Structural Performance of Cylindrical Pressure Housings of Different CeramicCompositions Under External Pressure Loading. Part 4. Silicon Carbide Particulate Reinforced Alumina Ceramic

摘要

Twelve 12-inch-OD by 18-inch-long by 0.412-inch-thick silicon-carbide particulatereinforced alumina-ceramic cylinders were fabricated, assembled, and pressure tested to determine their suitability for use as external pressure-resistant housings for underwater applications. The material, designated 90-X-089, is made by Lanxide Corporation (Newark, DE) by a proprietary directed metal oxidation (DIMOX(TM) process. The primary advantages of this material are its high compressive strength, high elastic modulus, high fracture toughness, low specific gravity, and ability to be cast in near net shapes, eliminating the need for expensive diamond grinding. Pressure test results are presented along with strain gage data, cyclic fatigue-life data, and acoustic emissions. Conclusions regarding the suitability of the material for application to pressure housings for underwater applications are presented along with a comparison to WESGO's AL-600 96-percent alumina ceramic, which was chosen as a base of comparison for various advanced materials being evaluated under the same program. Recommendations for design implementation, nondestructive evaluation, and further research are made.