Did you know that dry ice is an excellent medium to use in many engineering processes? We call it “Dry Ice 4 Engineering”
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS OF DRY ICE IN ENGINEERING PROCESSES
- Mechanical engineering: Shrink fitting of bearings
- Chemical engineering: Process Cooling
- Civil Engineering: Pipe zing for pipe and valve repairs
HOW CAN I USE DRY ICE FOR SHRINK FITTING OF BEARINGS?
Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2) occurring at a temperature of -78.5 °C. Mechanical engineers and artisans commonly use dry ice in a process referred to as shrink fitting (also known as ze fitting).
Bearings are an integral part of a machine’s moving components and reduce the amount of friction on rotating parts. Bearing failure is common in older machines and vehicles, particularly those in high-wear conditions such as a mining or chemical environment.
Shrink fitting is commonly used in engineering to fit together bearings, collars, shafts, and other components which require an interference fit. The component to be “fitted in” to the other part is packed in dry ice causing it to contract. While still cold, it is assembled with its mating part and allowed to return to ambient temperature. In doing so, the cold part returns to its original size and creates the tight interference fit required. This process is quick, simple to use, and causes no changes in the physical properties of the components, unlike heating the respective components which can change the hardness or toughness of the materials.
WHY USE DRY ICE FOR SHRINK FITTING?
- Ease of use: Dry ice is easy to handle.
- Safe: If handled correctly, it is perfectly safe to use.
- Available: Dry ice can be delivered at your doorstep.
- Powerful: Dry ice is seven times more powerful than water ice. The energy value of dry ice is 570 kJ/kg.
HOW DO I STORE DRY ICE?
Use an insulated cooler or polystyrene container. We can supply you with the perfect size polystyrene container, or you can wrap the dry ice in paper or a blanket to extend the life even further if necessary.
HOW LONG WILL DRY ICE LAST?
If stored correctly, it will last five to ten days.
WHERE CAN I GET DRY ICE?
Contact Dry Ice International at the following number:
+27 (0)10 040 3201
