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Using the wrong sample pan causes bad thermal analysis data, equipment errors, and lost time. Many users face these problems early on with DSC experiments.
To choose a sample pan for Mettler Toledo DSC, match the pan material, size, and sealing features with your instrument and test needs. Always refer to compatibility and technical data for best results.
I recall failing an important DSC test because the sample pan size did not match the instrument. Since then, I follow a careful checklist for each new test. This helps save both time and materials.
Why Does Material Matter When Choosing DSC Sample Pans?
The wrong pan material affects heat transfer and measurement stability. My first lab chose pans by price, not material, and ran into accuracy problems fast.
Choose a pan material that matches your sample’s thermal and chemical requirements. Most tests use aluminum for high conductivity, but special samples may need platinum or PTFE pans.
| Material | Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | Best for Sample Type | DSC Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | ~237 | Polymers, Organics | Routine DSC, TGA |
| Platinum | ~71 | Metals, Inorganics | High-Temp Analysis |
| PTFE | ~0.25 | Reactive, Volatile | Chemical Stability |
Material selection must follow your experiment’s need for thermal properties and chemical compatibility. I now always check the manufacturer’s guidelines about what each pan material handles best (source).
How Do I Identify the Correct Size and Capacity for My DSC Pan?
The pan must fit your instrument and test sample. A pan that is too small or too large risks poor readings or sample loss. I once lost a week’s worth of results using the wrong size.
Identify pan size by checking the instrument’s technical manual and matching volume or diameter to your routine use. Proper capacity allows even heating and avoids overflow.
| Pan Type | Typical Internal Volume (µL) | Sample Mass Range (mg) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | ~40 | 5-10 | Routine DSC |
| Large Volume | ~100 | 10-30 | Formulations, Bulk |
| Micro | <10 | <2 | Trace Analysis |
Matching the right size ensures you use optimal sample amounts. Manufacturer instructions with each DSC instrument give the ranges and combinations that work best (DSC).
What Pan Features Improve Measurement Results?
Extra features on pans, like secure lids and pin vents, help protect your samples. These details prevent leaks, help with volatile samples, and make a real difference to results.
Choose pans with hermetic sealing for volatiles, and pick pin lids or vented pans if you expect outgassing during heating. Each design helps control the sample environment inside the pan.
| Feature | Sample Type | Purpose | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hermetic Seal | Volatiles, Moisture | Air-tight barrier | No evaporation, less loss |
| Pin Lid | Outgassing solids | Pressure vent | Prevents pan rupture |
| Standard Cover | Stable, Non-volatiles | Simple closure | Routine analysis |
Knowing which feature fits your sample will raise the repeatability of every test. I saw better results after switching to pans designed for my application instead of plain covers (Hermetic Seal).
How Can I Check Compatibility with Mettler Toledo DSC Models?
Using incompatible pans can raise error messages or fail to fit completely. I always check for a reference chart so I never guess.
Check compatibility using a manufacturer-approved chart or technical documentation. Search for pan part numbers matched to your DSC instrument model for a safe selection.
| Instrument Model | Compatible Pan Type | Pan Size (mm) | Ref. Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 1/3/822 | Aluminum, Hermetic | 6.7 x 4.0 | Labware Guide |
| DSC 4000/6000 | Standard, Large Volume | 7.0 x 5.5 | Lab Equipment |
| Toledo TGA/DSC | Platinum, PTFE | Varies | TGA |
I keep a copy of compatibility lists as part of my standard purchase routine. This stops errors at the source, saves material, and simplifies purchasing for every new DSC project (Labware Selection PDF).
Need the right sample pan or have questions about Mettler Toledo DSC compatibility?
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