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Choosing the right DSC sample pan is critical for accurate analytical results, especially for precise thermal measurements in the lab.
Mettler Toledo DSC sample pans are made from high-purity materials. They offer excellent compatibility with laboratory instruments and stable heat transfer for consistent testing.
When I first started handling thermal analysis workflows, I realized that every detail—from materials to design—directly affects results. Understanding these technical factors helps you avoid common mistakes and improve the repeatability of every experiment.
What Materials Are Mettler Toledo DSC Sample Pans Made From?
Finding the right sample pan starts with material selection. The wrong choice leads to poor heat transfer and inconsistent readings.
Mettler Toledo DSC sample pans are usually manufactured from high-purity aluminum. Aluminum delivers rapid thermal response, making it ideal for fast DSC measurements.
| Material | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | Typical Usage | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (Al) | ~237 | Standard DSC Measurements | Mettler DSC, TGA |
| Platinum (Pt) | ~71 | High Temp & Special tests | DSC, TGA, STA |
| PTFE | ~0.25 | Chemically reactive samples | Custom Pans |
Aluminum has set the standard for most routine thermal analysis tests. When I switched from generic pans to high-purity aluminum models, my DSC baseline noise dropped sharply. I saw faster temperature equilibrium, too. Material quality sets the foundation for reliable results across all types of thermal methods (source).
How Do Dimensions and Volume Affect DSC Measurements?
Many lab errors come from not matching pan size to sample requirements. I learned this after multiple failed runs using the wrong volume pan.
The size, shape, and internal volume of the sample pan directly impact heat flow, sample uniformity, and measurement accuracy in DSC.
| Pan Size | Typical Volume (µL) | Sample Mass (mg) | Key Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | ~40 | 5 – 10 | General DSC analysis |
| Large | ~100 | 10 – 30 | Polymer & drugs |
| Micro | <10 | <2 | High sensitivity |
Choosing the appropriate pan for your instrument—and matching sample amount—protects the consistency of your DSC baseline. I often found that oversized pans caused more baseline drift, while too small pans limited reproducibility. Precise volume selection is critical for accurate thermograms, no matter the sample (source).
What Is the Maximum Temperature Tolerance of Mettler Toledo Sample Pans?
Ignoring temperature limits can ruin samples and damage pans. I always check this before any high-heating run.
Mettler Toledo pans vary in temperature tolerance. Standard aluminum pans can withstand up to 600°C. Platinum variants go much higher, supporting advanced applications.
| Pan Type | Material | Max Temperature (°C) | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | High-Purity Aluminum | 600 | Polymer, food, pharma |
| High Temperature | Platinum | 1,600 | Metals, glass, ceramics |
| PTFE Lined | PTFE + Aluminum | 260 | Reactive & corrosive samples |
I recently worked with a glass transition project that needed to run temperatures near 500°C. Using pans with a higher tolerance kept the results clean and avoided warping. Every model comes with limits. Respecting these specs means safety for your instrument and data (source).
Understanding the Importance of Pin and Lid Features in Sample Pans
Even with the right material and temperature, missing features like lids or pins causes leaks and invalid readings.
Pins and lids in DSC sample pans improve sealing, avoid sample loss, and support volatile or liquid applications. They help maintain an isolated microenvironment for each sample.
| Feature | Purpose | Pan Types | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lid | Seal pan, prevent vapor escape | Standard, High-Pressure, PTFE | No sample loss; enhanced reproducibility |
| Pin | Vent pressure, fix lid to pan | Vented, Press-fit pans | Prevents overpressure damage |
| Crimped Cap | Designed for liquid sealing | Hermetic pans | Best for volatile samples |
I remember a drug stability test where the use of the correct crimped and vented pans prevented data drift caused by sample volatilization. Special features, like pins and lids, make a big difference in both safety and analytical outcomes. Always double-check these options to fit the method's requirements (source).
Contact us to find compatible and custom Mettler Toledo DSC sample pans for your instrument.
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