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Fusion Cell ™

At the core of every Discovery DSC is the NEW TA Fusion Cell™, which incorporates design concepts that “FUSE” together the best features of the world’s bestselling Q-Series and first generation Discovery DSC, patented Tzero® technology, and new proprietary manufacturing processes. Unlike competitive designs, the Discovery DSC delivers optimum performance with a single sensor, eliminating the need to exchange sensors to optimize a specific performance aspect. The result is an innovative new DSC with unrivaled performance in baseline flatness, sensitivity, resolution, and reproducibility.

Features and Benefits:

• A multi-sensor adaptation of TA’s ground-breaking Discovery DSC Fusion Cell.
• Patented Tzero technology measures the cell resistance and capacitance (ability to store energy) characteristics. It delivers a fundamentally more accurate heat flow measurement with incomparable baseline performance, while eliminating the need for baseline corrections prevalent in all other competitive offerings.
• Fixed X3 sensor provides a stable configuration with a well-defined and reproducible heat flow path.
• Rugged uniblock silver furnace with long-life windings ensures superior temperature control and uniformity.
• Unique cooling rods and ring design produce superior cooling performance over a wide temperature range, higher cooling rates, and more responsive heating to cooling operation.
• Temperature-controlled electronics ensure the utmost in stability and repeatability of measured signals.
• Innovative gas delivery manifold provides gas switching and a consistent, repeatable atmosphere.

The Fusion Cell delivers the most absolute heat flow measurement possible. Additionally, lengthy pre- and post-test manipulations such as baseline subtractions or de-smearing routines required by competitive designs are never necessary.

Tzero® Technology

Traditionally, DSC heat flow measurements have been based on the same principle that ASSUMES contributions by the sample and reference sensor to the total measured heat flow simply cancel each other out. If this assumption was true, all DSC’s would have perfectly flat baselines. In reality, they do not. The fact is that each sensor’s resistance and capacitance (ability to store energy) produce imbalances in the heat flow, resulting in deviations from baseline flatness and impaired resolution and sensitivity. ONLY TA Instruments, with patented Tzero Technology, can measure this imbalance. Tzero Technology eliminates complicated pre- and post-test manipulations, such as baseline subtraction, deconvolution or other mathematical treatments competitive designs must use to improve baseline performance, sensitivity and resolution.

Patented Tzero Technology measures the resistance and capacitance of the sensors and utilizes these values in the four-term heat flow equation to give the most accurate real-time determination of heat flow available on any DSC. TA engineers have taken this one step further by also including the contributions of the DSC pans. This Advanced Tzero technology, T4P heat flow, provides the sharpest resolution, the highest sensitivity and allows for the measurement of heat capacity in a single run! Tzero

Features and Benefits:

• Flattest baselines available of any DSC on the market, resulting in the purest data without manipulation or subtraction.
• Highest resolution and sensitivity, without ever needing lengthy pre- and post-test manipulations as required by competitive designs.
• Direct measurement of heat capacity delivering the most uniform and accurate heat flow to and from the sample.
• By improving every aspect of performance, the Discovery DSC delivers data the user can trust, in all applications, all the time.

DISCOVER more Accurate Data with patented Tzero™ Technology

Modulated DSC

Modulated DSC Gain confidence in data interpretation with the help of MDSC®. Through deconvolution of the Total Heat Flow signal, events such as a glass transition masked under an evaporation peak, or the simultaneous occurrence of a cold crystallization with a melt, are easily revealed.

In TA’s patented MDSC*, a sinusoidal temperature oscillation is overlaid on the traditional linear ramp. The net effect is that heat flow can be measured simultaneously with, and independently of, changes in heat capacity. The Total Heat Flow signal contains the sum of all thermal transitions, just as in standard DSC.

Modulated DSC separates the Total Heat Flow into the Reversing and Non-Reversing Heat Flow signals. The Reversing Heat Flow, comprised of the heat capacity component, contains glass transition and melting transitions. The Non-Reversing Heat Flow, the kinetic component, contains events like curing, volatilization, melting, and decomposition. TA invented MDSC and understands it like no other company. Modulated DSC is a standard feature on EVERY Discovery DSC model.

