Technology

Advantages

The development of the modified transient plane source technique by C-Therm (formerly Mathis Instruments) represents a paradigm shift in thermal measurement. The technology is capable of rapidly testing a wide range of materials in measuring thermal conductivity and effusivity.

Based on the broad application of this innovative technology’s rapid, non-destructive nature, it was recognized as one of R&D Magazine’s Top 100 innovations worldwide – an award it shares with the likes of anti-lock brakes, automated teller machines (ATMs), and Polaroid film. To see other awards and distinctions of C-Therm Technologies (formerly Mathis Instruments), our people and our technology, click here.

The Key Advantages of C-Therm’s Sensor Technology:

Rapid Testing

A key distinction of C-Therm sensors is the speed with which they can test all types of materials, including solids, powders and liquids. Complete testing requires only 0.8 to 5 seconds – a fraction of the duration needed by some traditional methods.

The nature of C-Therm technology also eliminates meticulous, time-consuming sample preparation. In addition, by varing the test time, materials can be evaluated at their surface or to a range of depths.

Flexible Sample Size

With virtually no restrictions on sample size, C-Therm sensor technology allows thermal testing of materials not previously possible. The external sensor can obtain accurate readings from samples as small as 17 mm diameter, with a minimum thickness of 0.5 mm. The maximum sample size and thickness is unlimited.

The patented sensors need to come in contact with only one side of the sample, and have the added capability of “seeing through” layers into the actual sample. For example, liquid samples can be tested in plastic bags, without the thermal value of the bag skewing the results.

Sample sizes can range from a minimum of 5 x 25 mm (0.25" x 1.0") to an unlimited maximum size. This flexibility allows materials previously inaccessible to thermal testing to be accurately measured and evaluated.
 
 

 Non-Destructive Testing

Unlike other test methods, the non-invasive nature of C-Therm sensors does not physically alter or affect the sample being tested, reducing possible contamination. Less than 5°C of heat is introduced to the sample by the interfacial sensor, which must only come in contact with one side of the material. As a result, samples remain intact, undisturbed, and reusable.

This key advantage has generated broad interest and application of the technology in manufacturing sectors, allowing quality control testing of finished or in-process goods without damaging or disassembling them.