LimsPulse
Thermal analysis & ovens

Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC)

Measures the heat flowing into or out of a small sample compared with an empty reference pan while both are heated or cooled. It shows melting, crystallisation, glass transitions and polymorphic changes.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Polymers and plastics
  • Food
  • Materials research
  • Chemicals
Photo of a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC)
Photo: Nick Birse, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Each use

  • Check purge gas flow and pressure
  • Inspect the sensor for residue

Weekly / as needed

  • Run an indium check if your SOP requires it
  • Clean the cell by a bake-out in air as the manufacturer allows

Periodic (as per SOP)

  • Temperature and enthalpy calibration with indium (and other standards as needed)
  • Baseline calibration

Annual

  • Preventive maintenance by the service engineer
  • Check of the cooling accessory and gas system
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the DSC
  • The cell reaches high temperatures; let it cool before opening.
  • Handle gas cylinders safely and secure them to a wall or bench.
  • Liquid nitrogen cooling needs cryogenic gloves and a face shield.
  • Do not run unknown or energetic materials without a risk assessment; they may decompose violently.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every DSC in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how