DMA Brochure 1 - TA Instruments

COMPRESSIONIn this mode, the sample is placed on a fixed flat surface and force is appliedby an oscillating upper plate. Compression is suitable for low to moderatemodulus materials (e.g., foams, elastomers), provided the material has someelasticity. With minor changes this mode can be used to make measurements ofexpansion or penetration using a static force.Two clamp sizes are available:Compression (small)Compression (large)15mm diameter up to 10mm thick40mm diameter up to 10mm thickFilmsTENSIONIn this mode, the sample is placed in tensionbetween a fixed and moveable clamp. In oscillationexperiments, a small static force is applied in orderto prevent buckling. The clamps feature verysimple mounting and because the drive shaft doesnot rotate, no twist is induced in the sample thatcan lead to inaccurate data.Two clamps are available:FibersTension (film)Tension (fiber)5 to 30mm (L); up to 8mm (W) and 2mm (T)5 to 30mm (L); 5 denier (0.57 tex) to 0.8mm diam.single fibers or fiber bundlesSUBMERSIBLE CLAMPSBoth film tension and compression clamps areavailable in submersible configurations. Theseclamps allow samples to be analyzed in a fluidenvironment up to 80˚C.