Post-Test Analysis of a 10-Year Sodium Heat Pipe Life Test

High-temperature heat pipes are being evaluated for use in energy conversion applications such as fuel cells, gas turbine re-combustors, Stirling cycle heat sources; and with the resurgence of space nuclear power both as reactor heat removal elements and as radiator elements. Long operating life and reliable performance are critical requirements for these applications. Accordingly, long-term materials compatibility is being evaluated through the use of high-temperature life test heat pipes. Thermacore, Inc., has carried out a sodium heat pipe 10-year life test to establish long-term operating reliability. Sodium heat pipes have demonstrated favorable materials compatibility and heat transport characteristics at high operating temperatures in air over long time periods. A representative one-tenth segment Stirling Space Power Converter heat pipe with an Inconel 718 envelope and a stainless steel screen wick has operated for over 87,000 hr (10 years) at nearly 700 C. These life test results have demonstrated the potential for high-temperature heat pipes to serve as reliable energy conversion system components for power applications that require long operating lifetime with high reliability. Detailed design specifications, operating history, and post-test analysis of the heat pipe and sodium working fluid are described. Lessons learned and future life test plans are also discussed

Ten-year evolution of a massive transfusion protocol in a level 1 trauma centre : have outcomes improved?

Background: We aimed to evaluate the evolution and implementation of the massive transfusion protocol (MTP) in an urban level 1 trauma centre. Most data on this topic comes from trauma centres with high exposure to life‐threatening haemorrhage. This study examines the effect of the introduction of an MTP in an Australian level 1 trauma centre. Methods: A retrospective study of prospectively collected data was performed over a 14‐year period. Three groups of trauma patients, who received more than 10 units of packed red blood cells (PRBC), were compared: a pre‐MTP group (2002–2006), an MTP‐I group (2006–2010) and an MTP‐II group (2010–2016) when the protocol was updated. Key outcomes were mortality, complications and number of blood products transfused. Results: A total of 168 patients were included: 54 pre‐MTP patients were compared to 47 MTP‐I and 67 MTP‐II patients. In the MTP‐II group, fewer units of PRBC and platelets were administered within the first 24 h: 17 versus 14 (P = 0.01) and 12 versus 8 (P < 0.001), respectively. Less infections were noted in the MTP‐I group: 51.9% versus 31.9% (P = 0.04). No significant differences were found regarding mortality, ventilator days, intensive care unit and total hospital lengths of stay. Conclusion: Introduction of an MTP‐II in our level 1 civilian trauma centre significantly reduced the amount of PRBC and platelets used during damage control resuscitation. Introduction of the MTP did not directly impact survival or the incidence of complications. Nevertheless, this study reflects the complexity of real‐life medical care in a level 1 civilian trauma centre