Method of fabricating a multiple flow path body

Abstract

An improved method of modifying a honeycombed body having a multiplicity of open-ended cells extending therethrough between opposite face ends of the body to produce therein a multiplicity of flow paths for at least two and possibly three separate fluids. For accommodating two fluids, selected columns of cells within the honeycombed body are provided with openings near at least one face end for first fluid flow through one or two longitudinal, opposed boundary surfaces and through inner cell walls parallel to the cell axes while the open-ends of such columns on a face end perpendicular to the selected cell axes are sealed against fluid flow. Second fluid flow is through the unselected columns of cells parallel to and either in the direction of or counter to the first fluid flow. Specifically, the invention provides an improved method for sealing the selected columns of cells on face ends of the body. The multiplicity of flow paths, the high area of useful contact between separate fluids and the thin walls between separate fluids make the honeycombed body particularly useful as a fixed recuperator or heat exchanger. A variety of flow path types can be provided in one or both groups of columns of cells, viz. U-, Z-, I-, L- and T-shaped.