Project Title:

Thick-Film Metallization for High-Temperature Graphite Furnaces

92-1-04.25-3230                                                   NAS05-32402
Thick-Film Metallization for High-Temperature
     Graphite Furnaces
Advanced Technology, Inc.
2110 Ringwood Avenue
San Jose, CA  95131
James Intrater                                       (408-432-3230)

Abstract:

     Currently, adhesive bonding, fastening, and welding are
techniques for joining dissimilar materials used in a gas-grain
simulation furnace. Each technique has its limitations when used
repeatedly. A novel technique call "Intragene" can achieve
metallurgical bonding between various dissimilar materials in
these furnaces. This metallization process can also allow for
bonding to occur between nonmetals such as graphite and metals
such as copper. Phase I will develop reliable and stable, high-
temperature (>1000øC) joints between graphite and copper. These
joints are necessary to provide electrical and thermal performance
capabilities for many applications, especially in the development
of water-cooled, graphite glow-bar elements with high electrical
conductivity contacts found in furnaces to be used in space- and
ground-based applications. Using copper as the metallurgical end
for resistive heating bars allows for conventional brazed,
soldered, and screw-fit plumbing to the overall elements, while
allowing for low resistivity electrical contact to be made and
maintained for efficient heating.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  The primary applications for
these joints are in high-temperature facilities such as furnaces.
Other applications include high-temperature, water-cooled glow
bars; graphite brushes attached to commutators; and heat sinks,
heat pipes, and radiators used in the electronics and nuclear
industries.

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