Light/Laser Flash Analyzers
For measuring the Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.Thermal Diffusivity and Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.Thermal Conductivity
Understanding Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.thermal conductivity is critical to material selection for various applications. Insulation materials require low Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.thermal conductivity, while heat sinks require high conductivity for effective heat dissipation. In industrial processes such as casting and welding, Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.thermal conductivity affects the movement of heat, affecting efficiency and quality. In addition, Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.thermal diffusivity is critical in rapid heating and cooling scenarios where heat transfer varies over time.
One accurate, reliable and elegant solution to measure Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.thermal conductivity and Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.thermal diffusivity is offered by the Flash/Laser Method. NETZSCH offers three models that cover the entire spectrum of materials and temperatures.
Our Laser/Light Flash Analyzers
Explore the range of NETZSCH LFA instruments
LFA Accessories
Sample holders and accessories for NETZSCH LFA instruments
Many different sample carriers are available. We will be happy to advise you on the selection of the right type and material for your specific application. In addition to the standard round and square sample holders, our range also includes sample holders for pastes and powders, liquid samples, in-plane measurements and thin films.
Principle of the LFA Method
An Efficient Method for Determination of Thermal Conductivity
Laser/Light Flash Analysis: The light flash method, also known as the laser flash method, measures Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.thermal diffusivity and conductivity by applying a short, intense pulse of energy to one side of a sample. This pulse heats the surface, causing a transient temperature rise that is monitored by an infrared detector on the opposite side. The time-dependent temperature rise is recorded, allowing thermal properties to be calculated based on the rate at which heat diffuses through the material. This method is fast, non-destructive, and effective on a wide range of materials.
Flash Analysis Principle:
λ(T) = a(T) · cp(T) · ρ(T)
where λ = Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity (λ with the unit W/(m•K)) describes the transport of energy – in the form of heat – through a body of mass as the result of a temperature gradient (see fig. 1). According to the second law of thermodynamics, heat always flows in the direction of the lower temperature.thermal conductivity [W/(m·K)]
a = Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.thermal diffusivity [mm²/s]
cp = specific heat [J/(g·K)]
ρ = bulk DensityThe mass density is defined as the ratio between mass and volume. density [g/cm3].
Key Benefits of NETZSCH LFA instruments
The LFA 717 Hyperflash series is an essential tool for accurate thermal conductivity analysis in a variety of applications.
- Durable Xenon lamp: Provides long-lasting performance for consistent results.
- Wide temperature range: Operates effectively over a wide temperature range in a single setup.
- Pulse Correction: Optimized for highly conductive materials to improve measurement accuracy.
- Vacuum-tight design: Maintains defined atmospheres to prevent OxidationOxidation can describe different processes in the context of thermal analysis.oxidation and ensure sample integrity.
- Time Efficiency: Utilizes mini tube furnaces and an Automatic Sample Changer (ASC) to process up to 16 samples simultaneously.
- Advanced calculation models: Equipped with the latest models and a variety of sample holders for precise measurements on a wide range of materials.
- Short Pulse Lengths: Facilitates pulse mapping for thin samples, improving measurement accuracy.
- Autovac function: Streamlines operation under controlled atmospheres for quick and easy use.
Different Types of NETZSCH Light/Laser Flash Analyzers (LFA)
NETZSCH Light/Laser Flash Analysis (LFA) is an accurate, reliable, and elegant solution for measuring thermal conductivity and Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.thermal diffusivity. This innovative approach effectively addresses the challenges of understanding and managing heat transfer.
Low-Temperature Light Flash Instrument
The low-temperature LFA 717 HyperFlash® is specifically designed to measure thermal conductivity well below ambient up to 500°C. This device is ideal for analyzing thermal conductivity in solids like metals, polymers, ceramics, but also specimens in liquid form like water, oil, tar, honey or liquid polymers and metals.
