The Melt Flow Rate (MFR) test is applied to determine the flow behavior of plastic materials that can be shaped with heat. According to the ASTM D 1238 Standard, this test provides the flow rate of plastic materials over time under specific temperature and load conditions (Method A) or in a standard volume (Method B). The measurements are given in g/10 min.
In the test conducted according to Method A:
The granulated sample is filled into the chamber of the device, which is kept at the test temperature, and the test load is placed on it. After a waiting period of 1 min., the first part flowing out of the chamber is cut by the device and the test time starts. At the end of the 5-min. period, the flowing sample is cut again by the device, and the test ends.
The section of the sample that flows during the test period is weighed and recorded on the device screen.
As a result of the automatic calculation, the MFR value of the sample is displayed on the screen.
The measurement is calculated according to the MFRA Method = (600 *m)/tA equation. Here, m is the weight of the flowing sample section in grams, and tA is the test duration.
In the test conducted according to Method B:
The granulated sample is filled into the chamber of the device, which is kept at the test temperature, and the test load is placed on it. The piston, which moves due to the pushing motion of the load, gives a section between the 30 mm long sections of the device chamber.
The section of the sample that flows during the test period is weighed and recorded on the device screen.
As a result of the automatic calculation, the MFR value of the sample is displayed on the screen.
The measurement is calculated according to the MFRB Method = (600ΠR2L * m)/tB equation. Here, m is the weight of the flowing sample section in grams, and tB is the test duration.
At Kabkom Chemistry laboratory, MFR measurements are meticulously conducted with two MFR devices from Zwick/Roell and Instron brands for incoming quality, finished product analyses, and R&D studies. In incoming control, MFR analysis is conducted for each lot, and for the finished product, it is conducted per 1250 kg batch to ensure continuous monitoring of the production process.
