The mission of the Thermal Science Research Center (TSRC) is to conduct both basic and applied research, development, and design in the broad engineering area of Thermal Science. This includes emphasis in:
- physical model development,
- mutual verification;
- data reduction;
- correlational development; and
- advancements in product, component or process development.
The TSRC’s research emphasizes the development and design of physical models to couple heat transfer measurements and modeling, single-phase and two-phase flow measurements and correlation development. Interdisciplinary design and development of enclosed natural convection modeling and measurements, and mixed convection modeling are also emphasized.
The TSRC moves forward in mutual verification, data production and reduction, and advancements in product, component or process development. Research results may be applied to fusion reactors, cooling of electronic components, and other high heat flux applications. The current research in the TSRC includes conjugate heat transfer, nucleate and sub-cooled flow at boiling temperatures, high heat flux applications (magnetic fusion plasma-facing components, rocket and propulsion systems, etc.) through experimentation, engineering modeling, and engineering stimulation.
Research goals extend to new heights involving national and international alliances in areas of magnetic fusion reactor technology, and advanced aerospace and aeronautical component development. Collaborating alliances consist of faculty, national laboratory personnel within the United States, Europe, Japan, and the former Soviet Union.
The mission of the TSRC is to address complex coupled physical problems of physics and engineering goals of the future, thus, providing gateway solutions. The resulting knowledge aids in the improvement of energy transfer and transport in a variety of systems such as aerodynamic and space systems, laser power systems, nuclear systems, electronic systems, living systems, etc.