Vicat Testing Machine

Vicat Testing Machine
A specialized instrument designed to determine the Vicat softening temperature (VST) of thermoplastic materials—measuring the temperature at which a material softens under a specified load. This critical parameter indicates a plastic’s heat resistance and processability, helping manufacturers ensure performance in high-temperature applications and optimize molding or extrusion processes.

 

Equipped with a temperature-controlled heating bath (oil or water), a weighted indenter (10N or 50N), and a precision displacement sensor, the machine operates by:

 

  • Immersing a thermoplastic sample (e.g., plastic pellets, sheets, or molded parts) in a heating medium.
  • Applying a constant load via a flat-ended indenter to the sample’s surface.
  • Heating the medium at a controlled rate (50°C/h or 120°C/h) and recording the temperature at which the indenter penetrates 1mm into the sample—defined as the Vicat softening temperature.

 

Key applications across industries:

 

  • Plastics Manufacturing: Evaluating raw thermoplastics (PVC, polyethylene, polypropylene) and compounds for use in pipes, automotive parts, and electrical enclosures.
  • Packaging Industry: Testing plastic films, containers, and lids to ensure they resist softening in high-temperature environments (e.g., microwave use, hot filling).
  • Construction & Engineering: Assessing plastic components (window frames, insulation) for heat stability in outdoor or industrial settings.
  • Consumer Goods: Validating heat resistance of plastic toys, kitchenware, and appliance parts.

 

Compliant with international standards such as ASTM D1525, ISO 306, and DIN 53460, this machine is trusted by plastic manufacturers, quality control labs, and R&D teams. It provides data to select materials for heat-exposed applications, ensure compliance with product safety standards, and optimize processing parameters (e.g., molding temperatures) for consistent quality.
  • Vicat Testing Machine

    Vicat Testing Machine

    Vicat Testing Machine: Precision Analysis of Plastic Thermal Resistance and Softening Behavior The Vicat Testing Machine is a specialized instrument designed to evaluate the heat resistance of plastic materials by measuring two critical thermal properties: Heat Distortion Temperature (HDT) and…