Selection of Cooling Method for 3 kW SSPA and Numerical Study with Different Mesh Levels

In this paper, we will discuss the selection of a cooling method and the numerical validation of a 3 kW SSPA (solid state power amplifier) system with experimentally evaluated results. Before designing the 3 kW SSPA system with an optimized cooling method, theoretical parameters of standalone, natural, and forced convection are calculated. Based on these theoretical parameters, a cooling method is selected, and a comparative study is conducted using simulation and experimental data. An experimental test setup for forced convection is created to validate the chosen cooling method, consisting of four power amplifier modules fixed on a heat sink. Each power amplifier module includes a transistor that amplifies the RF power, mounted on a copper pallet. The heat sink is assembled with three fans for airflow. Flow simulation results with different mesh levels are obtained and compared with the experimental and theoretical results. This paper focuses on conventional cooling methods and explains how to compare theoretical, simulation, and experimental data.