Dual-tube X-ray system with in situ load unit

• Subject Area: Fluid Mechanics, Technical Thermodynamics and Thermal Energy Engineering ; Materials Engineering
• Term: Funded in 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 459685720

With the dual-tube X-ray system with in situ load unit, the possibilities of non-destructive, 3D visualization and analysis of inner structures of metallic, polymeric, and hybrid material systems, even in a loaded state, in the TU Dortmund University are significantly extended. For a successful implementation of in-situ computed tomography in ongoing and planned research projects the enhancement of X-ray tube power for successful radiography of high-density materials by achieving spatial resolutions in micrometer range is given the highest priority. Further, by enhancing spatial resolution into the nanometer range, fundamental scientific findings are expected for non-destructive observation of finest microstructural characteristics, e.g. in the field of biomaterials. Computed tomography as a non-destructive imaging process is specifically suitable to perform threshold defect analyses on 3D volumes, with the aim to derive process-structure-property-relationships based on defect form factors. Using the in situ load unit, these relationships can also be assessed for application-oriented loading conditions. The achieved results make an important contribution for model-based simulation and prediction of material behavior. The system configuration enables interdisciplinary application of in-situ computed tomography on various, even high-density materials, like steel- and nickel-based alloys or tool steel, for the first time. Further, the influence of production processes on the microstructure of components manufactured can be investigated for further development of machining technologies, which also supports cooperation projects between the applicants to a large extent. The dual-tube X-ray system with in-situ load unit will be used in ongoing and planned research projects as well as in experimental student works and experimental laboratories to visualize and characterize the microstructures of various material systems under application-oriented loading conditions. The focus lies on the basic understanding of process-structure-property-relationships, which enable a model-based simulation and prediction of material behavior and a property-enhanced manufacturing of components, respectively.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Doppelröhren-Computertomographiesystem
• Instrumentation Group: 4070 Spezielle Röntgengeräte für Materialanalyse, Strukturforschung und Werkstoff-Bestrahlung
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität Dortmund
• Leader: Professor Dr.-Ing. Frank Walther