5.1 Thermomechanical analyzers are employed in their various modes of operation (penetration, expansion, flexure, etc.) to characterize a wide range of materials. In most cases, the value to be assigned in thermomechanical measurements is the temperature of the transition (or event) under study. Therefore, the temperature axis (abscissa) of all TMA thermal curves must be accurately calibrated either by direct reading of a temperature sensor or by adjusting the programmer temperature to match the actual temperature over the temperature range of interest.

1.1 This test method describes the temperature calibration of thermomechanical analyzers from −50 °C to 1500 °C. (See Note 1.)

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 Warning—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous substance that can cause serious medical issues. Mercury, or its vapor, has been demonstrated to be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Use caution when handling mercury and mercury-containing products. See the applicable product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for additional information. The potential exists that selling mercury or mercury-containing products, or both, is prohibited by local or national law. Users must determine legality of sales in their location.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7 and Note 11.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.