Search Results

In this paper, we demonstrate the feasibility of a novel continuous regeneration process for cabin air humidity control. The technique does not require the use of moving wheels or beds, and may be powered using waste heat. The operation is based on the use of trilobal (wicking) fiber technology. The trilobal fibers are arranged in a continuous parallel array, which is formed into a flat panel water transfer element. The fibers are impregnated with desiccant salt solutions (calcium chloride, lithium chloride, etc.) which are capable of reversible capture of gas phase water molecules. Steady state water transfer was achieved using a number of dessicant salt solutions. The effects of critical variables such as residence time and the quantity of fiber on the level of water transfer were also determined.

Diesel engine lubricant filtration is relied upon to protect critical engine components against wear. The type of filtration and the efficiency of particle removal is vital to minimizing engine wear. This paper presents the results of a comprehensive study which characterized the correlation between engine dynamometer tests and eight different engine filtration configurations. The experimental filtration schemes were exhaustively tested according to the well known multipass test procedure, SAE J1858. A low level Surface Layer Activation (SLA) radioactive spot was deposited at six points throughout the tested engine. Controlled, pressurized 0-30 micron test dust in an engine oil suspension was injected into the test engine under prescribed conditions and the progressive wear was measured at all the six points for four of the experimental filtration setups.

A proven radioactive wear measurement technique is proposed as a method for measuring wear in hydraulic components. This technique utilizes small irradiated areas of wearing surfaces, permitting the measurement of the wear of each surface from a point external to the component. The technique has been used successfully in the measurement of wear in several applications including internal engine component wear. The proposed areas for investigating the application of this technique are the metallic wearing areas of hydraulic system components, i.e., pumps, motors, valves, cylinders, etc. This method could provide a direct relationship between surface wear and performance degradation of the component.

A method for monitoring the wear of engine parts without engine disassembly is described. Low level radiation sources implanted in the wearing surfaces serve as a tracer for material loss. Prior to engine testing, controlled wearing of an identical part determines a calibration curve relating wear depth to externally measurable radiation. The results of engine testing show that the method is useful in measuring small amounts of wear in individual engine parts such as piston rings and connecting rod bearings simultaneously without engine disassembly. These tests were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of filters in reducing engine wear. The wear measurements showed that both air and oil filters are highly effective in reducing wear throughout an engine.