TA Instruments Discovery DMA 850 thermal analyser

The TA Instruments Discovery DMA 850 is the latest addition to the Discovery Thermal Analysis suite, a group of high-performance material characterisation instruments.

It is a dynamic mechanical analyser to measure mechanical properties as a function of temperature, time and mechanical conditions. Key measurements include glass transition temperatures, dynamic modulus and quantification of damping characteristics. The instrument is also capable of traditional mechanical experiments such as creep and programmed loading.

A low-friction drive system and optical encoder combine to provide the best force sensitivity and displacement resolution available. The instrument exceeds existing DMA technology with advances in strain control including the new DirectStrain capability, the ability to program more elaborate mechanical conditioning and testing sequences, and an estimated 80% reduction in calibration time.

Combined with a complete selection of sample clamps, it is designed to accurately characterise a wide range of materials under relevant conditions. A selection of high-accuracy environmental systems manufactured by TA extends that capability to include control of temperature, relative humidity and measurements when the sample is immersed in a fluid. The DMA 850 is supported by TA’s Air Chiller Systems that provide temperature control to -100°C without the hassle or expense of liquid nitrogen.