Benefits of MDSC Include:

• Separation of complex and overlapping transitions into more easily interpreted components.
• Increased sensitivity for detecting weak transitions.
• Increased resolution without loss of sensitivity.
• More accurate measurement of polymer crystallinity.
• Direct measurement of heat capacity.

* U.S. Patent No. 6,561,692

Reliable Automation

It’s hard to believe we could improve on the most reliable DSC autosampler on the market, but we did! The new linear autosampler was designed to be even more rugged and simple to use than ever before, while offering maximum in testing flexibility.>

Autosampler Features and Benefits:

• New Linear X-Y-Z design with integrated auto lid reduces sample loading time for increased throughput and reliability.
• The integrated auto lid gives consistent and repeatable cell closure further improving the repeatability of measurements.
• New laser positioning system enables one-touch automatic calibration and pan location verification.
• Scheduled and unattended calibrations and verifications gives scientists more time for research.
• TRIOS software makes it easier than ever to manage and run a large and diverse sample queue.The Design View and Running Queue allow for quick and efficient autosampler programming.
• Sample and reference pans may be assigned to any combination of the available 54 positions. Includes two quick-change trays for more convenient remote sample preparation.
• Convenient design allows the choice of unloading pans back to the tray, or disposing of them freeing space for continuous sample queuing.

"APP" Style Touch Screen

The X3 DSC features TA’s innovative touch screen, making operation easier than ever with enhanced One-Touch-Away™ functionality.

Touch Screen Features and Benefits:

• Ergonomic design for enhanced accessibility and productivity.
• Packed with functionality to simplify instrument operation.
• Resilient, responsive touch screen for an enhanced user experience.

The One-Touch-Away™ Interface Includes:

• Start/stop controls
• View active method
• Autosampler calibration
• System information
• Real-time signals and plot
• Advance to next step in method
• Load/unload plans
• Test and instrument status

Dramatically improve laboratory workflow and productivity with the One-Touch-Away™ interface, TA’s powerful TRIOS software and the most robust, reliable DSC autosampler. These features enable automated calibration and verification routines that all work seamlessly for a simpler and more intuitive interaction.

Refrigerated Cooling System (RCS)

Take advantage of the convenient Refrigerated Cooling Systems (RCS) for unattended DSC and MDSC® operation over broad temperature ranges. The new RCS 120 provides enhanced safety and is the only liquid nitrogen-free system capable of conducting experiments down to -120°C.

RCS Features and Benefits:

• One-, Two-, or Three-stage refrigeration systems that achieve temperature ranges down to -40 °C, -90 °C or -120 °C
• Sealed system eliminates the need for liquid nitrogen cooling
• Enables cycling, MDSC®, controlled, and ballistic cooling experiments
• Safe, convenient, and continuous cooling operation for your laboratory needs

Discovery Liquid Nitrogen Pump Accessory (LN Pump)

The LN pump provides the highest performance and greatest flexibility in cooling for the Discovery DSC. It facilitates the lowest operational temperature (to -180 °C), greatest cooling rate capacity (to 140 °C/min), fastest sub-ambient equilibration times, and an upper temperature limit of 550°C. Operating at ambient pressure, the LN Pump uses liquid nitrogen efficiently, thus reducing operating costs. It includes a 50-liter Dewar with auto-fill capability which allows the LN Pump to be automatically refilled from a larger source, even during a DSC experiment, for continuous DSC operation with no disruption.>

Tzero Pans

Tzero high-performance pans and lids are designed to maximize pan flatness and sample contact. Coupled with the unparalleled flatness and uniformity of the Fusion Cell™ sensor, the Tzero pans and lids provide the most direct, uniform heat flow path from the sample to the sensor. These pans are tolerant of many sample forms and are designed with lids that conform to the top of irregular specimens, efficiently transferring heat to and from the entire sample. Competitive pan designs that have non-flat bases are unable to achieve appropriate thermal contact with solid specimens. Fabricated using advanced technology and to extremely tight tooling specifications, the Tzero pans offer significant improvements in resolution and repeatability over any other pan design.>

Tzero DSC Sample Encapsulation Process

The Tzero press takes sample encapsulation to a higher level of performance and convenience in conventional and hermetic sealing of a wide variety of materials. The press kit includes four die sets for Tzero aluminum and hermetic pans & lids. Optional die sets are available for high-volume DSC pans and Discovery TGA sealed pans. The die sets are magnetically attached with no tools or adjustments required. In addition, each die set is color-coded to the box containing the compatible Tzero or standard aluminum hermetic pans and lids.

