Abstract:
A process is described, to be adopted in the field of operating machines as regards their thermal control. Such process is based on the use of a system for storing thermal energy with phase-change materials. Preferred embodiments of such storage system consist, for example, in a panel (8) and a cylinder liner (13), composed of two metal skins (16) that enclose a core with cellular structure containing at least one type of phase-change material. The presence of phase-change materials ensures a high thermal capacity to the system for storing thermal energy. The process consists in applying at least one of the above systems for storing thermal energy as structural thermo- settling element of an operating machine, as thermal interface barrier or as system for increasing the thermal inertia of a component of the operating machine. In such a way, temperature variations (due to heat generated by some components inside the machine, or coming from the outside environment), and the consequent thermal distortions that are the cause of working or measuring errors, are limited. This guarantees the passive thermal control of the operating machine.
Abstract:
A hybrid coating is described, for reinforced composite polymer materials to be used for structural mechanical applications in which a high geometric stability is required. The composite materials has lightweight and stiffness properties, but are subjected to geometric distortions due to the humidity absorption being present in the atmosphere or following the accidental contact with fluids in the working environment in which the composite itself is used. Purpose of this coating is conferring to a composite material properties that improve its dimensional stability and that therefore prevent alteration of the dimensions of structures made of the affected material. Such coating is obtained by means of a Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition (PECVD) process. Preferred embodiments of such coating are realised by using, as precursors, organosilane monomers (for example hexamethyldisiloxane or HDMSO) combined with oxygen (O2), and possibly argon (Ar).The coating is composed of two layers. The most internal layer is humidity-proof, and therefore operates as protecting barrier for the composite material on which it is applied. The layer more on the surface has water-repellence characteristics and is composed of the same chemical elements present in the more internal layer but with different percentages and with a different stiochiometry. Among the composite materials on which it is possible to lay this coating, there are, for example, materials reinforced with aramide (ex. Kelvar), carbon (CFRP) or glass (GFRP) fibres. Among the structural applications of said composite materials in which a high geometric stability is required, there is, for example, the field of operating machines.