Dynaflow, Inc. has developed a new specialized experimental technique to determine the resistance of soft coating materials to cavitation erosion.
In accelerated erosion tests of thermoplastics or elastomers, a sample often heats up due to the repeated cavitation bubble collapse events, and this may lead to a material failure by a combined effect of heating and cavitation stress.
The new test method is developed to separate the "heating" effects from the stress effects on the materials. A computer-controlled DYNAJETS cavitating jet nozzle is translated over the test pieces at varying velocities and pressures. The nozzle is mounted on an XY table controlled by step motors so that the speed and position of the nozzle is precisely controlled.
Desired jet speed profiles are achieved through a metering valve controlled by a programmable electric actuator. Panels coated with elastomers can be tested with selected translation speeds and cavitation intensities to evaluate erosion damages with heating effects minimized.
Dynaflow, Inc. provides testing services and routinely conducts material erosion tests including ASTM G-32, G-73, and G-134 for customers. For additional information, contact DYNAFLOW at 301-604-3688 (Tel), 301-604-3689 (Fax), [email protected] (Email) or visit the DYNAFLOW website at www.dynaflow-inc.com.