Thermtest Instruments Guarded Heat Flow Meter (GHFM-01) Model：GHFM-01

The Guarded Heat Flow Meter (GHFM-01) follows ASTM E1530-19 for testing thermal resistance and thermal conductivity of solids, such as metals, polymers, composites and paste from -20 °C to 310 °C. The Thermtest proprietary testing stack, replaces the traditional pneumatic movement with advanced motor control, which allows automated control of testing sample thickness, force or pressure applied.

 

The advanced GHFM-01 is a primary measurement of thermal resistance­—thermal conductivity for solids, such as metals, polymers, composites and paste. Specifically, the calculation of thermal conductivity from measurement of thermal resistance is the most accurate method of testing the true thermal conductivity of heterogeneous materials. The steady-state measurement of thermal resistance represents the full sample thickness and mature heat transfer properties.
According to the method, the sample is subjected to a steady-state through-thickness temperature gradient. The thermal conductivity of the sample is obtained by measuring the temperature difference across it, and one additional temperature.
The testing stack is made up of a heater – upper plate, with integrated temperature sensor and heat sink—lower plate with integrated temperature sensor on each side of the sample. Additional temperature sensors are placed near the top and bottom surface of the sample.
Once steady-state temperature across the sample is achieved, the Fourier law equation can be applied. The ratio RS (m2•K/W), equal to the thickness of the sample, d (m) to its thermal conductivity, λ (W/m•K), can be obtained from the temperatures measured:



The above equation is linear in form, and is the working equation of the instrument. Constants F (m2•K/W) and Rint (m2•K/W), can be obtained by calibration of the instrument. To this effect, calibration samples of known thermal conductivity and hence, thermal resistance, are employed. Calibrated results for thermal resistance and thermal conductivity are reported.

Following international standards, the GHFM-01 is designed for testing both homogeneous and heterogeneous materials.
 

Materials	Metals, Polymers, Composites, and Pastes
Type of Sensors	Thermocouples (x6)
Applications	General Testing
Direction	Through-Thickness
Thermal Conductivity Range	0.1 to 100 W/m•K
Measurement Time	40 to 60 min
Accuracy	± 3%
Repeatability	± 1 to 2%
Plate Temperature Range	-20 to 310 °C
Pressure	Automated up to 7 KPa (55 psi)
Sample Diameter	50 to 50.8 mm
Sample Thickness	Up to 25 mm | Thin-films down to 0.1 mm with optional Software
Standard	ASTM E1530-19

*Above 60 W/m·K, the material should be a minimum of 12.5 mm thick
*Chilled circulator included with each system