Compact, Ceramic Heat Exchangers and Microchannel Devices: Joining and Integration

Abstract

Many energy conversion systems use thermal processes to convert chemical energy to mechanical or electrical energy. In these situations, microchannel components can be used to make heat exchangers and microreactors to make processes more energy efficient. Ceramic heat exchangers permit operation at higher temperatures than with other materials. Additionally, compact heat exchangers are highly efficient and cost-effective. This talk will describe principles of design, methods of fabrication, and joining methods for ceramic, compact heat exchangers for integration of such heat exchangers into practical applications. Particular emphasis will be placed on methods for joining silicon carbide to itself and the results of a novel bonding method that can be performed art relatively low temperatures in air. The mechanical behavior, at room temperature and elevated temperature, of this bonding method will be compared to that of diffusion bonded joints.