New Radiator Design Evaluation - by Touchstone Research Laboratory

Two specimens of a new radiator design were delivered to Touchstone for evaluation.

After a visual and microscopic examination of the gasket area and a metallographic examination of the braze fillet area, Touchstone engineers found a buildup of braze clad material in the water-side of the gasket area. This interfered with the fit of the gasket and tank.

The other radiator specimen contained indications that it may have been overheated or held at braze temperature too long. Also, a small amount of dissolution was seen on the header stock on one of the specimens. This could also indicate excess temperature or time at temperature.

Touchstone has been working in the area of aluminum brazing sheet for about 10 years. If you need failure analysis in this or other areas, don't hesitate to contact us. Our areas of expertise include:

Failure Analysis Index
Corrosion Evaluation
Light Microscopy
Mechanical Testing
Metallography
Research & Development
Scanning Electron Microscopy

For a PROMPT response, e-mail info@trl.com, call 304-547-5800, or visit us - we are conveniently located less than an hour from Pittsburgh International Airport and two hours from Columbus, Ohio.