Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer Operator's Manual: Thermal Analysis & Rheology AS W C

109 Lukens Drive New Castle, DE 19720
Thermal Analysis & Rheology

A SUBSIDIARY OF W ATERS CORPORATION
DMA 2980
Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer
Operator’s Manual
PN 984004.001 Rev. G (Text and Binder)

PN 984004.002 Rev. G (Text Only)
Issued July 2000
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 I
© 1996 - 2000 by TA Instruments, Inc.
109 Lukens Drive
New Castle, DE 19720
Notice
The material contained in this manual is be-

lieved adequate for the intended use of this
instrument. If the instrument or procedures are
used for purposes other than those specified
herein, confirmation of their validity and
suitability must be obtained from TA Instru-
ments, Inc. Otherwise, TA Instruments does not
guarantee results and assumes no obligation or
liability. This publication is not a license to
operate under nor a recommendation to infringe
upon any process patents.
TA Instruments TA Operating Software and

Instrument, Data Analysis, and Utility Software
and their associated manuals are proprietary and
copyrighted by TA Instruments, Inc. Purchasers
are granted a license to use these software
programs on the instrument and controller with
which they were purchased. These programs
may not be duplicated by the purchaser without
the prior written consent of TA Instruments.
Each licensed program shall remain the exclu-
sive property of TA Instruments, and no rights
or licenses are granted to the purchaser other
than as specified.
II TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Table of Contents
Table of Contents .......................................... iii
Notes, Cautions,
and Warnings .............................................. xvi
Safety ......................................................... xvii
CE Compliance ................................... xvii

Instrument Symbols ............................ xviii
Electrical Safety ................................... xix
Thermal Safety ..................................... xix
Handling Liquid Nitrogen ..................... xx
Air Pressure Warning .......................... xxii
DMA Submersion
Clamps Warning ................................. xxiii
Lifting the Instrument ........................ xxiv
Sample Decomposition ...................... xxiv
Using This Manual ................................... xxv
Chapter 1:
Introducing the DMA 2980 ...................... 1-1
Introduction................................................. 1-3
Components .......................................... 1-3
The DMA Instrument .................................. 1-6
DMA 2980 Display .............................. 1-7
DMA 2980 Keypad .............................. 1-8

HEATER Switch .......................... 1-12
POWER Switch ........................... 1-12
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 III

Accessories ............................................... 1-13
Standard Accessories .......................... 1-13

Clamps ......................................... 1-13
Optional Accessories .......................... 1-15

Air Compressor............................ 1-15
Accessory (ACA) ........................ 1-15
Optional Clamps .......................... 1-17
Specifications............................................ 1-18
DMA 2980 Output Values ........................ 1-21
Chapter 2:
Installing the DMA 2980 .......................... 2-1
Installing the Instrument ............................. 2-3
Choosing a Location ............................ 2-4
Unpacking/Repacking
the DMA ..................................................... 2-6
Inspecting the System........................... 2-6
Unpacking the DMA ............................ 2-7
Connecting Cables
and Gas Lines ........................................... 2-10
GPIB Cable ........................................ 2-10
Air Filter Regulator

Assembly ............................................ 2-13
Air Cool Line ..................................... 2-19
IV TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Power Cable ....................................... 2-22
Starting the DMA ..................................... 2-23
Shutting Down the DMA .......................... 2-24
Removing the Shipping Material .............. 2-25
Repacking the DMA ................................. 2-28
Installing the Single/Dual

Cantilever Clamp ...................................... 2-29
Removing the Single/Dual

Chapter 3:
Calibrating the DMA 2980 ....................... 3-1
Introduction................................................. 3-3
Determining When to Calibrate ........... 3-4
Clamp Calibration ....................................... 3-6
Clamp Mass
Calibration (Step 1) .............................. 3-7
Clamp Zero Calibration (Step 2) .......... 3-7
Compliance Calibration (Step 3) .......... 3-8
Position Calibration .................................... 3-9
Clamp Check ........................................ 3-9
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 V

Instrument Calibrations ............................ 3-11
Electronics Calibration ....................... 3-11
Force Calibration
(Balance and Weight) ......................... 3-14
Dynamic Calibration .......................... 3-14
Temperature Transition ............................. 3-16
Step-and-Hold Test ............................. 3-17
Temperature Ramp Test ..................... 3-18
Testing Considerations ....................... 3-19
DMA Temperature Calibration ................. 3-21
Performing
Temperature Calibration .................... 3-22
Dynamic Temperature
Calibration Procedure ........................ 3-23
Chapter 4:
Running an Experiment ........................... 4-1
Introduction................................................. 4-5
Choosing a Clamp Set ................................ 4-6
Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps ............ 4-8
Aligning the
Thermocouples ......................................... 4-10
Selecting the
Operating Mode ........................................ 4-12
VI TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980
DMA Multifrequency Mode ..................... 4-14
Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-14

Data Sampling Interval ................ 4-15
Oscillation Amplitude .................. 4-16
Creating Frequency Tables .......... 4-18
Creating a DMA
Multifrequency Method ..................... 4-21
DMA Multistrain Mode ............................ 4-23

Frequency .................................... 4-24
Creating Amplitude Tables .......... 4-24
Creating a DMA
Multistrain Method ............................ 4-26
DMA Creep Mode .................................... 4-28

Static Force (Preload Force)
(For Tensioning Clamps Only) .... 4-29
Stress ............................................ 4-30
Equilibrium Criteria..................... 4-31
Creating a DMA
Creep Method ..................................... 4-31
DMA Stress Relaxation Mode .................. 4-33

Strain % ....................................... 4-35
Equilibrium Criteria..................... 4-36
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 VII
Creating a DMA
Stress Relaxation Method .................. 4-37
DMA Isostrain Mode ................................ 4-39

Static Force (Preload Force) ........ 4-41
Strain % ....................................... 4-41
Creating an Isostrain Method ............. 4-42
DMA Controlled Force Mode................... 4-44

Creating a DMA
Controlled Force Method ................... 4-46
Temperature-Based
Experiments ................................. 4-46
Time-Based Experiments
(Manual Creep Measurements) ... 4-47
Force Ramp Experiments ............ 4-48
Preparing and Mounting Samples ............. 4-49
Single/Dual Cantilever Clamp ........... 4-49
Sample Preparation ............................ 4-49
Operating Range for

Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps .......... 4-51
Use of Operating
Range Figures .............................. 4-53
VIII TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Single/Dual Cantilever Clamp
Sample Mounting ............................... 4-55
Mounting a Stiff Sample .............. 4-55
Mounting Weak Materials,
Including Resins or Other
Materials, on the
Fiberglass Braid ........................... 4-57
Measuring
Sample Length ................................... 4-58
Using the Telescoping Gauge ...... 4-59
Performing Experiments ........................... 4-61
Starting an Experiment ....................... 4-63
Stopping an Experiment ..................... 4-64
Removing Samples ............................. 4-65
Removing the Clamp .......................... 4-65
Chapter 5: Using Your Options .............. 5-1
Introduction................................................. 5-5
Tensioning/Nontensioning
Clamps ........................................................ 5-6
Static Force (Preload Force) ................ 5-8
Constant Force ..................................... 5-9
Autostrain (Force Track) ...................... 5-9
3-Point Bending Clamps ........................... 5-11
Installing the Large Clamps ............... 5-14
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 IX

Installing the Small Clamps ............... 5-16
3-Point Bending
Operating Range of the

3-Point Bending Clamps .................... 5-19
Mounting a Sample on the 3-Point

Bending Clamps ................................. 5-21
Running an Experiment...................... 5-22

Heat Deflection Temperature....... 5-24
Shear Sandwich Clamp ............................. 5-27
Installing the Clamp ........................... 5-29

Shear Sandwich Clamp ...................... 5-31
Mounting a Solid Sample ................... 5-33
Mounting a Liquid
or Gel Sample ..................................... 5-34
Compression Clamp.................................. 5-39

Aligning the Clamp...................... 5-42
X TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980
Operating Range of
the Compression Clamp ..................... 5-45
Mounting a Sample ............................ 5-47
Running an Experiment ...................... 5-48
Penetration Clamp .................................... 5-52
Film Tension Clamp.................................. 5-59
Operating Range
of the Tension Clamps ........................ 5-62
Removing a Sample ........................... 5-69
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XI

Fiber Tension Clamp ................................. 5-70

Large Diameter
(High Denier) Monofilaments ..... 5-73
Small Diameter Filaments
and Fiber Bundles ........................ 5-74
Submersion Film/Fiber Clamp ................. 5-79
Installing and Calibrating

the Clamp ........................................... 5-81
Operating Range of the Submersion

Tension Film/Fiber Clamp ................. 5-88
Removing a Sample and Clamp ......... 5-94
Submersion Compression Clamp.............. 5-96

Compression Clamp ......................... 5-103
Mounting a Sample .......................... 5-105
XII TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Running an Experiment .................... 5-106
Removing a Sample and Clamp ....... 5-109
Chapter 6: Technical Reference .............. 6-1
Introduction................................................. 6-3
Theory of Operation ................................... 6-4
Comparison to
Other Techniques ................................. 6-4
Defining Viscoelasticity ............................. 6-5
Solids .................................................... 6-5
Liquids .................................................. 6-7
Viscoelastic Behavior........................... 6-9
Modes of Operation .................................. 6-11
Dynamic Mechanical
Analysis Testing ................................. 6-11
Creep (or Step Stress) Testing

(Transient Experiment) ...................... 6-15
Stress Relaxation (or Step Strain)

Testing (Transient Experiment) .......... 6-16
Sample Stiffness and

Modulus Calculations ............................... 6-18
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XIII

Dynamic Measurements ..................... 6-18
Transient Measurements .................... 6-19
Calculations Based
on Clamp Type .......................................... 6-20
Dual Cantilever .................................. 6-21

Modulus Equation ....................... 6-21
Stress and Strain .......................... 6-24
Single Cantilever ................................ 6-25

3-Point Bending ................................. 6-27

Shear Sandwich .................................. 6-29

Compression ....................................... 6-31

Tension: Film and Fiber ..................... 6-34

Clamping Factors
(Compression Clamps Only) .................... 6-36
XIV TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Chapter 7:
Maintenance & Diagnostics ..................... 7-1
Introduction................................................. 7-3
Inspection .................................................... 7-3
Cleaning ...................................................... 7-4
Cleaning the Keypad ............................ 7-4
Cleaning the Clamps ............................ 7-4
Maintaining the Air Filter Regulator .......... 7-6
Changing a Filter .................................. 7-7
Error Messages ........................................... 7-9
Diagnosing Power Problems..................... 7-10
Fuses ................................................... 7-10

Furnace Power Check .................. 7-11
Heater Indicator Light ........................ 7-12
Power Failures .................................... 7-13
DMA 2980 Test Functions ........................ 7-14
The Confidence Test .......................... 7-15
Parts List ................................................... 7-17
Appendix A ............................................... A-1
Index............................................................ I-1
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XV
Notes, Cautions,
and Warnings
This manual uses NOTES, CAUTIONS, and

WARNINGS to emphasize important and
critical instructions under the guidelines de-
scribed below:
NOTE: Highlights important information about equipment

or procedures.
t CAUTION: Emphasizes a procedure that may damage

equipment or cause loss of data if not followed
correctly.
Marks a procedure that may be hazardous

!WARNING to the operator or to the environment if not
followed correctly.
XVI TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Safety
This equipment has been designed to comply
with the following standards on safety:
IEC 1010-1/1990 and A1/1992 and A2/1995

IEC 1010-2-010/1992 and A1/1996
EN 61010-1/1993 and A2/1995
EN 61010-2-010/1994
UL 3101-1, First Edition.
CE Compliance
In order to comply with the Electromagnetic
Compatibility standards of the European Coun-
cil Directive 89/336/EEC (EMC Directive) and
Directive 73/23/EEC on safety as amended by
93/68/EEC, the following specifications apply to
the DMA 2980 instrument:
Safety:
EN 60110-1/1993 and A2/1995 Installation
Category II
EN 61010-2-010/1994
Emissions:
EN 55022: 1995, CISPR 22:1993
Class B (30-1000 MHz) Radiated
EN 55022: 1995, CISPR 22:1993
Class B (0.15-30 MHz) Conducted
Immunity:
EN 50082-1: 1992, Electromagnetic
CompatibilityGeneric immunity standard
Part 1. Residential, commercial, and light
industry.
IEC 801-2: 1991, 8 kV air discharge,
direct. No change of state.
IEC 801-3: 1984, 27-500MHz, 3V/m.
No response above 0.5°C temperature.
IEC 801-4: 1988 Fast transients com-
mon mode 1kV AC power. No change
of state.
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XVII
Instrument Symbols
The following labels are displayed on the DMA
2980 instrument for your protection:
Symbol Explanation
Indicates the presence of

one or more of the
following: hazardous
voltage or moving parts.
Indicates that a hot

surface may be present.
Take care not to touch
this area or allow any
material that may melt or
burn come in contact with
this hot surface.
Please heed these labels and take the necessary

precautions when dealing with those parts of the
instrument. The DMA 2980 Operator's Manual
contains cautions and warnings that must be
followed for your own safety.
XVIII TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Electrical Safety
Voltages exceeding 110 Vac are present in this
system. Always unplug the instrument before
performing any maintenance.
Because of the high voltages in this instru-

!WARNING ment, untrained personnel must not remove
the cabinet cover. Maintenance and repair
of internal parts must be performed by TA
Instruments, Inc. or other qualified service
personnel only.
After transport or storage in humid condi-

!WARNING tions, this equipment could fail to meet all
the safety requirements of the safety
standards indicated. Refer to the NOTE on
page 2-5 for the method used to dry out the
equipment before use.
Thermal Safety
During an experiment, the furnace, sample, and
clamp can become very hot or very cold to the
touch.
Allow the clamp to return to room tempera-

!WARNING ture before touching the clamp. Take the
proper precautions when removing a hot
sample or retorquing a sample.
Do not use your hands to manually move the

!WARNING furnace and do not put your hands up inside
the furnace. It may be hot enough to cause
burns.
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XIX

Handling Liquid Nitrogen
The DMA 2980 uses liquid nitrogen, as a source
of cold gas, in the Gas Cooling Accessory
(GCA). Because of its low temperature
(-196°C), liquid nitrogen will burn the skin. Use
extreme caution when working with liquid
nitrogen and other cryogenic materials to ensure
that you do not burn yourself.
Personnel working with liquid nitrogen should

take the following precautions.
Liquid nitrogen evaporates rapidly at room

!WARNING temperature. Be certain that areas where
liquid nitrogen is used are well ventilated to
prevent depletion of oxygen in the air.
1. Wear goggles or a face shield, gloves that

are large enough to be removed easily, and a
rubber apron. For extra protection, wear
high-topped, sturdy shoes, and leave your
pant legs outside the shoe tops.
2. Transfer the liquid slowly to prevent thermal

shock.
3. Use containers having adequate low-

temperature properties. Ensure that closed
containers have vents to prevent pressure
buildup; liquid nitrogen evaporates rapidly
at room temperature.
4. The purity of liquid nitrogen alters as it

evaporates. If much of the liquid in the
container has evaporated, check the remain-
ing liquid before using it for any purpose in
which high oxygen content is dangerous.
XX TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

WARNING
Potential Asphyxiant
Liquid nitrogen can cause rapid suffocation without

warning.
Store and use in an area with adequate ventilation.
Do not vent GCA container in confined spaces.
Do not enter confined spaces where nitrogen gas

may be present unless the area is well ventilated.
The warning above applies to the use of liquid nitrogen. Oxygen

depletion sensors are sometimes utilized where liquid nitrogen is
in use. Please refer to the TA Instruments Gas Cooling Acces-
sory manual for more detailed instructions regarding the use of
the GCA.
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XXI

IF BURNED BY LIQUID NITROGEN...
1. Flood the area (skin or eyes) with large

quantities of cool water IMMEDIATELY;
then apply cold compresses.
2. See a doctor IMMEDIATELY if the skin is

blistered or if there is a chance of eye
infection.
Air Pressure Warning

The compressed air required to operate the
!WARNING instrument, which is either a house air
supply or supplied by the Air Compressor
Accessory (ACA), is at high pressures. This
high pressure can be dangerous to both
personnel and equipment if not handled
properly.
• If you are installing the DMA 2980

without the ACA, the tubing leading to
the air filter regulator must have a
pressure rating adequate to handle the
source pressure. The pressure going to
the air filter regulator must not exceed
150 psi (1000 kPa).
• If you are installing the DMA 2980 with

the ACA, the tubing supplied by TA
Instruments with the accessory must be
used to connect it to the air filter reg-
ulator. The ACA has a pressure relief
valve limiting the pressure supplied by
the ACA to 70 psi (500 kPa) maximum.
The tubing supplied with the DMA must be

used to connect the instrument to the air
filter regulator. Set the pressure on the air
filter regulator to 60 to 65 psi (420 to
455 kPa).
XXII TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980
DMA Submersion
Clamps Warning
Two DMA clamps are available for evaluation
of material viscoelastic properties while the
material is submerged in an ambient (room ~
23°C) temperature fluid. These clamps (com-
pression clamp PN 984448.901 and film/fiber
clamp PN 984449.901) have been designed to
prevent the DMA furnace from closing around
them and heating the submersion fluid.
Do not attempt to close the DMA furnace

!WARNING with these clamps mounted on the instru-
ment. Damage to the furnace, clamps, and/
or air bearing drive system could result.
In addition, flammable or volatile fluids

should not be used as the submersion fluid,
nor should an external source of heating be
used to elevate the temperature of the
submersion fluid during measurement, since
these conditions could result in an unsafe
situation.
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XXIII

Lifting the Instrument
The DMA 2980 is a fairly heavy instrument. In
order to avoid injury, particularly to the back,
please follow this advice:
Close the furnace before moving the instru-

!WARNING ment, even for a short distance. Use two
people to lift and/or carry the instrument.
The instrument is too heavy for one person
to handle safely.
Sample Decomposition
The DMA 2980 is capable of heating samples to
600°C. Many materials may decompose during
the heating, which can generate hazardous
byproducts.
If you are using samples that may emit

!WARNING harmful gases, vent the gases by placing the
instrument near an exhaust.
Samples should not be heated above their

decomposition temperatures to prevent the
relase of hazardous materials or contamination
of the DMA 2980.
We recommend that you measure the decompo-

sition temperatures to determine the potential for
problems by heating the sample materials in a
thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) or similar
instrument, before running the sample on the
DMA.
XXIV TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Using This Manual
CHAPTER 1 Introduces the DMA 2980
and lists its specifications.
CHAPTER 2 Describes how to install

and assemble your DMA
2980.
CHAPTER 3 Provides the basic proce-

dures used to calibrate the
instrument.
CHAPTER 4 Explains the steps needed

to run experiments on the
DMA 2980.
CHAPTER 5 Describes the installation,

removal, and use of the
optional clamps.
CHAPTER 6 Explains the technical

aspects of the DMA and
its theory of operation.
CHAPTER 7 Provides maintenance and

diagnostic procedures.
Appendix A Lists TA Instruments

offices that you can
contact to place orders,
receive technical assis-
tance, and request service.
Index Contains an alphabetical

list of topics and page
number references.
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 XXV

XXVI TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980
Chapter 1:
Introducing the DMA 2980
Introduction ................................................. 1-3
Components .......................................... 1-3
The DMA Instrument ................................. 1-6
DMA 2980 Display ............................... 1-7
DMA 2980 Keypad .............................. 1-8

HEATER Switch .......................... 1-12
POWER Switch ........................... 1-12
Accessories ............................................... 1-13
Standard Accessories ......................... 1-13

Clamps ......................................... 1-13
Optional Accessories .......................... 1-15

Air Compressor ............................ 1-15
Accessory (ACA) ....................... 1-15
Optional Clamps ........................... 1-17
Specifications ............................................ 1-18
DMA 2980 Output Values ......................... 1-21
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 1–1

Introduction
1–2 TA I NSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Introduction
Introduction
The TA Instruments Dynamic Mechanical
Analyzer (DMA) 2980 is an analytical instru-
ment used to test the physical properties of many
different materials. The sample is mounted on a
clamp and then subjected to changes in stress/
strain while undergoing a change in temperature.
The DMA measures the modulus (stiffness) and
damping (energy dissipation) of the sample.
The DMA 2980 works in conjunction with a TA

Instruments controller and associated software
to make up a thermal analysis system.
Your controller is a computer that performs the

following functions:
Provides an interface between you and the

analysis instruments
Enables you to set up experiments and
enter constants
Stores experimental data from the
instrument
Runs data analysis programs.
Components
Your instrument consists of two major parts, the
DMA cabinet and the DMA assembly (see
Figure 1.1 on the next page). The following
components make up the DMA assembly:
The mechanical section enclosure

surrounds the air bearings, optical encoder,
drive motor, and the associated electronics.

Introduction
The clamp assembly (called the clamp) is

interchangeable for making mechanical
measurements in a variety of deformation
modes to accommodate a wide array of
sample shapes and materials.
The furnace assembly surrounds the clamp

assembly to heat and cool the sample. The
furnace temperature is monitored by the
control thermocouple.
The CHROMEL®*/ALUMEL®* sample

thermocouple senses the temperature of
the sample and relays the reading to the
instrument.
Furnace
Assembly
Instrument Instrument
Clamp Display Keypad
Assembly
Sample
Thermocouple
Mechanical Cabinet
Section
Enclosure
Figure 1.1
The DMA 2980
Instrument
* CHROMEL® and ALUMEL® are registered trademarks
of the Hoskins Manufacturing Company.

Introduction
The DMA cabinet houses the electronics,

valves, etc.
The keypad allows you to control and

monitor some of the DMA functions from
the instrument.
The display is used to monitor the

instrument state and the operating
parameters.

Introduction
The DMA Instrument

The DMA 2980 instrument contains the elec-
tronics and software needed to perform experi-
ments and store the results. The battery backed-
up memory in the cabinet saves parameters vital
to system operations if power is interrupted.
Also contained in the cabinet is a GPIB interface
for communication with the controller and a
serial port to communicate with the GCA.
You can set up, start, stop, and reject the

experiment using the keypad on the cabinet or
the Instrument Control software. The display
provides valuable realtime information on the
experiment in progress.
The DMA was developed by TA Instruments

with the following features:
operates over a temperature range of

-145oC to 600oC, using heating rates up to
50oC/min.
determines changes in sample properties

resulting from changes in five experimental
variables: temperature, time, frequency,
force, and strain.
uses samples that can be in bulk solid, film,

fiber, gel, or viscous liquid form.
employs interchangeable clamps allowing

you to measure many properties, including:
modulus, damping, creep, stress relaxation,
glass transitions, and softening points.

The 2980 Instrument
DMA 2980 Display

The front of the cabinet contains the keypad,
used to control the mechanical movements of the
instrument, and the display, used to observe the
status of the instrument.
Instrument Status
Realtime Signal Sample Temperature
Standby 23.25°C
DimChg 0.135µm
▲ ▲
ZERO FLOAT CLAMP FURNACE
MEASURE
CLAMP LOCK ▼ ▼
DMA 2980 Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer
Figure 1.2
DMA 2980
Keypad and Display
The DMA display is the lighted area of the

keypad unit (see Figure 1.2). It contains two
rows of 20 characters each.
During normal operation, the display is divided

into three areas:
Instrument status displaythe eight-

character line on the top left
Sample temperature displaythe nine

characters on the top right
Realtime signal displaythe whole bottom

line.

Introduction
DMA 2980 Keypad

The instrument keypad (see Figure 1.2) contains
the keys found in Table 1.1 and the HEATER
and POWER switches.
NOTE: Experiment and instrument parameters are

entered from the controller keyboard, not the
instrument keypad. See the Thermal Solutions
User Reference Guide.
Table 1.1
DMA 2980
Keypad Functions
Key/Function Explanation
SCROLL Scrolls the realtime signals

shown on the bottom line
of the display.
ZERO Performs a clamp zero

CLAMP calibration for the tension,
compression, and penetra-
tion clamps. (See Chapter
3 for more information.)
MEASURE Used for multiple func-

tions depending upon the
instrument mode and the
clamp type selected. This
key opens the air-bearing
gas valve, measures the
sample length or thickness
(where appropriate) using
the selected initial force,
and turns the motor drive
on according to the
instrument mode and
conditions.
(table continued)

The 2980 Instrument
Table 1.1
DMA 2980 Keypad
Functions
(continued)
Key/Function Explanation
▲ Used to raise and lower

CLAMP the moveable clamp by
▼ applying the initial force.
If zero initial force is
selected, then 0.05 N is
used.
The direction of the clamp

motion changes each time
the key is pushed. You
can stop the clamp motion
by pressing the STOP key
or the FLOAT/LOCK
key.
FLOAT Toggles between floating

and locking the moveable
LOCK clamp. Floatturns on
the air-bearing gas and
applies zero force.
Lockturns off the air-
bearing gas, locking the
clamp in its current
position.
If the motor drive is

inactive, then this key
does a float.
If the motor drive is

active, then this key does
a lock.
(table continued)

Introduction
Table 1.1 Key/Function Explanation

DMA 2980 Keypad
Functions ▲ Raises or lowers the
(continued) FURNACE furnace. Press this key
▼ a second time to stop the
furnace movement.
Press the key twice, while
the furnace is moving, to
halt and reverse the
movement.
This key can be used

while a method is running
to open the furnace and
adjust the sample clamp-
ing. The method will
continue running, although
the heater and GCA will
be inactive while the
furnace is open.
START Initiates the experiment

after checking the pro-
gram method against the
mode type. This is the
same function as Start on
the Instrument Control
software.
STOP If an experiment is
running, this key ends the
method normally, as
though it had run to
completion; i.e., the
method-end conditions go
into effect and the data
that has been generated is
saved. This is the same
function as Stop on the
Instrument Control
software.
(table continued)

The 2980 Instrument
Table 1.1
DMA 2980 Keypad
Functions Key/Function Explanation
(continued)
STOP If an experiment is not
running (the instrument is
in a standby or method-
end state), the STOP key
halts any activity (air cool,
all mechanical motion,
etc.).
The STOP key can also

be used to stop the drive
and lock the slide.
REJECT If an experiment is
running, SCROLL-STOP
ends the method normal-
(Hold down ly, as though it had run to
SCROLL and completion; i.e., the
press STOP) method-end conditions go
into effect and the data
that has been generated is
discarded. This is the
same function as Reject
on the controller.
NOTE: SCROLL operates normally

(scrolls the text) until the
STOP key is pressed. Then
the display returns to the
signal that was displayed
before SCROLL was pressed.
If an experiment is not
running, SCROLL-STOP
halts any activity as
described for STOP.

Introduction
HEATER Switch
The HEATER on/off switch turns the power to
the instrument heater on and off (see Figure
1.2). The switch should be in the ON position
before you start an experiment. If the HEATER
switch is off, the method will not start.
NOTE: The light in the HEATER switch will glow only

when an experiment is in progress or when the
temperature is being controlled by a method-
end condition.
POWER Switch
The POWER on/off switch turns the power to

the instrument on and off (see Figure 1.2).

Accessories
Accessories
The DMA 2980 can perform experiments on
different types of samples using both standard
and optional accessories.
Standard Accessories
The accessory kit supplied with the DMA 2980
contains the following:
Torque driver wrench

Hex keys (Allen wrenches)
Hex driver (Allen driver)
Calibration samples
100 gram weight
Brass tweezers
Digital calipers
Polycarbonate and ABS samples.
Clamps
The DMA 2980 utilizes several different types of
clamps. These clamps can be classified as
either tensioning or nontensioning clamps.
Tensioning clamps require that a positive force
(preload force) be placed on the sample at all
times.
Tensioning clamps are:
3-point bending
film tension
fiber tension
compression
penetration
submersion compression
submersion film/fiber.

Introduction
Nontensioning clamps are:
single cantilever
dual cantilever
shear sandwich.
Most of the clamps have two basic partsa

moveable clamp and a fixed clamp (also
sometimes called a stage). The figure below
shows the two parts of the standard dual
cantilever clamp.
Moveable
Clamp
Fixed
Clamp
Figure 1.3
DMA Dual
Cantilever Clamp
For the directions on installing and removing this

clamp, turn to Chapter 2.
1–14 TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Accessories
Optional Accessories
You can purchase extra items to use with your
TA Instruments DMA. Some of the additional
options available for use with the DMA are:
The Gas Cooling Accessory (GCA), which

is used as a way to obtain cooling gas to
perform subambient experiments. The GCA
utilizes liquid nitrogen, stored in a holding
tank, to provide cooling. For more
information about the GCA, see its
operators manual.
The Air Compressor Accessory (ACA),

which is used as an air supply source. See
the next section for details.
Additional clamps to use with various types

of samples. See page 1-17 for a list of
optional clamps, and see Chapter 5 for more
details on the use of these clamps.
Air Compressor
Accessory (ACA)
The Air Compressor Accessory (ACA) is a
compact unit that connects directly to the air
filter regulator. It supplies compressed air, to the
air filter regulator for the DMA air bearing gas
supply.
When installing the ACA for use with the DMA

2980, follow these guidelines:
Do not locate the ACA on the same

benchtop or tabletop as the DMA. The
vibrations from the ACA will affect the
DMAs performance.

Introduction
Position the ACA, leaving approximately 5

to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm) clear around the
fan vents to allow air to circulate freely.
Place the four rubber feet flat on the

benchtop. Do not stand the ACA on end.
Connect the power cable to the connection

shown in the figure below.
Connect the air tubing by pushing it into the

connection shown in the figure below. Then
connect the other end of the tubing to the air
filter regulator.
Fuse
Power
Switch
Air tubing
Power
connection
Cable
Connection
To Air Filter
Regulator
Figure 1.4
Air Compressor Accessory

Accessories
t CAUTION: Do not attempt to open the ACA; there are no

customer-serviceable parts. Contact TA
Instruments for service.
When turning the power on to the ACA, follow

these steps to prevent pressure buildup:
1. Bleed off any pressure in the air filter

regulator by opening the stopcock at the
bottom of the coalescer filter. See Chapter
7 for more details.
2. Press the ACA power switch to the ON

position.
See page 1-20 for the ACA specifications.
Optional Clamps
These optional clamps will allow you to perform
experiments on different types of samples:
3-point bending clamp

film/fiber clamp
fiber clamp
various size dual/single cantilever clamps
small sample 3-point bending clamp
compression clamp
shear sandwich clamp
penetration clamp
submersion compression clamp
submersion film/fiber clamp.
Turn to Chapter 5 for details on the installation

and operation of these clamps.

Introduction
Specifications
Tables 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4 contain information about
the DMAs specifications and temperature
control. Table 1.5 contains specifications for
the ACA. Only values with tolerances or limits
are guaranteed data. Values without tolerances
are for information only.
Table 1.2
Dimensions Depth: 17 in. (43.2 cm)
DMA 2980 Instrument Width: 26 in. (66 cm)
Specifications Height:
(furnace open)
28 in. (71 cm)
(furnace closed)
22 in. (56 cm)
Weight (approx.) 85 lbs (38.6 kg)
Power 120 Vac 50/60 Hz

7 amps
Fuses 4 amps Slow Blow (M)

8 amps Slow Blow (M)
Temperature -145 to 600oC

Range
Sample Length 2 in. (50 mm) maximum
Sample Width 0.6 in. (15 mm)

maximum
Sample Thickness 5 to 10 mm
Displacement 1.0 in.

