Method and Apparatus for Determining the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

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Background

The standard practice when measuring the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of materials is to apply the principles of free body expansion or use electric resistance strain gauges. The former method computes the CTE using the change in volume caused by the temperature gradient. The latter measures the thermal deformation of the component, hence the CTE. However, these methods do not work accurately under stressed conditions. As a result, CTE determined using standard practices under unstresses conditions is inaccurate and may lead to faulty designs.

Invention Description

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method and an apparatus for measuring the CTE of materials under stressed conditions. The apparatus has a high load and displacement resolution and is capable of applying different load and temperature conditions. The process is fully automated using a computer, thus, making the technique error free and robust. The method uses stress applied on materials to compute an accurate CTE, which allows for studies of the behavior of materials under different stress and temperature conditions.

The iBridge(SM) Network aggregates research materials, technologies, and discoveries in an online, easy-to-search forum -- the iBridge Web site, www.iBridgeNetwork.org. Innovations on the Web site range from biological cell lines to animal models to computer technologies. The range is vast and the possibilities are endless.

Method and Apparatus for Determining the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

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This technique provides a reliable and consistent method to measure the CTE of a variety of materials including metals, alloys, polymers and composites. The apparatus can test components with dimensions ranging from a few centimeters to sub millimeters in size. The results obtained can facilitate determinations of other structural and mechanical properties of the materials under stressed conditions.

Suggested Uses
Measurement of CTE of thin film element in the electronic devices and printed circuit boards in the semiconductor industry Improved design of beams and structures in the construction industry Better design of heat enduring parts in automobile, aerospace and mechanical industries Developing stronger and finer fibers in the garment industry

Significantly faster then standard methods of measuring CTE Fully automated using a computer- eliminates chances of operational errors Material properties other than CTE can also be derived from the results

Detailed Description Contact Info

Phil Dowd pdowd@azte.com Refer to file #: M1-030

Advantages
Improves accuracy of CTE measurements Offers capability to measure CTE of small components with ease

Listed On The IBridge(SM) Network: Http://www.ibridgenetwork.org/AzTE/Method-and-apparatus-for-determining-the-coefficient-of-therm

The iBridge(SM) Network aggregates research materials, technologies, and discoveries in an online, easy-to-search forum -- the iBridge Web site, www.iBridgeNetwork.org. Innovations on the Web site range from biological cell lines to animal models to computer technologies. The range is vast and the possibilities are endless.