Thermal Properties Laboratory

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Complementary Capabilities

In addition to theThermal Properties Laboratory, the Energy and Engineering Division operates three other laboratories within the Material Sciences Laboratory. All of these laboratories were recently renovated to serve as state-of-the-art general-purposes laboratories with ample work areas, storage space, fixtures and utilities.

Tools available for general purpose use include a lathe, a mill, a drill press, and a bench grinder. Two non-radioactive, inert gas, low-moisture gloveboxes are available in the laboratories for work requiring a controlled atmosphere. One of the gloveboxes includes a large tube furnace with 50 to 1000 °C temperature capability that can accommodate samples up to 25 mm in diameter and in excess of 500 mm in length. The gloveboxes recently have been used for such activities as sintering of composite metal-ceramic powders, joining of silicon carbide using a pre-ceramic polymer, and handling of sodium metal.

Three non-radioactive fume hoods are also available for work with chemicals or other hazardous materials. A variety of furnaces (some shown in photo above) are available that can be used over the temperature range 50 to 1600°C in air or vacuum. The furnaces all have controllers that permit automated operation. The furnaces are used for a variety of activities, including bakeout of porous ceramics, consolidation of metal powders, and long-term aging tests. All three laboratories are configured with access to process cooling water, tap water, compressed air, building vacuum, building nitrogen, and ample power (including 120V, 240V and 480V service) for maximum flexibility in meeting customer needs. In addition, the staff working in the laboratories have extensive experience in design, fabrication and operation of testing and production systems.

Project Contact: D. Senor