Range (25 mm)
Loading 0.001 to 18 N
Atmosphere Controlled flow

with inert gases or air

Specifications
Table 1.3
Temperature Control
Specifications
Temperature -145 to 600°C
Range
Programmed 0.1 to 50oC/min

Heating Rate
Cooling Rate 0.1 to 10°C/min
Temperature +/-2oC
Reproducibility
Isothermal +/-0.1°C above 50°C

Stability +/-1.0°C below 50°C
Table 1.4
Experimental
Specifications
Modulus 103 Pa to 3 x 10 12 Pa
Range
Modulus +/- 1%
Precision
Frequency 0.01 to 200 Hz

Range
Maximum 18 N
Force
Minimum 0.001 N
Preload
Force
Tan Delta 0.0001 to 10

Range
(table continued)

Introduction
Table 1.4
Experimental
Specifications (cont'd)
Tan Delta 0.00001

Resolution
Tan Delta 0.0001

Sensitivity
Dynamic +/- 0.5 to 10,000

Deformation micrometers
Strain 1 nanometer
Resolution
Table 1.5
ACA Specifications
Dimensions Depth: 15 in. (38 cm)

ACA Width: 15 in. (38 cm)
Height: 9 in. (23 cm)
Weight 22 lbs (10 kg)

(approx.)
Power 120 Vac 50/60 Hz
Fuse 2 amps Slow Blow (M)

DMA 2980 Output Values
DMA 2980
Output Values
You can obtain the following output data from
running experiments on the DMA 2980.
Multifrequency and Multistrain Modes:
Storage modulus
Loss modulus
Tan delta
Complex viscosity
Dynamic viscosity
Storage compliance
Loss compliance
Stress
% Strain
Amplitude
Frequency
Temperature
Position
Static force (preload force)
Time.
Creep Mode:
Creep compliance
% Strain
% Strain Recovery
Stress
Temperature
Time
Decay time
Displacement
Recoverable compliance.

Introduction
Stress Relaxation
Stress relaxation modulus

% Strain
% Strain Recovery
Stress
Temperature
Time
Decay time
Displacement.
DMA Controlled Force
Dimension change
Position
Stress
% Strain
Temperature
Time.
DMA Isostrain
Dimension change
Position
Strain
Stress
Temperature
Time.

Chapter 2:
Installing the DMA 2980
Installing the Instrument .............................. 2-3
Choosing a Location ............................. 2-4
Unpacking/Repacking the DMA ................ 2-6
Inspecting the System........................... 2-6
Unpacking the DMA ............................ 2-7
Connecting Cables and Gas Lines ............ 2-10
GPIB Cable ........................................ 2-10
Air Filter Regulator Assembly ............ 2-13
Air Cool Line ...................................... 2-19
Power Cable ....................................... 2-22
Starting the DMA ..................................... 2-23
Shutting Down the DMA .......................... 2-24
Removing the Shipping Material ............... 2-25
Repacking the DMA ................................. 2-28



Installation

Installing the Instrument
Installing
the Instrument
Before shipment, the DMA 2980 instrument is
tested and calibrated both electrically and
mechanically, so that it is ready for operation
after it has been installed. Installation involves
the procedures described in this chapter:
Unpacking the instrument components and

accessory kit.
NOTE: The instrument’s cables and lines must be

connected before the shipping material is
removed. The procedures used to remove
this material require that the instrument be
powered up.
Inspecting the system for shipping damage

and missing parts
Choosing a location for the DMA
Connecting the air bearing gas and air cool
gas lines, accessories, and power cable
Assembling the DMA
Connecting the DMA to the TA Instruments
controller
Removing the shipping material.
If you wish to have your instrument installed by a

TA Instruments Service Representative, contact
your local representative (see Appendix A) for
an installation appointment when you receive
your instrument.
t CAUTION: To avoid mistakes, read this entire chapter

before you begin installation.

Installation
Choosing
a Location
Because of the sensitivity of DMA experiments,
it is important to choose a location for the
instrument using the following guidelines:
In . . . a temperature-controlled area.
... a clean environment.
... an area with ample working and
ventilation space around the instru-
ment. (Refer to the technical speci-
fications in Chapter 1 for the instru-
ments dimensions.)
On . . . a stable, vibration-free, heat and

flame resistant work surface.
NOTE: Placing the DMA on a stable, vibration-free

work surface is very important to instrument
performance.
Near . . . a power outlet (120 Vac, 50 or 60 Hz,

10 amps). A step up/down line trans-
former may be required if the unit is
operated from a higher or lower line
voltage.
. . . your TA Instruments thermal analysis
controller.
. . . sources of compressed lab air and
purge gas supply for use during
cooling and subambient experiments.
t CAUTION: Your air source must be clean, dry, and oil-free

to ensure the proper operation of the DMA
2980.

Installing the Instrument
Away
from. . . dusty environments.
... exposure to direct sunlight.
... direct air drafts (fans, room air ducts).
... poorly ventilated areas
... flammable material that may come in
contact with the furnace assembly.
After you have decided on the location for your

instrument, refer to the next several sections to
unpack and install the DMA.
t CAUTION: Drying out the instrument may be needed, if it

has been exposed to humid conditions. Certain
ceramic materials used in this equipment may
absorb moisture, causing leakage currents to
exceed those specified in the applicable stan-
dards until moisture is eliminated. It is impor-
tant to be certain that the instrument ground is
adequately connected to the facilities ground for
safe operation.
Run the following method to dry out the instru-

ment (refer to Chapter 4 for further informa-
tion):
1 Ramp at 10°C/min to 400°C

2 Isothermal for 30 min.

Installation
Unpacking/Repacking
the DMA
You may wish to retain all of the shipping
hardware, the plywood, and boxes from the
instrument in the event you wish to repack and
ship your instrument.
Inspecting
the System
When you receive your DMA, look over the
instrument and shipping container carefully for
signs of shipping damage. Check the parts
received against the enclosed shipping list.
If the instrument is damaged, notify the carrier

and TA Instruments immediately.
If the instrument is intact but parts are missing,

contact TA Instruments.
A list of TA Instruments offices can be found in

Appendix A of this manual.

Unpacking/Repacking the 2980
Unpacking the DMA

Refer to Figures 2.1 to 2.3 while unpacking your
instrument.
Have an assistant help you unpack this unit.

!WARNING Do not attempt to do this alone.
Figure 2.1
Shipping Boxes
1. Open the shipping carton and remove the

accessory box.
2. Remove the cardboard packing insert.
3. Stand at one end of the box with your

assistant facing you at the other end. Lift
your end of the unit out of the box as your
assistant lifts his/her end.

Installation
4. Place the unit on a lab bench with one side

hanging over the edge of the bench (see
Figure 2.2). Someone must be holding
onto the unit at all times while it is in
this position.
Figure 2.2
Removing the
Plywood Board
5. While your assistant holds the unit, use a

wrench to remove the nuts and washers
from the bottom. Then lift and rotate the unit
so that the other end hangs over the edge of
the bench. Someone must hold onto the
unit at all times while it is in this posi-
tion. While your assistant holds the unit,
remove the nuts and washers from the other
side. A total of five nuts should be removed.
6. Slide the unit completely onto the lab bench.

Have your assistant hold one side up while
you unscrew and remove the black rubber
vibration mounts from the bottom. Then
rotate the unit and remove the vibration
mounts from the other side in the same
manner.

7. Have your assistant lift the entire unit while

you slide the plywood board out from under
it.
8. Remove the mounting feet from the acces-

sory kit.
9. Have your assistant lift one side of the unit

while you install the mounting feet (see
Figure 2.3). Rotate the unit and install the
remaining mounting feet in the same manner.
A total of four mounting feet are needed.
Figure 2.3 Installing

the Mounting Feet

Installation
Connecting Cables
and Gas Lines
In order to connect the cables and gas lines, you
will need to have access to the instruments rear
panel.*
NOTE: * All directional descriptions for this section

are written on the assumption that you are
facing the back of the instrument.
NOTE: Connect all cables before connecting the power

cords to outlets. Tighten the screws on all
computer cables.
t CAUTION: When plugging or unplugging power cords, always

handle them by the plugs, not by the cords.
Protect power and communications cable

!WARNING paths. Do not create tripping hazards by
laying them across accessways.
GPIB Cable
1. Locate the GPIB connector on the right rear
of the instrument (see Figure 2.4).
2. Connect the GPIB cable to the GPIB

connector. The GPIB cable is the only cable
that fits into this connector.
3. Tighten the hold-down screws on the

connector.
4. Connect the other end of the GPIB cable to

the controller or to the GPIB cable of
another TA Instruments instrument con-
nected to the controller.

Cooling
Power Accessory Ready Reset Address GPIB Connector
Cord Connector Light Button Selector
Dial
Figure 2.4
DMA Connector Panel
5. Use the GPIB address selector dial to set an
address for the DMA. Choose an address
that is not being used by other modules
connected to the same controller. The figure
seen on the next page shows an instrument
address of 7.
NOTE: If you have a multiple instrument system, each

instrument must have a different address.
If you change the address after the DMA is

powered on, you must press the DMA Reset
button to enter the new address. Wait 30
seconds after releasing the Reset button; the
green Ready light should begin to glow steadily.
Reconfigure the instrument with the controller to
bring the instrument back online.

Installation
Figure 2.5
Address Selector Dial


Assembly
t CAUTION: Your air source must be clean, dry, and oil-free
to ensure the proper operation of the DMA
2980. See page 2-18 for details.
The air filter regulator assembly, shown in the

figure below, is used with the instrument to help
supply clean air bearing gas to the DMA. The
air filter regulator helps to filter any oil, water,
and particulates from the air bearing gas.
Air Supply
Valve
From ACA
or Lab
Air Supply To DMA
Pressure
Gauge
Electronic
Timer
Solenoid Dial
Cycle Time Dial
Manual
Override Button
Valve
Water Open Light
Drainage Tube Power Light
Figure 2.6
Installation
The air source supplying the air filter regulator

can come from a central laboratory supply or
from the TA Instruments Air Compressor
Accessory (ACA). See pages 1-15 to 1-17 for
more information about the ACA, which is an
oil-less compressor.
The air filter regulator comes with an electronic

timer (see Figure 2.6) that automatically drains
any accumulated water from the regulator. The
timer has two adjustable dials, a manual override
button, a power indicator light, and a valve open
light.
The cycle time dial is used to set the

amount of time between drain cycles. The
recommended setting is one (1) minute
between drain cycles.
The solenoid dial is used to set the amount

of time that the solenoid valve stays open
during a drain cycle. The recommended
setting is one (1) second.
The manual override button is used to

open the solenoid valve any time that it is
needed.
The power indicator light shows that

power is being supplied to the electronic
timer.
The valve open light comes on when the

solenoid valve opens to drain the filter.
Follow the manufacturers recommendation for

filter inlet pressure. The filter regulator should
be mounted on a vertical surface such as the
wall near the instrument or mounted on the side
of a lab bench, as desired.

t CAUTION: For optimum performance, do not place the ACA

on the same laboratory surface as the DMA.
The vibration from the ACA may affect the
DMA’s performance.
To connect the air filter regulator to the instru-

ment, follow these instructions:
1. Determine the air source that you will be

using for the DMA. The fitting that you need
on the filter depends upon which air source
you intend to use as follows:
ACA air source: The air filter regulator is

preassembled with a Parker quick-connect
fitting in the valve on the left side of the
regulator (see Figure 2.6). This fitting is used
with the tubing supplied with the ACA,
therefore, the fitting will not need to be
removed.
Lab air source: You will need to first

remove the Parker quick-connect fitting in
the valve on the left side of the regulator as
seen in Figure 2.6. Then install the Swage-
lok fitting that is included in the accessory
kit.
2. Place the air supply valve in the OFF

position.
3. Connect the appropriate tubing, depending

upon your air source, to the left side of the
air filter regulator as follows:
ACA air source: Push the 1/8-inch

(3.1 mm) tubing from the ACA (see the
figure on next page), into the Parker fitting.
Insert the tubing into the fitting until it cannot
go in any further.
Installation
Lab air source: Connect 1/4-inch (1.5 mm)

tubing from the air supply source to the
Swagelok fitting on the air filter regulator.
4. Push one end of the thin 1/8-inch (3.1 mm)

tubing into the air filter regulator fitting.
go in any further.
Power
Switch
Air line
to the
regulator
Figure 2.7
Air Compressor
Accessory
5. Locate the air bearing gas fitting on the right
rear of the DMA instrument.
Connect to
Air Cool Hose
Connect to Air
Filter Regulator
Figure 2.8
Fitting on DMA
for Air Bearing Gas

!WARNING Use of an explosive or corrosive gas as an

air bearing gas is dangerous and will damage
the DMA instrument. Use air or an inert
gas (such as nitrogen) only, for the air
bearing gas.
6. Push the opposite end of the thin 1/8-inch

(3.1 mm) tubing, which is connected to the
air filter regulator, into the Legris fitting on
the right side of the back of the DMA.
go in any further.
7. Plug the electronic timer into a 110V power

source to operate.
8. Set the dials on the electronic timer to the

desired time between drain cycles and the
desired time the solenoid valve remains open
during the cycle. See page 2-14 for recom-
mended settings.
9. Ensure that the filter outlet pressure is set to

420 to 455 kPa (60 to 65 psi).
The air bearing gas also serves as the

furnace purge. If an inert atmosphere is
needed, you must use inert gas for the air
bearings. The air bearings use gas at the
rate of approximately 2 liters per minute.
The purge gas flows through the instrument

and is channeled internally to the sample.
10. Turn the air supply valve on the air filter

regulator to the ON position. A solenoid
valve inside the DMA 2980 controls the flow
to the air bearings.

Installation
11. If you are using the Air Compressor

Accessory connected to your air filter
regulator:
a. Check the pressure gauge on the

regulator before turning on the ACA.
If the pressure gauge on the air filter

regulator reads more than 10 psig,
release the pressure by pressing the
manual override button on the electronic
timer.
If you try to turn on the ACA with more

than 10 psig pressure in the system, the
ACA will draw an excessive amount of
current and may overload its fuse.
b. Plug in the power cord on the ACA and

turn it on, after you have performed step
11a.
Proper installation and maintenance of the air

filter regulator is important for the performance
and life of the DMA air bearings. (See Chapter
7 for information on maintaining the air filter
regulator.) An efficient system ensures mini-
mum pressure loss and removal of contaminants
such as water, oil, dirt, rust, and other foreign
materials. TA Instruments recommends the
following minimum criteria for the air being
supplied to the air filter regulator:
Oil and liquid water = < 2 mg per cubic

meter
Water vapor dew point at 100 PSIG = 32°F
NOTE: If you are using a desiccant dryer, it is best to install it

after the air filter regulator.
Air Cool Line

One way to rapidly cool the DMA furnace to
room temperature is by using air cooling or the
GCA. Air cooling is used only when the Gas
Cooling Accessory (GCA) is not connected to
the DMA 2980. (See the GCA manual for
further information on the GCA.)
Follow the procedure below to install the air

cool line:
1. Locate the cooling gas fitting, a 6.2 mm

(1/4-inch) compression fitting on the left
side of the DMA cabinet back, marked with
a 125 psi (860 kPa) maximum warning label
(see the figure below).
Air Cool Line
Figure 2.9
DMA Air Cool
Fitting
2. Make sure your compressed air source is

dry, filtered, and regulated to between 170
and 830 kPa (25 and 120 psi).

Installation
3. Connect a compressed lab air line to the air

cool fitting.
4. Attach the Cooling Hose Accessory (shown

in Figure 2.10) as follows:
a. Note the shape of the cooling hose

shown in Figure 2.10. Before you
mount the hose, bend it to the shape
shown while holding it up to the instru-
ment to line it up with and obtain the
proper distance between the fittings.
The hose will retain the shape. (The
purpose of this step is to eliminate any
stress on the instrument frame that can
be caused by bending the hose after
installation.)
b. Use a wrench to connect the cooling

hose to the fitting on the top of the
bracket and to the fitting going into the
instrument.
5. Attach a barbed fitting to the cooling hose

accessory inlet shown in Figure 2.10.
6. Locate the air cool outlet fitting, which is

next to the air regulator fitting on the side of
the DMA 2980 (see Figure 2.8).
7. Connect 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) ID tubing from

the air cool outlet to the barbed fitting on the
cooling hose accessory inlet (installed in
step 5). If the Gas Cooling Accessory
(GCA) is connected to the DMA, you must
remove the GCA feed hose before connect-
ing the tubing (see the GCA manual).

Cooling Hose Accessory
Attach barbed fitting here
Cooling Hose
Accessory Inlet
Figure 2.10
Cooling Hose
Accessory Inlet

Installation
Power Cable
Use the following steps to connect the power
cable to the instrument.
NOTE: Connect all other cables and gas lines before

connecting the power cable to a wall outlet.
1. Turn the instrument POWER switch (see

the figure below) to the OFF (O) position.
Off On
Standby 23.25°C
DimChg 0.135µm
▲ ▲
ZERO FLOAT CLAMP FURNACE
MEASURE
CLAMP LOCK ▼ ▼
DMA 2980 Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer
Figure 2.11
Front Panel of DMA
Showing POWER Switch
2. Plug the power cable into the DMA.
t CAUTION: Before plugging the DMA power cable into the

wall outlet, make sure the instrument is compat-
ible with the line voltage. Check the label on the
back of the unit to verify the voltage.
3. Plug the power cable into the wall outlet.

Starting the 2980
Starting the DMA

The DMA will need to be powered up in order
to perform several of the steps used in removing
some of the shipping material. Follow these
instructions to properly start the DMA.
1. Check all connections between the DMA

and the controller. Make sure each compo-
nent is plugged into the correct connector.
2. Turn the instrument POWER switch to the

ON (1) position. The instrument will run an
internal confidence test each time you turn
on the power.
3. Watch the instrument display during the

confidence test for any messages that may
be indicated.
After the confidence test has finished, the screen

will briefly display the system status, indicating
the amount of data storage memory available
and the GPIB address. Next follows the copy-
right display, and then the standby display.
4. Bring the instrument online with the TA

controller.
NOTE: Allow the DMA to warm up for at least 15 minutes

before performing an experiment. The Signal
Display window on the controller should display
“Frame Temperature: OK” and “Air Pressure: OK.”

Installation
Shutting Down
the DMA
Before you decide to power down your DMA
instrument, consider the following:
All of the components of your thermal

analysis system are designed to be powered
up and left on for long periods.
The electronics of the DMA and the

controller perform more reliably if power
fluctuations are minimized.
For these reasons, turning the system compo-

nents on and off frequently is discouraged.
When you finish running an experiment on your

DMA and wish to use the thermal analysis
system for some other task, leave the instrument
on; it will not interfere with whatever else you
wish to do.
If your system will not be used for longer than

five days, we suggest that you turn it off. To
power down your DMA for any reason, press
the STOP key first on the DMA (this will save
the position calibration). If the drive was active,
wait five seconds for the drive to completely
stop. Then press both the HEATER and
POWER switches to the OFF (O) position, and
turn off the air bearing gas.

Removing the Shipping Material
Removing the
Shipping Material
The DMA 2980 is shipped with several screws
and a bracket to hold the instrument firmly in
place and prevent damage. This shipping
material must be removed as follows before the
instrument can be used.
NOTE: The instrument’s cables and lines must be

connected before the shipping material is
removed. The procedures used to remove
this material require that the instrument be
powered up.
1. Loosen the four 1/4-20 jackscrews (stand-

offs), located under the dress cover, using a
3/16 Allen wrench. Turn the screws
counterclockwise until they just touch the
underside of the plastic cover. (When
packing up the 2980, tighten all four screws
evenly until they reach the bottom.)
Jackscrews
Figure 2.12
Location of Screws
Installation
2. Remove the large hex bolt holding the

furnace in place. See the figure below.
Figure 2.13
Furnace Shipping
Nut and Bolt
3. Remove any packing material between the
rear of the furnace and the back cabinet of
the instrument.
4. Press the FURNACE key to raise the

furnace.
5. Remove the blue shipping foam from the

handrest.
6. Turn on the air filter regulator valve, which

should already be connected, and confirm
that the air pressure builds to 60 psi.
7. Check the Signal Display window on the

controller and verify that the air pressure and
frame heaters say OK. (The heaters take
about 20 to 30 minutes to warm up after the
POWER switch is turned on.)
Removing the Shipping Material
8. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the keypad.

You should hear the click of the air bearing
solenoid.
Setscrew Shipping Bracket
Hex Screws
Dovetail
Drive Shaft
Mounting Posts
Figure 2.14
The Shipping
Bracket
9. Loosen the four hex screws holding the
shipping bracket in place (see the figure
above).
10. Lift upwards on the shipping bracket to free

it from the mounting posts, as shown in the
figure on the next page. The drive shaft
(slide) should move easily, DO NOT
FORCE IT.
11. Press the STOP key after the bracket is off

the mounting posts.

Installation
12. Loosen the setscrew located in the center of

the shipping bracket and slide the dovetail
out of the dovetail holder.
Shipping Bracket Dovetail
Dovetail Holder
Drive Shaft
Figure 2.15
Lifting Off the
Shipping Bracket
13. Install the desired clamp. See page 2-29 for
installation of the standard dual cantilever
clamp.
Repacking the DMA

To pack and ship your instrument, use the
hardware retained during unpacking and
reverse the previous instructions. Make sure
that you press STOP after installing the
shipping bracket to avoid losing the position
calibration.

Installing the Single/Dual Cantilever Clamp

Cantilever Clamp
When you first receive the DMA 2980, a clamp
will need to be installed. The procedures that
follow explain the installation and removal of
the single/dual cantilever clamp, which is the
standard clamp used on the DMA. Later, if a
different sample form is used, you can change to
the appropriate clamp for the experiment.
(Refer to Chapter 4 for details on clamp selec-
tion and Chapter 5 for installation of optional
clamps.)
The single/dual cantilever clamps are used to

analyze weak to moderately stiff samples. The
samples are rigidly clamped using the cantilever
clamps.
To install the single/dual cantilever clamp on the

DMA 2980, follow these steps (refer to the
figure on the next page for identification of
parts):
1. Slide the dovetail of the moveable clamp

into the dovetail holder of the drive shaft.
Align the dovetail with the edge of the
holder.
2. Insert the 1/16 hex key on an angle as shown

in the figure on the next page to tighten the
setscrew in the center of the moveable
clamp. (Or use the hex key that has been
shortened to allow the key to fit into the
opening on the moveable clamp.) Do not
overtighten the setscrew.

Installation
Hex Key
Moveable Clamp
Drive Shaft
Mounting
Posts
Figure 2.16
Cantilever Moveable Clamp
3. Lower the fixed clamp carefully over the

moveable clamp. (You may need to reposi-
tion the thermocouple.)
4. Line up the fixed clamp with the mounting

posts and tighten the four hex screws as
shown in the figure on the next page.
5. Ensure that the moveable clamp is aligned

so that it is parallel to and equally spaced
between the fixed clamps. You may need to
loosen the setscrew again to adjust the
moveable clamps position. Be sure to
retighten the setscrew again, if you have
loosened it.

Installing the Single/Dual Cantilever Clamp
6. Make sure that the appropriate clamp type

and mode are selected on the controller.
7. Calibrate the clamp for clamp mass and

clamp compliance (see Chapter 3 and the
Thermal Solutions User Reference Guide).
8. Position the thermocouple so that it is close

to, but not touching, the sample.
Clamping Center Screws
Support Bar
Moveable
Jaws
Moveable Jaws
Sample
Fixed Clamp
Hex Screws
Figure 2.17
Single/Dual Cantilever
Clamp Installed (Shown
with Sample Mounted)

Installation

Cantilever Clamp
The following procedure is used to remove the
clamp.
1. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key to lock the

clamp in place.
2. Loosen, but do not remove, the four hex

screws holding the fixed clamp on the
mounting posts.
3. Lift the fixed clamp off the four supports.
4. Loosen the setscrew on the moveable clamp

and then remove the clamp by sliding it out
of the dovetail holder.

Chapter 3:
Calibrating the DMA 2980
Introduction................................................. 3-3
Determining When to Calibrate ........... 3-4
Clamp Calibration ....................................... 3-6
Clamp Mass
Calibration (Step 1) .............................. 3-7
Clamp Zero Calibration (Step 2) .......... 3-7
Compliance Calibration (Step 3) .......... 3-8
Position Calibration .................................... 3-9
Clamp Check ........................................ 3-9
Instrument Calibrations ............................ 3-11
Electronics Calibration ....................... 3-11
Force Calibration
(Balance and Weight) ......................... 3-14
Dynamic Calibration .......................... 3-14
Temperature
Transition .................................................. 3-16
Step-and-Hold Test ............................. 3-17
Temperature Ramp Test ..................... 3-18
Testing Considerations ....................... 3-19

Calibration
DMA Temperature Calibration ................. 3-21
Performing
Temperature Calibration .................... 3-22
Dynamic Temperature
Calibration Procedure ........................ 3-23

Introduction
Introduction
Calibration of the DMA 2980 is accomplished
through the use of the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage Instrument Control software.
The types of calibration that are available for the

DMA are:
Clamp calibration calibrates the properties

of a DMA sample clamp.
Position calibration calibrates the absolute

position of the drive shaft (and slide) as
read by the optical encoder.
Instrument calibration calibrates the

instrument electronics, drive force, and
dynamic performance.
Temperature calibration calibrates the

temperature of the DMA furnace.
This chapter explains the purpose and frequency

of each type of DMA 2980 calibration. Consult
the available documentationthe Thermal
Solutions/Advantage User Reference Guide or
the online help or online manualfor the
software procedures used for calibration.

Calibration
Determining
When to Calibrate
Each DMA must be calibrated for accuracy,
using the following basic guidelines.
You need to perform the various Clamp

Calibrations under the following
circumstances:
when you change from one clamp type

to another.
if the clamp does not properly float.

This can be caused by residue on the
clamps or by changes in ambient
conditions. If you do not properly
calibrate the clamp, it may affect the
ability to make measurements as well as
modulus values, particularly for very
weak samples.
if you suspect incorrect sample length

measurements.
if you have improper clamping or have

entered an incorrect sample length, it
may result in a high value for the
compliance calculation. (e.g., High
compliance calculation can lead to
modulus values that are too high for stiff
materials).
after loading new instrument software.

Introduction
You need to perform the Position

Calibration under the following
circumstances:
when the DMA is moved or at least

once a month. The purpose of this
calibration is to calibrate the absolute
position of the drive shaft (and slide) as
if the probe will not float after you have

performed a Clamp Calibration.
You need to perform the Instrument

Calibrations under the following
circumstances:
when the instrument is moved.
if the force is not linear over the entire

traveling distance of the moveable
clamp, you may need to perform an
Instrument Force Calibration and a
Clamp Calibration. For example, the
clamp floats normally in some positions,
but not in other positions.
if the modulus and tan delta have

unusual responses to changes in fre-
quency (e.g., there is a spread in the
modulus in a non-transition zone), you
may need to perform the Instrument
Dynamic and Electronics Calibrations.
if the feed hose for the air cool or GCA

is either removed or installed.
on a regular (monthly) basis. You will

need to perform all of the Instrument
Calibrations.

Calibration
The calibration reports show the current calibra-

tion status and when the calibrations were last
performed.
Clamp Calibration
When you install a clamp for the first time or
change from one clamp to another on the DMA
2980, you will need to perform the following
steps:
1. Install the desired clamp.
t CAUTION: Make sure that you have installed both the fixed
and moveable clamps before performing clamp
mass calibration.
2. Select the appropriate clamp type on the

Thermal Solutions/Advantage Mode Pa-
rameters window.
3. Perform a clamp calibration. Clamp calibra-

tion may involve up to three steps (mass,
zero, and compliance), depending on the
clamp installed. Each of the three steps is
briefly described on the following pages.
Consult the Thermal Solutions/Advantage
documentation for details.
NOTE: See the appropriate section in the Thermal Solu-

tions/Advantage documentation for the complete
calibration instructions. Be sure to perform all of
the calibration steps.

Clamp Calibration
Clamp Mass
Calibration (Step 1)
This type of calibration is performed to allow
the instrument to compensate for the mass of a
specific clamp to ensure accurate force measure-
ments. Clamp Mass Calibration is Step 1 in the
Thermal Solutions/Advantage DMA clamp
calibration procedure and is performed for all
clamps.
NOTE: The air bearings should be energized (e.g. , probe

floating) for 20 minutes before performing a Clamp
Mass Calibration.
You can run a check to see whether your clamp

mass needs calibration by performing a small
test. Press the FLOAT key to release (float) the
clamp. Manually position the clamp in the
middle of its range and release it. The clamp
should maintain its position or drift slowly up or
down. If the clamp rapidly sinks or rises, the
clamp mass requires calibration as described in
the Thermal Solutions/Advantage documenta-
tion.
Clamp Zero Calibration (Step 2)

Clamp Zero calibration, which is Step 2 in the
DMA clamp calibration procedure, is needed to
determine the point of zero sample length for
automated sample length (tension) or thickness
(compression and penetration) measurement.
Clamp Zero calibration is performed when you
install a film or fiber tension clamp, a penetra-
tion clamp, or a compression clamp. It is not
performed when you install a single or dual
cantilever clamp, a shear sandwich clamp, or a
3-point bending clamp.

Calibration
An offset gauge is used with the film or

fiber tension clamps. Measure the length of
the gauge, then mount it, and enter the
length into the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage Clamp Calibration (Step 2)
window.
No offset gauge is used for calibrating the

compression or penetration clamps. In this
case, enter a zero (0) for this parameter.
When you are recalibrating clamp zero after the

offset gauge length is entered (if applicable),
you can use the CLAMP ZERO key on the
instrument keypad. It is important to note that
the gauge length will be reset to zero any time
the instrument mode is changed. To perform the
Clamp Zero calibration after an initial calibra-
tion has been performed, mount the desired
clamp and press the CLAMP ZERO key on the
instrument keypad.
Compliance Calibration (Step 3)

Compliance calibration used to measure the
flexibility of a clamp and calibrates the instru-
ment to that flexibility. There are three different
situations that occur, depending upon the type of
clamp you have selected:
Compliance calibration is performed when

you install a single or dual cantilever clamp,
3-point bending clamp, or film tension
clamp using a rigid steel sample with known
dimensions.
Compliance calibration is also performed,

but without a sample, when you install a
penetration or compression clamp. This is
because the moving and fixed portions of
the clamp directly contact each other.
It is not performed when you install a shear

sandwich or fiber tension clamp.
Position Calibration
See the Thermal Solutions/Advantage documen-

tation for instructions.
Position Calibration
Position calibration must be done when the
DMA is moved or at least once a month. The
purpose of this calibration is to calibrate the
absolute position of the drive shaft (and slide) as
Clamp Check
You can run the following check to see whether
your clamp position needs calibration by per-
forming a small test. Press the FLOAT key to
release (float) the clamp.
For all clamps except penetration,

submersion film/fiber, and compression:
Manually move the clamp to the top of the
travel. The position signal on the instrument
display should read 0 + 0.5 mm. Move the
clamp to the bottom of the travel. The
position signal should read 25.0 + 0.5 mm.
If this is not the case, recalibrate the
position as directed in the Thermal
Solutions/Advantage documentation.
For all clamps: Manually position the

clamp in the middle of its range of travel
and release it. The clamp should maintain
its position or slowly drift up or down. If the
clamp rapidly sinks or rises, and the clamp
mass has already been calibrated, the clamp
position requires calibration as directed in
the Thermal Solutions/Advantage
documentation.

