Laboratory

In our well organised laboratory we have many possibilities to test our products mechanically and thermally. All compound products are tested in the laboratory, also the Non Free Flow (NFF) from a Free Flow (FF) or extrusion grade (E). Every production order is tested separately. The customer will get a Quality Report even when it is a sample of 500 grams, of every product to be despatch to the customer. Lubricants are tested daily and every packed order is tested separately. In house laboratory equipment U.P.M. Kunststoffen B.V.: Laboratory presses All billets are pressed according to ASTM 1475. The filler used defines the preform pressure. Ram extruder Laboratory ovens All compounds are sintered according to an established cycle, only a few compounds need a different cycle. Specific Gravity Normally the specific density is established through measuring the mass, diameter and the height of a test billet. There is also a possibility to measure specific gravity according to the Archimedean principle: a solid body immersed in a liquid loses as much of its own weight as the weight of the liquid it had displaced. Mould shrinkage Harness – Shore D Elongation and strength All billets are tested according to ASTM 1457 except for using gauge length 12. Flow The flow is defined by measuring the time required for a standard quantity of material to flow through a funnel of specified dimensions. Bulk Density The bulk density form every Free Flow and Extrusion grade compound is measured and also some lubricants. Sieve analyses This test is used for different types of lubricants and some Free Flow compounds. There is a large diversity of sieve width which can be used. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) From all lubricants melting point and enthalpy are established. DSC is a well used instrument for research activities. Thermogravimetry (TGA) A research instrument used for example determination of percentage of filler. Microscopes There is a possibility to make digital images. Wet laser diffraction Dry laser diffraction U.P.M. newest investment with incredible possibilities and accuracy. Hageman gauge Deformation Own developed method by U.P.M. to compare products. Wear and friction Own developed method by U.P.M. to compare products.