Search Results for latent heat

Both shape memory and elastocaloric effects are related to the reversible martensitic phase transformation. For the shape memory effect, thermal energy is used to drive the material through the phase transformation and recover its original shape. For the elastocaloric effect, mechanical energy is used to induce phase transformation, and the associated latent heat is used to pump heat for cooling or heating. Heat pumps based on the elastocaloric effect have a low environmental impact and are highly efficient. However, designing a prototype to harvest the full potential of the elastocaloric effect has been challenging. This article summarizes prototyping efforts undertaken by three different research groups.

Engineers at the Ford Motor Co. are using integrated computational materials engineering (ICME) tools, allowing them to accurately simulate the heat treatment of gears and predict phase transformation kinetics and distortion.

A set of standardized material specifications and test methods now exists to evaluate and maintain quality in shape memory alloys used for medical devices and actuators. This article summarizes the ASTM standards applicable to shape memory technology in medical and actuation applications, and identifies areas requiring further standardization work.

Laser melting of elastocaloric metals can create fatigue-resistant microstructures, which enables solid-state cooling technologies.

A new method to control distortion in difficult-to-quench geometries addresses the nonuniform cooling inherent in most gas quenching processes. This article describes the development of a controlled gas quenching prototype unit design and its operation. The prototype unit constructed was able to achieve great control within the temperature range of 400 to 100°C, using varying rates of temperature change.

Thermal spray plays an important but latent role in many energy generation applications. Strong R&D commitment is required to further expand its technological envelope. This article addresses future directions in the use of thermal spray coating technologies in the energy sector.

Selective-melt sintering is faster and more efficient than the methods currently used to make high-density ceramics. This article explains how applied electric fields contribute to the formation of metallic precipitates at grain boundaries and how defect segregation and field-assisted migration generate heat near dislocations and in grain boundaries, reducing flow stress and retarding grain growth in the solid state.

News about ASM members, chapters, events, awards, conferences, affiliates, and other society activities. Topics include: appointment of 2018-2019 ASM committee and council chairs; commentary by ASM CEO William T. Mahoney about bridging the digital divide; photo gallery highlights from MS&T 2018; professional profile of Jesi Clinton; celebrations in honor of George E. Dieter.