Development of a high-temperature ceramic to metal seal

Abstract Research is currently being conducted into the construction of high-temperature (>1000°C) tubular heat exchangers that are to operate with a large pressure differential between low-pressure combustion gas and a process fluid. High operating temperatures preclude the use of metals. Therefore it is necessary to use ceramic heat transfer components and to insulate other components to counteract the direct heat. As the high-temperature ceramic heat transfer tubes exhibit a variable thermal expansion relative to the outer metallic casing and tube sheet, it is necessary for the seals to slide. This prevents excessive axial stress being set up in the ceramic tubes, thus prolonging their life.