Bret Trimmer, Applications Engineering Manager, NeoGraf Solutions

 

As Applications Engineering Manager at NeoGraf Solutions, Bret Trimmer is an expert in thermal management system innovations. In anticipation of the Conference at Thermal Management Expo 2022, where Bret will be speaking, we caught up with him to get some early insights into the topic.

 

Could you tell me about your role as Applications Engineering Manager at NeoGraf Solutions?

The NeoGraf Application Engineer’s primary role is to help our customers choose the most suitable thermal management material for their application. We not only need to know the NeoGraf products, but we also need to keep up to date with the current industry trends.

 

Why is the implementation of an effective thermal management system critical within the overall design of a product?

The performance of most modern electric devices is at least partially driven by the temperature of the components. If the electronics aren’t held within a tight temperature band, the device will run poorly or not at all. In extreme cases, if the device falls outside its designed temperature range, it will be permanently damaged and ultimately fail. Even if the product thermal design specifications are met, the desired form and functionality also need to be met. The consumer always wants devices that are smaller, thinner, and lighter. The use of some thermal management materials, such as aluminum, will result in devices that are too heavy and bulky to be considered practical. The choice and implementation of the correct thermal management strategy will allow both the electronics and the marketing design criteria to be met.

 

Is there any particular market or application that you think is currently leading the demand for thermal management technology?

The market application where new thermal management technology is most needed is the Electric Vehicle space. The choice and use of thermal management material are directly related to the driving range, how fast you can charge the battery, the battery’s lifetime, and even the safety of the battery.

 

What are you most looking forward to at Thermal Management Expo 2022?

I look forward to hearing about the new materials, solutions, and strategies that will be coming out to solve the latest thermal management challenges. 

 

Finally, if you were stranded on a desert island, what one item would you bring?

I’d bring along my Kindle. There are enough stories on that to keep me entertained for a very long time.

 

Bret will be speaking at the live conference at Thermal Management Expo, and will be sharing his expertise in thermal management system selection, alongside a panel of expert speakers. To find out more about the conference agenda, please click here.