Dilatometry is a powerful analytical technique to determine the dimensional changes in a material as a function of temperature.
In a dilatometry experiment, a sample is placed into a sample holder with one end brought into contact with a push-rod. The sample and holder are then enclosed within a furnace where the sample is subjected to a prescribed temperature program of heating, cooling, or isothermal conditions. During the experiment, the linear dimensional change (expansion or contraction) of the sample is measured by a highly accurate displacement sensing system.
Dilatometry can be used to test a wide range of materials including ceramics, glasses, and metals. It provides measurements of a wide variety of properties including linear thermal expansion, coefficient of thermal expansion, softening point, and glass transition temperature.