Tzero® Powder Sample Preparation Kit

The task of loading powder samples into Tzero pans is now quicker and easier with the powder sample prep kit. Specifically designed to maximize the performance of Tzero Pans with powdered samples, the kit consists of a non-skid base and a three-part tool precision machined from high quality stainless steel. The lower tool has a precisely designed recess that holds the Tzero pan and supports and protects the bottom of the pan. The upper tool mounts over the pan, forming a funnel which directs the sample into the center of the pan, avoiding undesirable contamination of the outside surfaces of the pan. A steel rod is used to pack the sample firmly into the bottom of the pan, forming a packed layer of the powder while preserving the flatness of the bottom of the Tzero pan. Using this tool you can easily and effectively optimize the results of your DSC measurements of powdered samples.

Sample Cutting Kit

Samples for testing in the DSC come in all different forms, shapes, and sizes and typically require some type of manipulation before they can be loaded into a DSC pan. The sample cutting kit includes tools that will make it simple and easy to properly prepare samples for the ultimate repeatability and reliability of the results. A pliers-style sample cutter will provide a sample with a clean, flat surface to maximize sample to pan contact. A 4mm hole-punch and hammer will allow film samples to be cut into a consistent size perfect for Tzero pans. This tool kit is designed to help ensure that the high-level performance of the Fusion Cell and the Tzero pans is enhanced with the perfectly prepared sample.

Ease-Of-Use

TRIOS software makes calibration of the entire line of Differential Scanning Calorimeters simple. Users can easily generate multiple calibration data sets under varying experimental conditions (e.g. different heating rates or gas selections) and seamlessly switch between them to match the experimental conditions used for sample testing. Real-time signals and the progress of running experiments is readily available, with the added capability of modifying a running method on the fly. TRIOS software offers a level of flexibility that is unmatched in the industry.

Complete Date Record

The advanced data collection system automatically saves all relevant signals, active calibrations, and system settings. This comprehensive set of information is invaluable for method development, procedure deployment and data validation.

Complete Data Analysis Capabilities

A comprehensive set of relevant tools are available for real-time data analysis, even during experiments. Gain actionable insights into your material’s behavior through a powerful and versatile set of features seamlessly integrated into TRIOS

All Standard DSC Analyses:

• Glass transition, step change analysis
• Peak integration
• 1st and 2nd derivatives
• Oxidative onset temperature
• Oxidative induction time
• Purity
• Running integral and conversion
• Peak height and area
• Temperature at peak maximum
• Onset and endset analyses
• Easily import and export DSC data with TRIOS

Advanced Analysis Capabilities (Standard Features):

• Kinetic models for cure reactions, crystallization and decomposition.
• Deconvolution of the Total Heat Flow signal with MDSC® into Reversing and Non-Reversing Heat Flow signal.
• Advanced custom analysis and control charts with user-defined variables and models.
• Batch processing enables automated analysis, reporting, and control charting of large data sets.

Sensitivity

Measure the lowest stresses and smallest sample volumes with revolutionary torque sensitivity

Unrivaled low torque sensitivity empowers you to measure lower viscosities and weaker intermolecular structures while using lower sample volumes.

All Discovery Hybrid Rheometers feature TA’s patented Magnetic Thrust Bearing which reduces basic system friction by 70% compared to traditional designs. By eliminating the contributions of high pressure, turbulent air flow from the measurement system, lower torques can be measured reliably and accurately.