Applications:
- Solid materials: Polymers, metals, ceramics
- Pastes and powders: Metal powders, greases, resins
- Low viscous liquids: Water, oil, tar, honey
- Anisotropic materials: Fiber reinforced polymers and/or ceramics, carbon prepregs (through-plane and in-plane)
- Thin and high conductive metal foils: (in-plane and through-plane) aluminum
- Liquid metals: Steel, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, etc
- Liquid waxes: Paraffin
- Liquid polymers: PP, PE, PAN, etc. ∙ Liquid metals: steel, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, etc.
- Thin foils: Adhesive tapes, metal foils ∙ Fibers: e.g., carbon fibers
Typical Temperature Range:
-100°C to 500°C
High-Temperature Light Flash Instrument
The high-temperature LFA 717 HyperFlash® HT instruments is engineered to measure thermal conductivity from room temperature up to 1250°C. This can be used to analyze metals, polymers and ceramics
Applications:
- Solid materials: Polymers, metals, ceramics
- Pastes and powders: Metal powders, greases, resins
- Low viscous liquids: Water, oil, tar, honey
- Anisotropic materials: Fiber reinforced polymers and/or ceramics, carbon prepregs (through-plane and in-plane)
- Thin and high conductive metal foils: (in-plane and through-plane) aluminum
- Liquid metals: steel, nickel alloys, aluminum alloys, etc
Typical Temperature Range:
RT to 1250°C
Pyrometer Laser Flash
The Laser Flash technique is currently the most widely accepted method for precise measurement of the thermal diffusivityand the LFA 427 is the number one instrument on the world market.
High precision and reproducibility, short measurement times, variable sample holders and defined atmospheres are outstanding features of LFA measurements over the entire application range from -120°C to 2800°C.
Applications:
- Ceramic, glass, metals, melts and liquids, powders, fibers and multi-layer materials ranging from vacuum insulation panels to diamonds. Investigating the influence of pressure on the CrystallizationCrystallization is the physical process of hardening during the formation and growth of crystals. During this process, heat of crystallization is released.crystallization and melting behavior of polymers to understand their processing.
Typical Temperature Range:
-120°C to 2800°C (5 furnaces needed to cover the complete temperature range)
Frequently Asked Questions
The Light Flash method (LFA), also known as the Laser Flash method, measures thermal diffusivity and conductivity by applying a short, intense pulse of energy to one side of a sample. This pulse heats the surface, causing a transient temperature rise that is monitored on the opposite side. The time-dependent temperature rise is recorded, allowing thermal properties to be calculated based on the rate at which heat diffuses through the material.
The principle of the laser and light flash technique is quite simple. We heat one side of a small sample with a short pulse of energy. Then we measure the temperature rise on the other side. The temperature increase over time is used to calculate the thermal diffusivity. You can also calculate the specific heat, and using that along with the DensityThe mass density is defined as the ratio between mass and volume. density, you can calculate the thermal conductivity.
The difference between light an laser flash analysis is the used light source. Both versions of the NETZSCH LFA 717 use a Xenon light source. Xenon flash lamps are long-lasting and virtually maintenance-free.
The LFA 427 uses a Nd:glass laser system developed and manufactured in-house. It has a maximum pulse energy of 25 J and a uniform pulse width over the entire pulse shape between 0.1 and 1.5 ms. This results in sharp and defined peaks with negligible tailing. The software controlled power output can be easily adapted to the required application.
Thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity are two important concepts in heat transfer, but they describe different properties of materials.
Thermal conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct heat. It is a measure of how well heat can flow through a substance when there is a temperature difference. The higher the thermal conductivity, the more efficiently heat is transferred. It is typically expressed as "k" and is expressed in units of watts per meter Kelvin (W/(m·K)).
Thermal DiffusivityThermal diffusivity (a with the unit mm2/s) is a material-specific property for characterizing unsteady heat conduction. This value describes how quickly a material reacts to a change in temperature.Thermal diffusivity, on the other hand, measures how quickly heat can travel through a material over time. It is defined as the thermal conductivity divided by the product of the material’s DensityThe mass density is defined as the ratio between mass and volume. density and Specific Heat Capacity (cp)Heat capacity is a material-specific physical quantity, determined by the amount of heat supplied to specimen, divided by the resulting temperature increase. The specific heat capacity is related to a unit mass of the specimen.specific heat capacity at constant pressure.
