High temperature NMR sample spinner
US5333994A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 1992 |
| Grant date | Aug 2, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01R33/307
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A high-strength, thin-wall ceramic cylinder partially closed at one end, with radial-inflow turbine blades ground into the partially closed end thereof, provides the rotational drive, surface protection, and burst strength necessary to contain and spin a low strength, disposable soft ceramic capsule, loaded with a sample for NMR experiments, at high rotational speeds inside an NMR receiver/transmitter coil. An improved radial inflow turbine design results in higher efficiency for micro-turbines. A cylindrical air journal bearing at both ends provides radial stability and support. An axial thrust air bearing is formed at the end opposite the turbine blades between the sacrificial bottom of the soft capsule and a thrust ring. The high-strength ceramic is typically of a partially stabilized zirconia or hot pressed silicon nitride. The disposable capsule is typically of hexagonal boron nitride.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.