TIAX LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: A15-066

Description

TIAX LLC proposes to dramatically cut fuel consumption for expeditionary shelter heating by further developing its modular hydronic radiant flooring system, powered by direct fuel-fired water heating. In Phase I, we analyzed, designed, fabricated, and tested a single radiant floor panel in a scaled-down shelter. At -25 F ambient and 60 F perceived temperature, we found that in comparison with an electric forced hot air ECU, the TIAX radiant heating system installed in a full-scale HDT STAT32 shelter would provide fuel savings of 60-80%. In terms of heat demand, the TIAX radiant heating system would provide, on average 20%, and up to 46% reduction compared to the ~74,000 Btu/h (21.6 kWe) currently required to heat the shelter under similar conditions. In Phase II, TIAX proposes to build upon the feasibility demonstrated in Phase I and refine the design through reduced-scale testing. We will fabricate one full-scale alpha-prototype radiant heating system with controller to control perceived temperature. We will support government sanctioned test and evaluation of the alpha-prototype system, appropriately instrumented and installed in a shelter. Leveraging results from this testing, we will make any needed design changes and build one additional full-scale beta prototype.