Analysis of Effect of Heat‐Transfer Variables on Thermal Stress Resistance of Brittle Ceramics Measured by Quenching Experiments

Heat‐transfer theory was used to analyze the variables which control the thermal stress fracture of brittle ceramic specimens subjected to rapid cooling by quenching into fluid media. Expressions were derived for the maximum quenching temperature difference to which circular solid cylindrical specimens can be subjected in terms of the pertinent properties of the material and fluid media. Appropriate thermal stress resistance parameters were derived. The specimen density was introduced as an additional property which controls thermal stress resistance. Recommendations were made for procedures to be followed in conducting quenching experiments.