Editorial Technical Reference

Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester

This page explains how Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester is classified within Plastics in Primary Forms Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

Laboratory instrument for measuring polymer melt flow rate under standardized conditions

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester

Definition
The Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester is a precision laboratory instrument used to determine the melt flow rate (MFR) or melt volume rate (MVR) of thermoplastic polymers. It measures the extrusion rate of molten polymer through a standardized die under controlled temperature and load conditions. This device is essential for quality control in plastics manufacturing, providing critical data on polymer processability and consistency. Results help predict material behavior during injection molding, extrusion, and other forming processes. The instrument operates according to ISO 1133, with a temperature control accuracy of ±0.1 °C and a temperature range of 50–400 °C, covering most thermoplastics. It supports a maximum test load of 21.6 kg and features a barrel diameter of 9.55 mm and a die length of 8.0 mm. The heating rate is 4.0 °C/min, and the timer resolution is 0.01 s. The unit is powered by 220 V AC (±10%, 50/60 Hz, single phase) with a power consumption of 500 W. It is designed for bench-top use in indoor laboratories, with an operating temperature range of 10–40 °C and non-condensing humidity of 20–80% RH. The ingress protection rating is IP20 per IEC 60529. The net weight is 45 kg, and dimensions are 500×400×600 mm (W×D×H). Key materials include stainless steel 316, hardened tool steel, high-temperature ceramic insulation, and a quartz glass viewport. This directory entry provides reference specifications; always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement or use.
Working Principle
A polymer sample is heated to a specified temperature in a barrel, then extruded through a standardized die under a calibrated weight. The extrudate is collected and weighed or measured over a timed interval to calculate flow rate. The instrument precisely controls temperature and load to ensure repeatable results. The melt flow index is expressed in grams per 10 minutes (MFR) or cubic centimeters per 10 minutes (MVR), depending on the measurement method. The test procedure follows ISO 1133, which defines the standard conditions for temperature, load, and die dimensions. The operator must select the appropriate temperature and load based on the polymer type and the relevant standard. The extrudate is cut at specified time intervals, and the mass or volume is recorded. The flow rate is then calculated and reported. Proper calibration and maintenance are essential for accurate measurements. The instrument includes safety features to prevent overheating and operator injury. Regular verification with reference materials is recommended to ensure ongoing accuracy.
Common Materials
Stainless Steel 316, Hardened Tool Steel, High-Temperature Ceramic Insulation, Quartz Glass Viewport
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Temperature Control AccuracyRequired±0.1 °CPrecision of temperature regulation in test chamberISO 1133
Maximum Test LoadRequired21.6 kgHighest standardized weight available for testingISO 1133
Barrel DiameterRequired9.55 mmInternal diameter of polymer melting chamberISO 1133
Die LengthRequired8.0 mmLength of standardized extrusion orificeISO 1133
Heating Rate4.0 °C/minSpeed at which test chamber reaches target temperatureISO 1133
Timer Resolution0.01 sMinimum time increment for extrusion measurementISO 1133
Temperature Range50–400 °CCovers most thermoplasticsISO 1133
Power Supply220 ±10% V AC50/60 Hz, single phase
Power Consumption500 WTypical for bench-top unit
Operating Temperature10–40 °CAmbient conditions for lab
Humidity Range20–80 % RHNon-condensing
Ingress ProtectionIP20Indoor lab use onlyIEC 60529
Net Weight45 kgBench-top, requires stable surface
Dimensions (W×D×H)500×400×600 mmCompact footprint

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Temperature-Controlled Barrel
    Melts polymer sample to precise temperature
    Material: Stainless Steel 316 with ceramic heating elements
  • Standardized Test Die Part
    Provides calibrated orifice for polymer extrusion
    Material: Hardened Tool Steel
  • Piston Assembly
    Applies calibrated load to molten polymer
    Material: Hardened Steel with wear-resistant coating
  • Digital Temperature Controller
    Maintains precise barrel temperature
    Material: Electronic components with PID control
  • Extrudate Cutting Mechanism Optional
    Automatically cuts extruded strands at timed intervals
    Material: Stainless Steel
  • Calibrated Weight Set
    Loads the piston with the standard mass the test method calls for (2.16 / 5 / 21.6 kg).