Calibration
The instrument stores the position in memory

until the next calibration. In the event that the
instrument loses the stored position, you will see
one of these errors: Error 255, 274, 300, or 322.
NOTE: To retain the Position calibration, make sure that
you press the STOP key and wait several seconds
before you reset or turn off the instrument.

Instrument Calibrations
The following types of calibrations need to be
done when the DMA is moved or at least once a
month:
Electronics calibration
Force calibration (balance and weight)
Dynamic calibration.
Electronics Calibration
This procedure calibrates the instruments
electronics and drive motor over the entire
frequency range of the instrument. It automati-
cally removes the air to lock the slide (drive
shaft) and applies a static force (preload force)
to the motor as a calibration reference. The
instrument then uses a series of frequencies to
perform the calibration.
Before you perform the electronics calibration,

you will need to reinstall the shipping bracket on
the instrument following these steps:
NOTE: These procedures are the reverse of those used to

remove the shipping bracket, which are found on
pages 2-25 to 2-27.
1. Remove any fixed and moveable clamps

from the instrument.
2. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key until the

drive shaft can move up and down freely.
Slide the shipping bracket dovetail into the
dovetail holder. Do not tighten the setscrew
yet.

Calibration
3. Lower the bracket down onto the mounting

posts. See the figure below.
Shipping Bracket Dovetail
Dovetail Holder
Drive Shaft
Figure 3.1
Positioning the
Shipping Bracket
4. Press downwards on the shipping bracket to
position it against the mounting posts, as
shown in the figure above. The drive shaft
(slide) should move easily, DO NOT
FORCE IT. (You may need to reposition
the dovetail in the dovetail holder in order to
align the shipping bracket with the posts.)
5. Tighten the four hex screws to hold the

shipping bracket in place (see the figure on
the next page).
6. Tighten the setscrew, located in the center

of the shipping bracket, to lock the drive
shaft into position.

Setscrew Shipping Bracket
Hex Screws
Dovetail
Drive Shaft
Mounting Posts
Figure 3.2
Mounting the
Shipping Bracket
7. Follow the instructions found in the Thermal
Solutions/Advantage documentation to
calibrate the DMA electronics.

Calibration
Force Calibration
(Balance and Weight)
Force calibration is used to adjust the force
exerted by the clamp on the sample and the
force registered by the instrument as the experi-
ment proceeds. There are two steps in the force
calibrationbalance (Step 1) and weight (Step
2) calibration. This calibration must be done in
the following situations:
When the DMA is moved
or
At least once a month.
See the appropriate section in the Thermal

Solutions/Advantage documentation for the
calibration instructions.
Dynamic Calibration
Dynamic calibration is used to measure several
samples of known stiffness and loss to charac-
terize the dynamic performance of the instru-
ment. Dynamic calibration must be done in the
following situations:
When the DMA is moved
When the feed hose for the GCA or Air

Cool is either removed or installed
or
At least once a month.

NOTE: Depending on the amount of compliance samples

that you use, Dynamic calibration can take from
one to two hours for completion.
See the appropriate section in the Thermal

Solutions/Advantage documentation for the
calibration instructions.

Calibration
Temperature
Transition
DMA is a very popular and powerful technique
for measuring transitions in materials because it
is sensitive to side-chain or main-chain motions
and local mode relaxations in polymers that can
not be detected in DSC (differential scanning
calorimetry). Transitions in materials can be
defined by the extrapolated onset temperature of
E, or as the peak temperatures in E or tan d
curves (see Figure 3.3). Therefore, DMA
experiments primarily involve monitoring the
changes in the viscoelastic parameters of E, E,
and/or tan d, with changing temperature. Be-
cause transitions in materials are defined by the
temperature at which they are observed, it is
important to understand the dynamics of tem-
perature in the DMA 2980 when conducting
dynamic mechanical measurements.
Figure 3.3
DMA Transitions
Temperature Transition
When you analyze samples on the DMA, the

samples are held in position using the clamps
explained earlier in this manual. These clamps
contribute additional mass to the system and
cause temperature lags between the furnace
temperature and the sample temperature. The
extent of these lags can be determined and
compensated depending on the temperature
profile employed. Temperature profiles, or
methods, in the DMA can programmed in two
ways: (1) step-and-hold test, or (2) temperature
ramp test.
Step-and-Hold Test
To perform a step-and-hold test, you should set
up a method with a start temperature, end
temperature, and temperature step size. Hold
the sample isothermally at each step for a
defined length of time, prior to conducting the
measurement.
The step-and-hold test has several advatages

including elimination of temperature lag be-
tween the furnace and sample, and the ability to
use a wider selection of frequencies without the
temperature changing during a frequency sweep.
The disadvantages of step-and-hold are longer

analysis times as the sample size increases
(requiring longer equilibration (soak) times)
or as the number of steps across a temperature
region increases (either because the region is
large or because an improved resolution of
events is desired). It may be better to run low
frequencies with the step-and-hold test because,
when you are using ramps, the temperature
can change a lot over the duration of the
measurement.
NOTE: Step-and-hold testing is recommended for time--

temperature superposition (TTS) studies.
Calibration
Temperature
Ramp Test
To perform a temperature ramp test, you should
set up a method with a start temperature, end
temperature, and rate of temperature change
(e.g. 2°C/min). The instrument simultaneously
ramps the temperature and sweeps the
frequency(ies).
The advantage of this method is that testing

times are shorter and data can be acquired
continuously, which leads to well-defined
transition peaks.
The disadvantage of this method is that the

temperature lags between the sample and
furnace will cause shifts in the observed transi-
tion temperatures.
When you perform a temperature ramp test, less

than five frequencies are recommended. Those
frequencies should be spaced close together and
should be from the highest to the lowest (e.g.,
10, 5, 1 Hz). In addition, frequencies below 0.5
Hz are not recommended when you are ramping
at the heating rates above 2°C/minute.

Temperature Transition
Testing Considerations
When conducting dynamic mechanical measure-
ments using either temperature profile test
already described, the following factors should
be considered:
Clamping arrangement More massive

clamps will cause larger temperature lags.
Heating/cooling rateIn temperature ramp

tests, the faster the heating/cooling rate, the
larger the thermal gradient.
Sample sizeThe larger the sample, the

larger the thermal gradient.
Thermocouple positionthe further the

thermocouple is from the sample, the larger
the thermal lag.
Air bearing gas usedthe most common

gases used are air and nitrogen. The
thermal conductivity of air is slightly higher
than nitrogen.
Frequencyconsider the oscillation

frequency when designing a test, since
transitions are frequency-dependent.
Higher frequencies cause transitions to
shift to higher temperatures (see Figure 3.4
below). Avoid using fast temperature
ramp (5°C/min) rates and low frequencies
(0.1 Hz) in a single test.

Calibration
Figure 3.4
Effect of Frequency

DMA Temperature Calibration
DMA Temperature
Calibration
When you analyze samples using the DMA, it is
important that the measured sample temperature
be as accurate as possible. Like any other
thermal analyzer, the accuracy of the tempera-
ture measurement relies heavily on the tempera-
ture calibration. Temperature calibration must
be performed routinely to ensure reproducible
results.
Perform temperature calibration at least once a

month. Calibrations should also be performed
when changing clamps, temperature range of
interest, or heating rates.
Studies indicate that the temperature difference

between the sample and furnace is a function of
heating rate (i.e., faster heating rates cause
larger temperature lags). In addition, under
most conditions, the sample temperature equili-
brates at the furnace temperature after it is held
isothermal for several minutes. Therefore, you
should correct the sample thermocouple two
ways: for absolute temperature and for tempera-
ture lags encountered upon heating.
The procedure for temperature calibration of the

DMA 2980 is detailed beginning on the next
page.

Calibration
Performing
Temperature Calibration
Perform these steps for absolute temperature
calibration of the DMA sample thermocouple:
1. Open the Temperature calibration window

using Thermal Solutions/Advantage Instru-
ment Control. (See the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage documentation for details.)
Reset any previous calibrations from the
instrument and select OK.
2. Install the desired clamp, then position the

sample thermocouple so that the tip of the
thermocouple is near the sample, but does
not interfere with the motion of the clamps
or slide.
3. Make sure that the DMA 2980 is held at

ambient temperature, with the furnace open,
for at least one hour before beginning the
routine.
4. Measure and record the ambient temperature

in the general area of the DMA. You can do
this using a reliable external thermometer.
5. Note the ambient temperature reading of the

DMA 2980.

Under Point 1, enter the temperature reading
from the external thermometer as the correct
temperature, and the reading from the DMA
as the observed temperature. Then select
OK.

DMA Temperature Calibration
The sample thermocouple has now been cor-

rected for absolute temperature.
Dynamic Temperature
Calibration Procedure
If you are going to perform temperature ramp
experiments on the DMA 2980, with the single/
dual cantilever or 3-point bending clamps, you
can use the following steps to compensate for
temperature lag. However, similar temperature
calibration standards are not currently available
for the other DMA clamps. (NOTE: ASTM
Standard Test Method E186797, Standard
Test Method for Temperature Calibration of
Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer1 describes
another method for dynamic temperature
calibration based on a polymer encapsulated
metal standard.)
1. Perform steps 1 through 6 on page 3-22 to

correct for absolute temperature.
2. Mount the thin polycarbonate test bar

(provided in the accessory kit) on the clamp.
3. Measure the glass transition (Tg) of the

polycarbonate sample under stepwise-
isothermal conditions. (See Chapter 4 for
information on running experiments.)
4. Set up the same instrument parameters you

intend to use in your experiment.
1
You may obtain ASTM E186797 from: ASTM,
100 Bar Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959, (610) 832-9500.

Calibration
5. Measure the Tg of the polycarbonate sample

at the underlying heating (or cooling) rate
you intend to use in your experiment.
6. Using the Universal Analysis program,

analyze both data files, and note the tem-
perature of the glass transition. (See the
Universal Analysis online help or online
manual for information on using the pro-
gram.)

Under Point 1, enter the Tg measured by the
stepwise-isothermal method as the correct
temperature, and the Tg measured from the
dynamic experiment as the observed tem-
perature. Then select OK.
The instrument is now compensated for thermal

lag at the specific underlying heating rate
chosen. If a different heating rate is required,
the dynamic run should be repeated at the
required rate. The compensation for tempera-
ture lag can be significant. After completion,
the ambient temperature reading may be unusu-
ally high or low, which is normal, and should be
expected.

Chapter 4:
Running an Experiment
Introduction ................................................. 4-5
Choosing a Clamp Set ................................. 4-6
Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps .............4-8
Aligning the Thermocouples ...................... 4-10
Selecting the Operating Mode ................... 4-12
DMA Multifrequency Mode ..................... 4-14
Selecting Instrument Parameters ....... 4-14

Oscillation Amplitude ................... 4-16
Creating Frequency Tables .......... 4-18
Creating a DMA
Multifrequency Method ...................... 4-21
DMA Multistrain Mode ............................. 4-23

Frequency .................................... 4-24
Creating Amplitude Tables ........... 4-24
Creating a DMA
Multistrain Method ............................. 4-26

Running Experiments
DMA Creep Mode .................................... 4-28

(For Tensioning Clamps Only) ..... 4-29
Stress ........................................... 4-30
Equilibrium Criteria ...................... 4-31
Creating a DMA Creep Method ........ 4-31
DMA Stress Relaxation Mode .................. 4-33

Strain % ....................................... 4-35
Equilibrium Criteria ...................... 4-36
Creating a DMA
Stress Relaxation Method ................... 4-37
DMA Isostrain Mode ................................ 4-39

Static Force (Preload Force) ....... 4-41
Strain % ....................................... 4-41
Creating an Isostrain Method ............. 4-42
DMA Controlled Force Mode ................... 4-44


Creating a DMA
Controlled Force Method .................... 4-46
Temperature-Based
Experiments ................................. 4-46
(Manual Creep Measurements) ... 4-47
Force Ramp Experiments ............ 4-48
Preparing and Mounting Samples ............. 4-49
Single/Dual Cantilever Clamp............. 4-49
Operating Range for

Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps ........... 4-51
Use of Operating
Range Figures .............................. 4-53

Sample Mounting ................................ 4-55
Mounting a Stiff Sample .............. 4-55
Materials, on the
Fiberglass Braid ........................... 4-57
Measuring Sample Length .................. 4-58

Using the Telescoping Gauge ....... 4-59
Performing Experiments ........................... 4-61
Starting an Experiment ....................... 4-63
Stopping an Experiment ...................... 4-64

Running Experiments

Introduction
Introduction
Most DMA 2980 experiments follow the same
basic set of steps. Use the following instructions
as a guide when you perform DMA experiments:
Basic Experimental Steps
1. Choose, install, and calibrate the clamp

appropriate for the sample shape and
modulus range.
2. Position the thermocouple near the sample.
3. Select the mode of operation (DMA

multifrequency, DMA multistrain, DMA
controlled force, etc.) needed to perform
the desired type of experiment.
4. Select the instrument parameters that are

specific to the mode chosen. (Include
frequency or amplitude tables when
appropriate.)
5. Create the method that is appropriate to

the operating mode, including force,
frequency, heating rate, etc., as defined by
the mode and the clamp type.
6. Mount the properly prepared sample on

the DMA 2980. Then start the motor to
preview the desired measurement and
confirm that conditions are acceptable
before continuing with the experiment.
7. Start the thermal method and perform the

experiment.
These steps are explained in detail in the remain-

ing part of this chapter.

Running Experiments
Choosing a Clamp Set

The shape and the modulus of most samples
determine the clamp to be used for your experi-
ment. With some samples, choosing the clamp
set is obvious (films, for example). For others,
however, there are several possible clamp sets
(filled thermoplastic bars, for example). Some-
times more than one set of conditions are
necessary to make measurements on a single
material over a broad temperature range. The
clamping fixtures with usual material types are
shown in the table on the next page.
Once the appropriate clamp set is chosen, the

DMA must be programmed to reflect the choice
of clamps so that the instrument can properly
control the experiment and report the correct
sample moduli. The clamp type is selected from
the Instrument Control software. Consult the
Thermal Solutions/Advantage User Reference
Guide for details.
This chapter provides information regarding the

single/dual cantilever clamp that is the standard
clamp set provided with the DMA 2980. If you
select one of the optional clamps listed in the
table on the next page, refer to Chapter 5 for
details on using them.

Choosing a Clamp
Table 4.1
Clamps and Samples
Clamps Type of Examples

Sample
3-Point stiff, low damping metals, ceramics,

Bending highly filled thermo-
(small and setting polymers, highly
large size) filled crystalline
thermoplastic polymers
Cantilever weak to thermosetting

(single/dual) moderately resins, elastomers,
stiff amorphous or lightly
filled thermoplastic
materials
Shear unsupported viscous uncured resins,

liquids to elastomers b-staged material,
above glass transition tire rubber
Compression gels and weak personal care products,

elastomers toothpaste, hydrogels
Film Tension thin films and fibers various types of films
Fiber Tension single and bundled various types of fibers

fibers
Penetration any material various samples for

DMA penetration, glass
transition, or melting
analysis (Not used for
quantitative DMA
experiments.)

Running Experiments
Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps

The single/dual cantilever clamps can be used
for relatively weak to moderately stiff materials.
The samples can range from supported thermo-
setting resins, to elastomers, amorphous, or
lightly-filled thermoplastic materials. Dual
cantilever clamps are good for testing weak
elastomers and for curing supported resins. The
single cantilever clamps should always be used
for measuring the properties of amorphous
polymers and elastomers through the glass
transition, and for analyzing materials with high
thermal expansion.
Sample Size
Length: Single: 4, 10, and 17.5 mm

Dual: 8, 20, and 35 mm
Width: up to 15 mm
Thickness: up to 5 mm

Choosing a Clamp
Figure 4.1
Dual Cantilever Clamp
For information on installing the dual cantilever

clamp, refer to Chapter 2.

Running Experiments
Aligning the
Thermocouples
The sample thermocouples should be close to,
but not touching the sample when it is loaded on
the clamp. (The sample thermocouple is the
taller one and is normally located on the right
side.) You may find it necessary to realign one
or both of the thermocouples periodically,
should they become bent or misaligned, or when
a new clamp is installed. Follow these steps:
1. Loosen the screw(s) on the thermocouple-

mounting bracket(s) shown in the figure
below.
Mounting Thermocouple-Mounting Screws Thermocouples
Posts Bracket
Figure 4.2
View From Top
with Clamp Removed

Aligning the Thermocouples
2. Move the thermocouple(s) up or down, as

needed, or bend to the desired angle.
3. Retighten the screw in the bracket(s).
4. Adjust the angle of the thermocouple tip, if

needed, so that it is close to, but not touch-
ing the sample. You may need to bend the
thermocouple in order to get it closer to the
sample. Take care when you bend the
thermocouple that it does not break.

Running Experiments
Selecting the
Operating Mode
There are six possible operating modes for the
DMA 2980. Each mode reflects a different
class of experiment that can be performed.
Before you can begin an experiment, you need to
select an operating mode.
The following table describes the mode to select

for the type of experiment desired.
Table 4.2
Modes and Experiments
Mode Experiments
DMA Multi- single frequency

frequency multifrequency
temperature ramps
multifrequency
isothermal hold
DMA Multi- effect of oscillation

strain amplitude on properties
DMA Creep effect of constant stress

on properties
DMA Stress effect of constant strain

Relaxation on properties
DMA Controlled thermal expansion

Force glass transition
softening point
static modulus
DMA Isostrain release of material

stresses at constant
strain

Selecting the Operating Mode
Once you have selected a mode, you will need to

enter your choice using the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage Instrument Control program. For
further information, see the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage User Reference Guide. This
chapter contains instructions on how to run an
experiment in each mode.

Running Experiments
DMA Multifrequency
Mode
In the DMA multifrequency mode, constant
amplitude DMA (oscillatory stress and strain)
experiments are performed on samples as a
function of time, temperature, and frequency of
oscillation. Storage and loss modulus, tan delta,
viscosities, and, with some clamps, displacement
and static force (preload force) are the results of
experiments in this mode. Using the DMA
multifrequency mode, you can perform three
types of experiments: single frequency (with
temperature ramps, holds, and combinations of
the two), multifrequency temperature ramps, and
multifrequency isothermal holds. This is a
general purpose DMA mode, which is most
often used to measure transition temperatures
and the effect of frequency on transitions.
Selecting
Instrument Parameters
After you have decided on the clamp, mode, and
type of experiment, you need to select the
instrument parameters to be used. This section
provides some guidelines for selecting the
instrument parameters to use with the single/dual
cantilever clamp (for information on the other
types of clamps, see Chapter 5). The instrument
parameters are selected using the Thermal
Solutions/Advantage DMA Instrument Control
software. See the User Reference Guide for
information.

DMA Multifrequency Mode
General guidelines to use when you set up your

instrument parameters for the DMA 2980, with
the single/dual cantilever clamp installed and the
DMA multifrequency mode selected, are
provided in this section.
Data Sampling Interval

The data sampling interval parameter repre-
sents the minimum time for data collection at
each frequency.
If the natural collection time for a particular

frequency is longer than the data sampling
interval, then data points will be collected at the
natural collection rate. As three oscillations are
needed to ensure thermal and mechanical
equilibration in the sample (during single
frequency operation), the natural collection
time of a frequency is:
t = 3/F
where t is in seconds per data point and

F is in Hz.
Recommended values for the data sampling

interval are 3 to 10 seconds for temperature
ramp experiments. For long (more than one
hour) isothermal experiments, 30 seconds (or
more) should be used as the sampling interval.
For frequencies above 1 Hz, the data collection
time is 3 seconds.

Running Experiments
Oscillation Amplitude
The range of acceptable oscillation amplitudes is

+ 0.5 to 10,000 µm. The actual usable range
depends on the geometry (clamp type), sample
stiffness, and frequency. The DMA can gener-
ate from 0.001 to 18 N of force. The force
required to sustain the frequency and amplitude
requested must be within that range. To ap-
proximate the best amplitude for a specific
sample, set an initial amplitude of 10 to 20 µm
and an initial (single) frequency of 1 Hz. Moni-
tor the drive force across the temperature range
of interest to ensure that it falls with that range.
If it does not, adjust the amplitude, change the
clamp, or change the sample size. For most
samples, 10 to 50 µm should yield good results.
Amplitudes less than 5 µm are not recom-
mended. However, for extremely stiff materials,
where the force limit is reached during oscilla-
tion, even after trying different clamp arrange-
ments, amplitudes as low as 1 µm should still
provide useful results.
The dynamic force depends on the oscillation,

amplitude, oscillation frequency, and sample
modulus. Autostrain is used to automatically
adjust the static (preload) force to be a specified
percentage greater than the force required to
drive the amplitude. Autostrain reduces the
change in permanent sample deformation (e.g.,
stretching or creeping of a film) as the sample
modulus decreases with increasing temperature.
125% is a typical autostrain value for tensioning
clamps. 0% is used for nontensioning clamps.

When choosing the oscillation ampltiude, the

maximum and minimum modulus (stiffness) must
be considered. These modulus extremes gener-
ally occur at the lowest and highest temperatures
of measurement respectively. [These modulus
values must be within the DMAs operating
range (107 to 102 N/m) or you may need to use a
different sample shape and/or different clamping
mode. See Preparing and Mounting Samples
in this chapter.]
NOTE: If the amplitude is set too high, the oscillation

amplitude will be automatically adjusted to keep
the static (preload) and dynamic force within the
18 N limit.
See the Thermal Solutions/Advantage User

Reference Guide for information on the remain-
ing instrument parameters.
When you perform multifrequency experiments

using the DMA, you need to either create a
frequency table or use an existing frequency
table. The instrument will apply the frequencies
listed in the table to the sample as the experiment
proceeds. The next section provides information
needed to create a frequency table.

Running Experiments
Creating Frequency Tables

Frequency tables contain a listing of one or more
frequencies (up to 28) over the allowable range
of 0.01 to 200 Hz. Follow these guidelines to
create a frequency table. (See the Thermal
Solutions/Advantage User Reference Guide
for specific information on creating a frequency
table.)
For temperature ramp experiments, one

frequency is normally used. You can use
more than one frequency, but they should be
higher frequencies (above 1 Hz). To
measure the time required to sweep through
all of the frequencies in a table, observe the
sweeping process using the Signal Control
window, when the drive motor is turned on.
Set the heating rate so that the sweep time
occurs in about 2 to 3 degrees.
When you create a frequency table with

more than one frequency, you can begin
with the highest frequency and end with the
lowest to shorten the sweep time.
If you want your data to span several

decades of frequency, then enter
frequencies that are spaced logarithmi-
cally (e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10) rather than linearly
spaced (e.g., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11). The
frequency list will repeat when the first zero
in the table is encountered.

You can also estimate the time needed to

measure properties over the selected range
of frequencies.
Seven oscillation cycles are needed to

ensure that the specimen is oscillating
properly at each selected frequency.
For each frequency, the time for one

oscillation cycle is 1/F (F in Hz); there-
fore, the time to make a measurement at
the individual frequency is (7)/F.
The minimum time to measure a fre-

quency is 7 sec.
The estimated time needed to measure

over the entire frequency table is :
t = (7/F1 + 7/F2 + 7/F3 +....7/Fn)
NOTE: The recommended frequencies should have one-

tenth (0.1) Hz resolution. If frequencies with
one-hundredth (0.01) Hz resolution are needed,
use frequencies that are divisible by 2 or 5.
The frequency generator requires that an
integral number of cycles be performed in an
integral number of seconds. As you can see
from the table on the next page, as the fre-
quency decreases, the amount of time can
increase, depending upon the number of cycles
needed.

Running Experiments
Table 4.2
Recommended Frequency Number of Time
Frequencies and Time Cycles Needed
0.1 7 70 sec
0.11 77 12 min
0.12 42 6 min
0.3 21 70 sec
0.32 112 6 min
0.33 231 12 min
1 7 7 sec
1.1 77 70 sec
1.2 42 35 sec
1.5 21 14 sec
10 70 7 sec
100 700 7 sec

Creating a DMA
Multifrequency Method
After you have entered the instrument param-
eters based on the type of clamp and experiment
desired, you need to create and edit a prepro-
grammed series of instrument instructions for
your experiment. These instrument instructions
are called segments. A series of segments make
up a method. This section provides basic
guidelines to use when setting up your methods.
For details on methods, refer to the Thermal
Solutions/Advantage User Reference Guide.
You can select varying numbers of frequencies

to use in your experiments. For frequency tables
that take less than approximately one minute to
measure, select either temperature ramp or
isothermal hold experiments. If measurements
over more frequencies are desired, use isother-
mal hold experiments. (If the data is going to be
used for Time-Temperature Superpositioning, the
isothermal hold experiments are recommended.)
Examples of typical multifrequency methods are

listed beginning on the next page.
NOTE: For all heating ramp experiments, use heating

rates of 5°C/min or less, because using higher
heating rates will create thermal gradients
within the specimens. Using a rate of 3°C/min
is a good compromise between experimental
speed and temperature accuracy and precision.
Slower rates are needed for low-frequency or
multifrequency experiments.

Running Experiments
Constant heating ramp method from room

temperature (this is a one-segment method):
1 Ramp 3°C/min to 180°C
Constant heating rate method from

subambient temperatures:
1 Equilibrate at -145°C
2 Data Storage Off
3 Isothermal 5 minutes (The instrument
can cool faster than the specimen; time
is needed for equilibration.)
4 Data Storage On
NOTE: The methods above will automatically collect

multifrequency data during the temperature
ramp. Do not use the frequency sweep seg-
ment in either of the methods above.
Isothermal step frequency sweep method:
1 Equilibrate 35°C
2 Data Storage Off (Do not collect data
during the initial isothermal segment.)
3 Isothermal 3 min (Hold at temperature

to ensure sample equilibrium.)
4 Frequency Sweep (This segment turns
the data storage on, steps through the
frequency table, and turns off data
storage after the final frequency.)
5 Increment 3°C
6 Repeat from segment 3 until 151°C
(This segment creates a loop that will
end when the temperature is met or
exceeded.)
DMA Multistrain Mode

In the DMA multistrain mode, DMA experi-
ments are performed over a range of amplitudes
(strains) at constant frequency and isothermal
temperature holds. This mode is used to study
the effect of amplitude on material properties,
most often to explore the linear viscoelastic limit.
Selecting
information.

multistrain mode selected, are provided in this
section.

sents the minimum time for data collection at
each amplitude.

Running Experiments
If the natural collection time for a particular

amplitude is longer than the data sampling
interval, then data points will be collected at
the natural collection rate. As seven oscillations
are needed to ensure thermal and mechanical
equilibration in the sample at each amplitude, the
natural collection time of a frequency is:
t = 7/F
where t is in seconds per data point and F is

in Hz.

interval are 7 to 14 seconds for temperature
ramp experiments. For long isothermal experi-
ments (over one hour), 30 seconds (or more)
should be used for the sampling interval.
Frequency
All experiments are performed at a single
frequency.

Creating Amplitude Tables
When you perform multistrain experiments using

the DMA, you need to either create an amplitude
table or use an existing amplitude table. The
instrument will apply the amplitudes listed in the
table to the sample as the experiment proceeds.
The next section provides information needed to
create an amplitude table.

Amplitude tables contain a listing of up to 28

amplitudes (1/2 peak-to-peak motion) over which
the material modulus and damping will be
measured. Follow these guidelines to create an
amplitude table. (See the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage User Reference Guide for specific
information on creating an amplitude table.)
For tensioning clamps, use this method to

examine the limits of viscoelastic response
of a material under isothermal conditions.
The DMA can be set at an amplitude range

of 0.5 to 10,000 µm; however, the actual
usable amplitude range is determined by the
sample stiffness and drive force. Usable
amplitudes result in a drive force (dynamic
force) within the 0.0001 to 18 N force range
of the instrument. For tensioning clamps,
usable amplitudes result in a drive force
(static plus dynamic) of 0.0011 to 18 N.
When sweeping amplitudes, sweep from the

lowest to the highest values.

Running Experiments
Creating a DMA
Multistrain Method
When you use the single/dual cantilever clamp in

the DMA multistrain mode, experiments are
usually performed using an isothermal hold
method.
Examples of typical multistrain methods are

listed below.
Amplitude sweep method at room

temperature (this is a two-segment method):
1 Jump 0°C (With the set point below

room temperature, the heater does not
come on. Turn off the GCA if it is
attached.)
2 Amplitude Sweep (This segment turns
amplitude table, and turns off data
storage after the final amplitude.)

Isothermal step amplitude sweep method:
1 Equilibrate 35°C
2 Data Storage Off (Do not collect data
during the initial isothermal segment.)
3 Isothermal 3 min (Hold at temperature
to ensure sample equilibrium.)
4 Amplitude Sweep (This segment turns
amplitude table, and turns off data
storage after the final amplitude.)
5 Increment 3°C
exceeded.)

Running Experiments
DMA Creep Mode

In DMA creep mode, an instantaneous stress is
applied to the sample and its position is measured
as a function of time (stress step). The sample
is then released to an unstressed state, and its
recovery is measured as a function of time.
When you perform an experiment, the primary
results in this mode are:
compliance during both steps

percent strain recovery during the
recovery step
percent strain during both steps.
The strain for the stress and recovery steps is

calculated using the sample length at the start of
the stress step. This length is the original sample
length, plus any cumulative changes since the
sample length was measured.
Selecting
cantilever clamp. The instrument parameters
are selected using the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage DMA Instrument Control software.
See the User Reference Guide for information.

creep mode selected, are provided in this section.
DMA Creep Mode

sents the minimum time for data collection at the
start of each retardation and recovery step.
In the DMA creep mode, data collection is

performed on a logarithmic-time basis, with a
factor of 1.2. If a data sampling interval of 1
second is selected, data will be collected at 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, etc.

interval are 2 to 10 seconds, if data is to be
plotted on a linear scale (time or decay time), or
0.2 to 1 second, if data is to be plotted on a
logarithmic scale.

(For Tensioning Clamps Only)
A preliminary static force (preload force) is

available for creep measurements using the film
and fiber tensioning clamps. This static force
(preload force) ensures that the sample material
is fully elongated (has no slack). A prelimi-
nary static force (preload force) is also available
when using the compression and 3-point bending
clamps for creep measurement. In those two
clamps, the static force (preload force) ensures
that the moveable portion of the clamp is in
contact with the material prior to the start of the
experiment. In all cases, the static force (pre-
load force) should be limited to the minimum
force required to achieve the desired starting
condition. Otherwise, it may affect the creep
results. (0.001 N is the lowest force that can be
applied.)

Running Experiments
The static force (preload force) is the force

applied to the sample when the CLAMP ▼
key is pressed on the DMA 2980 instrument.
The static force (preload force) is maintained
after the motor is turned on, and throughout the
experiment. This static force (preload force) is
in addition to the stress applied during the creep
test.
The nontensioning clamps, dual/single cantilever

and shear sandwich clamps, do not require static
force (preload force) in the creep mode.
Stress
The stress represents the amount of force
applied to the sample. Select the stress value as
follows, based on the type of experiment that you
want to run:
If you want to simulate real-life conditions,

you need to calculate the stress that would
be experienced by the material while it is in
use, and then use that value as the
instrument parameter.
If you want to look at the structure of a

material, such as its long-term behavior
using the Time-Temperature Superposition
software, the stress applied should keep the
material in its linear viscoelastic region. To
do this, perform your initial creep
experiments at ambient temperature, with
increasing levels of stress. In the linear
viscoelastic region, compliances should
superimpose on a creep compliance versus
decay time plot. The limit of the linear
viscoelastic region is reached when the
compliance starts to drift away from the
superimposed curves.