The unparalleled sensitivity of the magnetic thrust bearing is coupled with the NEW improved Advanced Drag Cup Motor. Enhanced torque precision increases the accuracy of every measurement, especially at low torques

Dynamic Measurements

Report G’ and G” with confidence

The storage and loss modulus, G’ and G”, are two of the most insightful measurements provided by any rheometer.

The Discovery Hybrid Rheometer’s exclusive Optical Encoder Dual Reader improves phase angle precision by 70% compared to conventional single- reader designs. This leads directly to a more accurate measurement of G’, G”, and tan δ. This advantage becomes most evident under challenging experimental conditions such as low stresses, small strains, or difficult samples that exhibit only trace amounts of damping or elasticity. The Optical Encoder Dual Reader also provides a 5× improvement in displacement resolution, permitting more accurate measurements at lower strains.

Strain and Stress Control

The measurement you want: Advanced Strain and Stress Control

The Discovery Hybrid Rheometer performs the experiment you want, whether stress-controlled, strain-controlled, or both. State-of-the-art high-speed electronics and the responsive Advanced Drag Cup Motor provide the fastest transient responses and accurate control in any type of deformation. Direct Strain oscillation provides real-time strain control at every point of the oscillatory measurement.

Responsive strain control ensures rapid data collection so you can characterize materials that are undergoing thermal, chemical, or structural transitions. Highly accurate deformation control (stress or strain) also ensures the highest data quality, particularly when evaluating materials that show a non-linear response at very large amplitudes.

Reliability

A rigid cast aluminum frame and rugged linear ball slide provide more than 60% greater axial and torsional stiffness than other designs and permit gap position resolution of 0.02 µm.

Two high-stiffness radial bearings stabilize the system from side loads exerted by samples or operators while the Optical Encoder Dual Reader further cancels displacement measurement drift associated with testing very stiff samples over long times.

The Advanced Drag Cup Motor provides stable control and measurement even when operating under extreme conditions. Active and passive thermal systems manage heat and account for system temperature, guaranteeing measurement accuracy under all test conditions.

These innovations provide the most accurate and sensitive measurement, under even the most extreme experimental conditions.

Advanced Technology

The DHR includes the patented True Position Sensor (TPS) for true gap accuracy. The TPS is a high-resolution linear position sensor that measures and compensates for the effects of thermal expansion in real time. Unlike competitive devices, the TPS eliminates errors associated with thermal expansion without the need for special high inertia iron core geometries and environmental systems.

The Force Rebalance Transducer is the premier technology for normal force measurements. This active, non-compliant device accurately measures normal and axial forces without deflection. Competitive capacitive or strain gauge sensors rely on physical movement of the device to sense a force, resulting in measurement error. The FRT provides the most accurate normal force measurement by driving the linear motor to maintain zero deflection at all times and conditions. The FRT also works in conjunction with the magnetic thrust bearing to enable axial DMA capability.

Sample Handling

The NEW Discovery Hybrid Rheometer is your invisible partner in the lab, reducing the time from question to insight.

Load samples with confidence and ease

The Discovery Hybrid Rheometer is designed by rheometer users to make sample loading faster, easier, and improve measurement precision for every operator.

Expedite routine interactions with a gap positioning system that is 3× faster than other rheometers while maintaining a 0.02 µm gap resolution. A convenient tactile keypad places the most common actions where you need them most, including thoughtful features like automated trim gap, measurement position, and bearing lock.

One-Touch-Away™

The new Discovery Hybrid Rheometer boasts a brand-new One-Touch-Away™ app-style touchscreen that greatly enhances usability by placing key instrument features at your fingertips.

• Ergonomic design for easy viewing and operation
• Packed with functionality to simplify operation and enhance user experience

• Start/stop experiments
• Set temperature
• Set gap
• Controlled rotation for sample loading
• Procedure and sample details
• Real-time signals
• Test and instrument status at a glance
• User prompts

The app-style touchscreen, powerful new TRIOS software, and quick robust calibration routines work seamlessly to dramatically improve laboratory workflows and productivity.

