Hubert Thaler

Title: Inventor Spotlight: Hubert Thaler

Introduction

Hubert Thaler, a prominent inventor from Kempten, Germany, has made significant contributions to the field of materials science and engineering. With a total of six patents to his name, Thaler's innovations primarily focus on advanced silicon carbide materials, which have various applications in different industries.

Latest Patents

Thaler's recent patents include a "Graphite-coated shaped body made of sintered silicon carbide." This invention features a shaped body based on polycrystalline silicon carbide that boasts a density exceeding 90% of its theoretical limit. The notable aspect of this invention is an adherent crystalline graphite layer on its surface, with a thickness ranging from 0.1 to 100 micrometers, produced through thermal surface decomposition after sintering the SiC to achieve closed porosity.

Another significant patent is the "Bearing material of silicon carbide," particularly beneficial in high-temperature hot water applications. This innovative material demonstrates improved corrosion resistance under increased thermal stresses, characterized by a predominantly coarse-grained silicon carbide matrix. The bi-modal grain size distribution of the material comprises 50 to 90% by volume of prismatic, tabular silicon carbide crystallites with lengths from 100 to 1500 micrometers, along with 10 to 50% by volume of smaller prismatic tabular silicon carbide crystallites measuring from 5 to less than 100 micrometers.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Hubert Thaler has been associated with leading companies in the industry. Notably, he has worked with Elektroschmelzwerk Kempten GmbH and Wacker-Chemie GmbH, where he has contributed to the development of advanced materials and technologies. His expertise in silicon carbide has established him as a key figure in materials innovation.

Collaborations

Thaler’s work often involved collaboration with esteemed professionals in the field, including coworkers Lorenz Sigl and Karl-Alexander Schwetz. These partnerships have allowed for the exchange of ideas and the pursuit of cutting-edge innovations in material science.

Conclusion

Hubert Thaler's dedication as an inventor continues to influence the landscape of materials engineering. With his impressive patent portfolio and collaborative efforts, he has significantly advanced the use of silicon carbide in various applications, paving the way for future innovations in this critical field.