DMA Creep Mode
Equilibrium Criteria
Creep experiments are run isothermally. To

ensure that the sample has reached thermal
equilibrium before the stress (force) is applied, a
soak time (typically 5 to 10 minutes) is recom-
mended (unless the temperature of interest is
ambient). Data collection should be initiated
immediately prior to adding the stress. (See
method on the next page.)

Creating a DMA
Creep Method

the DMA creep mode, experiments are per-
formed isothermally using the Displace/Recover
method segment.
Examples of typical creep methods are listed on

the next page.

Running Experiments
Creep method at room temperature (this is a

two-segment method):

attached.)
2 Displace 10 min, Recover 10 min
(This segment lets the sample
equilibrate, turns the data storage on,
applies the selected stress for 10
minutes, then removes the stress and
lets the sample recover for 10 minutes.)
NOTE: When you want to simulate real-life conditions,
the duration of the displace and recover seg-
ments should reflect those times experienced
by the material as it is actually used.
Isothermal creep method (this is a six-

segment method):
1 Equilibrate 50°C
2 Data Storage OFF
3 Isothermal 5 minutes
4 Displace 10 min, Recover 10 min
(This segment lets the sample
equilibrate, turns the data storage on,
applies the selected stress for 10
minutes, then removes the stress and
lets the sample recover for 10 minutes.
5 Increment 5°C
exceeded.)

DMA Stress Relaxation Mode
DMA Stress
Relaxation Mode
In DMA stress relaxation mode, an instanta-
neous strain is applied to the sample and the
force required to maintain the strain is measured
as a function of time (strain step). When you
perform an experiment, the primary result in this
mode is stress relaxation modulus during the
strain step.
In this mode, the strain is calculated using the

sample length of the start of the strain step. This
length is the original sample length, plus any
cumulative changes in the length since the
sample length was measured.
Selecting
After you have decided on the clamp, mode,
and type of experiment, you need to select the
cantilever clamp. The instrument parameters
are selected using the DMA Instrument Control
information.

stress relaxation mode selected, are provided in
this section.

Running Experiments

sents the minimum time for data collection at the
start of each relaxation and recovery step.
In the DMA stress relaxation mode, data

collection is performed on a logarithmic-time
basis, with a factor of 1.2. If a data sampling
interval of 1 second is selected, data will be
collected at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, etc.

interval are 2 to 10 seconds, if data is to be
plotted on a linear scale (time or decay time); or
0.2 to 1 second, if data is to be plotted on a
logarithmic scale.


available for stress relaxation measurements
using the film and fiber tensioning clamps. This
static force (preload force) ensures that the
sample material is fully elongated (has no
slack). A preliminary static force (preload
force) is also available when using the compres-
sion and 3-point bending clamps for stress
relaxation measurement. In those two clamps,
the static force (preload force) ensures that the
moveable portion of the clamp is in contact with
the material prior to the start of the experiment.
In all cases, the staic force should be limited to
the minimum force required to achieve the
desired starting condition. Otherwise, it may
affect the stress relaxation results. (0.001 N is
the lowest force that can be applied.)

The static force (preload force) is the force

applied to the sample when the CLAMP ▼
key is pressed on the DMA 2980 instrument.
The static force (preload force) is maintained
after the motor is turned on, and throughout the
experiment. This static force (preload force) is
in addition to the stress applied during the stress
relaxation test.

force (preload force) in the stress relaxation
mode.
Strain %
The percent strain represents the amount of
deformation applied to the sample. Select the
strain value as follows, based on the type of
experiment that you want to run:
If you want to simulate real-life conditions,

you need to calculate the strain that would
be experienced by the material while it is in
use, and then use that value as the instru-
ment parameter. See Chapter 6 for details
on calculation of the strain.
If you want to look at the structure of a

material, such as its long-term behavior
using the Time-Temperature Superposition
software, the strain applied should keep the
material in its linear viscoelastic region. To
do this, perform your initial stress relaxation
experiments at ambient temperature, with
increasing levels of strains. In the linear
viscoelastic region, moduli should super-
impose on a stress relaxation modulus
versus decay time plot. The limit of the
linear viscoelastic region is reached when
the modulus starts to drift away from the
superimposed curves.

Running Experiments
Equilibrium Criteria
Stress relaxation experiments are run isother-
mally. To ensure that the sample has reached
thermal equilibrium before the strain is applied, a
soak time (typically 5 to 10 minutes) is recom-
mended (unless the temperature of interest is
ambient). Data collection should be initiated
immediately prior to straining the material. (See
method on page 4-37.)


Creating a DMA
Stress Relaxation Method

the DMA stress relaxation mode, experiments
are performed isothermally using the Displace/
Recover method segment.
Examples of typical stress relaxation methods

are listed below.
Stress relaxation method at room

temperature (this is a two-segment method):

attached.)
2 Displace 10 min, Recover 0 min (This
segment lets the sample equilibrate,
turns the data storage on, applies the
selected percent strain for 10 minutes,
then releases the sample.)

Running Experiments
NOTE: When you want to simulate real-life conditions,

the duration of the retardation segment should
reflect that experienced by the material as it is
actually used.
Isothermal stress relaxation method (this is a

six-segment method):
1 Equilibrate 50°C
2 Data Storage OFF
3 Isothermal 5 minutes
4 Displace 10 min, Recover 0 min (This
segment lets the sample equilibrate,
turns the data storage on, applies the
selected strain for 10 minutes, then
releases the sample.)
5 Increment 5°C
exceeded.)

DMA Isostrain Mode
DMA Isostrain Mode

The DMA isostrain mode is a special case of
stress relaxation, which is used only with the film
or fiber tension clamps. In DMA isostrain mode,
a specific known strain is applied to the sample.
The temperature of the sample is then ramped
and the amount of stress (force) required to
maintain that strain is measured. Results
obtained provide insights into shrinkage stresses
and other built-in processing effects in films and
fibers.
Isostrain is also known as a shrink force mea-

surement and is typically used in the film and
fiber industry to measure orientation in the
amorphous phase. Orientation in the amorphous
phase will cause a sample under strain to shrink.
Since strain is held constant on the sample, the
force required to maintain the strain increases as
the fiber attempts to shrink on heating. The
more the fiber shrinks, the more orientation is in
the fiber.
NOTE: This test is intended only for shrinkage force

measurements where the amount of shrinkage
that occurs when the sample is heated is very
large relative to the thermal expansion of the
system (sample, clamps, and posts). If the
sample does not shrink, do not use this test.

Running Experiments
Selecting
This section provides some guidelines for
selecting the instrument parameters to use with
the film or fiber clamps when operating in the
DMA isostrain mode. The instrument param-
eters are selected using the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage DMA Instrument Control software.
See the User Reference Guide for information.
NOTE: You should not use the Auto Zero function when
programming the strain in the instrument
parameters. When you want to use the Auto
Zero function, you need to program the strain
as a method segment.

sents the minimum time for data collection.
Recommended value for the data sampling

interval is 2 seconds.

DMA Isostrain Mode

available for DMA isostrain measurements.
This static force (preload force) ensures that the
film or fiber sample material is fully elongated
(has no slack) and should be limited to the
minimum force required to achieve that desired
starting condition. (0.001 N is the lowest force
that can be applied.)
NOTE: The sample must be fully elongated so that the

initial sample length, on which the % strain is
based, is accurate.
Strain %
The percent strain represents the amount of
deformation applied to the sample. The strain
chosen should be small enough to ensure that the
measurement is occuring within the linear
viscoelastic region. Typical values are 0.01 to
0.1%. (To determine the actual linear viscoelas-
tic region, use the procedure described for stress
relaxation.)


Running Experiments
Creating an Isostrain Method

eters, you need to create and edit a prepro-
When you use the film or fiber clamp in the

DMA isostrain mode, experiments are per-
formed using a constant heating rate (ramp)
method. Typical heating rate methods are as
follows:
NOTE: For isostrain experiments, heating rates should

not exceed 5°C/min. Higher heating rates will
create thermal gradients within the specimens.
Using a rate of 3°C/min is a good compromise
between experimental speed and temperature
accuracy and precision.

temperature:
1 Isostrain at 1%


DMA Isostrain Mode

3 Isostrain at 1%
4 Ramp 3°C/min to 150°C.

Running Experiments
DMA Controlled
Force Mode
The DMA controlled force mode is used to
measure the displacement of a sample as a
function of time, temperature, and applied force.
Force can be applied in one of three manners:
constant force, stepped force, or continuous
force ramp. DMA controlled force can be used
to measure glass transition, softening point,
static modulus, etc. Creep measurements can
also be made in this mode, although time or
position is not reset between the applications of
force.
Selecting
information.

the dual cantilever clamp installed and the DMA
controlled force mode selected, are provided in
this section. See the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage User Reference Guide for details
on the Instrument Parameters functions.

DMA Controlled Force Mode

sents the minimum time for data collection.
Recommended value is 2 seconds.


available for DMA controlled force measure-
ments using the film and fiber tensioning clamps.
This static force (preload force) ensures that the
sample material is fully elongated (has no
slack) and should be limited to the minimum
force required to achieve the desired starting
conditions. (0.001 N is the lowest force that can
be applied.)
The static force (preload force) is initiated when

the CLAMP ▼ key is pressed on the DMA
2980 instrument. This value is altered by Force,
Increment Force, Ramp Force, or Motor Drive
Off segments.

force (preload force) in the controlled force
mode.


Running Experiments
Creating a DMA
Controlled Force Method
When you use the dual cantilever clamp in the

DMA controlled force mode, the following
experiments can be performed.
Temperature-Based
Experiments
You can use temperature ramps to measure
thermal expansion, glass transitions, and soften-
ing points of materials, depending on the type of
clamping accessory used. The penetration
clamps are recommended for temperature-based
experiments since these clamps provide the best
results (low noise and relatively featureless, low
drift baseline).

DMA Controlled Force Mode
Typical temperature scan methods are as

follows:
NOTE: For all heating ramp experiments, use heating

rates of 5°C/min or less, because using higher
heating rates will create thermal gradients
within the specimens. Using a rate of 3°C/min
is a good compromise between experimental
speed and temperature accuracy and precision.

temperature (this is a one-segment method):


3 Ramp 3°C/min to 150°C.
(Manual Creep Measurements)
Time-based experiments most often involve
stepping the static force (preload force) level up
and down to view creep response and recovery.
Usually, creep experiments are better performed
in the DMA creep mode. (Creep Time-Tem-
perature Superposition [TTS] experiments should
always be performed in the DMA creep mode.)
An example experiment in the DMA controlled
force mode is shown on the next page.

Running Experiments
Room temperature creep/recovery method:
1 Jump 0°C (No power is applied to

furnace. Make certain the GCA is
turned off.)
2 Force 1.7 N (Approximately 1 MPa
stress level on standard 50 x 12.5 x 3.2
mm 3-point bending sample.)
3 Isothermal 5 min
4 Force 0.01 N (Return to minimal force
to see recovery.)
5 Isothermal 5 min.
Force Ramp Experiments

If you are using the Force Ramp method seg-
ment with the DMA Controlled Force mode, the
DMA 2980 becomes an instrument capable of
performing Controlled Rate of Load (CRL)
stress-strain mechanical tests. This capability
can be used to explore material properties within
and beyond the linear viscoelastic region and to
view material parameters such as yield and
ultimate strengths. This test can be used to
determine the linear viscoelastic region for
tensioning clamps. The method for the force
ramp is shown here:
1 Equilibrate 30°C
2 Ramp Force 2 N/min to 18 N
After you have created an experiment to per-

form on the DMA, you need to prepare and
mount the samples. See the next section for
instructions.

Preparing and Mounting Samples
Preparing and
Mounting Samples
Sample preparation is one of the most important
factors in achieving accurate and reproducible
modulus values. Each type of clamp requires a
specific method for sample preparation.
The procedures for the standard single/dual

cantilever clamp are listed below. See Chapter 5
for information on the other clamping configura-
tions.

Sample Preparation
Ideally, samples should be molded, machined, or
otherwise fashioned into a rectangular shape for
use with the dual cantilever clamp.
Thickness: The minimum length-to-

thickness ratio should be 10 to 1. The
thickness of the rectangle should be 1/10
to 1/32 of the span of the dual cantilever
clamp. The maximum thickness is 5 mm.
NOTE: It is very important that the sample have a

uniform thickness, and that the thickness is
accurately measured. The cube of the sample
thickness is used in the modulus calculation;
therefore, a 3% error in thickness becomes a
10% error in the calculated modulus.

Running Experiments
Width: The width of the rectangle should

be 5 to 15 mm. The width and thickness
dimensions should be uniform across the
sample to within 0.02 mm.
Length: Cut the sample 5 mm longer than

the distance between the dual cantilever
supports, so that the sample will lie across
the supports without touching the furnace.
This length is approximately 55 to 60 mm for
the dual cantilever clamp and approximately
30 mm for the single cantilever clamp.
t CAUTION: Make sure that the sample does not touch the
furnace or the heating element.
Other sample shapes such as cylinders and tubes

can be used in the dual cantilever clamps.
However, clamping efficiency is reduced with
these shapes, and the uncertainty in modulus
measurements increases as a result.
NOTE: The sample size must be chosen so that the

sample stiffness is within the instrument’s
limits. If a sample physically fits in the clamp, it
does not mean that the sample will have high or
low enough stiffness for accurate measure-
ments.

Operating Range for

Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps
The two equations below can help you determine
which sample clamps to use and which sample
sizes to choose. These equations can also help
determine if the properties of a sample of a
particular size can be measured or if the sample
will have to be resized.
Shown on the next several pages are the modu-

lus range versus the possible sample size range
for the sample clamps. The possible sample
sizes are calculated as geometry factors (GF) in
the equations below. The modulus range is
based on the range of stiffness over which the
DMA 2980 can operate (102 to 107 N/m).
Geometry Factor Equations
Single Cantilever:
1  L3 L
GF = + 2S(1 + ν )
F  12I A 
Dual Cantilever:
1  L3 L 
GF =  + S(1 + ν)
F 192I 2A 
where:
L = sample length (mm)

A = sample cross sectional area (mm2 )
I = geometric moment (mm4) = 1/12 T3 W
for rectangular samples
T = sample thickness (mm)

Running Experiments
W = sample width (mm)

F = clamping factor (nominally 0.9)
S = shearing factor (nominally 1.5)
n = Poissons ratio (nominally 0.44).
NOTE: Refer to the “Clamping Factors” section in

Chapter 6 to determine the value used for the
clamping factor, F.
These equations are explained in greater detail in

Chapter 6.
The next two figures illustrate some typical

sample geometries.
Modulus (Pa)
10 13
10 12
10 11
10 10
10 9
10 8
10 7
10 6
10 5 17.5 mm long 17.5 mm long 17.5 mm long

12.5 mm wide 12.5 mm wide 12.5 mm wide
4 3.2 mm thick 1.75 mm thick 0.5 mm thick
10
10 3
10 -1 10 0 10 1 10 2 10 3 10 4 10 5
Geometry Factor (1/mm)
Figure 4.3
Single Cantilever Clamps

Modulus (Pa)
10 13
10 12
10 11
1010
10 9
108
10 7
6
10
10 5
16 mm long 35 mm long 35 mm long 8 mm long
10 mm wide 12.5 mm wide 12.5 mm wide 12.5 mm wide
4
10 4 mm thick 3.2 mm thick 1.75 mm thick 0.1 mm thick
10 3
1 2
10 -1 10 0 10 10 10 3 10 4 10
5

Figure 4.4
Dual Cantilever Clamps
Use of Operating
Range Figures
Figures 4.3 and 4.4 can help to determine the
proper sample shape for a given material, or to
determine if a sample of a particular size can be
measured as is. To determine the proper sample
size for a specific material requires some
knowledge of the approximate behavior (modu-
lus) of the material to be tested. For example, a
given material may have a modulus approxi-
mately 3x109 Pa at room temperature and will go
to 107 Pa above Tg. From Figures 4.3 and 4.4, it
can be seen that most geometry factors can
accommodate the material at room temperature,
but only a limited range of geometries (100 to
102 1/mm) can accommodate the sample above
glass transition.

Running Experiments
The second use for Figures 4.3 and 4.4 is to

determine whether a sample of a particular size
can be used. For example, you may have a
sample that is 12.5 mm wide by 3.2 mm thick,
with the standard (35 mm) cantilever clamps.
The geometry factors for both the single cantile-
ver (17.5 mm) and dual cantilever (35 mm)
clamps are displayed on the above figures. If
the material has relatively low modulus (i.e.,
106 Pa), at room temperature, then the dual
cantilever clamps can easily accommodate this
sample, but this sample is at the lower edge of
the operating range of the single cantilever
clamps. If accurate information above room
temperature is desired, then the dual cantilever
clamps would be preferred, or a smaller (10 mm
or 4 mm) single cantilever clamp would be
needed.


Sample Mounting
Two procedures are provided in this section
one to mount stiff samples and one to mount
weak samples. Refer to the section appropriate
to the type of sample you are using.
Mounting a Stiff Sample

To mount a stiff sample on the single or dual
cantilever clamps, follow these steps:
1. Loosen the three clamping center screws

(two for single cantilever clamp), shown in
the figure below.
Clamping Center Screws
Support Bar
Moveable
Jaws
Moveable Jaws
Sample
Fixed Clamp
Figure 4.5
Dual Cantilever
Clamp with Sample

Running Experiments
2. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key to release

(float) the moveable clamp.
3. Lifting each one of the moveable jaws in

turn, slide the sample in from one side
between the clamp faces.
NOTE: If the thermal expansion of a material is high,

use the single cantilever clamp, rather than the
dual cantilever clamp, to obtain the most
accurate results. Use the rear fixed clamp for
single cantilever operation to place the sample
closer to the thermocouple.
4. Tighten the clamping screws on the fixed

clamp until they are fingertight.
5. Tighten the clamping screw on the moveable

clamp until it is fingertight.
6. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key again to lock

the clamp in position.
7. Use the torque wrench to tighten each of the

clamping screws to maximize clamping but
minimize sample deformation. Suggested
clamping torques are 1.1 N-m (10 in-lb) for
high modulus materials (E > 5 GPa), 0.6 to
0.9 N-m (5 to 8 in-lb) for thermoplastic
samples (E ~ 1 GPa) and fingertight for
most elastomers above Tg.
8. Adjust the thermocouple so that it is approxi-

mately 1 mm below and 1 mm to the side of
the sample.
t CAUTION: Make sure that the sample does not touch the
furnace or the heating element.


Materials, on the Fiberglass Braid
If you are using the single or dual cantilever
clamps to analyze resins or some other sample
on the fiberglass braid, we recommend using the
8-mm dual cantilever clamps. Follow the steps
below to mount samples on the clamp:
1. Perform steps 1 through 6 in the previous

section using a rigid sample (such as one of
the steel compliance samples).
2. Loosen the clamping center screws and

remove the rigid sample.
3. Lifting each one of the moveable jaws in

turn, slide paperclips or other small items
between the jaws to prop the clamp faces
open. We recommend that aluminum foil be
placed over each clamp face to prevent the
resin from sticking the jaws shut.
4. Prepare the braid sample with the resin,

spreading the resin thinly and uniformly onto
the braid.
5. Carefully slide the prepared braid in from

one side of the clamp.
6. Remove the paperclips or other propping

devices from between the clamp faces.
7. Tighten the clamping center screws to finger

tightness. Use a hex key to tighten the
screws an additional 1/4 turn.

Running Experiments

mately 1 mm below and 1 mm to the side of
the sample.
Measuring
Sample Length
To obtain accurate modulus values, it is impor-
tant that the sample dimensions be measured
accurately.
When using the dual cantilever clamp, the

sample length is defined by the length
between the two fixed clamps, minus the
moveable clamps thickness. This
measurement becomes fixed (see page 4-8
for the default values) and can be used
without the need for verification.
When using the single cantilever clamp, the

sample length is defined by the length
between the fixed and moveable clamps.
However, due to the flexibility of the drive
shaft, after the sample is tightened in the
clamps, the actual sample length may be
slightly different from the default values. To
accurately measure the sample length, a
telescoping gauge is provided in the
accessory box. The next section provides
the instructions needed to use the
telescoping gauge.

Using the Telescoping Gauge

To accurately measure sample length using the
telescoping gauge on the single cantilever clamp,
follow these steps:
1. Prepare and mount the sample as directed in

this chapter.
2. Loosen the gauge tips by turning the knurled

knob counterclockwise approximately one-
quarter turn. See Figure 4.6.
Measure this length

with calipers after
setting gauge
Spring-Loaded Tips
Handle
Kurled Knob
Figure 4.6
Telescoping Gauge
3. Insert the gauge sideways between the
clamps, just above the sample.
4. Gently rotate the gauge so that the spring-

loaded gauge tips are exactly perpendicular
to the clamp jaws and at the middle of the
sample. Make sure that you keep the handle
vertical.

Running Experiments
5. Set the gauge by turning the knurled knobs

clockwise to lock the tips in position.
6. Rotate the gauge sideways and remove it

from the clamps.
7. Measure the gauge length, which is equal to

the actual sample length, with calipers. Use
this value as your sample length when
entering the instrument parameters.

Performing Experiments
Once you have set the appropriate instrument
and experimental parameters and have mounted
a sample on the DMA 2980, you are ready to
run the experiment.
When you run experiments using the single or

dual cantilever clamps, follow the instructions
given in the next section. Please note the
following conditions that pertain to single/dual
cantilever clamp experiments:
If the thermal expansion of a material is

highsuch as for thermoplastics and rigid
elastomersuse the single cantilever clamp,
rather than the dual cantilever clamp, to
obtain the most accurate results.
You may need to tighten the clamps at the

minimum temperature, when you run
elastomer samples at subambient
temperatures. To do this, follow the
suggested method below:
1. Program a method with Drive Off as the

first segment and Initial temperature
XX°C as the second segment. Then
follow with the other segments needed
for your particular experiment. The first
two segments will bring your sample to
the starting temperature without applying
forces to it that might distort it.
2. When the instrument status line reads

Ready, press the FURNACE key on the
instrument to raise the furnace. The
GCA will automatically stop and switch

Running Experiments
to a vent state and the furnace heaters

will be turned off while the furnace is
open.
3. Quickly and carefully tighten the clamp-

ing screws.
Use the appropriate tools and safety precau-

!WARNING tions if you need to handle the sample or
clamps. They can be hot or cold enough to
cause injury.
4. Press the FURNACE key on the

instrument to lower the furnace. As the
furnace is lowering, turn the motor on
using the Control/Motor/On function
on the DMA Instrument Control soft-
ware.
The method and temperature control will

automatically resume when the furnace
is closed.
5. Allow the sample and furnace to return

to the initial temperature and equilibrium.
Then use the Control/Resume function
(or the START key on the instrument)
to continue the experiment.

Starting an Experiment
To start an experiment on the DMA 2980, follow
these steps:
1. Use the Thermal Solutions/Advantage

DMA Instrument Control program to select
the clamp, mode, and instrument parameters.
When appropriate, you will also need to
create an amplitude or frequency table.
2. Create and load an experimental method

using the Thermal Solutions/Advantage
software.
3. Prepare and mount the desired sample on

the clamp installed.
4. Press the FURNACE key to close the

furnace. Then press the MEASURE key on
the instrument keypad.
5. Observe the Thermal Solutions/Advantage

Signal Display window to ensure good
starting conditions (e.g., smooth oscillation
and relatively constant position).
6. Press the START key on the instrument

keypad or select Start from the menu or
tool bar of the Thermal Solutions/Advan-
tage DMA Instrument Control program.
The experiment will begin.

Running Experiments
Stopping an Experiment
You can stop an experiment before the end of
the selected method when necessary. Use one
of the following actions to stop an experiment in
progress:
Select Stop on the Thermal Solutions/

Advantage Instrument Control program or
STOP on the 2980 keypad to stop an
experiment. The stop command ends the
method, saves the data, then begins the
method-end conditions.
Select Reject on the Thermal Solutions/

Advantage Instrument Control program or
SCROLL-STOP on the 2980 keypad to
reject an experiment. The reject
command ends the method normally, as
though it had run to completion. The
method-end conditions go into effect, but the
data that has been generated is discarded.

Removing Samples
When the experiment has run to completion,
remove the sample from the single/dual cantile-
ver clamp as follows:
1. Wait for the sample to return to room

temperature before you attempt to remove it.

furnace.
3. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key or STOP to

lock the moveable clamp in position.
4. Loosen the three clamping center screws

that are holding the sample between the
moveable jaws and remove the sample. If
any sample residue remains stuck to the
clamp, remove it by scraping it off with a
razor blade or similar tool.
If further cleaning is needed, turn to Chapter 7

for further information.
See Chapter 5 to remove the samples from the

optional clamps.
Removing the Clamp

If you want to remove the single/dual cantilever
clamp after an experiment, refer to Chapter 2 for
the steps needed.

Running Experiments

Chapter 5: Using Your Options
Introduction ................................................. 5-5
Tensioning/Nontensioning Clamps............... 5-6
Static Force (Preload Force) ................5-8

Constant Force .....................................5-9
Autostrain (Force Track) ......................5-9
3-Point Bending Clamps ............................ 5-11
Installing the Large Clamps ................ 5-14

Installing the Small Clamps ................. 5-16
3-Point Bending
3-Point Bending Clamps ..................... 5-19
Mounting a Sample on the 3-Point
Bending Clamps .................................. 5-21
Heat Deflection Temperature ...... 5-24
Shear Sandwich Clamp ............................. 5-27
Installing the Clamp ............................ 5-29

Shear Sandwich Clamp ...................... 5-31
Mounting a Solid Sample .................... 5-33
Mounting a Liquid
or Gel Sample ..................................... 5-34

Using Your Options
Compression Clamp .................................. 5-39

Aligning the Clamp ....................... 5-42
Operating Range of
the Compression Clamp...................... 5-45
Mounting a Sample ............................. 5-47
Penetration Clamp..................................... 5-52

Film Tension Clamp ................................... 5-59

Operating Range
of the Tension Clamps ........................ 5-62
Removing a Sample ............................ 5-69
Fiber Tension Clamp ................................. 5-70

Large Diameter
(High Denier) Monofilaments ...... 5-73
and Fiber Bundles ........................ 5-74

Submersion Film/Fiber Clamp ................... 5-79
Installing and
Calibrating the Clamp ......................... 5-81
Tension Film/Fiber Clamp ................... 5-88
Removing a
Sample and Clamp .............................. 5-94
Submersion Compression Clamp .............. 5-96

Submersion Compression Clamp ...... 5-103
Mounting a Sample ........................... 5-105
Running an Experiment .................... 5-106
Removing a
Sample and Clamp ............................ 5-109

Using Your Options

Introduction
Introduction
The TA Instruments DMA 2980 can be used
with various accessory clamps. The
35-mm dual cantilever clamp is the standard
clamp that comes with the instrument. This
chapter provides details on the optional clamps
(clamps other than the dual cantilever clamp).
Information such as how to install the optional
clamps, mount a sample, and remove the optional
clamps is provided on the next several sections.
To decide which clamp to use for your samples,
turn to Chapter 4 in this manual to learn the
differences between the clamps and choose the
appropriate type of clamp.

Using Your Options
Tensioning/Nontensioning
Clamps
There are two classes of clamps for the DMA
2980tensioning and nontensioning. The 3-point
bend, tension/film, tension/fiber, compression and
penetration clamps are tensioning clamps, while
the single/dual cantilever and shear sandwich
clamps are nontensioning.
When you use the tensioning clamps, such

as the 3-point bending clamp, a static (or
preload) force must be applied to pretension
the sample
before the
Force/Time Curves
A oscillation can
0 occur. (See the
OF
A figure to the
A = Oscillatory force amplitude left.) The
OF = Offset force (static force) oscillating force
increases and
Clamps without offset force: Clamps with offset force: reduces stress
Single Cantilever Tension Film
in the specimen,
Dual Cantilever Tension: Fiber
but stress must
Shear Sandwich 3-Point Bend
Compression always be
Penetration positive.
Otherwise, the
moveable clamp
will lift off the sample or the sample will
buckle and oscillation will be lost. For more
information regarding static (preload) force,
see the next section, beginning on page 5-8.
When using nontensioning clamps, the

specimen oscillates about the zero stress
point and no static (preload) force is
required.

Tensioning/Nontensioning Clamps
Two methods are available for maintaining a

positive force on the sample: constant force
and autostrain (force track).
When you use constant force, the static

force (preload force) on the sample remains
steady throughout the experiment.
When you select autostrain (force track),

the total force (preload and dynamic) that is
applied to the sample during multifrequency
and multistrain experiments, using tensioning
clamps, is automatically adjusted. This
ensures that the specified amplitude and
frequency are sustained without the
occurence of permanent sample deformation
as the temperature increases (modulus
decreases). Recommended autostrain
(force track) values are 120% for thin films
and low denier fibers (using the film and
fiber tension clamps), 150% for
thermoplastics (using 3-point bend clamps),
and 125% for general applications.
Autostrain (force track) is typically preferred

over constant force, since the likelihood of
permanently deforming (e.g., stretching) the
specimen is greatly reduced by reducing the
force as the specimen modulus decreases.
You can select both parameters using the DMA

Instrument Control software.

Using Your Options

If autostrain (force track) is used, the static
force (preload force) will automatically be
adjusted to remain a set percentage greater than
the force required to drive the sample at the
programmed amplitude. The following formula is
used to maintain the ratio between the static
(preload) force and dynamic force (force to
drive amplitude).
Static (Preload) Force =

Autostrain (Force Track) x
Stiffness x Amplitude
For example, if you program an autostrain (force
track) of 120% and an amplitude of 10 microns,
and the measured sample stiffness is 50,000
N/m, then the static force will be as follows:
Static Force = (1.2) x (10 x 10-6) x (50,000 N/m)

= 0.6 N
If autostrain (force track) is not used, the static

force (preload force) should read the value set in
the instrument parameters.
For Creep, Stress Relaxation, Stress/

Strain Experiments (film/fiber clamps):
Use static (preload) force to elongate
samples prior to measuring length and
initiating experiments. Use the minimum
possible.
For Oscillation Experiments (all

tensioning clamps): Use static (preload)
force to ensure that oscillation can be
sustained. Use autostrain (force track) to

Tensioning/Nontensioning Clamps
automatically adjust the combined static

(preload) and dynamic force to avoid undue
elongation of the sample as modulus
decreases.
Constant Force
To apply a constant force to the sample, set up
your instrument parameters as follows:
1. Clear the Autostrain (Force Track) option.
2. Enter the value desired for the constant

force into the Static Force (Preload Force)
field. The static force (preload force) value
should exceed the dynamic force needed for
oscillation over the entire experiment. The
force is applied to the specimen throughout
the entire experiment.
Autostrain (Force Track)

To apply an adjustable force to the sample, set
up your instrument parameters as follows:
1. Select the Autostrain (Force Track) option.
2. Enter the autostrain (force track) value.

This value is a constant multiplier used to
adjust static force (preload force) during the
oscillation according to the equation on the
previous page.
The autostrain (force track) value is a

constant multiple of sample stiffness, which
is calculated from the drive force, oscillation
amplitude, and frequency of oscillation.

Using Your Options
3. Enter the static force (preload force) value.

