Vespel® Thermal Isolator for Scientific Equipment

A team of scientists and engineers were developing a thermal isolator for use in physics research equipment at cryogenic temperatures. To ensure functionality, the team was looking for a non-metallic option. The original metal part design did not offer the low thermal conductivity required (of thermal isolators) at cryogenic temperatures.

Non-metallic material required for cryogenic thermal isolators

A non-metallic structural support with low thermal conductivity was needed. Curbell worked with the team to provide a plastic that has very low thermal conductivity values—and still offered the strength and stability needed for the application.

DuPont™ Vespel® offers extremely low thermal conductivity and other key benefits

Curbell exposed the researchers to DuPont™ Vespel®, which has extremely low thermal conductivity at cryogenic temperatures. Vespel® also had the necessary mechanical strength and dimensional stability for their application.

In general, plastics may offer a number of benefits for cryogenic applications, including electrical insulating properties, sealing performance, and the ability to function as friction and wear surfaces without external lubrication.