Browse Topic: Durability
A 20-cell self-humidifying fuel cell stack containing two types of MEAs was assembled and aged by a 1000-hour durability test. To rapidly and effectively analyze the primary degradation, the polarization change curve is introduced. As the different failure modes have a unique spectrum in the polarization change curve, it can be regarded as the fingerprint of a special degradation mode for repaid analysis. By means of this method, the main failure mode of two-type MEAs was clearly distinguished: one was attributed to the pinhole formation at the hydrogen outlet, and another was caused by catalyst degradation only, as verified by infrared imaging. The two distinct degradation phases were also classified: (i)conditioning phase, featuring with high decay rate, caused by repaid ECSA change from particle size growth of catalyst. (ii) performance phase with minor voltage loss at long test duration, but with RH cycling behind, as in MEA1. Then, an effective H2-pumping recovery is conducted
The present research explores the potential of high-performance thermoplastics, Polymethyl Methacrylate and Polyurethane, to enhance the passive safety of automotive instrument panels. The purpose is to evaluate and compare the passive safety of these two materials through the conduct of the Charpy Impact Test, Tensile Strength Test, and Crush Test —. For this, five samples were prepared in the case of each material via injection moulding, which enabled reliability, and consistency of the findings. As a result, it was found that in the case of the Charpy Impact Test, the average impact resistance varies with PMMA exhibiting a level of 15.08 kJ/m2 as opposed to the value of 12.16 kJ/m2 for PU. The Tensile Strength Test produced the average tensile strength of 50.16 for PMMA and 48.2 for PU, which implied superior structural integrity under tension for the first type of thermoplastic. Finally, the Crush Test showed that PMMA is more resistant to crushes on average than PU with the
The future of wireless technology - from charging devices to boosting communication signals - relies on the antennas that transmit electromagnetic waves becoming increasingly versatile, durable and easy to manufacture. Researchers at Drexel University and the University of British Columbia believe kirigami, the ancient Japanese art of cutting and folding paper to create intricate three-dimensional designs, could provide a model for manufacturing the next generation of antennas. Recently published in the journal Nature Communications, research from the Drexel-UBC team showed how kirigami - a variation of origami - can transform a single sheet of acetate coated with conductive MXene ink into a flexible 3D microwave antenna whose transmission frequency can be adjusted simply by pulling or squeezing to slightly shift its shape.
Whether for vascular catheters or implantable devices, medical tubing must meet tough standards for flexibility, strength, and biocompatibility. That’s why more manufacturers are turning to thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) that strike the ideal balance between these key properties, making them an excellent choice for high-performance medical tubing. Unlocking the best that TPUs have to offer means optimizing the extrusion process. This article looks at why TPUs are a top pick, the common obstacles in extrusion, and the ways manufacturers can fine-tune their process to get the most out of different grades.
This specification establishes requirements for titanium forgings of any shape or form from which finished parts are to be made (see 2.4.4, 8.3, and 8.6).
Safe and efficient energy storage is important for American prosperity and security. With the adoption of both renewable energy sources and electric vehicles on the rise around the world, it is no surprise that research into a new generation of batteries is a major focus. Researchers have been developing batteries with higher energy storage density, and thus, longer driving range. Other goals include shorter charging times, greater tolerance to low temperatures, and safer operation.
As the demand for EVs grows, it will be necessary to innovate batteries that achieve durability, power density, safety, lower cost, increased range, and faster recharge time using a fast, cost-effective, and energy-efficient process.
Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center have developed a method using low-viscosity RTV silicone to form durable seals between polymer bladder and metal bulkhead interfaces to be used for inflatable space habitats.
A research team from Pohang University has successfully enhanced the performance and durability of all-solid-state batteries. This breakthrough was made possible through the implementation of a novel approach known as bottom electrodeposition.
Implants that steadily release the right dose of a drug directly to the target part of the body have been a major advance in drug delivery. However, they still face some key challenges, such as ensuring that the drug is released at a constant rate from the moment it is implanted and ensuring that the implant is soft and flexible enough to avoid tissue damage but tough enough not to rupture. One particular challenge is to avoid triggering the foreign body response, which is when the patient’s body encloses the implant in a tight capsule of tough connective tissue which can slow the drug’s release or prevent it from diffusing out.
The last time you dropped a mug, you may have been too preoccupied to take much notice of the intricate pattern of cracks that appeared in the broken object. But capturing the formation of such patterns is the specialty of John Kolinski and his team at the Laboratory of Engineering Mechanics of Soft Interfaces (EMSI) in EPFL’s School of Engineering.
To save on fuel and reduce aircraft emissions, engineers are looking to build lighter, stronger airplanes out of advanced composites. These engineered materials are made from high-performance fibers that are embedded in polymer sheets. The sheets can be stacked and pressed into one multilayered material and made into extremely lightweight and durable structures.
A durable, copper-based coating developed by a team at Dartmouth University can be integrated into fabric to create responsive, reusable materials such as protective equipment, environmental sensors, and smart filters.