When used with autostrain (force track), the
static force (preload force) is applied to the
sample prior to initiating the experiment.
Static (preload) force is never used for
nontensioning clamps. It is required with
tensioning clamps when running multifre-
quency and multistrain experiments in order
to sustain oscillation (ensure that the force
is applied to the sample throughout the
complete oscillation). Typical static
(preload) forces for those experiments are
0.01 to 0.05 N.

3-Point Bending Clamps

This type of clamp is most useful for stiff, highly
elastic materials such as metals, ceramics, highly
filled thermosetting polymers, and highly filled
and crystalline thermoplastic polymers. When
used for oscillatory experiments, 3-point bending
clamps require a static (preload) force. The 3-
point bending clamp is therefore not useful for
DMA samples that will not support a preload
force, such as elastomers.
Sample Sizes
Length: 5, 10, 15, 20, and 50 mm

Width: up to 15 mm
t CAUTION: When the small 3-point bending clamp is used,

you must make sure that both the fixed and
moveable clamps are installed. The furnace may
hit the clamp when it is closed, unless both
parts are installed.

Using Your Options
Figure 5.1
Large 3-Point
Bending Clamp

Figure 5.2
Small 3-Point
Bending Clamp
To learn how to install the 3-point bending

clamps, mount the samples, and remove the
clamps, read the next several pages.

Using Your Options
Installing the
Large Clamps
To install the 20 or 50 mm 3-point bending clamp
on the DMA 2980, follow these steps (refer to
Figure 5.3 on the next page for identification of
the parts):
1. Insert the 3-point bending moveable clamp

into the dovetail holder and align the clamp
with the holder.
2. Tighten the setscrew with a hex wrench.

Do not over tighten the setscrew.
3. Install the large 3-point bending fixed clamp

by lowering it onto the mounting posts, with
the four screw holes centered over the four
mounting posts. Take care not to damage
the thermocouple.
4. Seat the fixed clamp firmly onto all four of

the mounting posts. Then tighten the screws
with a hex wrench. Do not over tighten the
attachment screws.
5. Select the clamp type and mode using the

Thermal Solutions/Advantage Instrument
Control program. See Chapter 3 of this
manual and the Thermal Solutions/Advan-
tage User Reference Guide for informa-
tion.
6. Calibrate the clamp for mass and compliance

as directed in Chapter 3.

Moveable Clamp
Fixed Clamp
Thermocouples
Mounting Posts
Figure 5.3
Large 3-Point Bending
Clamp Installed

Using Your Options
Installing the
Small Clamps
To install the 5, 10, or 15 mm 3-point bending
clamps on the DMA 2980, follow these steps
(refer to Figure 5.4 on the next page for identifi-
cation of the parts):
1. Raise the furnace.
2. Insert the 3-point bending moveable clamp

into the dovetail holder and align the clamp
with the holder.
3. Tighten the setscrew with a hex wrench. Do

not over tighten the setscrew.
4. Install the 5, 10, or 15 mm base onto the 3-

point bending fixed clamp. (This step can
be done before or after mounting the fixed
clamp.)
5. Slide the fixed clamp into position, then

lower it onto the mounting posts with the
four screw holes centered over the four
mounting posts. Take care not to damage
the thermocouple.

attachment screws.

Instrument Control program. See Chapter 3
of this manual and the User Reference
Guide for information.

8. Calibrate the clamp for mass and compliance

as directed in Chapter 3.
Moveable Clamp
Sample Sample Supports
Small Clamp Base Fixed Clamp
Dovetail
Mounting Posts
Drive Shaft
Figure 5.4
Small 3-Point Bending
Clamp Installed

Using Your Options
3-Point Bending
Sample Preparation
Sample preparation is one of the most important
factors in achieving accurate and reproducible
modulus values. Each type of clamp requires a
specific method for sample preparation.
This section contains the procedures for the 3-

point bending clamps.
Ideally, samples should be molded, machined, or

otherwise fashioned into a rectangular shape for
use with either of the 3-point bending clamps.
The 3-point bending clamps are very sensitive to
any sample malformation, therefore, the rect-
angle must be well formed, without any twists or
buckles.
Thickness: The thickness of the rectangle

should be 1/10 to 1/32 of the span (length)
of the chosen 3-point bending sample
supports. The maximum thickness is 7 mm.
The thickness should be as uniform as
possible across the sample, to within 0.02
mm or less.
NOTE: It is very important that the sample have a uniform

thickness, and that the thickness is accurately
measured. The cube of the sample thickness is
used in the modulus calculation; therefore, a 3%
error in thickness becomes a 10% error in the
calculated modulus.
Width: The width of the rectangle should

be 5 to 15 mm. The width and thickness
dimensions should be uniform across the
sample to within 0.02 mm.

Length: Cut the sample 5 mm longer than

the span of the chosen 3-point bending
clamp sample supports (50, 20, 15, 10 or 5
mm). Make certain the sample does not
touch the furnace.
Other sample shapes such as cylinders and tubes

can be used in the 3-point bending clamps.

The equation below can help you determine
which sample clamps to use and the appropriate
sample size. This equation can also help deter-
mine if the properties of a sample of a particular
size can be measured or if the sample dimen-
sions will have to be changed.
Shown in this section is a figure displaying the

modulus range versus the possible sample size
range for the sample clamps. The possible
sample sizes are calculated as geometry factors
(GF) in the equation below. The modulus range
is based on the range of stiffness over which the
Geometry Factor Equation for 3-Point

Bending Clamps with Rectangular Samples:
L3
[12 t
( )]
2
GF = 48I 1+ 5 (1 + n) L

Using Your Options
where:
I = geometric moment (mm4) = 1/12 t3 W for
rectangular samples
t = sample thickness (mm)
W = sample width (mm)
n = Poissons ratio (nominally 0.44).
These equations are explained in greater detail

in Chapter 6.
Also shown on the figure below are some typical

sample geometries.
Modulus (Pa)
10 13
10 12
10 11
10 10
10 9
10 8
10 7
6
10
20 mm long 50 mm long
50 mm long 12.5 mm wide
10 5 12.5 mm wide
12.5 mm wide 1 mm thick
2.5 mm thick 3.2 mm thick
10 4
3 4
10 0 10 1 10 2 10 10 10 5
Figure 5.5

Mounting a Sample
on the 3-Point
Bending Clamps
To mount the rectangular sample on the 3-point
bending clamps, follow these steps:
1. Press the FLOAT key on the DMA 2980 to

allow the clamp to float freely.
2. Manually lift the moveable clamp and slide

the sample in from the side onto the two
supports.
t CAUTION: Make sure that the sample does not touch

either side of the moveable clamp, the furnace,
or the heating elements. See Figure 5.4 on page
5-17.
3. Align the sample so that it lays perpendicu-

lar to the cross member of the support.
4. Adjust the thermocouple so that it is 1 mm

below and 1 mm to the side of the sample.
When using the small 3-point bending
clamps, the thermocouple should be as close
as possible to the sample.

Using Your Options
When you use any of the 3-point bending clamps
for experiments, you will need to set up the
experimental parameters using the Instrument
Control software.
t CAUTION: When one of the small 3-point bending clamps is

used, you must make sure that both the fixed and
moveable clamps are installed. The furnace will
hit the clamp when it is closed, unless both parts
are installed.
Following these general guidelines when using a

3-point bending clamp:
1. Set up the instrument parameters as directed

in Chapter 4. Note that the 3-point bending
clamps are tensioning clamps; therefore,
autostrain and static force parameters must
be entered. The recommended values are
150 to 200 % for autostrain and 0.005 to 1 N
for static force.
NOTE: If Autostrain is not selected, then the constant

static force is used throughout the experiment.
Otherwise the static force is adjusted to maintain
the proper autostrain force ratio.
2. Press the CLAMP ▼ key on the DMA

2980 instrument. This will apply the static
force selected in step 1.
3. Press the MEASURE key on the DMA.

This will start the motor in the selected
operation mode and activate the autostrain
parameter (if selected in step 1).

4. View the signals. Pay special attention to

these signals:
Amplitude: This signal should achieve and

maintain the value programmed. If running a
multistrain experiment, the amplitude will
cycle through the values programmed.
Stiffness: The stiffness should be within the

instruments measurable range of 100
N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.
Drive Force: The drive force should be

between 0.0001 and 18 N. If the drive force
is not within this range, either increase the
programmed amplitude to increase the drive
force, or increase the stiffness of the sample
by changing the physical dimensions of the
sample.
Static Force (Preload Force): If auto-

strain (force track) is used, the static force
(preload force) will automatically be adjusted
to remain a set percentage greater than the
force required to drive the sample at the
programmed amplitude. If autostrain (force
track) is not used, the static force (preload
force) should read the value set in the
instrument parameters. For more informa-
tion regarding static (preload) force, refer to
page 5-8.
If the initial conditions are acceptable, (i.e.,

smooth oscillation and good modulus values),
start the experiment.
If the values are not acceptable, then change

conditions appropriately.

Using Your Options
Heat Deflection Temperature

When you use the 3-point bending clamps,
experiments with temperature ramps are useful
for examining softening points. The large (50
mm) 3-point bending clamp can be used to
measure heat deflection temperature (HDT)
according to ASTM D648. The procedure for
this experiment is summarized below (it contains
some minor modifications to accommodate the
DMA 2980 dimensions):
1. Form a sample 55 mm long (2.2 in. long) x

12.5 mm (1/2 in.) wide x 3.1 mm (1/8 in.)
thick.
2. Select the DMA Controlled Force mode on

the DMA Instrument Control program.
3. Calculate the force necessary to achieve the

desired stress level, 0.455 MPa (66 psi) or
1.82 MPa (264 psi) according to the equa-
tion:
F = 2/3 *s (T2W/L)
where:
F = force (N)
s = stress (MPa)
T = thickness (mm)
W = width (mm)
L = length (mm) = 50 mm
4. Place the sample on the clamp and heat at

2°C/min.
The heat deflection temperature (HDT) is

the temperature at which 0.566-mm deflec-
tion (0.2 % strain) occurs.
Removing Samples
When the experiment has run to completion,
remove the sample from the 3-point bending
clamp as follows:
1. Wait for the sample to return to room

temperature before you attempt to remove it.

furnace.
3. Press the CLAMP (UP) key twice to raise

the moveable clamp.

moveable clamp in the upper position.
If further cleaning is needed, turn to Chapter 7

t CAUTION: Be careful not to scratch the contact surface of

the clamps.

Using Your Options
Removing the Clamp

The following procedure is used to remove the 3-
point bending clamp.
1. Press FLOAT/LOCK to lock the clamp in

place.
2. Loosen, but do not remove, the four fixed

clamp attachment bolts using a hex wrench.
3. Lift the fixed clamp off the four supports. It

may be necessary to raise the moveable
clamp to its upper position before the fixed
clamp can be removed.
4. Loosen the setscrew on the moveable clamp

and then remove the clamp by sliding it out
of the dovetail holder.

Shear Sandwich Clamp

The shear sandwich clamp is used to measure
samples ranging from unsupported viscous
liquids to elastomers above the glass transition
point. Much like cantilever clamps, the shear
clamp does not require static (preload) force
during testing. It should be noted that results are
strongly dependent on clamping conditions: Stiff
samples tend to slip, and the apparent modulus of
an elastomeric sample can change dramatically
with clamping force.
Sample Size
Plates: 10 mm x 10 mm
Thickness: up to 4 mm each side

Using Your Options
Figure 5.6
To learn how to install the shear sandwich

clamp, mount the samples, and remove the
clamp, read the next several pages.

Installing the Clamp

To install the shear sandwich clamp on the
DMA 2980 follow these steps (refer to the
figure on the next page for identification of the
parts):
1. Insert the dovetail of the moveable clamp

into the dovetail holder, and align the clamp
with the holder.
2. Use the hex key to tighten the setscrew in

the center of the moveable clamp.
3. Lower the fixed clamp carefully over the

moveable clamp. (You may need to reposi-
tion the thermocouple.)

attachment screws.
NOTE: You may need to readjust the front-to-back position

of the moveable clamp to ensure that the sides of
the moveable clamp are flush with the sides of the
fixed clamp.

6. Calibrate the clamp mass as directed in

Chapter 3.

Using Your Options
Top Sockethead
Capscrew Samples Setscrew Knurled Knob
Hex Screw
Fixed Clamp
Moveable Clamp
Dovetail
Dovetail Holder
Drive Shaft
Mounting Posts
Figure 5.7
(Shown with Sample Mounted)



Geometry Factor Equation for

Shear Sandwich Clamp:
3 T
GF =
10 A
where:
T = sample thickness (mm)
(= side A+side B)
A = sample cross sectional area (mm2 ).
These equations are explained in greater detail

in Chapter 6. The sample should never be larger
than the area of the clamp faces.
Also shown on the figure, seen on the next page,

are some typical sample geometries.

Using Your Options
Modulus (Pa)
10
10
9
10
10 8
7
10
6
10
5
10
4
10
3
10
each piece each piece
2 mm thick 4 mm thick
2
10 10 mm square 5 mm square
1
10
-3 -2 -1 0
10 10 10 10
Figure 5.8
Operating Range of
the Shear Sandwich Clamp
NOTE: The shear sandwich clamp will not work very well
with high modulus materials such as polymers
below Tg.

Mounting a
Solid Sample
You will need to use two samples of equal size
and shape for the shear sandwich clamp. Each
sample can be up to 10 mm square and up to 4
mm thick. To mount the samples on the shear
sandwich clamp, follow these steps:
1. Press FLOAT/LOCK to release (float) the

clamp.
2. Manually adjust the moveable clamp until it

is aligned with the clamp faces of the fixed
clamp, then press LOCK to hold it in place.
3. Tighten the knurled knobs evenly to press

the two clamp faces against the moveable
clamp. Check to make sure that the move-
able clamp is not being pushed away from
its centered position by either clamp face. If
the moveable clamp is pushed to one side,
loosen the knurled knob on the opposite side
until the clamp is centered once again.
4. Turn the knurled knob on one side of the

fixed clamp until there is enough room
between the clamp faces to insert the
sample. (The sample should not be larger
than the clamp faces.)
5. Hold the sample in place while you tighten

the knurled knob. Be careful that you do not
tighten the knob too much and over com-
press the sample. To ensure that the sample
is not overcompressed, tighten the knurled
knob until the clamp face contact the sample
(giving you a slight resistance on the knob).
Then tighten the knob an additional one-
quarter turn to compress the sample slightly.

Using Your Options
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the remaining

sample.
7. Tighten the two top sockethead capscrews

once the samples have been mounted.
8. Adjust the thermocouple so that it is as close

Mounting a Liquid
or Gel Sample
You can also analyze certain types of liquid or
gel samples on the DMA 2980.
To mount the liquid or gel samples on the shear

sandwich clamp, follow these steps:
1. Press FLOAT/LOCK to release (float) the

clamp.
2. Manually adjust the moveable clamp until it

is aligned with the clamp faces of the fixed
clamp, then press LOCK to hold it in place.
3. Tighten the knurled knobs evenly to press

the two clamp faces against the moveable
clamp. Check to make sure that the move-
able clamp is not being pushed away from
its centered position by either clamp face. If
the moveable clamp is pushed to one side,
loosen the knurled knob on the opposite side
until the clamp is centered once again.
4. Open one of the fixed clamps to an opening

that is larger than the desired sample gap.
Take note of the number of turns that you
have used to open the clamp.

NOTE: The knurled knobs are not calibrated microme-

ter screws, but they are reasonably able to set
equal distances on both sides of the clamps.
This is important for obtaining accurate results.
5. Load the sample into the gap between the

clamp faces. Try to load the sample into the
center of the clamp face. Use enough
sample so that when the clamps are com-
pressed, a small, excess amount will be
squeezed out of the clamp. Do not overfill
the clamps.
6. Turn the knurled knob to close the gap to the

desired valueup to 2 mm for heavier gels.
7. Tighten the top sockethead capscrew and

measure the gap (containing the sample)
with calipers.
8. Trim any excess material from around the

clamp using a spatula or similar implement.
9. Repeat steps 4 through 8 for the remaining

side. When repeating step 4, use the same
number of turns to set the second clamp gap
as you did for the first. Be careful when
measuring the second gap so that the
moveable clamp is not disturbed. Remem-
ber that the sample length is equal to the
total of side A + side B. The dimension of
the clamp face is 10 mm by 10 mm.


Using Your Options
When you use the shear sandwich clamp for
experiments, you will need to set up the experi-
mental parameters using the Instrument Control
software. Follow these general guidelines when
using the shear sandwich clamp:
1. Set up the experimental parameters as

directed in Chapter 4.

This will start the motor according to the
operation mode, frequency range, etc.

these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.

sample.


Removing Samples
To remove the samples from the shear sandwich
clamp, loosen the two top setscrews and reverse
the steps used to mount the samples.
If the clamp becomes stuck together by the

sample (such as with some resin materials), you
may need to remove the clamp and samples as
one piece and clean the clamps at a location
away from the instrument. Follow these steps to
remove samples:

screws that hold the fixed clamp in place on
the mounting posts.
2. Use the hex key to loosen the setscrew in the

center of the moveable clamp.

(float) the clamp.
4. Manually raise the clamp and samples off

the mounting posts.

drive shaft.
6. Slide the dovetail of the moveable clamp out

of the dovetail holder of the drive shaft.
The whole clamp assembly and samples are now

free of the instrument and can be cleaned.

Using Your Options
Removing the Clamp

To remove the shear sandwich clamp, follow
these steps:

the mounting posts.
2. Lift off the fixed clamp.
3. Use the hex key to loosen the setscrew in the

center of the moveable clamp.


Compression Clamp
Compression Clamp
Compression is used to measure the properties
of low to medium modulus materials, including
gels and weak elastomers. The sample must
support a static (preload) force during testing.
The sample should have as high a thickness-to-
diameter ratio as is possible, depending on the
sample preparation and instrument limits.
Sample Size
Diameter: up to 15 mm and 40 mm
t CAUTION: When the compression clamp is used, you must

make sure that both the fixed and moveable
clamps are installed. The furnace may hit the
clamp when it is closed, unless both parts are
installed.

Using Your Options
Figure 5.9
Compression Clamp
To learn how to install and align the compression

clamp, mount the samples, and remove the

Compression Clamp

To install the compression clamp on the DMA
2980, follow these steps:
1. Slide the lower section of the moveable

clamp onto the dovertail holder and align the
dovetail with the holder. Lightly tighten the
center setscrew only.
2. Press the CLAMP ▼ key on the instrument

keypad to lower the moveable clamp so that
the four mounting posts are easily acces-
sible.

the mountings posts and tighten the screws
attachment screws. Be careful not to
damage the thermocouple.
4. Screw the lower compression disk (15 mm

or 40 mm) onto the fixed clamp. See Figure
5.10.
Moveable Clamp
Lower
Compression Disk Hex Screw
Fixed Clamp
Dovetail Setscrews
Dovetail
Dovetail Holder
Figure 5.10
Lower Compression
Disk and Fixed Clamp
in Place

Using Your Options
5. Attach the upper compression disk (15 mm

or 40 mm) onto the upper section of the
moveable clamp.
6. Press the CLAMP ▲ key on the instrument

keypad to raise the clamp.
7. Attach the upper moveable clamp section

(with the upper compression disk attached)
to the U-shaped lower section of the move-
able clamp with the two Allen screws and
washers provided. The clamp should now
be fully assembled as seen in Figure 5.9.
8. Check the moveable clamp for alignment

(front-to-rear parallelism, left-to-right
parallelism, and concentricity). Parallelism
can be checked either visually or by pulling a
piece of paper between the compression
disks. If they are properly aligned, the paper
should drag evenly when pulled. If the
clamp needs to be realigned, use the proce-
dures in the next section.
Aligning the Clamp

To align the compression clamp follow these
steps:
NOTE: The clamp in Figure 5.11 is shown rotated 90
degrees from the acutal mounting configuration
on the instrument; this is to allow you to more
easily compare the adjustments to the instruc-
tions.
1. Adjust the left-to-right parallelism as follows:
a. Loosen the center setscrew. If the

upper compression disk is high on the
left side, turn the right dovetail setscrew
Compression Clamp
clockwise to make the adjustment. If

the disk is high on the right side, turn the
left dovetail setscrew clockwise to make
the adjustment.
b. Tighten the center setscrew again and

recheck the left-to-right parallelism
either visually or by pulling a piece of
paper between the compression disks.
If they are properly aligned, the paper
should drag evenly when pulled. Repeat
steps 1a and 1b, if needed, or adjust the
front-to-rear parallelism (see step 2).
2. Adjust the front-to-rear parallelism as

follows:
a. Remove the Allen screws from the

upper section of the moveable clamp.
b. Insert the appropriate number of shims

needed to adjust the parallelism cor-
rectly. If the upper clamp is high in the
back, place shims in the front, and vice
versa. (See Figure 5.11 on the next
page.)
3. Adjust the upper disk for concentricity as

follows: Loosen the upper moveable clamp
Allen screws. Manually move the disks into
alignment. The screw holes in the upper
part of the moveable clamp are oversized
to allow this adjustment.
4. Tighten all Allen screws and setscrews and

recheck the parallelism and concentricity.
Repeat any of the steps above, if needed.

Using Your Options
Upper
Allen Screw
Moveable
Clamp
Washers (2)
Upper Shims
Compression
Disk
Dovetail
Setscrew
Figure 5.11
Adding Shims to the
Compression Clamp for
Alignment

of this manual and the online documentation
6. Calibrate the clamp mass, offset, and

compliance as directed in Chapter 3.

Compression Clamp
Operating Range of
the Compression Clamp

Geometry Factor Equation for Compres-

sion:
T
GF = Fe
A
where:
T = Sample thickness (height) (mm)

A = Sample cross sectional area (mm2 )
Fe = Sample shear factor. This factor is a
strong function of Poissons ratio and
the thickness to area ratio of the sample.
Range: 1.0 to 0.1. See Clamping
Factors in Chapter 6 to determine the
value of Fe.
Samples which are tall relative to the diameter

tend to work better in the compression clamps.
The sample should never be larger than the area
of the clamp faces.
Using Your Options

sample geometries.
Modulus (Pa)
10
10
9
10
8
10
7
10
6
10
5
10
4
10
3
10
1 mm thick 2 mm thick
2 6 mm thick
40 mm diameter
10 20 mm diameter 10 mm diameter
1
10
-4 -3 -2 -1 0
10 10 10 10 10
Figure 5.12
Operating Range of
the Compression Clamps
NOTE: The compression clamps will not work very well

with high modulus materials such as polymers
below Tg.

Compression Clamp
Mounting a Sample
To mount a sample on the compression clamp,
follow these directions:
NOTE: If the sample is expected to crosslink or cure,

we recommend that you protect the clamp
faces with thin metal foil.

(float) the clamp.
2. Manually raise the moveable clamp and

place the sample on the bottom disk, making
sure that it does not extend beyond the edges
of the disk.
3. Apply the desired static force using the

Instrument Control program. (See the User
Reference Guide for details.)
Figure 5.13
Compression Clamp
(Shown with Sample
Mounted)

Using Your Options

When you use the compression clamp for
mental parameters using the instrument control
software.
t CAUTION: When the compression clamp is used, you must

clamps are installed. The furnace will hit the
installed.
Follow these general guidelines when using the

compression clamp:

directed in Chapter 4. Note that these
autostrain (force track) and static force
(preload force) values must be selected.
The recommended values are 0.005 to 1 N

for static force (preload force) and 115 to
200 percent for autostrain (force track), if
appropriate.
NOTE: When you use weak samples such as gel foams

and uncured elastomers, low amplitude (1-5
µm) and low autostrain (115 to 125%) values
are recommended for multistrain and multifre-
quency DMA experiments.

Compression Clamp

keypad to move the clamp faces together
and compress the sample under the static
force (preload force) selected in step 1.

This will measure the sample thickness and
automatically enter the thickness into the
experimental parameters. Then the motor
will start in the desired operation mode.

these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.

sample.

page 5-8.
Using Your Options


Removing Samples
To remove a sample from the compression
clamp follow these guidelines.
If the sample is not stuck to the clamps:

keypad to raise the moveable clamp.
2. Remove the sample and clean the compres-

sion disk face thoroughly. The disks can be
removed, if necessary. Be careful not to
scratch their surfaces.
If the sample has cured, or crosslinked, or

otherwise bonded the disks together:
1. Use a hex wrench to remove the screws on

top of the moveable clamp.

keypad to lower the moveable clamp.
3. Unscrew the compression disks from the

fixed clamp. The disks can now be taken
away from the instrument to be cleaned. Be
careful not to scratch their surfaces.

Compression Clamp
Removing the Clamp

To remove the compression clamp from the
DMA 2980, follow these steps:
1. Unscrew and remove the lower compression

disk from the fixed clamp.


screws holding the fixed clamp, then remove
the fixed clamp.
4. Loosen the setscrew holding the moveable

clamp on the drive shaft.
5. Slide the moveable clamp off the dovetail

holder.

Using Your Options
Penetration Clamp
The penetration clamp is only used for TMA
penetration analysis on the DMA 2980. Infor-
mation such as glass transition or melting points
can be obtained. Almost any type of material
can be used as a sample with the penetration
clamp installed.
Sample Size
t CAUTION: When the penetration clamp is used, you must

clamps are installed. The furnace may hit the
installed.

Penetration Clamp
Figure 5.14
Penetration
Clamp
To learn how to install the penetration clamp,

mount the samples, and remove the clamp, read
the next several pages.

Using Your Options

To install the penetration clamp on the DMA
2980 instrument, follow these steps:
1. Screw the penetration piece into the move-

able clamp before installing it onto the
instrument.
2. Slide the moveable clamp (with the penetra-

tion piece in place) onto the instrument.
Align the dovetail with the holder and tighten
the setscrew.
3. Press CLAMP ▲ key on the instrument


attachment screws. Be careful not to
damage the thermocouple.


Penetration Clamp
Figure 5.15
Penetration
Clamp in Place
6. Calibrate the clamp mass, zero, and compli-

ance as directed in Chapter 3.
Mounting a Sample
After the penetration clamp has been installed on
the DMA, you can mount the sample using the
following steps:

(float) the clamp.

place the sample on the fixed clamp, making
of the fixed clamp area.

Using Your Options
3. Press the CLAMP ▼ key on the DMA

2980 keypad to move the clamp down until it
just touches the sample.
When you use the penetration clamp for experi-
ments, you will need to set up the experimental
parameters using the Thermal Solutions/
Advantage software.
t CAUTION: When the penetration clamp is used, you must

clamps are installed. The furnace will hit the
installed.

penetration clamp:

autostrain and static force values must be
selected.

for static force and 115 to 200 percent for
autostrain (if appropriate).

This will apply the static force, measure the
sample thickness, and automatically enter the
thickness into the experimental parameters.
Then the motor will start in the desired
operation mode.

Penetration Clamp

these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.

sample.



Using Your Options
Removing the Clamp

To remove the penetration clamp from the DMA
2980, follow these steps:
1. Press the CLAMP ▲ key on the DMA 2980

instrument keypad to raise the moveable
clamp.
2. Loosen the four hex screws holding the fixed

clamp, then remove the fixed clamp.

clamp on the drive shaft.
4. Slide the moveable clamp off the dovetail

holder.

Film Tension Clamp
Film Tension Clamp

The film tension clamp can be used for film
samples that are up to 2 mm thick.
Sample Size
Length: 5 to 30 mm
Width: up to 6.5 mm
Figure 5.16
Film Tension
Clamp
To learn how to install the film tension clamp,


Using Your Options

To install the film tension clamp on the DMA
2980 instrument, follow these steps:
1. Place the fixed clamp on the instrument first,

aligning the screw holes with the mounting
posts.

attachment screws.
3. Raise the drive shaft all the way up using the

CLAMP ▲ key on the instrument keypad.
4. Loosen the clamping screw on the moveable

clamp and open the clamp face.
5. Slide the hex wrench through the open clamp

face of the moveable clamp and loosen the
setscrew. Slide the dovetail of the moveable
clamp into the dovetail holder on the drive
shaft.
6. Loosen the clamping screw on the fixed

clamp and open the clamp face.
7. Carefully align the fixed and moveable

clamps so that the front face of the horse-
shoe frame is parallel to the front face of the
moveable clamp. See the figure on the next
page for guidance.

Film Tension Clamp
Fixed Clamp
Clamping Screw
These two front faces

should be parallel
Moveable Clamp
Clamping Screw
Figure 5.17
Aligning the Fixed and
Moveable Clamps of
the Film Tension Clamp
8. Tighten the setscrew while holding the
moveable clamp in place.
9. Tighten the clamping screws on the move-

able and fixed clamps.

instrument control program. See Chapter 3
11. Calibrate the clamp mass and clamp zero as


Using Your Options
Operating Range
of the Tension Clamps

Geometry Factor Equation for Tension:
L
GF =
A
where:

A = sample cross sectional area (mm2).
These equations are explained in greater detail in

Chapter 6.

Film Tension Clamp

sample geometries.
Modulus (Pa)
13
10
12
10
10 11
10 10
9
10
108
107
106
10 mm long 20 mm long
wide 20 mm long
105 5 mm long
thick
0.2 mm long
4 mm wide
0.1 mm thick 0.1 mm diameter
4
10
10
-1
10
0
10 1 102 103 104 105
Figure 5.18 Geometry Factor (1/mm)

Operating Range
of the Tension Clamps
Samples which are 15 to 20 mm long and 3 to 6

mm wide (films 0.5 mm thick and below) or 2 to
3 mm wide (0.5 to 2 mm thick), should yield good
results for most materials.

Using Your Options
Mounting a Sample
After the film tension clamp has been installed
on the DMA, you can mount the sample using
the following steps:
NOTE: The clamping of film samples is critical to

achieving accurate and reproducible results.
1. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the

instrument keypad to release (float) the
clamp.
2. Move the moveable clamp to the approxi-

mate position of the desired specimen length.
The sample length can be directly observed
as a signal output on the instrument display.

clamp in position. (The actual specimen
length can be measured by the DMA by
using the MEASURE key after the speci-
men is mounted.)
4. Loosen the clamping screws on the move-

able and fixed clamps (see Figure 5.17).
5. Slide the sample in from the side of the fixed

clamp, then lower it down into the moveable
clamp.
6. Push the moveable clamp shut using your

finger, then adjust the sample so that it is
centered and aligned vertically on the clamp.
Make sure that there is no sample under-
neath the clamping screw. Finger tighten the
clamping screw.

Film Tension Clamp
7. Using the torque wrench, tighten the bottom

clamp screw on the moveable clamp to the
appropriate clamping torque [2 to 3 in-lbs (20
to 40 cm-N) for rigid materials].
Use of excessive torque will bend the stage,

!WARNING causing permanent damage. Use the torque
wrench as directed and do not exceed specifica-
tions.
8. Carefully align the film so that it is vertical

and evenly tensioned across the sample
width. Tighten the clamping screw on the
fixed clamp. Trim any excess sample.
See the figure below for an example of a

sample mounted on the film tension clamp.
Clamping Screw
Fixed Clamp
Sample
Moveable Clamp
Clamping Screw
Dovetail
Dovetail Holder
Figure 5.19
Film Tension Clamp
(Shown with Sample
Mounted)
Using Your Options
9. Position the thermocouple so that it is

approximately halfway between the two
clamps and close to, but not touching, the
sample.
10. Place the thermal shield over the clamps, if

you are using a heating rate of 2°C/min or
higher. NOTE: Do not use the thermal
shield when using heating rates less than
2°C/min or when performing a step and
hold experiment.

