Thermal Cycle Testing
Fundamental research and development of coatings exhibiting a thermal insulation behaviour requires detailed knowledge of thermal fatigue resistance of the material compound of thermal barrier coating and blade material. The operating principle of the thermal cycle testing is based on the physical effect of convection. The layers can be examined under atmospheric conditions of up to 1,600 °C. The cycles that are run through can be set as desired. A stepper motor is used to carry the specimen holder in and out of the furnace. The specimen holder is cooled with water during dwell time in the furnace. Compressed air (p = 7 bar) is used in order to ensure that the samples cool down to room temperature as quickly as possible. The number of cycles determined can be used to make a statement regarding the life span of the layer for the application as a blading material for aircraft engines or gas turbines for combined power plants.
Technical data:
| Parameter | Value [Unit] |
|---|---|
| Maximum temperature |
1,600 °C |
| Compressed air cooled specimen | 7 bar |
| Stepper motor controlled specimen holder | |
| Water-cooled specimen holder | |
| Temperature measurement of specimen and furnace using Type S thermocouples |