William J McLean

Title: The Innovative Contributions of William J McLean

Introduction

William J McLean is a notable inventor based in Oakland, CA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the development of catalytic igniters. His work has implications for safety in nuclear reactors, showcasing his commitment to advancing technology for practical applications.

Latest Patents

William J McLean holds a patent for "Catalytic igniters and their use to ignite lean hydrogen-air mixtures." This innovative device can ignite a hydrogen-air mixture as lean as 5.5% hydrogen, with induction times ranging from 20 seconds to 400 seconds. The design includes a perforate catalytically active substrate, such as a platinum-coated ceramic honeycomb or wire mesh screen, allowing heated gases produced by oxidation to flow freely. Additionally, it features a plurality of thin platinum wires mounted in a thermally conductive manner on the substrate, which can receive heat from both the substrate and the heated gases while remaining in contact with unoxidized gases.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, McLean has been associated with the United States of America as represented by the United States. His work has been instrumental in enhancing safety measures in nuclear reactors, particularly during loss-of-liquid-coolant accidents. His innovative approach to igniting hydrogen-air mixtures has positioned him as a key figure in this specialized field.

Collaborations

Some of McLean's notable coworkers include Lawrence R Thorne and Joanne V Volponi. Their collaborative efforts have contributed to the advancements in the technology surrounding catalytic igniters.

Conclusion

William J McLean's contributions to the field of engineering, particularly through his patent on catalytic igniters, highlight his innovative spirit and dedication to safety in nuclear technology. His work continues to influence the industry and pave the way for future advancements.