Film Tension Clamp
When you use the film tension clamp for experi-
ments, you will need to set up the experimental
parameters using the instrument control soft-
ware.

film clamp:


for static force (preload force)and 115 to
appropriate.

This will apply the static force (preload
force), measure the sample length, enter the
length into the experimental parameters, and
then start the motor in the desired operation
mode.

these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.

Using Your Options

sample. Since the length is fixed in the film
tension clamp, the width and thickness will
need to be increased in order to increase the
sample stiffness.

page 5-8.



Film Tension Clamp
Removing a Sample
After you have finished your experiment, you
can remove the sample from the film tension
clamp as follows:
1. Loosen the two clamping screws and open

the clamp faces.
2. Remove the sample.
3. Use a knife or razor blade to gently scrape

all clamp faces to remove any residue. Be
careful not to scratch the clamp faces.
Removing the Clamp

To remove the film tension clamp from the
DMA 2980, follow these steps:

screws holding the fixed clamp on the clamp
mounting posts.

clamp to the drive shaft.
3. Slide the dovetail out to remove the move-

able clamp.
4. Remove the fixed clamp.

Using Your Options
Fiber Tension Clamp

The fiber tension clamp can be used for indi-
vidual thin fiber samples or bundles of fibers.
Sample Size
Length: 5 to 30 mm
Diameter: up to 1.25 mm
Figure 5.20
Fiber Tension Clamp
To learn how to install the fiber tension clamp,


Fiber Tension Clamp

To install the fiber tension clamp on the DMA
instrument, follow these steps (see the figure on
the next page for identification of parts):
1. Remove the pin vises from both the fixed

and moveable clamps by unscrewing them.
2. Press the CLAMP ▲ key to raise the

driveshaft.

driveshaft in the upper position.
4. Slide the dovetail of the moveable clamp into

the dovetail holder of the drive shaft. Align
the dovetail so that it is flush with the
dovetail holder.
5. Use the hex key to tighten the setscrew in


attachment screws.
7. Place the pin vises into the fixed and move-

able clamps.

9. Calibrate the clamp mass and clamp zero as


Using Your Options
Knurled Vise Collar Fixed Clamp
Sample
Hex Screws
Knurled Vise Collar
Moveable
Clamp
Dovetail
Mounting Posts
Dovetail Holder
Drive Shaft
Figure 5.21
Fiber Tension
Clamp (Shown
with Sample
Mounted)
Mounting a Sample
After the fiber tension clamp has been installed
on the DMA, you can mount the samples
according to the diameter of the fiber: large
diameter (high denier) monofilaments or small
diameter filaments and fiber bundles. The fiber
clamp can hold samples from 5 denier (20 µm)
up to 1/32 in. (0.8 mm) in diameter. See the
following sections for instructions.

Fiber Tension Clamp
Large Diameter
(High Denier) Monofilaments
Follow these steps to mount large diameter
monofilaments:

(float) the moveable clamp.


men is mounted.)
4. Loosen both of the knurled vise collars.
5. Feed one end of the monofilament into the

moveable clamp and tighten the knurled vise
collar.
6. Feed the other end of the monofilament into

the fixed clamp. Be sure to use a sample
that is long enough to extend beyond the end
of the fixed clamp.
7. Pull up on the sample gently and tighten the

knurled vise collar on the fixed clamp. Trim
off any excess sample.

Using Your Options

mately halfway between the two clamps and
close to, but not touching, the sample.
9. Place thermal shield over the clamps, if you

are using a heating rate of 2°C/min or
higher. Do not use the thermal shield when
using heating rates less than 2°C/min.

and Fiber Bundles
1. Press the CLAMP ▼ key to lower the
moveable clamp.
2. Remove the knurled vise collar from the

moveable clamp.
3. Make a loop of thick monofilament or metal

wire and push that loop through the back of
the vise collar center and then through the
screw. Feed a length of the specimen
through the loop of monofilament. Use a
specimen that will be long enough to extend
beyond the back of the fixed clamp (at least
75 mm, or 3 inches).
4. Carefully pull the monofilament loop back

through the center of the pin vise inside the
Excess Fibers vise collar. Make certain to keep the fibers
within the center of the pin vise and vise
collar. Adjust or trim the fibers so that they
do not extend beyond the back of the vise
collar.
5. Carefully replace the vise collar with the

fibers onto the moveable clamp. Tighten the
knurled vise collar.

Fiber Tension Clamp
6. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key to release the

moveable clamp.


men is mounted.)
9. Loosen the knurled vise collar on the fixed

clamp.
10. Feed a loop of monofilament into the top of

fixed clamp and through the pin vise inside
the vise collar.
11. Thread the fiber bundle through the loop.
12. Carefully pull the loop back through the fixed

pin vise and vise collar. Be sure to keep the
fibers within the center of the pin vise and
collar. It is best to minimize twisting the
fiber bundles.
13. Pull up on the sample gently, to equally

tension all fibers.
14. Tighten the knurled vise collar on the fixed

clamp. Trim off any excess sample.

mately halfway between the two clamps and
close to, but not touching, the sample.

Using Your Options
16. Place thermal shield over the clamps, if you

are using a heating rate of 2°C/min or
higher. NOTE: Do not use the thermal
shield when using heating rates less than
2°C/min or when performing a step and
hold experiment.
When you use the fiber tension clamp for
mental parameters using the Thermal Solutions
software.

fiber clamp:


for static force (preload force) and 125 to
appropriate.
NOTE: For crimped fibers, higher autotensions (200 to

250 percent) may be needed to uncrimp the
fibers.

force), measure the sample length, enter the
length into the experimental parameters, and
then start the motor in the desired operation
mode.

Fiber Tension Clamp

these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m.

sample. Since the length is fixed in the fiber
clamp, the width and thickness will need to
be increased in order to increase the sample
stiffness.

page 5-8.


Using Your Options

Removing Samples
To remove the fiber samples from the fiber
tension clamp after an experiment, take off the
knurled vise collars and then remove the sample
from clamps. If necessary, scrape sample out of
pin vise in the center of the vise collar.
Removing the Clamp

To remove the fiber tension clamp, follow these
steps:

the mounting posts.
2. Lift off the fixed clamp.
3. Remove the knurled vise collar and pin vise

inside from the moveable clamp.
4. Use the hex key to loosen the setscrew in



Submersion Film/Fiber Tension Clamps
Submersion
Film/Fiber Clamp
This clamp is used to evaluate thin films or fibers
while they are submerged in an ambient tem-
perature fluid.
t CAUTION: The Submersion Film/Fiber Tension clamp is

designed for room temperature operation only.
The clamp will not physically fit in the oven of the
DMA 2980. When you use this clamp, you
must select the “Tension Film Submersion”
clamp when setting the mode in the Thermal
Solutions software. This selection will not allow
the oven to close when conducting tests and will
avoid damaging the instrument. ANY ATTEMPT
TO CLOSE THE OVEN OVER THESE CLAMPS
MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE
INSTRUMENT and MAY VOID ANY WARRANTY
ON THE INSTRUMENT.

Using Your Options
The submersion film/fiber tension clamp can be

used for testing either film or fiber samples
immersed in a fluid at room temperature. This
section shows the use of the clamp with film
samples, but fiber samples can also be tested
with this clamp. You can follow the same
procedures when using fiber samples. Samples
that are in the stiffness range of 100 N/m to
10,000,000 N/m can be tested.
Sample Size
Length: 15 mm fixed length

Width: up to 6.5 mm
Crossbar Loading Fixture
Top Bar Fluid Container
Yoke
Drive Shaft Mounting Posts
Splash Guard
with Rim Up
Figure 5.22
Submersion Film/Fiber Tension
Clamp (with Sample Loading Fixture in Place)
To learn how to install and calibrate the

submersion film tension clamp, mount the
samples, and remove the clamp, read the next
several pages.
Installing and
Calibrating the Clamp
NOTE: The submersion film/fiber tension clamp
requires the clamp mass calibration to be
performed prior to complete installation of the
clamp. The following instructions will outline the
installation, calibration, and sample loading of
the submersion film/fiber fixture.
To install and calibrate the submersion film/fiber

tension clamp on the DMA instrument, follow
these steps:
1. Select the Tension Film Submersion clamp

type and the desired mode using the Instru-
ment Control program. (See the online help
or the User Reference Guide for instruc-
tions.)
2. Remove any existing clamp assembly as

instructed in this manual.

driveshaft.

5. Loosen the screws on the thermocouple-

mounting brackets, shown in the figure on
the next page. Then lower the brackets to
their lowest possible position.
Using Your Options
Mounting Thermocouple-Mounting
Posts Brackets Thermocouples
Figure 5.23
View from the Top
6. Straighten the thermocouples, then push

them down to their lowest position.
7. Orient the splash guard so that the rim is

facing up (see Figure 5.22). Install the
splash guard over the four mounting posts,
the drive shaft, and the thermocouples by
inserting these components through the pre-
cut holes. Lower the splash guard down
until it rests on the thermocouple mounting
brackets. The splash guard helps keep fluid
from getting down into the air bearing
assembly. Even with the splash guard
installed, be careful not to splash fluid
out of the clamp assembly. By neces-
sity, there is still a small gap around the
driveshaft that even the splash guard
can not protect.

8. Move the drive shaft all the way down using

the CLAMP ▼ key on the instrument.
9. Using the hex wrench, loosen the setscrew

and slide the dovetail of the yoke into the
dovetail holder on the drive shaft. Adjust
the thermocouple position so that it does not
touch the yoke. Tighten the setscrew. (See
the figure below.)
10. Install the top bar onto the yoke and tighten
the two hex screws. (See the figure below.)
Top Bar
Yoke
Setscrew Splash Guard

with Rim Up
Drive Shaft
Figure 5.24
Yoke and Top Bar Installed
on Drive Shaft

Using Your Options
11. Calibrate the clamp as instructed in the

Instrument Control program. (See the online
help or the User Reference Guide for
instructions.) Clamp mass calibration will
take 5 minutes to complete.
When clamp calibration step 1 (clamp mass)

has been completed successfully, you will
need to install remainder of the clamp
before completing the clamp calibration.
Follow steps 12 to 19 to install the remain-
der of the clamp.

driveshaft. Remove the top bar from the
yoke.
13. Place the fluid container on the four mount-

ing posts, aligning the screw holes. Seat the
fluid container firmly onto all four of the
mounting posts and tighten the screws with
a hex wrench. Do not over tighten the
attachment screws. (See the figure below.)
Fluid Container
Hex Screws
Mounting Posts
Figure 5.25
Fluid Container Mounted

14. Put together the Sample-Loading Assembly

as follows (see the figure below):
a. Attach the crossbar loading fixture onto

the top bar using two thumbscrews. The
long side of the crossbar should be
positioned parallel with the top bar.
b. Attach the remaining two crossbar

loading fixture thumbscrews to the
lower U-Clamp.
Long Side
Crossbar Loading
Fixture
Top Bar Thumbscrews
Upper Clamp
Lower
Sample U-Clamp
Figure 5.26
Sample-Loading Clamp Screw
Assembly Lower Clamp
15. Measure the width and thickness dimensions

of the steel compliance calibration sample.
Make note of the measurements.
16. Load the steel compliance calibration sample

into the upper and lower clamps of the
Sample-Loading Assembly. Using the
torque wrench, tighten the top and bottom
sample clamp screws to the appropriate
clamping torque [1 to 2 in-lbs.].
Using Your Options
17. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key to float the

driveshaft.
18. Insert the Sample-Loading Assembly into

the cup of the fluid container. Fix the
Sample-Loading Assembly in place by first
screwing the two top bar screws to the yoke
and subsequently screwing the four lower U-
clamp screws to the fluid container tub of
the fixed clamp. See the figure below.
Top Bar
Crossbar Loading Fixture
Fluid Container
Tub
Lower U-Clamp
Hex Screws Attached

to Mounting Posts
Figure 5.27
Sample Loading
Assembly in Place
19. Unscrew the four thumbscrews to remove

the crossbar loading fixture from the lower
U-Clamp and top bar. This is the way the
clamp will be assembled while the experi-
ment is run. See the figure on the next page.

Sample
Top Bar
Fluid
Container
Tub
Lower
U-Clamp
Figure 5.28
Sample in Place on
Submersion Film Clamp
20. Use the Instrument Control software to

complete the DMA clamp calibration
procedure (left off at step 9) by entering the
dimensions of the steel compliance sample
on the clamp compliance window. The
sample length is fixed at 15 mm.
21. Remove the steel compliance calibration

sample as follows:
a. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key to lock the

driveshaft.
b. Install the crossbar loading fixture onto

the upper top bar and lower U-Clamp.

Using Your Options
c. Loosen the lower U-clamp screws from

the tub of the lower fixed clamp and the
top bar screws from the yoke.
d. Remove the Sample-Loading Assembly.
22. Remove the steel compliance calibration

sample from the upper and lower clamps.
Once the clamp calibration procedure is com-

plete a test sample can be mounted. See
Mounting a Sample later in this section.
Operating Range of
the Submersion
Tension Film/Fiber Clamp
The geometry factor, GF, in the equation below
can help you determine the optimum size for the
sample material or determine if a sample of a
particular size can be measured.
GF = L/A
where:
L = sample length, which is fixed to 15 mm,

so...
GF = 15/A
for the Submersion Film Tension Clamp
The sample modulus is calculated by multiply-

ing the measured sample stiffness, Ks, by the
geometry factor, GF.

Modulus = Ks x GF, or
Modulus = Ks x (15/A)
where the measurable stiffness range of the
instrument is a fixed quantity between 100 to
10,000,000 N/m.
Note we can solve the modulus equation above

for stiffness as follows
Ks = Modulus/GF, or
Ks = (Modulus x A)/15
Since the modulus of the material is an intrinsic
propertyi.e., independent of the sample
dimensionsit can be seen that the sample
dimensions must be selected to yield stiffness
values within the allowable measurable range of
the instrument.

Using Your Options
Mounting a Sample
After the submersion film/fiber tension clamp
has been installed and calibrated, you can mount
the sample using the following steps:
NOTE: The mounting of film samples is critical to achieving

accurate and reproducible results.
1. Measure and note the width and thickness

dimensions of test sample (or appropriate
dimensions if other geometries are used) and
install into upper and lower clamps.
2. Load sample into the upper and lower

clamps of the Sample-Loading Assembly as
shown in the figure below.
Upper Clamp
Top Sample
Clamp Screw
Sample
Bottom Sample
Clamp Screw
Figure 5.29 Lower Clamp
Loading the Sample
3. Using the torque wrench, tighten the top and

bottom sample clamp screws to the appro-
priate clamping torque [1 to 2 in-lbs. (40 to
45 cm-N) for a rigid sample].

4. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the

clamp.
5. Insert the Sample-Loading Assembly into the

cup of the fluid container.
6. Fix the Sample-Loading Assembly in place

by first screwing the four lower U-clamp
screws to the fluid container tub of the fixed
clamp and subsequently screwing the two
top bar screws to the yoke. See Figure 5.28
on page 5-87.
7. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the instru-

ment keypad to lock the clamp into position.
8. Unscrew the four thumbscrews to remove

the crossbar loading fixture from the lower
U-Clamp and top bar. This is the way the
clamp will be assembled while the experi-
ment is run. See the Figure 5.29 on
page 5-90.
The sample is now loaded and ready for

testing. The sample length will be set to 15
mm after loading.
9. Carefully fill the fluid container to the fill line

marked on the inside with the fluid of
interest. DO NOT OVERFILL CUP. It is
recommended that the fluid be loaded into
cup using a squeeze bottle, small funnel,
pipette, or other device that will direct flow
of fluid directly into cup thereby minimizing
spilling or splashing of fluid.

Using Your Options
When you use the submersion film tension clamp
for experiments, you will need to set up the
experimental parameters using the Instrument
Control software.

submersion film clamp:
1. Use the Instrument Control program to

select the clamp type, mode, and experi-
mental parameters. (See the online help or
the User Reference Guide for instructions.)
in Chapter 4. Note that the amplitude range
of the DMA 2980 is 0.5 to 10,000 microns.
The upper amplitude range is limited to 1,000
microns when using the submersion film
clamp. This amplitude range is a physical
limit that is limited by distance between the
yoke and the top of the fluid container.
This clamp is a tensioning clamp; therefore,

static force (preload force) and autostrain
(force track) values must be selected.
The recommended values for static force

(preload force) values are 0.005 to 1 N. The
recommended values for autostrain (force
track) are 120 to 150% (when appropriate).

force) and then start the motor in the desired
operation mode.

4. View the signals. When running a dynamic

experiment (multifrequency and multistrain
mode) pay special attention to these signals:


N/m to 10,000,000 N/m. If it is not, refer to
section titled Operating Range of Submer-
sion Tension Film Clamp to make appropri-
ate adjustments.

sample. Since the length is fixed in the
submersion film clamp, the width and
thickness will need to be increased in order
to increase the sample stiffness.

page 5-8.

Using Your Options


Removing a
Sample and Clamp
can remove the sample from the submersion film
clamp as follows:
1. Attach the Sample-Loading Assembly as

follows:
a. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the

clamp.
b. Attach the crossbar loading fixture onto

the top bar using two thumbscrews (see
Figure 5.28 on page 5-87).
c. Attach the remaining two crossbar

loading fixture thumbscrews to the
lower U-Clamp.
d. Press the FLOAT/LOCK key on the

instrument keypad to lock the drive-
shaft.
2. Loosen the two top bar screws and the four

U-clamp screws. Carefully remove the
Sample-Loading Assembly, letting excess
fluid drip into the cup.

3. Wipe excess fluid from Sample-Loading

Assembly and load a new sample, if desired.
If another sample is not to be tested, pipette

the fluid from the fluid container to avoid
spilling fluid on the instrument. After
removing fluid from the cup, loosen the four
mounting post screws and remove the lower
clamp. Then, loosen the dovetail screw and
remove the yoke.

Using Your Options
Submersion
Compression Clamp
Compression is used to measure the properties
of low to medium modulus materials, including
gels and weak elastomers. These clamps are
used to to test low to medium modulus samples
while they are submerged in an ambient tem-
perature fluid. The sample must support a
preload force, so the samples should not flow.
The sample should have as high a thickness-to-
diameter ratio as is possible, depending on the
sample preparation and instrument limits.
Samples that are in the stiffness range of 100 N/
m to 10,000,000 N/m can be tested.
t CAUTION: The Submersion Compression clamps are de-

signed for room temperature operation only. The
clamps will not physically fit in the oven of the
DMA 2980. When you use these clamps, you
must select the Submersion Compression clamp
when setting the mode in the Thermal Solutions
software. This selection will not allow the oven to
close when conducting tests and will avoid
damaging the instrument. ANY ATTEMPT TO
CLOSE THE OVEN OVER THESE CLAMPS MAY
RESULT IN SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE INSTRU-
MENT and MAY VOID ANY WARRANTY ON THE
INSTRUMENT.
Sample Size

Submersion Compression Clamp
Figure 5.30
To learn how to install the submersion compres-

sion clamp, mount the samples, and remove the

Using Your Options

To install the submersion compression clamp on
the DMA instrument, follow these steps:
1. Remove any existing clamp assembly as

instructed in this manual.

Instrument Control program. (See the online
help or the User Reference Guide for
instructions.)

driveshaft.

5. Loosen the screws on the thermocouple-

mounting brackets, shown in the figure on
the next page. Then lower the brackets to
their lowest possible position.

Mounting Thermocouple-Mounting
Posts Brackets Thermocouples
Figure 5.31
View from the Top
6. Straighten the thermocouples, then push
them down to their lowest position.
7. Orient the splash guard so that the rim is

facing up. Install the splash guard over the
four mounting posts, the drive shaft, and the
thermocouples by inserting these compo-
nents through the pre-cut holes. Lower the
splash guard down until it rests on the
thermocouple mounting brackets. The
splash guard helps keep fluid from getting
down into the air bearing assembly. Even
with the splash guard installed, be
careful not to splash fluid out of the
clamp assembly. By necessity, there is
still a small gap around the driveshaft
that even the splash guard can not
protect.

Using Your Options
8. Move the drive shaft all the way down using

the CLAMP ▼ key on the instrument. If
the clamp does not move down, increase the
static force (preload force) to 1 to 2 N using
the Instrument Control software.
9. Using the hex wrench, loosen the setscrew

and slide the dovetail of the yoke into the
dovetail holder on the drive shaft. Adjust
the thermocouple position so that it does not
touch the yoke. Tighten the setscrew. (See
the figure below.)
Yoke
Setscrew
Drive Shaft
Figure 5.32
Yoke Installed
on Drive Shaft
10. Mount the fixed clamp, which consists of

two stages and a fluid cup, as follows:
a. Seat one of the two stages firmly onto

two of the mounting posts and tighten
the captive screws with a hex wrench.
Repeat this for the second stage as
shown in the figure on the next page.
Do not over tighten the screws.

Captive Screws
Stages
Mounting Posts
Figure 5.33
Stages Installed
b. Mount the fluid cup onto the stages using

the two hex screws and washers found
in the plastic bag. The fixed clamp is
now fully installed as shown in the
figure below. Position the thermocouple
so that it is near, but not touching, the
fluid cup.
Hex Screws
Stage
Fluid Cup
Rim up on
Splash Guard
Figure 5.34
Fixed Clamp
Fully Installed

Using Your Options
11. Screw the 15 mm or 30 mm compression

disk into the top bar.

(float) the clamp.

driveshaft to the top position.

15. Attach the top bar and compression disk

onto the yoke using the two hex screws and
washers. The yoke, top bar, and compres-
sion disk make up the moveable part of the
clamp. The clamp is now fully assembled
and ready for calibration as seen in the
figure below.
Hex Screws
Top Bar
Compression Disk
Yoke
Figure 5.35
Submersion Compression
Clamp Fully Mounted

16. Calibrate the clamp as instructed in the

Instrument Control program, following the
instructions displayed. (See the online help
or the User Reference Guide for instruc-
tions.)
After the clamp has been calibrated, you can

mount a sample as directed on page 5-105.
Operating Range
of the Submersion
Compression Clamp
The geometry factor, GF, in the equation below
can help you determine the optimum sample size
for the sample material or determine if a sample
of a particular size can be measured.
GF = Fe(T/A)
where:
T = Sample Thickness (height) in mm

A = Sample Cross Sectional Area in mm 2
Fe = Sample Shear Factor.
The sample modulus is calculated by multiplying

the measured sample stiffness, Ks, by the
geometry factor, GF.
Modulus = Ks x GF or
Modulus = Ks x Fe(L/A)
where the measurable stiffness range of the
instrument is a fixed quantity between 100 to
10,000,000 N/m.

Using Your Options
Note we can solve the modulus equation above

for stiffness as follows
Ks = Modulus/GF or
Ks = (Modulus x A)/Fe x L
Since the modulus of the material is an intrinsic
propertyi.e., independent of the sample
dimensionsit can be seen that the sample
dimensions must be selected to yield stiffness
values within the allowable measurable range of
the instrument.
NOTE: Refer to the “Clamping Factors” section in

Chapter 6 to determine the value used for the
sample shear factor, Fe.

Mounting a Sample
After the submersion compression clamp has
been installed and calibrated on the DMA, you
can mount the sample using the following steps:

(float) the clamp.

place the sample in the bottom cup, making
of the disk.
3. Enter the static force (preload force) using

the Instrument Control program. (See the
User Reference Guide or online documen-
tation for details.) The recommended values
for static force (preload force) values are
0.1 to 1 N.
4. Move the moveable clamp all the way down

using the CLAMP ▼ key on the instrument.
5. Carefully fill the fluid cup so that the fluid

covers the sample, but does not go over the
edge of the compression disk. It is recom-
mended that the fluid be loaded into the cup
using a squeeze bottle, small funnel, pipette,
or other device that will direct the flow of
the fluid directly into the cup, thereby
mimimizing the spilling or splashing of the
fluid.
You are now ready to run an experiment as

directed in the next section.

Using Your Options
When you use the submersion compression
clamp for experiments, you will need to set up
the experimental parameters using the Instru-
ment Control software.

submersion compression clamp:
1. Use the Instrument Control program to slect
the clamp type, mode, and experimental
parameters. (See the online help or the
User Reference Guide for instructions.)

in Chapter 4. Note that the amplitude range
of the DMA 2980 is 0.5 to 10,000 microns.
The upper amplitude range is limited to 100
microns when using a maximum sample
thickness of 5 mm with the submersion
compression clamp. This amplitude range is
a physical limit that is limited by distance
between the bottom of the top plate and the
top edge of the cup. However, because of
the possibility of splashing during oscilla-
tions when making measurements in the
submersion compression clamp, amplitudes
should not exceed 100 microns regardless of
the sample thickness.
This clamp is a tensioning clamps; there-

fore, static force (preload force) and
autostrain (force track) values must be
selected.
The recommended values for static force

(preload force) values are 0.1 to 1 N. (The
static force (preload force) may be the same

value that you entered while mounting the

sample, if desired.) The recommended
values for autostrain (force track) are 120 to
150%.

keypad to move the clamp faces together
and compress the sample using the static
force (preload force) programmed in step 1.

force), measure the sample thickness and
automatically enter the thickness into the
experimental parameters. Then the motor
will start in the programmed operation mode.
5. View the signals. When running a dynamic

experiment (multifrequency and multistrain
mode) pay special attention to the following
signals:

maintain the value programmed. If you are
running a multistrain experiment, the ampli-
tude will cycle through the values pro-
grammed.

instruments measurable range of 100 N/m
to 10,000,000 N/m. If it is not, refer to
section called the Operating Range of
Submersion Compression Clamp to make
the appropriate adjustments.
Drive Force: The drive force should

between 0.0001 N and 18 N. If the drive
force is not within this range, either increase
the programmed amplitude to increase the
drive force, or increase the stiffness of the
Using Your Options
sample by changing the physical dimensions

of the sample. To increase the sample
stiffness, increase the diameter and decrease
the thickness of the sample.

page 5-8.
If the initial conditions are acceptable (i.e.,

If the values are not acceptable, then change the

NOTE: Pay special attention to the sample during the

measurement. If all conditions are acceptable, as
observed on the signal display, splashing may still
be occurring with the selected parameters. If
splashing is occurring, then change the condi-
tions should be changed until you have elimi-
nated the problem. This may require changing
the amplitude, the frequency, or both.

Removing a
Sample and Clamp
can remove the sample from the submersion
compression clamp as follows:

driveshaft.
2. Use a hex wrench to remove the screws

from the top bar.
3. Carefully remove the top bar with the

compression disk still connected and wipe
excess fluid from the compression disk. (It
is important to wipe the fluid from the
compression disk so that it will not interfere
with subsequent tests.)
4. Using a pipette or syringe to avoid spilling

fluid on the instrument, remove the remain-
ing fluid from fluid cup and remove the
sample.
5. Load a new sample, if desired.
If another sample is not to be tested, con-

tinue to remove the clamp using the remain-
ing steps.
6. Loosen the two hex screws and remove the

fluid cup from the stages.
7. Loosen the four mounting post screws and

remove the two stages.
8. Loosen the dovetail screw and remove the

yoke.
9. Clean and dry the fluid cup and compression

disk before storing them.

Using Your Options

Chapter 6: Technical Reference
Introduction ................................................. 6-3
Theory of Operation .................................... 6-4
Comparison to Other Techniques .........6-4
Defining Viscoelasticity ............................... 6-5
Solids ....................................................6-5
Liquids ..................................................6-7
Viscoelastic Behavior ...........................6-9
Modes of Operation .................................. 6-11
Dynamic Mechanical
Analysis Testing .................................. 6-11
Creep (or Step Stress) Testing ........... 6-15

(Transient Experiment) ....................... 6-15
Stress Relaxation (or

Step Strain) Testing
(Transient Experiment) ....................... 6-16

Modulus Calculations ................................ 6-18
Dynamic Measurements .................... 6-18

Transient Measurements .................... 6-19
Calculations Based
on Clamp Type .......................................... 6-20

Technical Reference
Dual Cantilever ................................... 6-21

Modulus Equation......................... 6-21
Single Cantilever ................................. 6-25

3-Point Bending .................................. 6-27

Shear Sandwich .................................. 6-29

Compression ....................................... 6-31

Tension: Film and Fiber ....................... 6-34

Clamping Factors
(Compression Clamps Only) ..................... 6-36

Introduction
Introduction
This chapter provides information regarding the
theory and applications of the DMA 2980
instrument and the Dynamic Mechanical Analy-
sis technique.
The following are explained:
theory of operation
comparison to other techniques
viscoelasticity
modes of operation
sample stiffness and modulus calculations
calculations based on clamp type.

Technical Reference
Theory of
Operation
The Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer 2980 is a
precision instrument designed to measure
viscoelastic properties, such as modulus (stiff-
ness) and damping (energy dissipation), of solid
and soft solid materials. Samples of various
shapes and sizes are fixed into position using a
variety of stainless steel clamping arrangements.
A mechanical deformation is applied to the
sample via the instruments drive motor. The
deformation can be applied sinusoidally, in a
constant (or step) fashion, or under a fixed rate.
The combination of temperature and deforma-
tion profile are programmed using the Thermal
Solutions Instrument Control software.
Comparison to
Other Techniques
DMA and DEA (Dielectric Analysis) are two of
the techniques that can bridge the disciplines of
thermal analysis and rheology as seen in the
figure below.
Liquids Gels Solids
Molten Polymers Soft Solids
DMA
DEA
Fluids Rheology
Figure 6.1
Correlation to Other Techniques
Defining Viscoelasticity
Defining
Viscoelasticity
The concept of viscoelasticity comes from the
fact that most materials do not exhibit purely
elastic (ideal solids) or purely viscous (ideal
liquids) behavior but a combination of both. By
definition, viscoelasticity simply means having
both viscous and elastic properties. This section
presents a discussion of solids and liquids and
their behavior as it applies to the DMA.
Solids
Materials are often referred to as solids or
liquids, depending on whether or not they retain
their shape under the force of gravity. An ideal
solid is a material that is purely elastic. Elastic-
ity is simply a materials ability to store deforma-
tional energy. A purely elastic material (an ideal
solid) will change its shape when deformed and
regain its original shape when the deformation is
removed. All the energy (stress) applied to the
material is stored by the material during the
deformation.
An example of a material that demonstrates

purely elastic deformation is a steel spring (see
Figure 6.2 on the next page). When a stress is
applied to an ideal solid, it deforms immediately
to a constant value of strain and recovers
immediately when the stress is removed. There
is no time dependence in the behavior of the
material. This ideal mechanical behavior is

Technical Reference
described by Hookes law in which stress and

strain are related through a proportional constant
called the modulus (E or G):
Hookes Law:
σ = Eε (Tension, Compression or Bending)

τ = Gγ (Shear)
Where:
σ and τ are stress terms

ε and γ are strain terms.
The modulus is a measure of the stiffness of a

material. Stiffness is the ability of a material to
resist deformation. A material is called
Hookean, if the modulus does not change when
the deformation is changed. This is also called
the linear region.
Elastic Deformation
J = 1/G
γ
σ Applied σ Removed Time
Figure 6.2
Elastic Deformation

Defining Visoelasticity
Liquids
An ideal liquid, in contrast, is a material that has
no elasticity. An ideal fluid stores no deforma-
tional energy. An ideal liquid is not rigid but
conforms to the shape of its container and finds
its own level under gravity. When an ideal fluid
is deformed, it changes its shape and, when the
deformation is removed, it does not regain its
original shape but remains in its new deformed
shape. An example of an ideal fluid (ideal
viscous fluid) is water. Consider a glass of
water sitting on your table. The water takes on
the shape of glass. If you spill the glass of
water, when you pick up the glass the water does
not find its way back into the glass. This
behavior is referred to as viscous flow and is
described by Newtons Law which linearly
relates the stress to the rate of shear:
Newtons Law:
τ = ηdγ/dt
The proportionality factor η is called the coeffi-

cient of viscosity. A material is referred to as
Newtonian, if the viscosity is independent of the
applied shear rate. A simple graphical represen-
tation of the behavior of an ideal fluid is shown
in Figure 6.3. An ideal fluid will deform
continuously under the application of a stress
but will not recover when the stress is removed.
The strain developed under the application of
the stress is a function of time until the stress is
removed.

