Eutectic reaction diffusion brazing process for joining aluminum laminae microreactors

Paul A. Wilson, Richard E. Billo, John R. Durret, John W. Priest

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This research provides a foundation for manufacturing multi-layered metal laminae with microfluidic, micro-feature devices for use in a high temperature and high pressure environments. A reliable method of joining metal laminae could help make the manufacturing of instant reaction heat exchangers and chemical mixing in a cost effective, reliable, and simplified method. These devices enable faster reaction times, modular scaling of production capacity, on-demand chemical processing, and higher purity products. This could lead to faster rates of adoption of microreactors in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, food, and bio-medical. Eutectic brazing avoids damage to internal surface geometries and deformation due to lower temperatures required for bonding compared with higher-temperature joining processes. A new process was developed to combine multiple layers of 6061 aluminum alloy with copper foil interlayers to produce micro-channel micro heat exchangers and reactor devices that could be used for new applications. This process repeatedly produced leak-tight devices. The prototype devices contained overlapping coolant and reactant channel systems arranged perpendicularly within each lamina. Related work suggests that diffused joints are mechanically robust in contrast to the parent materials.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationFAIM 2014 - Proceedings of the 24th International Conference on Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing
Subtitle of host publicationCapturing Competitive Advantage via Advanced Manufacturing and Enterprise Transformation
EditorsF. Frank Chen
PublisherDEStech Publications Inc.
Pages705-712
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9781605951737
StatePublished - 2014
Event24th International Conference on Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing, FAIM 2014 - San Antonio, United States
Duration: May 20 2014May 23 2014

Publication series

NameFAIM 2014 - Proceedings of the 24th International Conference on Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing: Capturing Competitive Advantage via Advanced Manufacturing and Enterprise Transformation

Conference

Conference24th International Conference on Flexible Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing, FAIM 2014
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Antonio
Period05/20/1405/23/14

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Eutectic reaction diffusion brazing process for joining aluminum laminae microreactors'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this