Fluid-Free Hydrostatic Pressure Testing With Elastomer Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressure testing methods using solid anvils or liquid media fail to provide uniform pressure application, leading to stress concentrations and potential sample damage or fluid infiltration, respectively, which are unsuitable for testing high temperature superconductor (HTS) tapes and cables.
Innovation Solution
A pressure testing apparatus using an elastomer-filled housing that applies pressure uniformly to a sample by confining it within a cavity, mimicking hydrostatic pressure without fluid infiltration, achieved by using an elastomer pad sandwiched between upper and lower housings with a piston to apply even pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a solid anvil is used for pressure testing, then the testing equipment is simple and easy to operate, but stress concentrations occur due to non-uniform pressure application
Solution Approach 1:
An elastomer medium is introduced as an intermediary between the solid anvil and the sample. The elastomer deforms conformally to the sample surface, distributing pressure uniformly across the entire contact area while the solid anvil provides the mechanical force. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining operational simplicity while achieving pressure uniformity through the mediating elastomer layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the pressure transmission medium from rigid solid to compliant elastomer. The elastomer's ability to deform and conform to surface irregularities allows it to distribute pressure uniformly, transforming the pressure application mechanism from point-contact to surface-contact while maintaining ease of operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If a liquid medium is used for pressure testing, then uniform hydrostatic pressure is achieved, but the hydraulic medium penetrates the sample under test
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomer serves as an intermediary pressure transmission medium that combines the advantages of both solid and liquid: like a liquid, it conforms to the sample surface and distributes pressure uniformly; like a solid, it does not penetrate the sample. This resolves the contradiction by finding a medium with properties between solid and liquid that achieves both pressure uniformity and sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state from liquid to elastomeric solid, maintaining the pressure-distributing properties of liquids while eliminating the infiltration problem. The elastomer's viscoelastic properties allow it to flow and conform under pressure like a liquid but retain its structural integrity like a solid, preventing penetration.
3Manufacturing precision
If a liquid medium is used for pressure testing, then uniform pressure is applied, but complex engineering is required to prevent leaks under high pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomer acts as both the pressure transmission medium and the sealing element. Its compliance allows it to conform to surface irregularities and fill gaps, providing inherent sealing without requiring complex sealing mechanisms. This resolves the contradiction by using the same material that provides pressure uniformity to also provide sealing, eliminating the need for additional complex sealing engineering.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The elastomer-based method ensures uniform pressure distribution, preventing sample damage and fluid intrusion, allowing reliable testing of HTS tapes and cables under high pressures.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomer within the cavity... Pressure is applied to the elastomer within the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for providing pressure to a sample. The apparatus comprises a housing having a cavity, an elastomer within the cavity, and a means for providing pressure to the elastomer within the cavity. The housing and the elastomer are configured to allow a sample to be inserted into the cavity, such that the sample is surrounded by the elastomer and such that the elastomer and the sample together fill the cavity.