In the master’s thesis, we explored the correlation between Water Entry Pressure (WEP) tests and water column tests on PTFE membranes for ventilation units in electric vehicles. We conducted experimental tests on membranes of various diameters attached to aluminum plates, simulating production conditions. To calibrate the material models, we performed uniaxial tensile tests on rectangular membrane samples at different deformation rates and constant stresses. Based on experimentally determined pressures and height of deformation of the membrane at the water breakthrough points, we developed a model using numerically determined local deformations, which enables the prediction of the pressure at which water breakthrough occurs through the membrane pores based on local deformation. The model allows for determining the water breakthrough pressure test at which the possibility of water breakthrough is equal to that of the water column test at a specific pressure and test duration, significantly improving the quality control and safety of ventilation units in electric vehicles.
|
