What Are the Standard Size and Shape Specifications for Sample Containers in DTA?

Sample containers must fit exactly in the instrument and work with automated or manual handling systems. Standard sizing means no lost samples or off-center runs.

DTA sample containers usually follow industry norms for diameter, height, and wall thickness. Uniform shape enables repeatable heating and stable sample location, which is critical for trusted measurements (Differential Thermal Analysis).

Specification	Typical Range	Importance	Application
Outer diameter	5–8 mm	Instrument fit, heat contact	Standard DTA holders
Height/depth	2–6 mm	Holds full sample	Surface vs. bulk samples
Wall thickness	0.1–0.3 mm	Thermal conduction	Fast response time
Shape type	Cylindrical, pan, crucible	Uniform heating	Various DTA models

 

How Does the Material Composition Affect the Performance of Sample Containers in DTA?

The wrong material can cause melting, contamination, or bad sensitivity. The right choice protects your lab and guarantees measurement reliability across temperatures.

Platinum, aluminum, and ceramic are leading materials for DTA containers. Platinum gives unmatched purity and heat resistance. Aluminum supports affordable routine work. Ceramics handle harsh chemistries well. Selection should match your sample and test environment (Platinum).

Material	Thermal Conductivity	Max Working Temp (°C)	Reactivity	Best Use
Platinum	High	1600	Inert	High-temp, sensitive
Aluminum	Very high	630	Low to moderate	Routine DTA, organics
Ceramic	Moderate	1700	Low	Aggressive samples

 

What Temperature Range Can Sample Containers for DTA Withstand?

Not every container works at every temperature. Using a pan above its limit can risk tests, samples, and your whole instrument.

DTA sample containers are designed and tested to survive their maximum rated temperatures. Platinum containers lead at high heat. Quality aluminum pans work for standard organic tests. Ceramics are chosen for high or unusual temperature conditions (thermal analysis).

Material Type	Max Use Temp (°C)	Failure Mode	Key Use Case
Platinum	1600	No melt/deform	Pharma, electronics
Aluminum	630	Melting, loss of shape	Routine, food, organic
Ceramic	1700	May crack, but does not melt	Batteries, chemicals

 

What Precision Tolerances Are Required for Sample Containers in Thermal Analysis?

Precision tolerance means keeping dimensions as close as possible to spec. Tight tolerance matters more when test repeatability and automation are part of the workflow.

Low tolerance on size, thickness, and mass ensures all DTA pans sit flat, seal right, and deliver even heat. Good control lets researchers compare old and new data without error (engineering tolerance).

Tolerance Spec	Recommended Value	Why It Matters	Consequence if Missed
Diameter	±0.01 mm	Instrument fit, heat flow	Loose fit, skewed data
Height	±0.02 mm	Volume, consistent mass	Wrong sample depth
Thickness	±0.005 mm	Steady response	Baseline drift
Weight	±0.1%	Stable mass balance	Long-term drift