The instruments are used to measure VICAT (VST) softening temperature and Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) to international standards. High-temperature-resistant silicone oil is used as the heat transfer medium; an integrated exhaust system draws off oil vapor in a controlled manner and can optionally clean it via a filter.
The optimized oil bath provides better oil distribution and a more precise heating gradient. The heating gradient is checked and documented on every measurement over the 6-minute interval required by the standard. The reduced oil volume also enables faster cooling times, which can be shortened further with optional high-performance cooling. HDT measurement of composites per ISO 75-3, using transverse supports, is made possible for the first time with these instruments.
- VST/HDT Basic 3: manually operated, economical, 3-station base model
- VST/HDT Standard 3 / 6: motorized lifting platform, semi-automatic, 3- or 6-station industrial model
- VST/HDT Semi-Automatic 6: motorized lifting plus gram-precision automatic weight selection and application, 6 stations
- HDT Automat 6: 24/7 uninterrupted operation with automatic sample feeding and continuously variable automatic load application, 6 stations
- Operation via the integrated touch panel or the included Windows software; full raw data export in CSV format
Introduction Video
Model Comparison
| Parameter | Basic 3 | Standard 3 | Standard 6 | Semi-Automatic 6 | Automat 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of stations | 3 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Measuring head operation | Manual | Motorized lifting | Motorized lifting | Motorized lifting | Motorized lifting |
| Weight application | Manual | Motorized (automatic) | Motorized (automatic) | Motorized, gram-precision automatic selection | Continuously variable, fully automatic selection and application |
| Sample feeding | Manual | Manual | Manual | Manual | Automatic (2-finger gripper, up to 120 specimens) |
| Usage profile | Economical, basic laboratory | Compact benchtop, industrial | Compact benchtop, industrial | Daily high-volume use, traceable | 24/7 uninterrupted, high throughput |
| Temperature range | 20 – 300 °C (optional up to 350 °C) | ||||
| Travel resolution | 0,001 mm | ||||
| Oil bath volume | 7 l | 7 l | 11,5 l | 11,5 l | 11,5 l |
| Cooling time (300°C→RT) | ~40 min (optional <15 min fast cooling) | ||||
| Dimensions (HxDxW) | 790x560x800 mm | 790x560x800 mm | 790x560x1040 mm | 810x470x1040 mm | 1000x736x1600 mm |
| Weight | 70 kg | 70 kg | 70 kg | 100 kg | 150 kg |
| Electrical connection | 230 V, 50 Hz, 3200 W | ||||
VST/HDT Basic 3
A simple, economical tester that does not compromise on measurement accuracy. The measuring head is operated manually; the sensors are permanently integrated into the measuring assembly and no longer require manual positioning. HDT measurement of composites per ISO 75-3, using transverse supports, is possible for the first time with this instrument.
VST/HDT Standard 3 / 6
Semi-automatic operation with a motorized measuring-head lifting platform and weight support; designed for industrial use. Available in two versions with 3 (Standard 3) or 6 (Standard 6) measuring stations. Operates with free, intuitive Windows software (LIMS-ready).
VST/HDT Semi-Automatic 6
In addition to the motorized lifting platform, this model includes gram-precision automatic weight selection and support. Only the specimens need to be loaded, so daily measurements can be documented quickly, error-free and with full traceability.
HDT Automat 6 — Fully Automatic System
In addition to automatic sample feeding, this model features a unique, continuously variable automatic load application. Weight is selected and applied automatically according to the method and specimen geometry. In 24/7 uninterrupted operation, the 6 measuring stations can run in parallel with the same or different measurement jobs.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sample feeding (ISO/ASTM) | A two-finger gripper picks up specimens from prepared magazines. Two magazine slots can be equipped for a total of up to 120 specimens (20 automatic measurement runs) for ISO and/or ASTM specimens. Specimens can be added and the test order list updated during automatic operation. |
| Specimen supports (ISO/ASTM) | Since the measuring stations support both ISO and ASTM, automatic switching or mixing between ISO and ASTM jobs is possible within the same measurement run. |
| Tested specimens | After each test run, specimens are ejected into an easily accessible drawer, ensuring clean, residue-free removal of specimens. |
Integrated Color Touch Panel
The measurement can be fully controlled via the integrated touchscreen; a PC is not strictly required. It is also possible to take measurements and manage measurement data using the software supplied as standard with the instrument. In that case, the touch panel serves as a clear device status display, and simple 'continue' commands can be issued via the control button. LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) integration is also possible.
Measuring Head — Compliant with ISO and ASTM Requirements (Including ISO 75-3)
The instruments are equipped with one or two 3-station measuring heads to support 3 or 6 measuring stations. Each measuring station has its own position sensor and temperature sensor. Switching from VICAT to HDT is easily done by changing the measuring tip. Meeting the ISO 75-3 requirement for composite measurement with transverse specimen supports is a feature unique to these instruments.