Typical applications for the Laser / Light Flash method are:
- Thermal management for the control of temperature in systems, devices, or materials to ensure proper functioning, longevity, and efficiency
- Preventing overheating in components by selecting materials with appropriate thermal properties
- Designing materials that can withstand extreme temperature changes
- Controlling temperatures in processes like extrusion, molding, and metal working
- Enhancing the efficiency of thermal insulation and heat exchangers
The cost of a NETZSCH Laser / Light Flash Analyzer (LFA) 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 LFAinstrument, 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 current delivery time is approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on the specific configuration of the LFA and current demand. 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 LFA 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!
Applications for Laser/Light Analysis
Discover an accurate, reliable, and elegant solution for measuring thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity with the flash method. This innovative approach effectively addresses the challenges of understanding and managing heat transfer. Typical applications include:
- Thermal Management: Control temperature in systems, devices, and materials to ensure optimal functioning, longevity, and efficiency.
- Overheating Prevention: Select materials with suitable thermal properties to protect components from overheating.
- Extreme Temperature Resistance: Design materials that can endure significant temperature fluctuations.
- Process Temperature Control: Manage temperatures in processes such as extrusion, molding, and metalworking.
- Efficiency Enhancement: Improve the performance of thermal insulation and heat exchangers for better energy use.nd reliability.
Here's what our customers say about using the NETZSCH LFA
"We determine the thermal diffusivity of ceramic substrates, such as AIN HP, with the NETZSCH LFA."
"The LFA 427 instrument with SiC furnace up to 1600°C has already solved many tricky challenges."
"The NETZSCH LFA supports research into a new primary energy source in our high-temperature materials laboratory."
LFA Case Studies
NETZSCH offers a variety of LFA instruments, accessories and services designed to meet your analytical needs across various industries. Each model is tailored to specific applications and temperature ranges.
E-Learning
LFA 717 Hyperflash - Basic Courses
Media
Application Literature about Light Flash Analysis
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Videos about Light Flash Analysis
FAQs about NETZSCH LFA Service
Our NETZSCH Applications Laboratory provides contract testing services for a wide range of industries and research centers. It is equipped with state-of-the-art LFA testing instruments, allowing for a variety of thermal analysis measurements to be carried out.
Consult with the experts in our applications labs to choose the best-suited measuring method for your specific needs.
We offer:
- Installation and commissioning
- Relocation of your instrument
- Maintenance and inspection
- Calibration
- Repair
- Comprehensive training, from basic to advanced use of the instrument – on-site or online.
Please note that our service may vary from region to region.
Our Remote Service is available worldwide.
Inspection of the pressure of LN2 containers can either be carried out at your site (if you are in Germany, Austria or Switzerland), or at our factory in Selb.
Yes, we offer maintenance contracts for your instruments according to the different regional and individual customer requirements. Please feel free to contact our Service Department or take a closer look at our website section Service-Level Agreement - NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing.
You find them in the Accessories Catalog for LFA instruments, on the product page for your LFA instrument, or in consultation with your contact person at NETZSCH.
Benefit from our free e-learning basic courses:
Our basic e-learning courses are available free of charge on our website, designed to support you exactly where learning really happens: in everyday lab work. Whether you’re new to thermal analysis, rheology, or fire testing or simply want to refresh your knowledge: Our expert-led video courses help you:
✔ start measurements with confidence
✔ understand results correctly
✔ reduce operator errors
✔ save time searching for solutions
All courses are created by NETZSCH experts with decades of hands-on experience, sharing real knowledge you can directly apply in the lab.
👉 Start learning for free:netzs.ch/e-learning
Moreover, we offer
- online training via our NETZSCH Online Academy NOA,
- 1:1 remote training and
- on-site training at your location or our training centers.
Simply contact your sales representative or go to Know-How - NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing
Use the F1 key in Proteus® software to jump to the help for the current software action.
More information can also be found here: Proteus® for Thermal Analyzers - NETZSCH Analyzing & Testing
