High Resolution Measurement of Dimensional Change as a Function of Temperature
The NETZSCH dilatometer at Lucideon's Refractories Centre of Excellence, strengthens our thermal analysis capability with high‑resolution measurement of dimensional change versus temperature. This enables robust, repeatable characterization of thermo‑mechanical behavior to support material development, quality control, and engineering decision‑making.
Technical description
A dilatometer measures dimensional change as temperature varies, providing high‑confidence data on how materials expand, contract, soften, or transform through defined thermal profiles.
Our NETZSCH system supports:
- Accurate determination of the coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CTE)
- Measurement of shrinkage, sintering behavior, phase transitions, and softening effects
- Testing across controlled heating and cooling cycles with excellent temperature stability and displacement resolution
This capability supports testing in line with recognized standards, delivering consistent and repeatable datasets for reliable material characterization.
Uses and applications
This capability is particularly valuable where dimensional stability at temperature is critical, including:
- Establishing CTE curves to support design tolerancing and thermal‑stress modelling
- Quantifying shrinkage and densification during firing and sintering studies
- Identifying thermal events such as phase changes and softening behavior
- Comparing batches and monitoring process stability for quality control
- Supporting product development and performance optimization across a wide range of material systems
Benefits of using our NETZSCH Dilatometer
Using this instrument provides several practical advantages:
- High‑confidence data: excellent stability and resolution support dependable interpretation
- Repeatability: robust methods generate consistent results suitable for QA/QC routines
- Faster development cycles: clearer insight into thermo‑mechanical behavior helps reduce iteration time
- Better engineering decisions: reliable CTE and dimensional-change data supports selection, processing, and performance assessment
Why choose this capability at Lucideon?
By commissioning this NETZSCH dilatometer within our Refractories Centre of Excellence, we're extending our ability to understand thermo‑mechanical behavior and generate trusted datasets for customers working with demanding material systems.
You'll be supported by experienced specialists who can help define test approaches, interpret results, and connect outcomes to processing or performance needs.
» Contact us to discover more about the services from our Refractories Centre of Excellence
» Return to the Refractories Centre of Excellence page