The maximum temperature that a plastic can withstand while under load is a critical characteristic and a challenge that many manufacturers face. The performance of relatively standard materials can be enhanced dramatically by adding glass or carbon fiber; however, the amount of reinforcing phase and its effectiveness needs to be determined and checked. Poor compatibility of the reinforcement and excessive cost increase must be avoided. We have tested the effect of fiber reinforcement on thermo-mechanical properties with our CEAST HV6 system.
We saw that when temperature is elevated, and a defined load is applied, the Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) tests offered a standardized and simple way to estimate the capability to retain mechanical properties. This applied significantly to the comparison of performances between unreinforced and reinforced materials. The CEAST HDT Vicat testers offered optimal temperature control accuracy and high resolution sensors to measure deflection according to ISO 75 and ASTM D648, as well as offers the option for an advanced software interface.