Dynamic Mechanical Analysis

Backed by over four decades of TA Instruments’ expertise in rotational rheology and linear DMA measurements, the Discovery Hybrid Rheometer’s DMA Mode adds a new dimension for testing solid and soft-solid materials. Now, in addition to the most sensitive and accurate rotational shear measurements, the DHR can deliver accurate linear Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) data. Controlled axial oscillations permit the direct measurement of E’, E”, and tan 𝛿 in tension, bending and compression, a perfect addition to shear measurements, including solids in torsion. The new DMA mode is ideal for identifying a material’s transition temperatures and provides reliable measurements over the instrument’s full range of temperatures.

The axial DMA capability is enabled by the DHR’s active Force Rebalance Transducer (FRT) and patented magnetic bearing technologies that permit amplitude- controlled oscillatory deformation in the axial direction. Installation of external components is never required, so it is always quick and easy to get great data! Competitive instruments that employ air bearings and passive normal force measurements are inherently incapable of such measurements without costly modifications.

Smart Swap™ Geometries

The NEW Smart Swap™ 2 geometry system features an all new system for optical information storage and transfer.This system provides greater storage and durability than chip-based systems. When attached, the complete geometry information, including unique dimensions is automatically detected and the software is appropriately configured.

Smart Swap™ Temperature Systems and Accessories

Only TA Instruments offers the convenience and versatility of Smart Swap™ temperature control options and accessories. Smart Swap™ options are attached to the instrument on its unique magnetic base, providing faster, easier installation than mechanical systems. Once attached, the instrument automatically detects and configures the system for operation.

User Experience

TRIOS for the Discovery Hybrid Rheometer features two powerful user interfaces that present users with what they need to collect the data they want.

TRIOS Express helps users to design the most common measurements quickly and easily. Simple forms and sensible defaults streamline the process of experiment design and execution.

TRIOS Unlimited gives you complete control. A robust set of detailed experimental controls and data collection options ensures that you will be able to design the experiment you envision and collect the data you need.

Complete Data Record

The advanced data collection system automatically saves all relevant signals, active calibrations, and system settings. Waveforms for each data point may be displayed as Lissajous plots and provide a visual representation of the stress-strain relationship. This comprehensive set of information is invaluable for method development, procedure deployment and data validation.

Data Analysis

A comprehensive set of relevant tools are available for real-time data analysis, even during experiments. Gain actionable insights into your material behavior through a powerful and versatile set of features seamlessly integrated into TRIOS.

• Onset and endset analysis
• Signal maximum and minimum
• Signal change
• Modulus crossover
• Curve values at specific X or Y points
• 1st and 2nd derivatives
• Area under the curve
• Peak height
• Peak integration and running integral
• Mathematical fitting: straight line, polynomial, or exponential
• Statistical functions

• More than 10 flow models including automatic model selection based on best fit to experimental data
• Time-Temperature Superposition (TTS) analysis with automatic curve shifting and Mastercurve generation
• Activation Energy calculation
• WLF coefficient calculation
• Convert between temperature ramps and frequency sweeps
• Cole-Cole, Van Gurp-Palmen, and Lissajous plots
• Built-in models for: discrete and continuous relaxation or retardation spectra, Oldroyd and Spriggs models
• Creep ringing analysis by Kelvin, Maxwell, or Jeffreys models
• Viscoelastic transformations to interconvert between oscillation, stress relaxation, stress growth, creep, relaxation spectra, retardation spectra, and memory functions.
• Advanced custom analysis with user-defined variables and models
• Cox-Merz: η*(ω)→η()
• Fluid Inertia Correction
• Rabinowicz Correction
• Direct Creep – Oscillation conversion
• Discrete Fourier Transformation (DFT)
• Window Correlation

AutoPilot

Experience a new paradigm in software functionality and unleash the full potential of your Discovery Hybrid Rheometer with AutoPilot, a premium feature that enables complete automation of powerful TRIOS software.

AutoPilot allows users to quickly and easily create automated routines: from test methods to data analysis and report generation. These routines empower laboratories to streamline and standardize operations and decision-making across local or global laboratory enterprises. From quality control to research and development, laboratory environments of all types will benefit from increased productivity, improved data precision, and reduced training time.