The purpose of the Microgravity Emissions Laboratory (MEL) tests is to measure the vibration emanating from the 55 Watt Stirling TDC's (#5 & #6) configured as an opposed pair. The test fixture allows variations in lateral and angular alignment between the two convertors in order to investgate the sensitivity of vibration to proper alignment when the TDC's are installed into a power system. The testing commenced on 1/2/01 and was completed on 1/16/01. The below photos show the TDC's installed in the MEL facility. The MEL facility and capabilities are described at the following link:
Microgravity Emissions Laboratory Page

The Stirling TDC's are installed onto the MEL
test fixture which allows for variation in the  lateral
and angular alignment between the two TDC's.

The TDC's and MEL fixture are suspended
in the facility and long isolation umbilicals are
used for power, data and coolant connections.

Last Revision: January, 2001

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Curator: Wayne A. Wong
  NASA Official Responsible For Content:  Richard K. Shaltens
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Last Updated: 08/01/2002