Learning Research Experience Student Benefits From UA Program, AME Mentor

Gabriel Vasquez studies mechatronics engineering at Universidad Tecnológica Centroamericana in Honduras, but this summer he spent 10 weeks in Tucson as part of the University of Arizona Summer Program "A Learning Research Experience" under the guidance of accomplished mentors such as AME professor Peiwen "Perry" Li.

"When I first arrived at the UA, I met with Dr. Li and we had a two-hour chat," Vasquez said. "I told him about my background and interests, and he placed me on a research project involving 3-D-printed tubes for enhanced heat exchangers. 3-D printing is familiar to me, and now I can find new applications for it. I'm also interested in energy transfer, so this project fulfilled many of my interests."

Vasquez explored innovative designs for internal flow heat exchangers, specifically ones that are 3-D printed, lowering the cost and waste associated with the manufacturing process.