Scope:

ASTM C408 test method provides information useful for understanding and quantifying parameters such as thermal shock resistance and the ability to conduct or dissipate heat.

Test Procedure:

In ASTM C408, the specimen is positioned in the apparatus and soldered to the thermodes. The system is closed and evacuated to 1 µm of mercury. The upper thermode is heated by a heater element, and a gradient is established along with the copper and specimen. When the heat input equals the heat flowing down the thermode, steady-state conditions have been attained. After that, the emf of the four thermocouples is recorded. 

Video 01: Thermal conductivity test

Specimen size:

The ceramic test specimens used in the ASTM C408 test should be ground cylinders. The specimens should be formed using normal ceramic procedures of slip-casting, dry-pressing, or extrusion. The bases should be perpendicular to the axis of the cylinder. The length of the cylinder should be equal to its diameter. 

Data: 

Thermal conductivity of the whiteware ceramic is reported. 

Conclusion:

ASTM C408 test method provides information useful for understanding and quantifying parameters such as thermal shock resistance and the ability to conduct or dissipate heat.