Laboratory for Alternative Energy Conversion (LAEC) provides analysis, testing, and material characterization services in the general area of energy systems. LAEC is equipped with a collection of state-of-the-art infrastructure and testing capabilities to assure high-quality tests in a safe environment. The following provides a list of available services. For more information please see our brochure or contact Dr. Bahrami (mbahrami@sfu.ca).

  • Battery Services
    • research and development of battery thermal management systems
    • battery characterization and rating tests via drive cycle simulations and calorimetry
    • regularity compliance
  • Thermophysical properties measurements (porous media, polymers, powders, pastes, liquids and solids)
    • thermal conductivity and thermal contact resistance (ASTM C177, D5470, C518; ISO/DIS 22007-2.2)
    • electrical conductivity and electrical contact resistance
    • permeability
    • specific heat
  • Heat sinks and heat exchangers:
    • design and testing
    • numerical simulation and modeling
    • pressure drop and heat transfer measurements
    • heat exchanger rating
  • Electronic cooling and enclosure design
    • analysis and testing utilizing a wind-tunnel and environmental chambers
    • temperature mapping with IR cameras
  • Mechanical testing
    • micro- and nano-indentation (Vickers hardness; ASTM E92, E384)
    • compression, tensile and flexural testing
    • dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)
    • surface roughness and out-of-flatness
  • Air-conditioning and refrigeration services
    • laboratory and field testing (ASHRAE 16-1983, ANSI/AHRI 210-240)
    • leak detection

LAEC facilities