Ernst R. G. Eckert facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ernst Eckert
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| Born | September 13, 1904 |
| Died | July 8, 2004 (aged 99) |
| Nationality | United States (1950) |
| Alma mater | German Institute of Technology, Prague (1927) (Ph.D. - 1931) |
| Known for | Eckert number |
| Awards | ASME Max Jakob medal (1961) Fulbright Award (1962) Founder’s Award of the National Academy of Engineering (1995) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Heat transfer, Mass transfer |
| Institutions | 1938 Aeronautical Research Institute (Braunschweig) 1945 Wright-Patterson Air Force Base 1951 University of Minnesota (Regents Professor & professor emeritus) |
| Notes | |
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married Josefine Binder (1931)
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Ernst Rudolph Georg Eckert (September 13, 1904 – July 8, 2004) was an important engineer and scientist. He was born in Prague, which was part of Austria-Hungary at the time. Later, he became an American citizen. Eckert made big advancements in how engines are cooled, especially for airplanes.
He earned his first engineering degree in 1927 and his doctorate in 1931. He also completed his Habilitation in 1938, which allowed him to teach at universities.
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Early Career and Research
Ernst Eckert started his career as a jet engine scientist. He worked at the Aeronautical Research Institute in Braunschweig, Germany. His work there focused on making jet engines more efficient.
Moving to the United States
After World War II, Eckert moved to the United States in 1945. He was part of a program called Operation Paperclip. This program brought many German scientists to the U.S. to help with research. Eckert continued his jet propulsion research at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
In 1951, Eckert joined the University of Minnesota. He became a professor in the mechanical engineering department. He taught and conducted research there for many years.
Contributions to Science
Ernst Eckert was a very productive scientist. He published over 550 scientific papers and books. His work greatly influenced the fields of heat transfer and mass transfer.
Film Cooling Technique
One of his most important contributions was advancing the film cooling technique. This method helps protect parts of engines, like turbine blades, from very hot gases. It works by creating a thin layer (or "film") of cooler air over the hot surface. This keeps the parts from melting or breaking down.
The Eckert Number
A special number in fluid dynamics was named after him: the Eckert number. This number helps scientists understand how energy changes in a fluid flow. It compares the kinetic energy of the fluid to the energy needed for heat transfer.
Awards and Recognition
Ernst Eckert received many awards for his scientific work.
- In 1961, he received the ASME Max Jakob medal. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to heat transfer science.
- In 1962, he was given a Fulbright Award. This award helps scholars travel and exchange ideas internationally.
- In 1995, the National Academy of Engineering honored Eckert with its thirteenth Founders Award. This award celebrates engineers who have made major contributions to their field.
Ernst Eckert passed away in 2004 at the age of 99. His work continues to be important in engineering and science today.
