ASTM E1269 Specific Heat by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Heat build-up in mechanical and electrical equipment may damage expensive components, potentially causing system failure and expensive repairs. Heat transfer fluids are designed to absorb and dissipate heat before it causes problems. The amount of thermal energy that an oil can absorb is its specific heat capacity. An oil with a low specific heat capacity will heat up very quickly and absorb little thermal energy. A fluid with a high specific heat capacity will absorb a large quantity of thermal energy. Normally fluids with high specific heat capacities are best for heat transfer applications. This test determines specific heat capacities.
The sample is accurately weighed in the test pan and heated at a controlled rate using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The heat flow is followed, and compared to the heat flow of a standard sapphire crystal heated at the same controlled rate. The specific heat capacity is reported in both Joules gram-1 K-1 and calories gram-1 ºC-1. Please specify the temperatures of interest when requesting this test.