The sample crucible for thermal analysis consists of a standardised sand crucible in which a high-precision thermocouple is integrated. This method is often used for on-site testing of the composition of molten iron, as it is quick, simple, reliable and cost-effective.
After filling the sample crucible with the molten metal, the thermal analysis determines the carbon equivalent value (CEL), the carbon content (C), the silicon content (Si) and other components during the solidification process, based on the temperature plateau and the shape of the measured cooling curve.
During the cooling and solidification of cast iron, phase changes occur, releasing latent heat of crystallisation. These changes influence the cooling curve. Thermal analysis uses this thermal effect to determine the initial crystallisation temperature and the eutectic temperature points of the cooling curve. Supporting software for thermal analysis helps to determine the carbon equivalent value (CEL), the carbon (C) and silicon (Si) content and to analyse the corresponding properties of cast iron in summary.