Due to the expense and time commitment associated with extensive product testing, vehicle manufacturers are developing new simulation techniques to verify vehicle component performance with less testing and more confidence in the final product. Battery lifetime is of particular difficulty to predict, since each battery is different and there are many different control scenarios that could be implemented based on the specific requirements of each battery type. In order to solve this problem for a 12V auxiliary lead-acid battery, a battery durability analysis model has been previously adapted from lithium-ion applications, which is capable of verifying the impact of lead-acid battery durability in a short period of time. In this study, calibration tools for this model were developed and are presented here, and durability analysis and verification are performed for the application of new electric vehicles. New control strategies, designed specifically for the auxiliary batteries in
This paper reviews the current situation in the development of accelerated testing of automotive engineering, consisting of the four following areas: 1. Field testing of the natural product. 2. Additional technology of separate testing in the laboratory on the basis of physical simulation of separate field conditions using corresponding methods and equipment separately and conducting: safety testing, special programs of testing using digital simulation, special testing with changing certain parameters of environment, corrosion testing, etc. Both of the traditional testing developments above can be found in many magazines, journals, conferences, presentations, and proceedings. 3. Testing on the basis of digital (computer) simulation of product and/or field conditions. This area of testing has been developed in the last dozen years. Many articles and presentations were published during this time. 4. Accelerated reliability and durability testing for obtaining during service-life of the
In alignment with the U.S. Army's Climate Strategy and the broader trend in automotive technology, there is a strategic shift towards electrification and hybridization of the vehicle fleet. While a major goal of this effort is to mitigate the carbon footprint of the U.S. Army's vehicle operations, this transition also presents an opportunity to harness advancements in automotive electrification. Among the key vehicles in focus are tactical wheeled vehicles, which provide military forces with versatile and rugged transportation solutions for various combat scenarios, ensuring mobility, protection, and adaptability on the battlefield. This study investigates the potential of electrified tactical wheeled vehicles by conducting a survey involving a diverse group of vehicle operators across various ranks within the U.S. Army. The aim is to identify novel applications achievable through electrification or hybridization, encompassing functions such as establishing command posts, prolonged
Dramatic video of the first flight of the Space Launch System (SLS), from the initial blastoff to rocket-booster separation, gave NASA essential information about the performance of the Artemis I flight. It also proved the capabilities of a new rugged video camera mounted on the exterior of the core rocket stage. The camera, developed using patented NASA hardware and agency expertise, survived the heat of blastoff and the cold of space, and it’s now ready for extreme conditions on Earth.
Nanotechnology is gaining popularity and used in the realm of transportation vehicles. Nanomaterials, with their distinct physical and chemical properties, have the potential to improve the safety and durability of transportation vehicles. This study analyzes the most current advances and uses of nanotechnology in the transportation vehicle business, such as nano-coatings, nano filters, carbon black for tires, and nanoparticles for engine performance enhancement and fuel consumption reduction. It also discusses the major hurdles for larger applications, such as environmental, health, and safety problems. Because some nanomaterials have demonstrated outstanding performance as well as theoretically investigated, they may be viable candidates for use in future environmentally friendly transportation vehicles. Improve the global transportation business.
Cummins announced its seventh-generation series HE250 and HE300 waste-gate turbochargers for medium displacement on- and off-highway commercial engines. The turbos are sized for 5.5- to 8-liter medium-duty diesel engines and 8- to 11-liter natural-gas engines. Cummins states that the HE250 and 300 were designed to meet the global emissions regulations from 2024 onwards including the upcoming China Stage IV FE 2024, NSVII 2026 and Euro VII 2027. Cummins claims significant improvements in performance and durability compared to the outgoing models. Both turbos reportedly offer a 6-7% gain in overall efficiency as well as enhanced low-speed performance, which translates to additional low-end torque and better compatibility with engine start/stop systems.
Medical and surgical instruments are utilized daily to save and improve lives. Because of this, they demand an exact level of accuracy and infallibility in their manufacture. Traditionally, aluminum and other metals have been the standard material of choice for medical and surgical instruments due to their weight, strength, durability, and cost benefits. However, new advances in technology are challenging the status quo and offering exciting new manufacturing possibilities that allow for greater material choices. One such advancement already making waves in the aerospace, leisure, and automotive industries — and poised to benefit medical and surgical manufacturing — is Additive Fusion Technology (AFT)™.
Due to the relatively high cost to produce solar cells, solar power still accounts for a little less than 3 percent of electricity generated in the U.S. One way to lower the cost of production would be to develop solar cells that use less-expensive materials than today’s silicon-based models. To achieve that, some engineers have zeroed in on halide perovskite, a type of human-made material with repeating crystals shaped like cubes.
Researchers in the Lyding Group at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have discovered an efficient, sustainable method for 3D-printing single-walled carbon nanotube films, a versatile, durable material that can transform how we explore space, engineer aircraft, and wear electronic technology.
In an embedded world gone SOSA sensational, one might believe that centralized ATR-style OpenVPX systems are the best way to architect your next rugged system. While these chassis are routinely and successfully deployed on airborne, shipboard, and vetronics platforms, they are big, heavy, costly, and a real challenge to cool and connect. An alternate but equivalent rugged, deployable approach uses one or more small form factor chassis modules, distributed into any available space in the vehicle, interconnected via Apple® and Intel’s® 40Gbps Thunderbolt™ 4, a commercial open standard that uses USB Type-C connectors with a single, thin bi-directional copper or fiber cable.
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