing on frozen startup transient analysis. An OpenFOAM-based code was developed, integrating models for startup dynamics, wall heat conduction, wick and vapor space phenomena, and non-condensable gas effects, achieving validation accuracy within 10% relative error. Analysis of a horizontal sodium heat pipe reveals that increased non-condensable gas content accelerates startup and alters temperature distribution. Sensitivity studies show higher inclination angles enhance wick pressure drop. These findings contribute to optimizing high-temperature alkali metal heat pipe design, advancing understanding of their mechanisms and improving energy system performance. This research advances thermal management in energy systems, laying groundwork for innovations in heat pipe technology and enhancing design precision and efficiency.