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester.

Melt Flow Rate Tester MFR Tester MVR Tester

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Applied via dead weights (2.16 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 21.6 kg per ASTM standards) generating piston pressure
flow rate: Measured output in g/10 min (grams per 10 minutes), typical range 0.1 to 100 g/10 min
other spec: Barrel diameter: 9.55 mm ± 0.02 mm; Die orifice: 2.095 mm ± 0.005 mm; Piston diameter: 9.48 mm ± 0.01 mm
temperature: Typically 125°C to 400°C, with standard ASTM D1238 tests at 190°C, 230°C, or 275°C depending on polymer
Media Compatibility
✓ Thermoplastics (PE, PP, PS, ABS) ✓ Thermoplastic elastomers ✓ Polymer compounds with additives/fillers
Unsuitable: Highly corrosive or abrasive materials (e.g., fluoropolymers with corrosive byproducts, ceramic-filled slurries above 40% concentration)
Sizing Data Required
  • Polymer type and required test temperature (ASTM/ISO standard)
  • Expected melt flow rate range (g/10 min) for sample materials
  • Required test loads (kg) per applicable standards (e.g., 2.16 kg for PE)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Piston and barrel wear
Cause: Abrasive degradation from polymer residue buildup and thermal cycling, leading to dimensional inaccuracies and increased friction
Temperature control system drift
Cause: Thermocouple calibration loss or heater element degradation due to prolonged high-temperature operation and thermal stress
Maintenance Indicators
  • Inconsistent melt flow rate readings or excessive variation between test runs
  • Unusual noises (grinding, scraping) from the piston mechanism or visible polymer leakage around seals
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular cleaning protocols with appropriate solvents to prevent polymer carbonization and residue accumulation in the barrel
  • Establish a calibration schedule for temperature sensors and load cells, and perform preventive replacement of seals and wear components based on usage cycles

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 1133: Plastics - Determination of the melt mass-flow rate (MFR) and melt volume-flow rate (MVR) of thermoplastics ASTM D1238: Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer CE: Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC for electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.02 mm
  • Temperature control: +/-0.5°C over test range
Quality Inspection
  • Calibration verification using certified reference materials
  • Leak test of pressure system and seals

Manufacturers of Polymer Melt Flow Index Tester

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Frequently Asked Questions

What standards does this melt flow index tester comply with?

The instrument is designed to operate according to ISO 1133, which specifies the standard conditions for measuring melt flow rate and melt volume rate of thermoplastics. The listed parameters, such as temperature control accuracy and die dimensions, are referenced to ISO 1133. However, this directory entry does not certify compliance; always confirm with the manufacturer or supplier for specific model certifications.

What is the temperature range and accuracy of the tester?

The temperature range is 50–400 °C, covering most thermoplastics. The temperature control accuracy is ±0.1 °C, ensuring precise thermal conditions during testing. The heating rate is 4.0 °C/min. These values are reference specifications and should be verified for the actual model.

What are the key dimensions and weight of the instrument?

The instrument has dimensions of 500×400×600 mm (W×D×H) and a net weight of 45 kg. It is designed for bench-top use and requires a stable surface. The barrel diameter is 9.55 mm, and the die length is 8.0 mm, as per ISO 1133.

What are the electrical and environmental requirements?

The power supply is 220 V AC (±10%, 50/60 Hz, single phase) with a power consumption of 500 W. The operating temperature range is 10–40 °C, and the humidity range is 20–80% RH (non-condensing). The ingress protection rating is IP20 per IEC 60529, indicating indoor use only. Always check the specific model's requirements.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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