Thermal Expansion Testing

Thermal Expansion Testing

When a material’s molecule’s kinetic energy rises, thermal expansion happens. The molecules are able to maintain a bigger separation due to their increased mobility. The percentage increase in strain per unit change in temperature is known as the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE).  It can be specified over a wide temperature range or at a specific temperature.

The coefficient of thermal expansion can be calculated by measuring the displacement and temperature of the specimen. This measurement can be done through a dilatometer, interferometer, or through thermomechanical analysis. Optical imaging is used for higher temperatures. CTE increases with an increase in temperature. 

Common Uses of Thermal Expansion Testing

• Detecting design flaws.
• Failure analysis of products. 

Limitations of Thermal Expansion Testing

• The value of the coefficient of thermal expansion holds good only if the material is isotropic. 

Industrial Application of Thermal Expansion Testing

• Metallurgy
• Automotive
• Aerospace