SPACE‐AGE RESEARCH

THE Spacelab Scientific (CPSE) Airlock is equipped with an experiment table to transfer experiments from the Module into space environment. In the table drive system multi‐stranded steel cable is used, running over small‐diameter pulleys. For cleanliness requirements the original cable lubricant was replaced by a fluorinated fluid. Cable cleaning and relubrication methods have been established. The coating thickness can be chosen. Tests were run with and without lubrication. The cables were tested at ESTL on a test rig, based upon the experiment table design, in a thermal vacuum test. The performance has been improved by: • a more flexible cable • increase of lubricant thickness • decrease of contact stresses Testing in air has been included as it appeared to be an aggressive environment, where a failure occurred.