Dynamic Mechanical Analyzers

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) is a technique used to measure the viscoelastic properties of materials, particularly polymers, by applying an oscillating load and recording StressStress is defined as a level of force applied on a sample with a well-defined cross section. (Stress = force/area). Samples having a circular or rectangular cross section can be compressed or stretched. Elastic materials like rubber can be stretched up to 5 to 10 times their original length.stress and StrainStrain describes a deformation of a material, which is loaded mechanically by an external force or stress. Rubber compounds show creep properties, if a static load is applied.strain at the sample. This method allows the determination of key material properties such as elasticity, viscosity and Glass Transition TemperatureThe glass transition is one of the most important properties of amorphous and semi-crystalline materials, e.g., inorganic glasses, amorphous metals, polymers, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients, etc., and describes the temperature region where the mechanical properties of the materials change from hard and brittle to more soft, deformable or rubbery.glass transition temperature, providing valuable insight into how materials behave under different conditions.

The main differences between the NETZSCH tabletop DMA 303 Eplexor^® and the stand alone high force DMA 503 and 523 Eplexor^® systems are in their design capabilities and intended applications:

Force range: The NETZSCH tabletop DMA, such as the DMA 303 Eplexor^®, is designed for precise measurements on a variety of specimens, including very stiff specimens, with a controlled force range of up to 50 N. In contrast, high force DMA systems can handle higher forces up to a dynamic force of 4000 N and are specifically designed for testing high-modulus materials, making them suitable for applications requiring greater mechanical StressStress is defined as a level of force applied on a sample with a well-defined cross section. (Stress = force/area). Samples having a circular or rectangular cross section can be compressed or stretched. Elastic materials like rubber can be stretched up to 5 to 10 times their original length.stress.

Temperature range and applications: The tabletop DMA offers a wide temperature range from -170°C to 800°C, suitable for a diverse array of materials, including polymers, elastomers and metals. The high force DMA 503 Eplexor^® HT is capable of operating in high temperatures up to 1500°C, but is optimized for materials that require higher force applications, such as metals or composites, providing enhanced performance in demanding test scenarios.

These differences make each type of NETZSCH DMA suitable for different materials testing needs, with the tabletop model ideal for general applications and the high force model for more specialized needs.

The Complex ModulusThe complex modulus consists of two components, the storage and the loss moduli. The storage modulus (or Young’s modulus) describes the stiffness and the loss modulus describes the damping (or viscoelastic) behavior of the corresponding sample using the method of Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA). complex modulus describes the stiffness and the damping of a sample. The real part E' of the Complex ModulusThe complex modulus consists of two components, the storage and the loss moduli. The storage modulus (or Young’s modulus) describes the stiffness and the loss modulus describes the damping (or viscoelastic) behavior of the corresponding sample using the method of Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA). complex modulus describes the elastic material behavior while the imaginary part E'' characterizes the viscous component.

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) is widely used in various industries and applications due to its ability to characterize the mechanical properties of materials. Here are some typical applications of DMA:

• Polymer characterization: DMA is primarily used to analyze the viscoelastic properties of polymers, including their stiffness, damping characteristics, and temperature-dependent behavior, which is critical for material development and quality control.
• Glass transition detection: One of the key applications of DMA is the determination of the Glass Transition TemperatureThe glass transition is one of the most important properties of amorphous and semi-crystalline materials, e.g., inorganic glasses, amorphous metals, polymers, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients, etc., and describes the temperature region where the mechanical properties of the materials change from hard and brittle to more soft, deformable or rubbery.glass transition temperature (T_g) of materials, which is essential for understanding how polymers transition from a brittle state to a more rubbery state.
• Curing studies: DMA is used to study the Curing (Crosslinking Reactions)Literally translated, the term “crosslinking“ means “cross networking”. In the chemical context, it is used for reactions in which molecules are linked together by introducing covalent bonds and forming three-dimensional networks.curing kinetics of thermoset materials, helping to determine the extent of cross-linking and the point of gelation.
• Phase transition analysis: The technique can identify various Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions in materials, such as melting points and CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released.crystallization temperatures, providing insight into Thermal StabilityA material is thermally stable if it does not decompose under the influence of temperature. One way to determine the thermal stability of a substance is to use a TGA (thermogravimetric analyzer). thermal stability and performance.
• Composite evaluation: DMA is used to study the mechanical properties of composites and the interactions between their constituents, aiding in the design and optimization of advanced materials.
• Materials development and validation: DMA supports the material development process by providing data to inform decisions on material selection and processing conditions, ensuring that materials meet specific performance criteria.

The cost of a NETZSCH Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) can vary significantly depending on the model, features, and any additional accessories you may require.

To get an accurate and up-to-date price for your individual NETZSCH DMA instrument, please contact your local NETZSCH representative or one of our authorized distributors. We will provide a quote tailored to your specific requirements, including any necessary training, installation, or additional features.

Our delivery is depending on demand and on the specific configuration of the DMA. For more complex customizations or during periods of high demand, the delivery time may extend beyond this range. 

For the most up-to-date information, we encourage you to contact us directly with a specific request. This will ensure that we can provide you with an accurate timeline tailored to your specific needs.

Some NETZSCH DMA instruments are no longer in our NETZSCH portfolio. However, accessories and spare parts are still available for you. Information on our legacy products can be found at the following link - see below.

To ask for service and support for your instrument, please contact your local service partner. We're here to assist you with any service needs or queries about your instrument!