Thermal analysis is a standard tool for new material development and quality control, but with so many brands and models of DSC, TGA, and DMA instruments, picking the wrong one can affect the entire lab's testing capabilities. This article breaks down the key points to consider when choosing, based on practical use.

DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimeter) is the first thermal analysis device in any materials lab. When selecting one, focus on: temperature range (for adhesives/coatings, -90°C to 550°C is fine; engineering plastics need up to 725°C), sensitivity (TA Discovery series can reach 0.2 μW), whether it supports Modulated DSC (to separate overlapping thermal events), and automatic samplers (a must for high-throughput labs). For UV-curable material development, a photo-calorimetry accessory is essential.

TGA (Thermogravimetric Analyzer) is used for thermal stability, filler content, and volatile analysis. Weighing accuracy should reach the 0.1 μg level, max temperature is generally 1000°C (for high-temperature materials, above 1200°C), and atmosphere switching (N₂/air/O₂) comes standard. For labs with strong composition analysis needs, consider TGA-FTIR or TGA-GC/MS combined setups.

DMA (Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer) is the most sensitive tool for measuring Tg (10-100 times more sensitive than DSC). Pay attention to force range (0.1 mN~18 N), frequency range (0.01~100 Hz), and the variety of deformation modes (three-point bending, tension, compression, shear, immersion). For developing films, fibers, and elastomers, DMA is an indispensable characterization tool.

Dehuisci Instruments (www.dehuisci.com) distributes the full line of TA Instruments and Mettler Toledo thermal analysis products, offering full support from device selection to application training. Hotline: 0512-67071902.