For decades, NETZSCH has set benchmarks in dilatometry — and now, we’re raising the bar again. The new DIL 502 Expedis® combines cutting-edge measurement technology with an intuitive user interface to deliver precise insights into dimensional changes across a wide variety of materials.
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DIL 502 Expedis (all pictures: NETZSCH)
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From Ceramics to Composites
Originally developed for sintering (Sintering is a production process for forming a mechanically strong body out of a ceramic or metallic powder) studies in ceramics, dilatometry (DIL) has become indispensable in materials science. Today, the NETZSCH DIL 502 Expedis® measures metals and alloys, glasses, polymers, salts, and composite materials, providing not only data on linear thermal expansion but also information on volume and density (The mass density is defined as the ratio between mass and volume) as a function of temperature.
Which Information Can You Get from DIL Measurements?
• Linear thermal expansion
• Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE)
• Softening point
• Glass transition
• Phase transitions
• Sintering temperature and shrinkage steps
• Influence of additives and raw materials
• Decomposition temperature of, e.g., organic binders
• Anisotropic behavior
• Volumetric expansion
• Density change
• Caloric effects by using c-DTA
All of this is made possible by the powerful Proteus® software – enabling fast, reliable, and intuitive dilatometry measurements. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive evaluation features, even complex dimensional analyses become efficient and accessible.
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Schematic of the NanoEye measuring cell |
Advanced Technology, Simplified Operation
The heart of the DIL 502 is the NanoEye measurement system, delivering nanometer resolution across a measurement range of up to 50 mm. This optoelectronic system enables controlled force application (10 mN to 3 N) with unmatched precision. Furthermore, the new touchscreen panel makes everyday lab tasks smoother — from sample length detection and gas flow control to starting a measurement or viewing live data.
Flexible Configurations for Every Need
Choose between the Classic, Select, and Supreme versions based on your application requirements—from quality control testing and low-temperature measurements to ultra-high-temperature measurements (ranging from -180°C up to 2800°C with a graphite furnace).
Each version supports a range of sample holders and accessories to match material types and temperature profiles, including graphite, alumina and fused silica options. The DIL 502 Expedis® is designed to handle a broad range of sample sizes and shapes, with typical dimensions of 25 millimeters in length and 6 millimeters in diameter. However, it can accommodate larger samples up to 52 millimeters in length and 19 millimeters in diameter.
For even more flexibility, the DIL 502 Expedis® supports dual furnaces, a double measurement system, vacuum compatibility and an optional air intercooler down to -60 °C.
Glovebox Version Available
In cases where materials are very sensitive to oxygen or humidity, or operators must be protected from specimen properties, the challenge can often only be managed by using a glovebox.
The DIL Expedis® Supreme glovebox version was specifically developed for such applications. The system’s electronics are positioned outside the glovebox, and an optional remote control unit allows for easy movement of the pushrod or furnace from outside.
by Aileen Sammler