Technical Reference
Viscous Flow
η
γ
σ Applied σ Removed Time
Figure 6.3
Viscous Flow

Defining Viscoelasticity
Viscoelastic Behavior
As stated earlier, the concept of viscoelasticity
comes from the fact that most materials do not
exhibit purely elastic (ideal solids) or purely
viscous (ideal liquids) behavior but a combina-
tion of both. When as stress is applied to a
viscoelastic material, it will show time-depen-
dent deformation. Any viscoelastic material,
given enough time, will flow under an applied
stress. When the stress is removed the material
will not fully recover. The portion of strain that
is recovered represents the energy stored or the
elastic portion of the materials response. The
portion of the strain that is not recovered repre-
sents the energy dissipated or viscous portion of
the materials response. Viscoelastic behavior
of a material is shown graphically in Figure 6.4
below.
Creep Zone Recovery

Zone
γ Retardation Recovery
Step Step
Recoverable Strain J η
Je0
σ Applied σ Re moved Time τc = η.J
Figure 6.4
Viscoelastic Response
(The Voigt Model)

Technical Reference
As an example of a viscoelastic response,

consider holding a tennis ball in you hand with
your arm straight out. If you drop the tennis ball
on the ground it will not bounce back to the
same height from which you dropped it. The
height to which the ball bounced back represents
the elastic response of the material and the
remainder represents the viscous portion (shown
in Figure 6.5). The more elastic the material.
the more it will bounce back to the original
height from which it was dropped.
Energy lost
Viscous response
Dropped Bounce
back
Energy stored
Elastic response
Figure 6.5
Viscoelastic Behavior

Modes of Operation
Modes of
Operation
The viscoelastic properties of a material can be
characterized on the DMA 2980 using three
experimental testing modes. The next sections
discuss these modes:
Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) tests

(also known as oscillatory measurements)
Creep tests (also known as a transient test

mode)
Stress relaxation tests (also known as a

transient test mode).
Dynamic Mechanical
Analysis Testing
During dynamic testing, an oscillatory (sinusoi-
dal) strain (or stress) is applied to the material
and the resulting stress (or strain) developed in
the material is measured. For an ideal solid
material, which obeys Hookes law, the resulting
stress will be proportional to the amplitude of
the applied strain. The stress and strain waves
will be in phase or, put another way, the phase
shift (phase angle δ) between the stress and
strain is 0° (see Figure 6.6A on the next page).
For an ideal fluid which obeys Newtons law,
the stress will be proportional to the strain rate.
The stress signal will lead the strain signal by
90° (see Figure 6.6B on the next page).

Technical Reference
o
δ=0 δ = 90
o
Stress
Strain
100% Elastic (6.5a) 100% Viscous (6.5b)
A B
Figure 6.6
Ideal Solid and Fluid
DMA Stress and Strain
For a viscoelastic material, the phase angle will
lie somewhere between 0° and 90° (Figure 6.7).
Stress Strain axis
E’’ E*
Strain δ
E’ Stress axis
E* = stress / strain E’ = E * cos δ

E* = E’ + i E’’ E’’ = E * sin δ
tan δ = E’’/ E’
Figure 6.7
Viscoelastic Materials
DMA Stress and Strain

Modes of Operation
As the modulus is defined as the ratio of stress

to strain (stress/strain), the resultant stress
generated in a viscoelastic materialalso
referred to as the complex stress (σ* or τ*)can
be used to calculate the complex modulus E* or
G*. The complex modulus is a measure of the
materials resistance to deformation. It encom-
passes both elastic and viscous responses. The
power of dynamic testing is that, by using the
measured phase angle, the stress in turn can be
deconvoluted into two parts:
an elastic stress (σ or τ), that is in phase

with the strain, and
a viscous stress (σ or τ), that is in phase

with the strain rate (90° out of phase with
the strain).
The elastic modulus, or storage modulus (E or

G) and the viscous modulus, or loss modulus
(E or G), can then be calculated directly from
the elastic and viscous stress respectively. A
summary of the calculations are as follows:
Complex Modulus:
E* = σ*/ε
or
E* = E + iE
(Tension, Compression or Bending)
G* = τ*/γ
or
G* = G+ iG
(Shear)

Technical Reference
Storage Modulus:
E = σ/ε
or
E = E* cos δ
G = τ/γ
or
G = G* cos δ
(Shear)
Loss Modulus:
E = σ/ε
or
E = E* sin δ
G = τ/γ
or
G = G* sin δ
(Shear)
Figure 6.7 on page 6-12 shows a vector depic-

tion of these calculations. It can be seen from
this figure that the tangent of the phase angle is
the ratio of the loss modulus to storage modulus
(tan δ = E/E or tan δ = G/G). This ratio is a
measure of the damping ability of a material.

Modes of Operation
Creep (or Step

Stress) Testing
(Transient Experiment)
In a creep test, a constant stress is applied to the
sample and the resulting strain is measured as a
function of time.
The creep compliance [J(t)] is calculated by

dividing the time-dependent strain γ(t) by
the applied stress τ. Once the creep
compliance has reached a steady state, the
sample recovery can be measured by
instantaneously removing the stress (stress
= 0), and monitoring the recovered strain as
a function of time.
The recoverable compliance can be

calculated by dividing the time-dependent
recoverable strain γr(t) by the stress applied
in the creep zone. The recoverable
compliance will eventually stabilize to a
constant value. If the response is linear, the
stabilized value of compliance is referred to
as the equilibrium recoverable compliance,
Je0.
Creep/recovery behavior is shown graphically in

Figure 6.4 on page 6-9. Viscoelastic behavior in
creep can be represented by the Voigt model.
This model consists of a spring and a dashpot
combined in parallel. Upon the application of
stress, the dashpot acts to exponentially retard
the growth of strain with time. When the stress
is removed, the dashpot again exponentially
retards the recovery of strain. The time constant
(λ) is known as the retardation time and repre-
sents the characteristic time dependence of the
system.

Technical Reference
Stress Relaxation (or

Step Strain) Testing
(Transient Experiment)
In a stress relaxation test, a strain is instanta-
neously applied to the sample, and the stress
required to maintain that strain is measured as a
function of time. The stress relaxation modulus
[G(t) using shear sandwich clamps or E(t) using
tension, compression, or bending clamps] is
calculated as the time-dependent stress divided
by the constant strain. The sample recovery can
also be monitored with time upon release of the
strain. Stress relaxation behavior is shown
graphically in Figure 6.8 below.
Relaxation Recovery
Step Step
J
Stress s
σ η
γ
γ Applied σ Removed Time τr = η . J
Figure 6.8
Viscoelastic Response
of the Maxwell Model
Viscoelastic behavior in stress relaxation can be

represented by the Maxwell model. This model
consists of a spring and a dashpot combined in
series. Since the two elements are in series,

Modes of Operation
when the strain is applied, a step change in

strain results in the spring because the dashpot
cannot respond instantaneously to the step
change. Once the spring has responded, the
stress of the system is at a maximum, but the
gradual response of the dashpot is to extend
itself, allowing the spring (and the stress) to
relax.

Technical Reference

Modulus Calculations
The fundamental measurement of the DMA
2980 is sample stiffness (K). Sample stiffness is
defined as the force applied to the sample
divided by the amplitude of deformation. The
stiffness of a material is dependent on its
geometry (physical dimensions). The modulus
of a material however is independent of its
geometry. As an example, consider a piece of
aluminum foil. It is very easy to bend the
aluminum foil. Now take a bar of aluminum
one-inch thick. This piece of aluminum is not
easily bent. Both the aluminum foil and bar are
made of the same material but, simply changing
the physical dimensions of the material changes
the amount of force required to deform the
material. If we were to measure the modulus of
both the foil and bar, we would get the same
number. A good understanding of sample
stiffness is important for understanding geom-
etry selection when conducting DMA measure-
ments.
Dynamic
Measurements
In dynamic experiments, the DMA 2980 mea-
sures the raw signals of force, amplitude of
deformation, and phase angle. Instrument
calibration constants are applied to the raw
signals. Force and amplitude are used with the
phase angle to calculate the storage and loss
stiffness (K and K). Tan δ is calculated

Sample Stiffness and Modulus Calculations
as the ratio of K to K. Storage and loss

moduli are then calculated by multiplying the
raw stiffness measurements by the appropriate
geometry factors.
Transient
Measurements
In transient measurements, the DMA 2980
measures the raw signals of force and amplitude
of deformation. Stress and strain are derived
from the raw force and amplitude, normalized
for the geometry factor.

Technical Reference
Calculations Based
on Clamp Type
Since a materials modulus is independent of its
geometry, equations relating the sample stiffness
to the modulus depend on the type of clamps
used, the sample shape, and the mode of defor-
mation. This section contains stiffness calcula-
tions for the different clamp types along with
comments on appropriate correction factors.
Also included are stress and strain equations,
which can be used as a general guideline for
calculations made from the force and amplitude
of deformation. The equations for stress and
strain assume linear viscoelastic behavior.
Modulus calculations based on the equations
may not agree with values computed by the
DMA 2980 program, especially if the sample
stretches or shrinks significantly during an
experiment.
The DMA 2980 determines the modulus (stiff-

ness) of a material differently depending upon
the clamp type installed on the instrument and
selected using the Thermal Solutions Instrument
Control software. This section provides the
equations used for calculations, based on the
type of clamp.

Calculations Based on Clamp Type
Dual Cantilever
When running experiments using the dual
cantilever clamp, the equations found in this
section are applied to obtain your results.
Modulus Equation
The stiffness model equation for a rectangular
cross section sample, analyzed on the dual
cantilever clamp, is as follows. (Similar calcula-
tions were performed for cylindrical samples but
are not detailed here.)
24 . E. I
K
2
3 12 . t
L . 1 (1 ν ).
5 L
Where:
K = stiffness or spring constant
E = elastic modulus
L = sample length (one side)
t = sample thickness
I = sample moment of inertia
ν = Poisons ratio
The sample moment of inertia is
3
w. t
I
12
Where:
w = sample width

Technical Reference
The stiffness model equation assumes that the

ends of the sample are fixed, or that there is no
deformation of the sample beyond where the
sample enters the clamps. This is never
achieved in practice, to do so would require a
discontinuity in the strains within the sample at
the clamp face. To account for this error, a
sample stiffness correction factor can be defined
as:
Ks
Fc
K
Where:
Ks = measured stiffness
Fc = clamping correction factor
Substituting for K in the model equation and

solving for the modulus:
Ks L 3 12 . t
2
E . . 1 (1 ν ).
24 .I 5 L
Fc
Fc = 0.7616 0.02713 x
L
t
+ 0.1083 ln ()
L
t
Where:
E = elastic modulus
ln = natural log
ν = Poisons ratio

The clamping correction factor, Fc , was deter-

mined by finding the sample stiffness using
Finite Element Analysis of the sample deforma-
tion and calculating Fc using the sample stiffness
equation and the FEA stiffness. This was done
by studying many cases including a variety of
materials and geometries with corresponding fit
applied to the result.
NOTE: Poisson’s ratio accounts for the shear deforma-

tion taking place in flexure, when using samples
of relatively small length-to-thickness ratios. It
is introduced in the equation using the standard
equation relating E and G:
E=2(1+ν)G

Technical Reference
Stress and Strain

When using the dual cantilever clamp, stress and
strain are not constant throughout the sample
thickness. The maximum level of strain occurs
at the sample surface, while the center experi-
ences no strain at all. This also means that both
stress and strain can have positive or negative
sense, depending on whether it is on the top or
bottom surface of the sample. The following
equation expresses the maximum stress and
strain levels and does not include any contribu-
tion from the clamp:
3 . P. L
σx
2
w. t
3 .δ. t . Fc
εx
2
2 12 . t
L. 1 (1 ν ).
5 L
Where:
σx = stress
εx = strain
P = 1/2 applied force
δ = amplitude of deformation
w = sample width
ν = Poisons ratio

Single Cantilever
When running experiments using the single
cantilever clamp, the equations found in this
Modulus Equation
cross section sample, analyzed on the single
cantilever clamp, is as follows. (Similar calcula-
Ks L 3 12 . t
2
E . . 1 (1 ν ).
Fc 12 . I 5 L
Fc = 0.7616 0.02713 x
L
t
+ 0.10831n ()
L
t
Where:
E = elastic modulus
L = sample length
ν = Poisons ratio

Technical Reference
Stress and Strain

When using the single cantilever clamp, the
equations for stress and strain are the same as
for the dual cantilever clamp (see page 6-24),
except that P in the stress equation is the full
applied force.

3-Point Bending
When running experiments using the 3-point
bending clamp, the equations found in this
Modulus Equation
cross section sample, analyzed on the 3-point
bending clamp, is as follows. (Similar calcula-
3 2
L 12 . t
E Ks . . 1 (1 ν ).
6. I 5 L
Where:
E = elastic modulus
ν = Poisons ratio
This equation assumes that local deformation of

the sample in the region of the supports are
negligible.

Technical Reference
Stress and Strain

When using the 3-point bending clamp, the
maximum stress and strain occur at the midspan
of the sample where the drive applies the load,
so both stress and strain can have positive or
negative sense depending on wether it is on the
top or the bottom surface of the sample.
PLt 3P L
σx = =
8I 2 w t2
6 . δ. t
εx 2
2 6 . t
L. 1 (1 ν) .
10 L
0
Where:
σx = stress
εx = strain
P = applied force
L = sample length (span)
w = sample width
ν = Poisons ratio
I = moment of inertia

Shear Sandwich
When running experiments using the shear
sandwich clamp, the equations found in this
Modulus Equation
cross section sample, analyzed on the shear
sandwich clamp, is as follows. (Similar calcula-
5. G. w. h
K
3. t
Where:
G = shear modulus
w = sample width, i.e. horizontal dimension
h = sample height, i.e. vertical dimension
t = sample thickness, between clamp faces
Dilatation of the sample due to compression

when the screws are tightened, causes the
measured stiffness to differ from the model
equation. The amount of dilatation is dependent
upon the degree of compression of the sample
which cannot be quantified so, a correction
factor for this effect is ignored. The equation for
the shear modulus is:
3. t
G Ks .
5 . w. h

Technical Reference
Where:
G = shear modulus
w = sample width, i.e. horizontal dimension
h = sample height, i.e. vertical dimension
t = sample thickness, between clamp faces
Stress and Strain
P
τ0
2. A
δ
γ0
T
Where:
σ0 = stress
γ0 = strain
P = applied force
A = sample cross-sectional area
T = separation of clamp surfaces

Compression
When running experiments using the compres-
sion clamp, the equations found in this section
are applied to obtain your results.
Modulus Equation
The stiffness model equation for a sample,
analyzed on the compression clamp, is as
follows.
A. E
K
t
Where:
E = elastic modulus
The model equation assumes that transverse

strains are negligible. In fact, due to dilatation
effects, transverse strains in the sample are
significant, therefore, the measured stiffness will
be lower than the sample stiffness. A stiffness
correction factor can be defined as:
Ks
Fe
K
Where:
Fe = correction factor. See Clamping
value of Fe.

Technical Reference
Substituting for K in the model equation and

solving for the modulus,
Ks . t
E
Fe A
Where:
E = elastic modulus
Fe = correction factor. See Clamping
value of Fe.
The clamping correction factor, Fe , was deter-

mined by finding the sample stiffness using
Finite Element Analysis of the sample deforma-
tion. Fe was calculated using the sample
stiffness equation and the FEA stiffness. This
was done by studying many cases, including a
variety of materials and geometries with corre-
sponding fit, applied to the result.

Stress and Strain
P
σ0 Fe .
A0
δ
γ0
T
Where:
σ0 = stress
γ0 = strain
P = applied force
T = separation of clamp surfaces
Fe = correction factor that accounts for
sample dilatation effects. See Clamp-
ing Factors in Chapter 6 to determine
the value of Fe.
The DMA 2980 uses the nominal or engineering

stress and strain, which are based on the as-
sumption that the cross-sectional area of the
sample maintains the initial value for the duration
of the experiment.

Technical Reference
Tension: Film and Fiber

When you are running experiments using the
film or fiber tension clamps, the equations found
in this section are applied to obtain your results.
Modulus Equation
The stiffness model equation for a sample,
analyzed on the film or fiber tension clamp, is as
follows.
A. E
K
L
Where:
E = elastic modulus
L = sample length
Because the sample will have a very small area

as compared to its length, no end-effects
correction is needed, the modulus equation is,
L
E Ks .
A
Where:
E = elastic modulus
L = sample length

Stress and Strain
P
σ0
A0
∆L
ε0
L0
Where:
σ0 = stress
γ0 = strain
P = applied force
∆L = cumulative change in sample length
L0 = initial sample length
A0 = initial sample cross-sectional area
The DMA 2980 uses the nominal or engineering

stress and strain, which are based on the as-
sumption that the change in sample length is
small for the duration of the experiment.

Technical Reference
Clamping Factors
(Compression Clamps Only)
This section provides clamping correction

factors for compression clamps that can be used
to solve the equations found in the previous
sections.
Table 6.1
Clamping Factors (Fe) Thickness OD ID Fe
for 1 mm Ring Sample (mm) (mm) (mm)
1 5 4 0.7669
1.5 5 4 0.8026
2 5 4 0.8207
2.5 5 4 0.8314
3 5 4 0.8383
3.5 5 4 0.8430
4 5 4 0.8464
4.5 5 4 0.8488
5 5 4 0.8507
1 10 9 0.7669
1.5 10 9 0.8026
2 10 9 0.8207
2.5 10 9 0.8314
3 10 9 0.8383
3.5 10 9 0.8430
4 10 9 0.8464
4.5 10 9 0.8488
5 10 9 0.8507
1 15 14 0.7669
1.5 15 14 0.8026
2 15 14 0.8207
2.5 15 14 0.8314
3 15 14 0.8383
3.5 15 14 0.8430
(table continued )

Clamping Factors
Table 6.1
Clamping Factors (Fe)
for 1 mm Ring Sample
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
4 15 14 0.8464
4.5 15 14 0.8488
5 15 14 0.8507
1 20 19 0.7669
1.5 20 19 0.8026
2 20 19 0.8207
2.5 20 19 0.8314
3 20 19 0.8383
3.5 20 19 0.8430
4 20 19 0.8464
4.5 20 19 0.8488
5 20 19 0.8507
1 25 24 0.7669
1.5 25 24 0.8026
2 25 24 0.8207
2.5 25 24 0.8314
3 25 24 0.8383
3.5 25 24 0.8430
4 25 24 0.8464
4.5 25 24 0.8488
5 25 24 0.8507
1 30 29 0.7669
1.5 30 29 0.8026
2 30 29 0.8207
2.5 30 29 0.8314
3 30 29 0.8383
3.5 30 29 0.8430
4 30 29 0.8464
4.5 30 29 0.8488
(table continued )

Technical Reference
Table 6.1
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
5 30 29 0.8507
1 35 34 0.7669
1.5 35 34 0.8026
2 35 34 0.8207
2.5 35 34 0.8314
3 35 34 0.8383
3.5 35 34 0.8430
4 35 34 0.8464
4.5 35 34 0.8488
5 35 34 0.8507
1 40 39 0.7669
1.5 40 39 0.8026
2 40 39 0.8207
2.5 40 39 0.8314
3 40 39 0.8383
3.5 40 39 0.8430
4 40 39 0.8464
4.5 40 39 0.8488
5 40 39 0.8507

Clamping Factors
Table 6.2
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
1 5 3 0.67337
1.5 5 3 0.73322
2 5 3 0.76688
2.5 5 3 0.78811
3 5 3 0.80256
3.5 5 3 0.81293
4 5 3 0.82069
4.5 5 3 0.82666
5 5 3 0.83137
1 10 8 0.67337
1.5 10 8 0.73322
2 10 8 0.76688
2.5 10 8 0.78811
3 10 8 0.80256
3.5 10 8 0.81293
4 10 8 0.82069
4.5 10 8 0.82666
5 10 8 0.83137
1 15 13 0.67337
1.5 15 13 0.73322
2 15 13 0.76688
2.5 15 13 0.78811
3 15 13 0.80256
3.5 15 13 0.81293
4 15 13 0.82069
4.5 15 13 0.82666
5 15 13 0.83137
1 20 18 0.67337
1.5 20 18 0.73322
(table continued)

Technical Reference
Table 6.2
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
2 20 18 0.76688
2.5 20 18 0.78811
3 20 18 0.80256
3.5 20 18 0.81293
4 20 18 0.82069
4.5 20 18 0.82666
5 20 18 0.83137
1 25 23 0.67337
1.5 25 23 0.73322
2 25 23 0.76688
2.5 25 23 0.78811
3 25 23 0.80256
3.5 25 23 0.81293
4 25 23 0.82069
4.5 25 23 0.82666
5 25 23 0.83137
1 30 28 0.67337
1.5 30 28 0.73322
2 30 28 0.76688
2.5 30 28 0.78811
3 30 28 0.80256
3.5 30 28 0.81293
4 30 28 0.82069
4.5 30 28 0.82666
5 30 28 0.83137
1 35 33 0.67337
1.5 35 33 0.73322
2 35 33 0.76688
2.5 35 33 0.78811
3 35 33 0.80256
(table continued)

Clamping Factors
Table 6.2
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
3.5 35 33 0.81293
4 35 33 0.82069
4.5 35 33 0.82666
5 35 33 0.83137
1 40 38 0.67337
1.5 40 38 0.73322
2 40 38 0.76688
2.5 40 38 0.78811
3 40 38 0.80256
3.5 40 38 0.81293
4 40 38 0.82069
4.5 40 38 0.82666
5 40 38 0.83137

Technical Reference
Table 6.3
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
1 5 2 0.6013
1.5 5 2 0.6734
2 5 2 0.7173
2.5 5 2 0.7464
3 5 2 0.7669
3.5 5 2 0.7820
4 5 2 0.7935
4.5 5 2 0.8026
5 5 2 0.8098
1 10 7 0.6013
1.5 10 7 0.6734
2 10 7 0.7173
2.5 10 7 0.7464
3 10 7 0.7669
3.5 10 7 0.7820
4 10 7 0.7935
4.5 10 7 0.8026
5 10 7 0.8098
1 15 12 0.6013
1.5 15 12 0.6734
2 15 12 0.7173
2.5 15 12 0.7464
3 15 12 0.7669
3.5 15 12 0.7820
4 15 12 0.7935
4.5 15 12 0.8026
5 15 12 0.8098
1 20 17 0.6013
1.5 20 17 0.6734
2 20 17 0.7173
(table continued)

Clamping Factors
Table 6.3
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
2.5 20 17 0.7464
3 20 17 0.7669
3.5 20 17 0.7820
4 20 17 0.7935
4.5 20 17 0.8026
5 20 17 0.8098
1 25 22 0.6013
1.5 25 22 0.6734
2 25 22 0.7173
2.5 25 22 0.7464
3 25 22 0.7669
3.5 25 22 0.7820
4 25 22 0.7935
4.5 25 22 0.8026
5 25 22 0.8098
1 30 27 0.6013
1.5 30 27 0.6734
2 30 27 0.7173
2.5 30 27 0.7464
3 30 27 0.7669
3.5 30 27 0.7820
4 30 27 0.7935
4.5 30 27 0.8026
5 30 27 0.8098
1 35 32 0.6013
1.5 35 32 0.6734
2 35 32 0.7173
2.5 35 32 0.7464
3 35 32 0.7669
3.5 35 32 0.7820
(table continued)

Technical Reference
Table 6.3
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
4 35 32 0.7935
4.5 35 32 0.8026
5 35 32 0.8098
1 40 37 0.6013
1.5 40 37 0.6734
2 40 37 0.7173
2.5 40 37 0.7464
3 40 37 0.7669
3.5 40 37 0.7820
4 40 37 0.7935
4.5 40 37 0.8026
5 40 37 0.8098

Clamping Factors
Table 6.4
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
1 5 1 0.7752
1.5 5 1 0.8539
2 5 1 0.8572
2.5 5 1 0.8390
3 5 1 0.8150
3.5 5 1 0.7903
4 5 1 0.7669
4.5 5 1 0.7452
5 5 1 0.7254
1 10 6 0.7752
1.5 10 6 0.8539
2 10 6 0.8572
2.5 10 6 0.8390
3 10 6 0.8150
3.5 10 6 0.7903
4 10 6 0.7669
4.5 10 6 0.7452
5 10 6 0.7254
1 15 11 0.7752
1.5 15 11 0.8539
2 15 11 0.8572
2.5 15 11 0.8390
3 15 11 0.8150
3.5 15 11 0.7903
4 15 11 0.7669
4.5 15 11 0.7452
5 15 11 0.7254
1 20 16 0.7752
1.5 20 16 0.8539
2 20 16 0.8572
(table continued)

Technical Reference
Table 6.4
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
2.5 20 16 0.8390
3 20 16 0.8150
3.5 20 16 0.7903
4 20 16 0.7669
4.5 20 16 0.7452
5 20 16 0.7254
1 25 21 0.7752
1.5 25 21 0.8539
2 25 21 0.8572
2.5 25 21 0.8390
3 25 21 0.8150
3.5 25 21 0.7903
4 25 21 0.7669
4.5 25 21 0.7452
5 25 21 0.7254
1 30 26 0.7752
1.5 30 26 0.8539
2 30 26 0.8572
2.5 30 26 0.8390
3 30 26 0.8150
3.5 30 26 0.7903
4 30 26 0.7669
4.5 30 26 0.7452
5 30 26 0.7254
1 35 31 0.7752
1.5 35 31 0.8539
2 35 31 0.8572
2.5 35 31 0.8390
3 35 31 0.8150
3.5 35 31 0.7903
(table continued)

Clamping Factors
Table 6.4
(continued)
Thickness OD ID Fe
(mm) (mm) (mm)
4 35 31 0.7669
4.5 35 31 0.7452
5 35 31 0.7254
1 40 36 0.7752
1.5 40 36 0.8539
2 40 36 0.8572
2.5 40 36 0.8390
3 40 36 0.8150
3.5 40 36 0.7903
4 40 36 0.7669
4.5 40 36 0.7452
5 40 36 0.7254

Technical Reference
Table 6.5
for Square Sample
Thickness Length Fe
(mm) (mm)
1 5 0.4647
1.5 5 0.5550
2 5 0.6326
2.5 5 0.6937
3 5 0.7404
3.5 5 0.7759
4 5 0.8032
4.5 5 0.8246
5 5 0.8417
1 10 0.3784
1.5 10 0.4193
2 10 0.4647
2.5 10 0.5108
3 10 0.5550
3.5 10 0.5958
4 10 0.6326
4.5 10 0.6651
5 10 0.6937
1 15 0.3558
1.5 15 0.3784
2 15 0.4050
2.5 15 0.4342
3 15 0.4647
3.5 15 0.4956
4 15 0.5259
4.5 15 0.5550
5 15 0.5827
1 20 0.3465
1.5 20 0.3610
2 20 0.3784
(table continued)

Clamping Factors
Table 6.5
for Square Sample
(continued)
Thickness Length Fe
(mm) (mm)
2.5 20 0.3980
3 20 0.4193
3.5 20 0.4417
4 20 0.4647
4.5 20 0.4879
5 20 0.5108
1 25 0.3415
1.5 25 0.3519
2 25 0.3643
2.5 25 0.3784
3 25 0.3940
3.5 25 0.4107
4 25 0.4282
4.5 25 0.4463
5 25 0.4647
1 30 0.3386
1.5 30 0.3465
2 30 0.3558
2.5 30 0.3665
3 30 0.3784
3.5 30 0.3913
4 30 0.4050
4.5 30 0.4193
5 30 0.4342
1 35 0.3366
1.5 35 0.3429
2 35 0.3503
2.5 35 0.3588
3 35 0.3682
3.5 35 0.3784
(table continued)

Technical Reference
Table 6.5
for Square Sample
(continued)
Thickness Length Fe
(mm) (mm)
4 35 0.3894
4.5 35 0.4010
5 35 0.4131
1 40 0.3352
1.5 40 0.3404
2 40 0.3465
2.5 40 0.3534
3 40 0.3610
3.5 40 0.3694
4 40 0.3784
4.5 40 0.3880
5 40 0.3980

Clamping Factors
Table 6.6
for Solid Circular Sample
Thickness Diameter Fe
(mm) (mm)
1 5 0.4871
1.5 5 0.5890
2 5 0.6708
2.5 5 0.7319
3 5 0.7771
3.5 5 0.8114
4 5 0.8385
4.5 5 0.8612
5 5 0.8814
1 10 0.3842
1.5 10 0.4334
2 10 0.4871
2.5 10 0.5400
3 10 0.5890
3.5 10 0.6327
4 10 0.6708
4.5 10 0.7037
5 10 0.7319
1 15 0.3570
1.5 15 0.3842
2 15 0.4162
2.5 15 0.4511
3 15 0.4871
3.5 15 0.5226
4 15 0.5568
4.5 15 0.5890
5 15 0.6187
1 20 0.3459
1.5 20 0.3632
2 20 0.3842
(table continued)

Technical Reference
Table 6.6
(continued)
(mm) (mm)
2.5 20 0.4079
3 20 0.4334
3.5 20 0.4601
4 20 0.4871
4.5 20 0.5139
5 20 0.5400
1 25 0.3401
1.5 25 0.3523
2 25 0.3672
2.5 25 0.3842
3 25 0.4030
3.5 25 0.4230
4 25 0.4440
4.5 25 0.4655
5 25 0.4871
1 30 0.3367
1.5 30 0.3459
2 30 0.3570
2.5 30 0.3699
3 30 0.3842
3.5 30 0.3997
4 30 0.4162
4.5 30 0.4334
5 30 0.4511
1 35 0.3345
1.5 35 0.3417
2 35 0.3504
2.5 35 0.3605
3 35 0.3718
3.5 35 0.3842
(table continued)

Clamping Factors
Table 6.6
(continued)
(mm) (mm)
4 35 0.3974
4.5 35 0.4114
5 35 0.4260
1 40 0.3329
1.5 40 0.3388
2 40 0.3459
2.5 40 0.3541
3 40 0.3632
3.5 40 0.3733
4 40 0.3842
4.5 40 0.3957
5 40 0.4079

Technical Reference

Chapter 7: Maintenance &
Diagnostics
Introduction ................................................. 7-3
Inspection .................................................... 7-3
Cleaning ...................................................... 7-4
Cleaning the Keypad ............................ 7-4
Cleaning the Clamps ............................. 7-4
Maintaining the
Air Filter Regulator ..................................... 7-6
Changing a Filter .................................. 7-7
Error Messages ........................................... 7-9
Diagnosing Power Problems ..................... 7-10
Fuses .................................................. 7-10

Furnace Power Check ................. 7-11
Heater Indicator Light ........................ 7-12
Power Failures ................................... 7-13
DMA 2980 Test Functions ........................ 7-14

The Confidence Test .......................... 7-15
Parts List ................................................... 7-17

Maintenance & Diagnostics

Introduction
Introduction
When you have been using the TA Instruments
DMA 2980 for a while, some maintenance
procedures that need to be done in order to keep
your instrument running as it should. Several
steps are recommended:
Periodic inspection and cleaning of the

instrument.
Calibration as requiredsee Chapter 3.
Replacement of the thermocouples, as

requiredsee the instructions enclosed with
your new thermocouples.
Inspection
Examine the instrument for good condition as
follows:
Make sure the furnace area is clean and

remove any residue before starting the next
experiment.
Clean the clamp and sample thermocouple

of any remaining sample material before
loading the next sample.

