Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2016
Title: The Innovations of Ronald Kesterson: Pioneering Zirconium Alloys
Introduction: Ronald Kesterson, a talented inventor based in Columbia, SC, is recognized for his significant contributions to the field of materials science through his innovative work on zirconium alloys. With one patent to his name, Kesterson has developed a process that enhances the corrosion and creep resistance of zirconium alloys, leading to advancements in applications such as tubing and strips.
Latest Patents: Kesterson's noteworthy patent focuses on "Zirconium alloys with improved corrosion/creep resistance due to final heat treatments." This invention includes articles made from alloys containing 0.2 to 1.5 weight percent niobium, 0.01 to 0.6 weight percent iron, and optionally, other alloy elements like tin, chromium, copper, vanadium, and nickel, with zirconium making up at least 97 weight percent of the alloy. His innovative approach utilizes crucial final heat treatments, specifically one of either a Stress Relief Anneal (SRA) or Precision Rasterization Anneal (PRXA) processes, which significantly improve the material properties of zirconium alloys.
Career Highlights: Ronald Kesterson has made remarkable strides during his career at Westinghouse Electric Company LLC. His expertise in materials engineering has led to overcoming critical challenges in creating alloys that perform excellently under harsh conditions, particularly in elevated temperature water or steam environments.
Collaborations: Throughout his career, Kesterson has worked alongside esteemed colleagues, including John P. Foster and David Colburn. Their collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and knowledge sharing, contributing to advancements in their respective fields and enhancing the capabilities of the Westinghouse Electric Company.
Conclusion: Ronald Kesterson’s innovative contributions to the development of zirconium alloys demonstrate the importance of research and development in materials science. His patent not only showcases his expertise and dedication to innovation but also paves the way for improvements in industrial applications that require resilient materials. Kesterson continues to be a valuable asset to Westinghouse Electric Company, inspiring future advancements in alloy technologies.