Abstract: Methods and apparatus for testing the strength of ceramic honeycomb structures are described. The apparatus includes a chamber that utilizes a flexible, generally cylindrical member including integral flanges to apply compressive force to the periphery of the honeycomb structure. According to some embodiments, a portable apparatus with an open chamber is provided to allow for rapid testing of multiple honeycomb structures.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for testing the strength of ceramic honeycomb structures are disclosed. The apparatus includes a chamber that utilizes a flexible, generally cylindrical member including integral flanges to apply compressive force to the periphery of the honeycomb structure. According to some embodiments, a portable apparatus with an open chamber is provided to allow for rapid testing of multiple honeycomb structures.

Abstract: The invention is directed at an apparatus capable of the continuous drying of ceramic articles which produces little or no microwave radiation emission. The drying apparatus comprises comprise a microwave-heating chamber, for heating a ceramic, having an entrance and an exit end and a material flow axis along which the ceramic articles are conveyed. Positioned adjacent the entrance and exit ends of the microwave-heating chamber, respectively, are a first and second attenuation chamber each having an entrance and an exit end. An inlet chamber, having a material flow path, is connected to the entrance end of the first attenuation chamber with a portion of the material flow path disposed at an angle to the flow axis. Connected to the exit end of the second attenuation chamber is an outlet chamber having a second material flow path; again at least a portion of the material flow path is at an angle to the material flow axis.