Thermal Testing Methods

Thermal testing is an important part of qualification and characterization programs for virtually all heat-sensitive products and materials. Whether preparing components for thermal extremes or developing heat-resistant materials, we make certain that your products can function in any thermal environment.

For products and materials that operate in non-ambient temperatures, thermal testing provides data about safe operating limits, material characteristics, useful lifespan, and more.

Our thermal testing capabilities

We combine high temperatures with mechanical testing, environmental simulation, analytical methods, and more to provide comprehensive testing programs for clients in aerospace, transportation, oil and gas, defense, and more.

Woman in testing laboratory

Why choose Element?

As a single-source provider for materials and product testing, we understand the need for accurate thermal testing that is completed on time and within budget. With a global platform of labs and resources, we have the expertise and the availability to deliver results that ensure material performance and product safety, with a project management focus that helps you stay on time and on budget.

For more information about our thermal testing capabilities, contact an expert today.

Thermal Testing methods

Combined Environmental Simulation

Combined Environmental Simulation pairs thermal testing with other environmental methods to create robust testing protocols that combine multiple requirements into a single project.

Our experts work with you to choose a test method that will provide the best option to suit your product.

Some of the methods that can be performed in conjunction with thermal testing include:

thermal testing methods

Elevated Temperature Mechanical Testing

Elevated Temperature Mechanical Testing uses elevated and sub-ambient temperatures to test a material’s strength, flexibility and physical properties predict its reaction to varying environments.

Some of our thermal test methods include:

Chapry/Izod impact testing from -320 - 1700°F (-196 - 926°C)
Tensile testing up to 2000°F (1093°C)
Thermomechanical Fatigue up to 2000°F
Bend testing from -120 - 300° F (-84 - 149°C)
Flexural strength testing form -200 - 300°F (-129 - 149°C)
Shear testing from -94 - 338°F (-70 - 170°C)

Thermal testing methods

Thermal Analysis Methods

Thermal Analysis tests materials for important heat-dependent characteristics, including glass transition temperatures, phase transitions, and crystallinity. It also aids in the research, development and materials characterization projects for polymers, composites, and other non-metal materials.

Some of our most common thermal analysis methods include:

Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC)

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA)

Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)

thermal testing methods

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) services analyze the strength of complex structures and systems to provide an accurate prediction of how a material, component or structure is likely to respond when subjected to structural and/or thermal loads.

Element can support you with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) services, during pre-qualification and conceptual design. Our services are further complemented by a wide range of material testing and product qualification testing capabilities. Our analysis team work closely with our physical testing department to suggest solutions to client test failures, and the validation of simulation with physical testing.

thermal testing methods

Thermal Shock Testing

Thermal shock testing subjects products to temperature extremes to evaluate how they perform in environments with a wide range of operating temperatures.

Element provides thermal shock testing to a variety of standards, including MIL-STD-810, EN 60068, GR-63-CORE, and RTCA DO-160.

Our thermal shock capabilities include:

Temperature range: -70°C to 200°C
Chamber size: Up to 12’ x 8’ x 8’
Automatic and manual cycles
Simultaneous humidity testing

thermal testing methods

Thermal Vacuum Testing

Thermal vacuum testing is a critical piece of product qualification for space flight components. By eliminating air and pressure, and mimics the environment of space, and make test conditions as realistic as possible.

With the ability to reach extremely high temperatures and pressures, thermal vacuum testing is also used to evaluate sealing components and perform High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) programs across many industries.

Our thermal vacuum testing capabilities include:

Interior Dimensions: 28.5” W x 24.5” H x 26” D
Temperature Range: Cryogenic to 180º C
Heating ramp rate: 7° C / minute
Cooling ramp rate: 5.1° C / minute
Vacuum Range: 1 x 10-6 @ 150ºC or better

Ready to request a quote?

Our deliverable is certainty - high quality data, test reports and certificates that you can absolutely rely on when making decisions about your materials and compliance. Engage with an expert today.

Start the conversation

Making Certain for nearly 190 years

5 Considerations for ASTM D3039

Before embarking on a testing program using the ASTM D3039 testing standard, there are a few considerations to make, including the type of material, panel thickness, specimen machining and tabbing, and proper test controls.

Climatics and Environmental Simulation

Element can provide you with critically important data on your product or part's performance in response to typical or extreme environmental conditions.

Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) Test

Element helps you provide greater product reliability in less time with accredited Environmental Stress Screening ESS test programs.

Thermal Analysis Services

Element provides thermal analysis methods for determining important material characteristics, including DSC, TMA, DMA, and more.

More details

Other Product Qualification Testing Services

Accelerated Aging Accelerated Weathering Testing Acceleration Testing Advisory Services Aircraft Ditching Testing Altitude Testing and Simulation Bespoke Fire Testing Bird Strike Testing Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device Component High Cycle Fatigue Testing Cone Calorimetry Doors and Windows Testing Dynamics Testing Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing Electronics Test Methods Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) Test Environmental Testing Explosive Atmosphere Testing and Certification External Cladding Fire Resistance Flame Fire and Flammability Testing Fluid Susceptibility Testing

Fuel System Testing Hail Impact Testing HALT Testing and HASS Testing Hardware Testing High Cycle Fatigue Testing High Level Acoustic Noise Testing Highly Accelerated Stress Testing Hose Testing Humidity Testing Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Battery Testing Ingress Protection Testing International Certifications and Approvals Liquids and Fuels Testing Low Lubricity Aircraft Fuel Testing Marine Fire Testing MIL-STD-810 Testing Plastic Pipes Testing Pneumatics Testing Pressure Testing Product Assessment Reports Product Certification Services Product Compliance Services

Product Safety Testing Radiant Panel Testing Rail Fire Testing Reaction to Fire RTCA DO-160 Testing Salt Fog and Salt Spray Testing Sand and Dust Testing Seismic Testing Shock Testing Space Simulation Spin Testing Steiner Tunnel Testing Structures Testing Temperature and Thermal Testing Thermal Vacuum Testing Towing Trailer and Hitch Product Testing Vibration Testing VOC and SVOC Testing Water Mist Systems Wireless Radio Testing Zigbee Certification Services

Our team of over 9,000 Engaged Experts in North America, Europe, The Middle East, Australia, Asia and Africa are ready to help you.

Make an inquiry today

Thermal Testing Methods

Ask a Question or Request a Quote

Talk to an expert today

Our thermal testing capabilities

Why choose Element?

Combined Environmental Simulation

Elevated Temperature Mechanical Testing

Thermal Analysis Methods

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Thermal Shock Testing