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What kind of valves are used?
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They're simply called "Schrader Valves" which in the context of HVAC means the ones I linked above. You can buy them for less then a buck a piece at any supplier or from Rparts.com
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What about SP34E boiling point of -15 vs R134a at -26 - which should mean lower pressures needed. I know they make a big deal about R12 computability (mostly ester oil vs mineral oil, right?) but for a heatpipe-like-thing with a target temp around, say 22 to 26 then a boiling point closer to that target temp is a good thing as there'd be need for less pressure (plus or minus). Or have I missed something important? Other than playing with heat-driven refrigeration in the late '70's (arab oil embargo, energy panic) I have no experience with this stuff.
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That site is highly confusing and contridicts itself repeatidly. They say its not a blend like R134a and then they say its mostly R134a. Not to mention the boiling point they claim isn't the same as the one in the data sheet
I'm going to assume the data sheet is correct, in which case the boiling point is virtually identical to R134a (within 1 PSI). So you'd be looking at ~100 PSI under operating conditions, and maybe 200 PSI worst case (dead fan). Sounds like a lot, but its actually quite manageable with common materials. Realistically you could use a propane torch to put the thing together (though MAPP or oxyace would be better).
Mainly the reason I looked at R134A is you can get it in cans for about 10 bucks a pop, and its relatively easy to hook these into standard manifold fittings. No need to fit a square peg in a round hole. I'm not sure if its actually a good choice from a performance perspetive, and the pressure is needlessly high. If you find something cheap with a boiling point closer to 20C, then I think its worth considering.
Also, while searching, I found this:
http://www.benchtest.com/heat_pipe1.html
Seems like we're a few years late to the game
Though he made the condesner himself which I think really hurts his performance. Should have picked up a real one.