Cleaning
Cleaning your instrument regularly helps to
increase its longevity and maintain its efficiency.
Cleaning the Keypad

You can clean the instrument keypad as often as
desired. The keypad is covered with a silk-
screen Mylar® overlay that is reasonably water
resistant, but not waterproof or resistant to
strong solvents or abrasives.
Use a regular household liquid glass cleaner and

a paper towel to clean the keypad. Wet the
towelnot the keypadwith the glass cleaner,
then wipe off the keypad and display.
Cleaning the Clamps

All of the clamp assemblies are made of stain-
less steel and should be cleaned with that in
mind. Use one or more of the following sugges-
tions to clean any sample residue from the
clamps:
Remove the clamp from the instrument.

Then, carefully scrape off residue using a
razor blade or similar tool.
t CAUTION: Do not use any abrasive cleanser or acidic

solvents to clean the clamps. Damage to the
clamp assembly could result.
®Mylar is a registered trademark of the DuPont

Company.

Cleaning
Use a mild household or laboratory solvent

(such a methanol or acetone) on a paper
towel to wipe off excess residue.
Bake the clamp in an oven up to 600°C to

bake off residue.

Maintaining the
The air filter regulator supplies clean air bearing
gas to the DMA. It must be checked regularly
to maintain optimum air-cleaning capability.
Air Supply
Valve
From ACA
or Lab
Air Supply To DMA
Pressure
Gauge
Electronic
Timer
Solenoid Dial
Cycle Time Dial
Manual
Override Button
Valve
Water Open Light
Drainage Tube Power Light
Figure 7.1
Air Filter
Regulator Assembly

Maintaining the Air Filter Regulator
If you are using the Air Compressor

Accessory connected to your air filter
regulator:
Check the pressure gauge on the

regulator before turning on the ACA.
If the pressure gauge on the air filter

regulator reads more than 10 psig,
release the pressure by pressing the
manual override button on the electronic
time (see Figure 7.1) until the air stops
escaping.
If you try to turn on the ACA with more

than 10 psig pressure in the system, the
ACA will draw an excessive amount of
current and may overload its fuse.
The filter should be changed once a year.

See the next section for instructions.
Changing a Filter
Follow these instructions to change a filter:
1. Turn the air supply valve to the off position.
2. Press the manual override button on the

electronic timer and bleed off all pressure
until the pressure gauge reads zero.
3. Loosen the locking ring at the top of the

bowl on the air filter regulator. Then pull
straight down on the bowl to remove it.
4. Unscrew and remove the old filter.

5. Screw a new filter in place.
6. Replace the bowl and tighten the locking

ring.

Error Messages
Error Messages
As you perform experiments using your DMA
2980, you may see error messages appearing on
the display or on the controller.
If the error is fatal, the error message is

posted and the system halts.
If the error is nonfatal, the system can

continue operating.
The error messages are stored in the error log.

To obtain help for an error condition, as the error
is displayed on the controller, press the F1 key
for online help. To obtain information about the
errors contained in the error log, use the Ther-
mal Solutions Instrument Control menu to
access the log. Online help is available for each
error in the error log. See the Thermal Solu-
tions User Reference Guide for details.

Diagnosing
Power Problems
Fuses
The DMA contains internal fuses that are not
user serviceable. If any of the internal fuses
blows, a hazard may exist. Call your TA Instru-
ments service representative.
The only fuses that you should service yourself

are the external fuses, located on the DMAs
rear panel. Both are housed in safety-approved
fuse carriers, labeled F1 and F2 (Figure 7.2).
Always unplug the instrument before you

!WARNING examine or replace the fuses.
Fuse 1 Fuse 2
Figure 7.2
Fuse Locations

Diagnosing Power Problems
Fuse 1 is in the circuit between the main electri-

cal input and the POWER switch. All power for
internal operations and instrument functions,
except heater power, passes through this fuse. If
this fuse blows, you will get no response from
the instrument when you attempt to turn it on.
Fuse F2 is in the circuit between the main

electrical input and the POWER switch. This
fuse protects all internal components, including
the furnace. If this fuse blows, you will get no
response from the instrument when you attempt
to turn it on.
Furnace Power Check
Furnace power is always checked at the begin-

ning of a method. Power supplied to the furnace
is switched by a computer-controlled relay as
well as the HEATER switch located on the
instrument's front panel. The HEATER switch
must be on (1) to start a method.
NOTE: The light in the HEATER switch will glow only

after an experiment is initiated. The HEATER
switch will continue to glow, even if it is
switched to the OFF (0) position, until the "Stand
By" status code is displayed.

Heater
Indicator Light
The indicator light in the HEATER switch on the
front panel of the DMA 2980 glows whenever
the power control circuitry is enabled. If the light
does not come on when the method is started,
the indicator light may be defective or a hard-
ware problem may exist in the instrument (call
your TA Instruments Service Representative).
The heater light may also remain on after a

method has terminated. This can happen if the
method-end condition Return to temperature
range function is chosen; see the Thermal
Solutions User Reference Guide for further
details.
Pressing the instrument STOP key after the

completion of a method manually overrides the
post-experiment heater power conditions.

Diagnosing Power Problems
Power Failures
A power failure caused by a temporary drop in
line voltage results in one of two responses by
the DMA instrument:
If the drop is fairly large and of long duration (20

milliseconds or more), the system will reset and
go into its power-up sequence when power
resumes.
If the drop is small or of short duration, the

system may halt, and you may see Err F02 on
the display. This message means that the system
has detected a power failure and has shut down.
The instrument will not restart until it is reset. To
reset, press the Reset button on the DMAs
back panel or turn the POWER switch off for a
few seconds and then turn it back on.
If Err F02 appears at start-up and remains

even after you have tried to restart the instru-
ment, the detection circuitry itself is probably at
fault. Do not try to repair it yourself; call your
TA Instruments service representative.
The DMA is designed for a nominal line voltage

of 120 Vac (+ 10%), 50 or 60 Hz. It should not
be operated outside this range. Low line voltage
may result in poor instrument operation; high line
voltage may damage the instrument.

DMA 2980
Test Functions
The DMA 2980 has three levels of test and
diagnostic functions:
The confidence test that is run every time

the instrument is started.
Cycling test functions that continuously test

specific functions.
A manufacturing verifier test mode that

coordinates and logs the results of a
sequence of confidence tests and drift runs.
These test functions are always present in the

instrument. They are designed to aid manufac-
turing and service personnel when checking and
repairing the instrument.

DMA 2980 Test Functions
The Confidence Test

The DMA confidence test is run each time the
instrument is turned on or reset. The confidence
test checks most of the computer and interface
components in the system.
When the confidence test is running, the number

of the test currently being performed is shown on
the display. The test number appears as a two-
digit hex number on the lower right of the
display. This number is changed as each new
test is started. Most of the tests are very brief,
so their test numbers may not be apparent.
The length of time required to run the confidence

test depends on the options installed. A standard
DMA 2980 system takes about 4 seconds. The
longest tests are the DRAM tests, which take
about 2 seconds.
After the tests are completed, a series of sign-on

messages are displayed. The system then starts
running, and the ready light on the back of the
instrument glows.
If an error is detected, an error message is

posted on the bottom line of the display. Nonfatal
errors are displayed for 3 seconds, and then the
confidence test continues. A fatal error occurs
when a circuit essential to the operation of the
instrument has failed the confidence test; the
instrument cannot reliably perform any further
functions. The system stops when the fatal error
is posted, and the ready light remains off.
Table 7.1, on the next page, summarizes the

primary confidence tests for the DMA. If any
errors occur during the confidence test, call your
TA Instruments service representative.

Table 7.1
DMA Confidence Test
Test Number Area Being Tested
CPU logic
30 CMOS RAM
4n Program memory
5n CPU board I/O
functions
6n DRAM data storage
memory
70 GPIB test
82 Keypad test
90 RS-232 test
An Analog board tests
Bn Drive board tests
D0 Saved memory
checksum

Parts List
Parts List
The following parts may be ordered for use with
the DMA 2980.
Table 7.2
DMA 2980 Parts List
Part Number Description
984286.901 Sample thermocouple

984287.901 Control thermocouple
984054.001 Drive shaft
984003.982 DMA furnace
980228.901 Glass cloth, 0.086 mm
980228.902 Glass cloth, 0.205 mm
984370.901 Furnace inlet ferrule/
spring kit
984309.901 PET film samples 1.5"
long (10)
984310.901 Indium wire samples 1.5"
long (10)
984313.901 PET string sample 36"
long
270975.001 Filter element
890035.901 Power cord
251468.002 GPIB cable, 2 meters long
270976.001 Filter/Regulator with
Auto-Drain
984011.901 DMA Accessory Kit,

which includes:
280037.000 Tool wrench torque drive
982161.902 Sample, ABS (Acryloni-
trile Butadiene Styrene)
2.35" (5)
982161.903 Sample, ABS (Acryloni-
trile Butadiene Styrene)
1.4" (5)
(table continued)

Table 7.2
DMA 2980 Parts List
(cont'd)
DMA Accessory Kit

(continued), which
includes:
982165.902 Sample, polycarbonate
2.35" (5)
982165.903 Sample, polycarbonate
1.4" (5)
984308.001 Sample, .005" calibration
984308.005 Sample, .030" x .75
calibration
982166.003 Sample, .125 compliance,
2.35" long
982166.004 Sample, .125 compliance,
1.4" long
205220.030 Fuse, 4.0 Amp Slow Blow
(M)
205220.038 Fuse, 8.0 Amp Slow Blow
(M)
900902.901 Indium sample, tempera-
ture calibration
900907.901 Zinc, sample, temperature
calibration
983169.001 Digital caliper B&S
270339.002 100 gram weight
259508.000 Brass tweezers
270962.002 Gauge, telescoping
984014.901 3-point bending clamp kit
984015.901 Dual cantilever clamp kit
(table continued)

Parts List
Table 7.2
DMA 2980 Parts List
(cont'd)
984016.901 Film\fiber tension clamp

kit
984017.901 Shear sandwich clamp kit
984018.901 Compression clamp kit
984075.001 15-mm disk for compres-

sion clamp
984074.001 40-mm disk for compres-

sion clamp
984022.901 Penetration clamp kit
984023.901 Specialized fiber clamp kit
984094.001 Pin vise
984026.901 3-point bending clamp kit,

for small samples
984047.901 20-mm Dual cantilever

clamp kit
984048.901 8-mm Dual cantilever

clamp kit
984448.901 Sumbersion compression

clamp kit
984449.901 Submersion film/fiber

clamp kit


Appendix A: Ordering Information
TA Instruments, Inc.
109 Lukens Drive
New Castle, DE 19720
Telephone: 1-302-427-4000 or 1-302-427-4040
Fax: 1-302-427-4001
HELPLINEU.S.A.
For technical assistance with current or
potential thermal analysis applications,
please call the Thermal Analysis Help Desk
at 1-302-427-4070.
SERVICEU.S.A.
For instrument service and repairs,
please call 1-302-427-4050.
TA Instruments Ltd.
Europe House, Bilton Centre
Cleeve Road
Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7UQ
England
Telephone: 44-1372-360363
Fax: 44-1372-360135
TA Instruments GmbH
Max-Planck-Strasse 11
D-63755 Alzenau
Germany
Telephone: 49-6023-9647-0
Fax: 49-6023-9647-77
TA Instruments Benelux
Ottergemsesteenweg 461
B-9000 Gent
Belgium
Telephone: 32-9-220-79-89
Fax: 32-9-220-83-21
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 A–1

Appendix A
TA Instruments Japan
No. 5 Koike Bldg.
1-3-12 Kitashinagawa
Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo 140
Japan
Telephone: 813/3450-0981
Fax: 813/3450-1322
TA Instruments France
B.P. 608
78056 Saint-Quentin-Yvelines
Cedex
France
Telephone: 33-1-30-48 94 60
Fax: 33-1-30-48 94 51
TA Instruments Spain
Waters Cromatografía, S.A.
División TA Instruments
Avda. Europa, 21. Pta. Baja
28108 Alcobendas
Madrid, Spain
Telephone: 34-91-661-8448
Fax: 34-91-661-0855
TA Instruments Australia
Unit 3
38-46 South Street
Rydalmere NSW 2116
Autstralia
Telephone: 61-29-9331-705
Fax: 61-29-8981-455
TA Instruments Italy
Division of Waters SpA
via Achille Grandi 27
20090 Vimodrone (MI), Italy
Telephone: 39-02-27421-1
Fax: 39-02-250-1827
Printed in U.S.A.
A–2 TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980
Index
Index
Symbols Air Compressor Accessory

(ACA) xxii, 2-14, 7-7
3-point bending clamp descriptions 1-15
equations guidelines for installation 1-15
modulus 6-27 location 1-15
strain 6-28 pressure relief valve xxii
stress 6-28
geometry factor 5-19, 5-31, 5- air cool line
45, 5-62 installing 2-19
large
installation 5-14 air cooling 2-19
removal 5-26 to 5-27
running experiments 5-22 to 5-25 air filter regulator 2-13
small changing filters 7-7
installation 5-16 cycle time dial 2-14
sample mounting 5-21 electronic timer 2-17
installation 2-15 to 2-18
maintaining 7-6 to 7-9
A manual override button 2-14
accessories 1-13 outlet pressure 2-17
optional 1-17 to 1-18 power indicator light 2-14
standard 1-13 to 1-15 pressure allowed xxii
pressure gauge 7-7
address selector dial 2-11, 2-12 solenoid dial 2-14
valve open light 2-14
addresses A-1
air source 2-15
air bearing gas 2-13, 2-17, 3-19
amorphous phase 4-39
air bearings 2-17, 3-7
amplitude 5-23, 5-36, 5-49, 5-
57, 5-67, 5-77, 5-93, 5-107
amplitude range 5-106
TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 I–1

Index
amplitude table 4-24 calibration (cont'd)

creating 4-25 position 3-3
sample thermocouple 3-22
autostrain 5-7, 5-9, 5-76 temperature 3-21 to 3-24
weight 3-14
autotension 5-76
clamp
3-point bending 5-11
B heat deflection temperature 5-
braid 24
fiberglass 4-57 installation 5-14 to 5-15
burns running experiments 5-22 to 5-
from liquid nitrogen xxii 25
sample types 5-11
arrangement 3-19
C calculations 6-20
changing 3-4
cabinet 1-5 check 3-7, 3-9
choosing 4-6
cable cleaning 7-4 to 7-7
power compression
installation 2-22 description 5-39
cables removal 5-515-52, 5-58
connecting 2-10 running experiments 5-485-
50
calculations sample mounting 5-475-48
based on clamp 6-20 to 6-35 sample size 5-39
sample type 5-39
correction factor 6-23, 6-32
calibration fiber tension 5-70 to 5-78
balance 3-14 installation 5-71 to 5-72
clamp 3-3 removal 5-78
dynamic 3-14 running experiments 5-76 to 5-
electronics 3-11 78
shipping bracket 3-11 sample mounting 5-72 to 5-76
force 3-14 sample removal 5-78
instrument 3-3, 3-3 to 3-6, 3-
11 to 3-13
I–2 TA I NSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Index
clamp (cont'd) clamp (cont'd)

film tension 5-59 to 5-69 submersion film/fiber tension
installation 5-60 to 5-62 calibration 5-84
removal 5-69 installation 5-81 to 5-88
running experiments 5-67 to tensioning type 5-6
5-69 torques 4-56
sample mounting 5-64 to 5-67
sample removal 5-69 clamp assembly 1-4
nontensioning type 5-6
optional 5-5 clamp calibration 3-6 to 3-9
penetration 5-525-58
description 5-52 clamp mass calibration 3-7
installation 5-545-55
running experiments 5-565- CLAMP UP/DOWN 1-9
58
sample mounting 5-555-56 clamp zero calibration
shear sandwich offset gauge 3-8
description 5-27
installation 5-29 to 5-31 CLAMP ZERO key 3-8
removal 5-38
running experiments 5-36 to clamping correction factors 6-36
5-37
sample mounting 5-33 to 5- clamps 1-6, 1-13
34, 5-34 to 5-36 calculations based on 6-20
sample size 5-27 fixed 1-14
sample type 5-27 moveable 1-14
single/dual cantilever nontensioning 1-13
description 4-8 parts of 1-14
installing 2-29 to 2-32 submersion clamp safety xxiii
operating range 4-51 to 4-55 table of 4-7
removing 2-32, 4-65 tensioning 1-13
sample mounting 4-55 to 4-58
sample preparation 4-49 cleaning 7-4
sample types 4-8 clamps 7-4 to 7-7
submersion compression keypad 7-4
filling the fluid cup 5-105
installation 5-98 to 5-103 command
reject 4-64
stop 4-64

Index
complex modulus. See also modulus cooling hose

installation 2-20
compliance
creep 6-15 correction factors 6-36
recoverable 6-15
creep
components 1-3 mode 4-28 to 4-33
testing 6-15
compression clamp
equations crossbar loading fixture 5-85
modulus 6-31
strain 6-33
installation 5-41 to 5-45 D
removal 5-515-52, 5-58 damping 1-3
sample mounting 5-475-48
sample removal 5-505-51 data sampling interval 4-15, 4-
23, 4-29, 4-34
compression disk 5-102 isostrain mode 4-40
confidence test 2-23, 7-15 deformation 6-5, 6-7
connecting cables 2-10 description 1-3, 1-6
connector panel displacement 4-14

address selector 2-11
display 1-5, 1-7 to 1-8
constant force 5-7, 5-9
DMA
contamination xxiv calibration
sample thermocouple 3-22
Controlled Rate of Load (CRL) 4- compared to other techniques 6-4
48 creep testing 6-15
measurements 6-18
controller 1-3 transient 6-19
functions 1-3 modes 6-11
stress relaxation testing 6-16
cooling gas fitting 2-19 temperature calibration 3-21, 3-
22

Index
DMA 2980 drive force 5-23, 5-36, 5-49, 5-

applications 6-3 57, 5-68, 5-77, 5-93, 5-107
calibration 3-3 to 3-6
clamp mass 3-7 dual cantilever clamp. See also single/
instrument 3-11 to 3-13 dual cantilever
when to perform 3-4 equations
cleaning 7-4 modulus 6-21
experiments 3-16, 4-5 strain 6-24
instrument parameters telescoping gauge 4-59
selecting 4-14 to 4-23, 4-23 to
4-28, 4-28 to 4-33, 4-33 to 4- Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
39, 4-44 to 4-49 testing. See also DMA
lifting xxiv
maintenance 7-3
operating modes E
selecting 4-12 to 4-14 elasticity
parts list 7-17 definition 6-5
start up 2-23
temperature ramp test 3-18 electronics calibration 3-11
test functions 7-14 to 7-17
testing considerations 3-19 environment 2-5
theory 6-3, 6-4 to 6-5
equilibrium criteria 4-36
DMA Controlled Force 4-44 to 4-
49 error log 7-9
DMA Creep 4-28 to 4-33 error messages
nonfatal 7-9
DMA Isostrain 4-39
European Council Directive xvii
DMA Multifrequency 4-14 to 4-23
experiment
DMA Multistrain 4-23 to 4-28 control 1-6
rejecting 4-64
DMA Stress Relaxation 4-33 to 4- starting 4-63
39 stopping 4-64
dovetail 2-28, 2-29 experimental steps 4-5

Index
experimental variables 1-6 fitting

cooling gas 2-19
experiments 3-16
force ramp 4-48 FLOAT/LOCK 1-9
multifrequency 4-21
multistrain 4-26 fluid
performing 4-61 filling submersion film clamp con-
time-based 4-47 tainer 5-91
used with submersion clamps xxiii
F fluid container 5-84

features 1-6
fluid cup 5-101
filling 5-105
fiber bundles 5-72
fiber tension clamp 5-70 to 5-78 force

constant 5-7
equations
modulus 6-34
force track. See also autostrain
removal 5-78
running experiments 5-76 frame heaters 2-26
sample mounting
large diameter samples 5-73 frequency 3-19, 4-15, 4-24
to 5-74
frequency table 4-17
small diameter samples 5-74
to 5-76 creating 4-18
fiberglass braid 4-57 furnace

power check 7-11
film tension clamp 5-59 to 5-69
equations furnace assembly 1-4
modulus 6-34
strain 6-35 FURNACE UP/DOWN 1-10
fuses 7-10
removal 5-69
running experiments 5-67 to 5- Fuse F1 7-11
Fuse F2 7-11
69
Finite Element Analysis 6-23, 6-32

Index
G I
Gas Cooling Accessory (GCA) 1- inspection 2-6, 7-3
15, 2-19
instrument
gas lines air cooling 2-19
connecting 2-10 calibration 3-3 to 3-6, 3-11 to 3-
coonecting 2-10 13
installation 2-10 cleaning 7-4
display 1-7
geometry factors (GF) 5-19, 5- dynamic calibration 3-9
31, 5-88 grounding 2-5
heater switch 1-12
glass transition (Tg) 3-23 inspection 7-3
installing 2-3
glass transitions 4-46 keys 1-8
lifting xxiv
GPIB location 2-4
cable 2-10 mounting feet installation 2-9
output values 1-21
GPIB interface 1-6 power requirements 2-4
power switch 1-12
removal of shipping material 2-25
H to 2-26
hazardous products xxiv repacking 2-28
shutting down 2-24
heat deflection temperature specifications 1-18 to 1-21
(HDT) 5-24
instrument parameters 4-14 to 4-
heater indicator light 7-12 23, 4-23 to 4-28, 4-28 to 4-
33, 4-33 to 4-39, 4-44 to 4-49
HEATER switch 1-12, 7-11, 7-12
introduction 1-3 to 1-6
heating/cooling rate 3-19
isostrain 4-39
Hookes law 6-6

Index
K mode
DMA creep 4-28 to 4-33
keypad 1-5, 1-8 to 1-12 DMA isostrain 4-39
cleaning 7-4 DMA multifrequency 4-15
DMA multistrain 4-23, 4-26, 4-
31, 4-37
L DMA stress relaxation 4-33 to
liquid nitrogen xx 4-39
handling xx TMA controlled force 4-44, 4-
thermal shock xx 44 to 4-49
liquids 6-5, 6-7 modulus 1-3, 3-5, 4-44, 5-89, 5-

103, 6-13, 6-20
loss modulus 4-14 calculations 6-18
complex 6-13
lower U-Clamp 5-86 loss 6-13
storage 6-13
M moisture 2-5
maintenance 7-3
monofilaments 5-72
manual
mounting feet
using xxv
installation 2-9
materials
multifrequency
transitions 3-16
creating tables 4-18
mode 4-14 to 4-23
Maxwell Model 6-16
multistrain
mechanical section enclosure 1-3
mode 4-23 to 4-28
method
amplitude sweep 4-26, 4-32, 4- N
37, 4-38
creating 4-21, 4-26, 4-31, 4- Newtons Law 6-7, 6-11
37, 4-42, 4-46
creep 4-31 nontensioning 1-13
examples 4-48
TMA controlled force 4-46

Index
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings xvi Poissons ratio 6-23
position calibration 3-9

O
offset gauge 3-8 power cable
operating modes 4-12
DMA controlled force 4-44 to 4- power cords 2-10
49
DMA creep 4-28 to 4-33 power problems
DMA multifrequency 4-14 to 4-23 failures 7-13
DMA multistrain 4-23 to 4-28 HEATER indicator light 7-12
operating range 4-53 power requirements 2-4

figures 4-53
for compression clamp 5-45 POWER Switch 1-12
ordering information A-1 preload force. See also static force
orientation 4-39 pressure

air filter regulator 2-18, 7-7
output data 1-21 air pressure warning xxii
pressure relief valve xxii

P
parts R
ordering A-1
Ready light 2-11
parts list 7-17
REJECT 1-11
penetration clamp 5-525-58
installation 5-545-55 reject 4-64
running experiments 5-565-58
sample mounting 5-555-56 repacking
instrument 2-28
phone numbers A-1
Reset button 2-11
pin vises 5-71

Index
S SCROLL 1-8
safety xvii to xxv shear sandwich clamp

electrical xix equations
labels xviii modulus 6-29
lifting xxiv strain 6-30
liquid nitrogen xx installation 5-29 to 5-31
standards xvii operating range 5-31
thermal xix removal 5-38
using submersion clamps xxiii running experiments 5-36 to 5-37
sample
sample gel 5-34
cure 5-47 sample mounting 5-33 to 5-
dilatation 6-29 34, 5-34 to 5-36
measuring length 4-58 to 4-59 sample removal 5-37
mounting 4-55 to 4-58
resins 4-57 shipping bracket 3-11
stiff materials 4-55 removal 2-27, 3-12
size 3-19
stiff 4-55 shipping material
sample length 3-4 shipping nut and bolt 2-26
sample thermocouple 1-4, 4-10 shut down 2-24
Sample-Loading Assembly 5-91 single cantilever clamp

assembling 5-85 equations
modulus 6-25
samples 1-6 strain 6-26
decomposition xxiv telescoping gauge 4-59
elastomer 4-61
gel 5-34 single/dual cantilever clamp
length 4-49, 5-18 installation 2-29 to 2-32
liquid 5-34 parts of 2-30
mounting 4-49, 5-18 removal 2-32
preparing 4-49, 5-18 removing samples 4-65
removing 4-65, 5-25 running an experiment 4-61
residue 4-65 sample mounting 4-55
stiff 5-27 sample preparation 4-49
table of 4-7
Index
softening point 4-44, 4-46 stress 4-30, 6-24

elastic 6-13
solids 6-5 viscous 6-13
Specifications xvii stress relaxation 4-33 to 4-39

EMC Directive xvii creating a method 4-37
mode 4-33 to 4-39
specifications 1-18
stress relaxation test 6-16
splash guard
installing 5-82, 5-99 submersion compression clamp
calibration 5-103
splashing fixed clamp 5-100
correcting 5-108 installation 5-98 to 5-103
mounting a sample 5-105
starting an experiment 4-63 moveable clamp 5-102
operating range 5-103
static force 4-14, 4-29, 4-30, 4- removing the clamp 5-109
34, 4-35, 4-41, 4-45, 5-76, 5- running an experiment 5-106
105 sample size 5-96
steel compliance calibration submersion film/fiber tension clamp

sample 5-85 calibration 5-81
filling the fluid container 5-91
step-and-hold test 3-17 installation 5-81 to 5-88
mounting a sample 5-90
stiffness 5-23, 5-36, 5-49, 5-57, 5- operating range 5-88
67, 5-77, 5-93, 5-107 removing the clamp 5-94
calculations 6-18 running an experiment 5-92
definition 6-6 sample size 5-80
sample 6-18
submersion fluid xxiii
stopping an experiment 4-64
storage modulus 4-14 T

Table of Contents iii
strain 6-24
tables
strain % 4-35, 4-41 frequency 4-18

Index
tan delta 3-5, 4-14 thermal shield 5-76
techniques thermocouple
comparison 6-4 absolute temperature 3-21
absolute temperature calibration 3-
telescoping gauge 4-58, 4-59 22
measuring 4-60 correction 3-21
position 3-19
temperature positioning 2-31
lags 3-17 temperature lags 3-21
compensation 3-23
profiles 3-17, 3-19 thermocouples
transition 3-16 aligning 4-10
temperature calibration time dependence 6-5

dynamic 3-23
Time-Temperature Superposition
Temperature calibration window 3- software 4-30
22, 3-24
top bar 5-83, 5-102
temperature ramp test 3-18
torques 4-56
temperature range 1-6
transition
tensioning 1-13 temperature 3-16
test functions 7-14 transitions 3-16, 3-19

confidence test 7-14
cycling test 7-14
manufacturing 7-14 U
Universal Analysis 3-24
testing 3-19
unpacking
Theory of Operation 6-4 removal of shipping bracket 2-
27, 3-12
thermal expansion 4-44, 4-61 removal of shipping foam 2-26
removal of shipping material 2-25
thermal safety xix to 2-26

Index
unpacking the DMA 2-7 to 2-9 viscosities 4-14
viscosity
V coefficient of 6-7
valve
air supply (air filter regulator) 2- Voigt Model 6-9, 6-15
17
solenoid 2-17 voltage xix
viscoelastic W
parameters 3-16
work surface 2-4
viscoelastic limit 4-23
viscoelastic response 4-25 Y

yoke 5-83, 5-102
viscoelasticity
behavior 6-9, 6-16
definition 6-5 to 6-11 Z
response 6-10
ZERO CLAMP 1-8

Index

Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer Operator's Manual: Thermal Analysis & Rheology AS W C

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109 Lukens Drive New Castle, DE 19720

Thermal Analysis & Rheology

Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer

PN 984004.001 Rev. G (Text and Binder)

The material contained in this manual is be-

TA Instruments TA Operating Software and

II TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Table of Contents .......................................... iii

Safety ......................................................... xvii

CE Compliance ................................... xvii

Using This Manual ................................... xxv

Components .......................................... 1-3

The DMA Instrument .................................. 1-6

DMA 2980 Display .............................. 1-7

DMA 2980 Keypad .............................. 1-8

TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 III

Standard Accessories .......................... 1-13

Optional Accessories .......................... 1-15

DMA 2980 Output Values ........................ 1-21

Installing the Instrument ............................. 2-3

Choosing a Location ............................ 2-4

Inspecting the System........................... 2-6

Unpacking the DMA ............................ 2-7

GPIB Cable ........................................ 2-10

Air Filter Regulator

Air Cool Line ..................................... 2-19

IV TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980

Starting the DMA ..................................... 2-23

Shutting Down the DMA .......................... 2-24

Removing the Shipping Material .............. 2-25

Repacking the DMA ................................. 2-28

Installing the Single/Dual

Removing the Single/Dual

Determining When to Calibrate ........... 3-4

Clamp Calibration ....................................... 3-6

Clamp Zero Calibration (Step 2) .......... 3-7

Compliance Calibration (Step 3) .......... 3-8

Position Calibration .................................... 3-9

Clamp Check ........................................ 3-9

TA INSTRUMENTS DMA 2980 V

Electronics Calibration ....................... 3-11

Dynamic Calibration .......................... 3-14

Temperature Transition ............................. 3-16

Step-and-Hold Test ............................. 3-17

Temperature Ramp Test ..................... 3-18

Testing Considerations ....................... 3-19

DMA Temperature Calibration ................. 3-21

Choosing a Clamp Set ................................ 4-6

Single/Dual Cantilever Clamps ............ 4-8

Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-14

DMA Multistrain Mode ............................ 4-23

Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-23

DMA Creep Mode .................................... 4-28

Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-28

DMA Stress Relaxation Mode .................. 4-33

Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-33

DMA Isostrain Mode ................................ 4-39

Selecting Instrument Parameters ........ 4-40

Creating an Isostrain Method ............. 4-42