Trident Thermal Conductivity Instrument:
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Polymer Thermal Conductivity Measurement

C-Therm’s Trident system provides a versatile platform for measuring the thermal conductivity of solid materials, including polymers used in electronics and automotive applications. The instrument supports several methods for thermal characterization, with the transient plane source (TPS) technique as a primary approach, which allows experienced researchers to exercise greater control over experimental parameters.

TPS employs a double-sided hot disc sensor to measure the thermal conductivity of a wide range of solids, including polymers, compacted geological samples, metals, concrete, and asphalt. The sensor can accurately test materials at temperatures up to 500ºC, making it suitable for diverse research and industrial applications.

C-Therm's Trident TPS, one of several methods configured for measuring the thermal conductivity of a solid sample

A key advantage of these methods is their adaptability to different sample geometries and sizes. Solid samples prepared for mechanical or other material tests can often be reused for thermal conductivity measurements, reducing the need for additional machining or fabrication of dedicated test specimens.

Keeping the Hottest Electronics Cool

The faster and smaller microprocessors become, the more heat they generate. C-Therm’s Trident provides vital insights into the development of all materials that contribute to the overall thermal budget, including thermal interface materials such as thermal grease and gap pads.

Trident's MTPS for measuring the thermal conductivity of a paste

These materials are typically compressible and the thermal conductivity varies with changes in the densification of the material. Clients use the C-Therm Compression Test Accessory (CTA) to precisely control the compaction of the sample in producing results reflective of the actual application conditions for the material.

From Explosives to Ink Toners

C-Therm’s sensors are used to safely assess the stability, degradation, and shelf life of explosives, leveraging methods specifically engineered for accurately measuring the thermal conductivity of powders. Sample volumes can be as small as 1.25 mL, which is particularly important for applications such as metal hydrides, where materials are costly and available in limited quantities. These methods are also adaptable to manufacturing environments, providing a cost-effective solution for monitoring powder processes, including moisture content and homogeneity.

Trident TLS sensor - optimal method for measuring the thermal conductivity of powders

Under Pressure

C-Therm’s Trident thermal conductivity instrument is helping manufacturers improve the heat transfer properties of liquids. C-Therm’s equipment is unique in offering the capability to accurately measure the thermal conductivity of liquids; the short test time (<1 second) and small sample volume requirements negate the convective errors typical in liquid testing with traditional techniques. As an example, clients in the Oil & Gas field use C-Therm’s High Pressure Cell (HPC) accessory in measuring the impact of elevated atmospheric conditions and temperature on the thermal conductivity of fluids.

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Trident's Transient Hot Wire (THW) sensor for measuring the thermal conductivity of liquids