At Pelican Wire, we specialize in custom resistance and thermocouple wire solutions designed for the most demanding environments – none more extreme than cryogenic systems in space applications. Our deep experience in the aerospace and defense sectors uniquely positions us to support the temperature-sensitive infrastructure critical to orbital and interplanetary missions.

As missions push further into deep space, thermal control becomes a defining factor in the success of satellite, telescope, propulsion, and sensor systems. Pelican Wire’s cryogenics-compatible products are engineered to perform at extreme cold, maintain high dimensional stability, and meet strict traceability requirements demanded by today’s space programs.

Pelican Wire’s Core Capabilities for Cryogenic & Space Applications Include:

1. Custom Resistance Wire for Cryogenic Heating

  • Alloys: Nichrome 60, Manganin, Advance (Alloy 294), Copper-Nickel blends
  • Precision resistance tolerances available
  • Cryogenic compatibility: Proven performance in the harshest of environments
  • Common applications: De-icing lines, tank warm-up heaters, valve actuation, and thermal conditioning systems

2. Ultra-Fine Gauge Manufacturing

  • Sizes as fine as 44 AWG (0.0020″) and finer
  • Strand and solid constructions available
  • Ideal for sensor assemblies, probe heating elements, and tight-space integration in spacecraft or cryo-instruments

3. Aerospace-Grade Insulations

  • High-performance materials: Polyimide, PFA, PTFE, ETFE, XLPE
  • Dual and triple-layer options for enhanced dielectric strength and abrasion resistance
  • UL, ASTM, and customer-specific certifications available

4. Thermocouple Wire Solutions

  • ANSI and IEC standards compliant (Type K, T, E, J, etc.)
  • Special limits of error (SLE) available
  • Matched pairs, twisted pairs, and foil-shielded constructions for EMI-sensitive designs

Applications for Space Cryogenics

Pelican Wire products are actively used in various Space Cryogenic applications:

  • Cryocoolers and cold stages for satellite instrumentation
  • Heater wires embedded in cryogenic tanks and piping to prevent liquid boiling off or line freezing
  • Thermal regulation of superconducting magnets and other quantum systems
  • Cryogenic propellant management systems used in exploration vehicles

Our track record includes components integrated into systems supporting the NASA Artemis Program, lunar landers, satellite arrays, and next-generation rovers targeting outer planets and moons such as Titan and Europa.

Why Pelican Wire?

  • U.S.-based manufacturing in Naples, Florida
    • Superior Quality Assurance: Customers can trust that Pelican Wire’s products are built to last, meeting rigorous American manufacturing standards that many offshore producers can’t match.
    • Supply Chain Reliability & Speed: Shorter lead times and greater control mean Pelican Wire can deliver on time—even during global supply disruptions. Read our Reshoring article HERE.
    • Support for the U.S. Economy & Jobs: By choosing Pelican Wire, customers support American jobs, innovation, and community development.
  • Accredited & Experienced:
  • Full lot traceability and material certifications
  • Responsive engineering collaboration for prototyping and scale production
  • Longstanding relationships with major aerospace primes and national labs

Meet Us at the Workshop!

Schedule a block of time with us while at the Space Cryogenics Workshop to:

  • Review material samples and test data
  • Discuss application-specific solutions with a member of our engineering team
  • Explore custom builds and quick-turn prototyping options

👉 Click here to contact Pelican Wire’s Engineering & Sales Team

Event: Space Cryogenics Workshop
Dates: May 13–15, 2025
Location: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, Incline Village, NV