Dynamic gradient furnace with controlled heat dissipation
OwnerRobert H. Mellen, Sr.inventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A furnace producing a precisely controlled temperature gradient within a central bore by a plurality of heating elements sandwiched between respective insulating layers with each heating element loosely thermally coupled to a thermally conductive ring extending concentrically outward from the furnace bore. Thermal sensors at each layer provide data to data processing equipment which controls and moves temperature gradients within the furnace by program.
Claims6
A furnace having an interior space extending along an axis and a series of heating elements each oriented normal to said axis and extending around said space for providing controllable temperature gradients in said space comprising:
- (a) A plurality of thermally conductive annuli;
- (b) A plurality of thermally insulating layers separating said annuli and having central apertures defining said interior space;
- (c) A plurality of heating elements, each sandwiched between two of said insulating layers and thermally coupled to a respective one of said annuli;
- (d) Securing means securing said annuli, layers and elements together to enclose said interior space;
- and,
- (e) Control means controllably connecting each of said elements to a source of energy.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.