A comparison between experiments and fem predictions for blowtorch reflow of fused silica micro-shell resonators

We report a non-isothermal model and FEM results for prediction of geometries of fused silica micro-shell resonators fabricated by blowtorch molding process. The model is successfully applied to investigate the production details of 3-D hemi-ellipsoidal shells of revolutions with eccentricity, such as bird-bath shell resonators. The advantages of the present numerical model are that the shell geometry and thickness can be optimized by changing different fabrication parameters such as surface heat flux, conductivity of mold material and initial temperature of the mold. The model brings out the blowtorch molding capabilities and limitations for fabrication of hollow 3-D shell resonators.