Experimental performance of MLI blanket density and compression effects for use in GE MRI cryostat design

Multilayer Insulation (MLI) blankets for MRI cryostats were experimentally tested and modeled. These blankets were tested using a high accuracy experimental apparatus that allows for set temperature boundary conditions that are not linked to liquid cryogen temperatures. Additional testing was also done on blanket performance when compressed. The experimental data was modeled and the results show good agreement. The model uses only design parameters to determine the thermal performance of the blanket. Using this model, a new blanket was designed, tested, and implemented in production.