Dilatometry
Dilatometry (DIL) is the method of choice for highly precise measurement of dimension changes to solids, melts, powders and pastes at a programmed temperature change and with negligible sample 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.
DIL allows for the study of length change phenomena of ceramics, glasses, metals, composites, and polymers as well as other construction materials, thus revealing information regarding their thermal behavior and about process parameters or SinteringSintering is a production process for forming a mechanically strong body out of a ceramic or metallic powder. sintering (and 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. The DIL systems are based on relevant instrument and application standards, e.g., ASTM E831, ASTM E228, ASTM D696, DIN 51045, DIN EN 821
Our Dilatometers
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About the DIL Method
Dilatometry is a precise analytical technique that measures dimensional changes in materials as a function of temperature and/or time. It provides critical information on key material properties. These measurements are fundamental for both quality assurance and the advancement of materials research. Over the past decades, dilatometry has been firmly established as a reliable method in industrial and research settings. All NETZSCH dilatometers are based on such standards as DIN EN 821, DIN 51045, and ASTM E228.
The Method for Determination of Dimensional Changes
Pushrod dilatometry is a method for determining dimensional changes versus temperature and/or time while the specimen undergoes a controlled temperature program. The degree of expansion divided by the change in temperature is called the material’s coefficient of expansion (ā).
To prepare a dilatometer measurement, a specimen is inserted into a sample holder and subjected to a defined application of force by a pushrod. After closing the furnace, the experiment can be started. The length change of the specimen during heating or cooling, or while under IsothermalTests at controlled and constant temperature are called isothermal.isothermal conditions, is detected by the displacement system to which the pushrod is connected.
Opto-Electronic Measuring System NanoEye
DISPLACEMENT SYSTEM
In traditional dilatometry, increasing resolution often reduces the measurement range and vice versa. The NanoEye system overcomes this limitation by offering high resolution alongside an unmatched measurement range. It achieves perfect linearity in thermal expansion measurements, surpassing conventional systems.
The NanoEye consists of:
- An actuator which applies a controlled contact force and moves the pushrod to adjust to variable specimen lengths
- An elastic force sensor which detects the contact force
- ∙ An optical encoder (plus scale) which measures the initial specimen length and determines the length change of the specimen
Functional Principle:
During a test run, when the specimen changes length, all green components in the graphics move with the help of a linear guide (marked in purple). The optical encoder determines the corresponding length change directly on the appropriate scale.
Your Benefits
What Makes these NETZSCH Instruments Unique?
- Precision and Accuracy: Our advanced sensor technologies provide superior measurement precision. NETZSCH Instruments feature high spatial and temporal resolution for consistent results.
- Ease of Use: Fully automated workflows reduce manual intervention. Moreover, the intuitive software interfaces simplify operation and data interpretation.
- Robustness and Reliability: We offer long-term durability for continuous use in lab and industrial environments and highly stable measurements even under demanding conditions.
- Compliance and Validation: NETZSCH DIL instruments are fully compliant with major industry standards, ensuring the validity of results for certifications and quality control.
- Customized and Integrated Solutions: NETZSCHs’ wide range of testing instruments, covering a broad application range, ensures that we meet your thermal analysis demands for a variety of materials and temperature ranges.
- Proven Excellence: Decades of experience in thermal analysis and a strong reputation for innovation and quality emphasize the reliability and advanced capabilities of NETZSCH analysis instruments.
Our Quality Promise:
NETZSCH's Unlimited Warranty
At NETZSCH, our commitment to quality goes beyond the instruments themselves. We understand that your investment in advanced technology is a long-term one, and that's why we offer something truly unique – our Unlimited Warranty.
Accessories for DIL
At NETZSCH we offer a wide selection of sample holders, accessories and calibration materials
All dilatometers and TMA instruments offered by NETZSCH are listed in this catalog, together with all of our corresponding sample holders, accessories, and calibration materials. The many various possible combinations of these will allow you to optimal adapt your instrument to your samples and applications.
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Applications for Dilatometric Analysis
Refractories
Dilatometry reveals the thermal behavior of refractories – such as expansion, Phase TransitionsThe term phase transition (or phase change) is most commonly used to describe transitions between the solid, liquid and gaseous states.phase transitions, and SinteringSintering is a production process for forming a mechanically strong body out of a ceramic or metallic powder. sintering – by measuring dimensional changes under controlled temperatures.
Ceramics and Glass
Dilatometry provides insight into the SinteringSintering is a production process for forming a mechanically strong body out of a ceramic or metallic powder. sintering process and thermal behavior of these materials, which is crucial for their application in construction and electronics.
Composites
Determining thermal expansion in composites is key to ensuring material compatibility – for example, in reinforced concrete, where steel and concrete must have closely matched expansion rates.
Polymers
Dilatometry is employed to ascertain 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 temperatures and thermal expansion coefficients, facilitating a comprehensive understanding and optimization of polymer processing, design, and performance.
Metals and Alloys
The study of 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 steel (e.g., martensite) and thermal expansion coefficients an be used to analyze temperature-time-length relationships, revealing microstructure changes and optimizing heat treatment.
Building Materials
Building materials such as cement and concrete are analyzed using dilatometry to assess dimensional changes during hydration, drying, and thermal cycling—critical for ensuring long-term durability and structural integrity.
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