Dilatometer L75 Introduction

A dilatometer is normally used to measure the expansion or shrinkage of solids with changing temperatures.

LINSEIS Incorporated has been manufacturing dilatometers for more than 40 years. Dilatometers are used to determine the expansion coefficients of various solids. Often a dilatometer is also used to establish a ZTU diagram of metals and alloys. New applications include the determination of the sintering process of ceramics, metals, or powdered metal.

The principle of the LINSEIS dilatometer consists of measuring the delta L value of a sample during a temperature change. The temperature change is achieved by heating or cooling through a programmed cycle. An absolute dilatometer measures the expansion of the sample relative to the sample holder. A dual pushrod dilatometer measures either two samples or the difference between a sample and a reference material.

The basic dilatometer unit consists of a frame holding the expansion sensor, the sample holder, and the moving slide for the furnace. There are many features available to customize the dilatometer to the application and the material. There are a number of different furnaces available covering temperature ranges between -500°C and +2300°C.

There are horizontal as well as vertical dilatometers. All economy models are available in horizontal versions only. If the temperature range is above 1550°C a vertical model is necessary to support AI₂0₃ measuring systems. Therefore, dilatometers for 1750°C with AI₂0₃ measuring system are only available in a vertical model. Graphite measuring systems are available for 2000°C and 2300°C. These systems operate in an inert atmosphere or vacuum. All dilatometers, except the economy versions are capable of operating in vacuum or dynamic atmospheres.