LONG-TERM GRADIENT TEMPERATURE STRESS RELAXATION TESTING AND MODELING OF CERAMIC INSULATION MATERIALS

Abstract

Testing was carried out to characterize and predict the long-term thermomechanical properties of Thermal Ceramics Min-K 1400TE thermal insulation material, hereafter referred to as Min-K. In particular, the high temperature compressive strength and stress relaxation behavior of Min-K up to 900�C was evaluated under various thermal gradients and a helium atmosphere for test times of up to over two years. Additionally, finite element and mathematical models were formulated to predict the mechanical behavior exhibited by Min-K out to 35,000 hours (4 years) based on this testing. This presentation will discuss the design and construction of unique test equipment to carry out this testing, along with the results of the testing and the subsequent modeling.