Ultrasonic energy system and method including a ceramic horn
US7744729B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 16, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jun 29, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 16, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB22F2999/00
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An acoustic system for applying vibratory energy including a horn connected to an ultrasonic energy source. The horn defines an overall length and wavelength, and at least a leading section thereof is comprised of a ceramic material. The leading section has a length of at least ⅛ the horn wavelength. In one preferred embodiment, an entirety of the horn is a ceramic material, and is mounted to a separate component, such as a waveguide, via an interference fit. Regardless, by utilizing a ceramic material for at least a significant portion of the horn, the ultrasonic system of the present invention facilitates long-term operation in extreme environments such as high temperature and/or corrosive fluid mediums. The present invention is useful for fabrication of metal matrix composite wires.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.