Composite for Heat Transfer with High-Temperature Resistance

Short summary A Slovak research institute offers a unique technology. Cu matrix composite reinforced with W wires prepared by gas pressure infiltration. It was originally developed as plasma-facing material for diverter of the Iter fusion reactor. This technology offer aims at producers of equipment working in thermally exposed environments. Based on preferably commercial agreement advanced technical assistance is offered to those interested in improvement of power output and/or lifespan of their products

Full description This advanced technology product was developed by a Slovak research institute located in Bratislava, Slovakia. It is a public research institution focused on the development of new materials and technologies. The offered product is the result of the long-term development of metal matrix composites. It combines the high thermal conductivity of copper matrix with high melting point tungsten longitudinal segments. These are compacted by the gas pressure infiltration technique. This material was developed at IMSAS for the most heavily loaded divertor parts of Iter fusion reactor and exhibited outstanding properties. It can be used also as an electrode in plasma-generating devices. IMSAS is seeking further application opportunities for its material. We can prepare and supply the material in the frame of a collaboration agreement. A win-win situation is envisaged, i.e. Institute will enlarge the portfolio of its customers and the customer will get a unique material for testing or incorporation in their current or future designs. The composite was successfully tested with targeted thermal loading of 100 cycles at 20 MW/m2. It was also tested as an electrode in plasma-generating devices. The institute can produce samples with a diameter of up to 150 mm and a length of 300 mm.

Advantages and innovations Due to the specific internal architecture and properties of constituents, the composite can withstand the heaviest thermal loadings extending the lifespan or production capabilities of plasma-facing and plasma-generating pieces of equipment. Current technology enables the preparation of composite products in various shapes and dimensions. The institute deals with metal matric composites for more than 60 years.
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