Sapa granted modular heat sink methodology patent

Sapa has been granted a key patent related to its modular heat sink manufacturing method. This method can create aluminium heat sinks that are approximately eight percent more thermally efficient than the industry standard.

United States Patent 13/465431, entitled Heat sink and method of manufacturing, utilizes a modular concept that enables maximum flexibility with fin geometry, fin ratio and heat sink footprint, yielding heat sink ratios in excess of 40:1.

“This patent recognizes Sapa’s breakthrough work in aluminium extrusion manufacturing and friction stir welding technology,” says Mike Tozier, application engineering manager for the company in North America.

“Not only does this method allow for the production of large-scale heat sinks with very high fin ratios, it is also well-suited for serial production, making these types of heat sinks a competitive product in the marketplace.”

Power applications
The new manufacturing method was created by Sapa’s North American Technical Center, which is part of the company’s global research and development organization.

In order to develop the method, Sapa conducted a study comparing its friction stir welded heat sink to a traditional heat sink with bonded fins. The study involved experimental testing to validate thermal performance of this new heat sink method during forced convection cooling.

The heat sinks are intended for high-power applications, as well as LED forced convection applications.