Current research projects

Image Thermal engines
Image Corrosion inhibitor for ammonia absorption systems
Image Innovative cryogenic cooling system for the recondensation / liquefaction of technical gases up to 77 K
Image Innovative Parahydrogen Generator Based on Magnets
Image Modular storage system for solar cooling
Image Energy efficiency consulting - cogeneration systems
Image 3D - Air flow sensor
Image Air-flow test rig for fan characteristic measurement
Image Investigation of material-dependent parameters
Image Heat2Power
Image Software modules
Image State of system and failure analyses
Image Preformance measurements of heat exchangers
Image Investigation of coolants
Image Performance tests of refrigerant compressors
Image Humidifier System for High-Purity Gases

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Low Temperature Tribology

Industry and R&D

Dipl.-Ing. Gunar Schroeder

+49-351-4081-5129

Tribological studies at cryogenic temperatures

For special applications at cryogenic temperatures the use of dry friction is necessary because the working temperatures are significant lower than the working range of liquid lubricants.

The ILK Dresden has extensive experience in the field of material testing at cryogenic temperatures and has developed a measuring system (from roomtemperature down to cryogenic temperatures) to determine the roughness and the coefficient of friction of different sliding material combinations.

The test stand consists of an experimental platform and a traversing mechanism with a force sensor, which is controlled via PC. The direct measurement of the friction force is carried out by the distance covered. Measurements can be performed down to −196 °C (lower temperatures on request). The cooling of the experimental platform and the samples is realised by a controlled liquid nitrogen heat exchanger/evaporator. Measurements are performed under an atmosphere of gaseous nitrogen to prevent the ingress of moisture. Thereby the experimental samples have no direct contact to liquid nitrogen. The uniform temperature distribution is measured by thermocouples, which are calibrated at the ILK Dresden.

Advantages: modular test setup which can be changed to specific requirements; adjustment of sample geometry and/or test track is possible.

Parameter

Measuring accuracyMeasuring range 0.4 N to 2 N≤ 1 % of measured value
Measuring range 2 N to 100 N≤ 0.5 % of measured value
Measuring range extendible up to 5 kN

Repeatability
(e.g. PTFE)

± 0.05 N respectively 1.5 % of coefficient of friction

Your Request

Further Projects

Image

Software for technical building equipment

Design cooling load and energetic annual simulation (VDI 2078, VDI 6007, VDI 6020)

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Measurements on ceiling mounted cooling systems

Comparative performance measurement

Image

Micro fluidic expansion valve

for increasing of the efficiency of small and compact cooling units

Image

Solar Cooling

Solar Cooling with Photovoltaic

Image

Hydrogen and methane testing field at the ILK

Simultaneously pressures up to 1,000 bar, temperatures down to –253°C