Thermal Testing

Thermal testing consists of either measuring the HDT (Heat Deflection Temperature) or VICAT softening point. The HDT test is a 3 point bend set up and the VICAT test is a spike. The test measures the temperature at which the sample either deflects (HDT) or penetrates (VICAT) a certain distance.


The Test System Consists of:

• A bath containing the heating medium. This can be either silicone oil or an Aloxide powder
• Test stations configured to HDT or VICAT tests
• LVDT to measure deflection of the test stations
• Optional Control and data analysis software package to:
  
  • Input test parameters for a test method
  • Perform calculations
  • Analyse Data

Types of Test

• HDT – Heat Deflection Temperature
• VST – Vicat Softening Temperature

Typical Applications

• Replacing Metal Alloys with Plastics
• Effect of Fibre Reinforcement on Thermo-Mechanical Properties

Life-cycle stage

• Raw Material

End User Type

• Product Developer
• Quality Control
• Testing Services
• Research
• Education

Applicable Standards

• ISO 75
• ISO 306
• ASTM D648
• ASTM D1525