Download 7380 Users Guide 942701.vp

7380 Ultra Low Temp Bath
User’s Guide
8.1.3
Specific Heat
Specific heat is the measure of the heat storage ability of the fluid. Specific
heat, to a small degree, affects the control stability. It also affects the heating
and cooling rates. Generally, a lower specific heat means quicker heating and
cooling. The proportional band may require some adjustment depending on the
specific heat of the fluid.
8.1.4
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity measures how easily heat flows through the fluid. Thermal conductivity of the fluid affects the control stability, temperature uniformity, and probe temperature settling time. Fluids with higher conductivity
distribute heat more quickly and evenly improving bath performance.
8.1.5
Thermal Expansion
Thermal expansion describes how the volume of the fluid changes with temperature. Thermal expansion of the fluid used must be considered since the increase in fluid volume as the bath temperature changes may cause overflow.
Excessive thermal expansion may also be undesirable in applications where
constant liquid level is important. Many fluids including oils have significant
thermal expansion.
8.1.6
Electrical Resistivity
Electrical resistivity describes how well the fluid insulates against the flow of
electric current. In some applications, such as measuring the resistance of bare
temperature sensors, it may be important that little or no electrical leakage occur through the fluid. In such conditions choose a fluid with very high
resistivity.
8.1.7
Fluid Lifetime
Many fluids degrade over time because of evaporation, water absorption, gelling, or chemical breakdown. Often the degradation becomes significant near
the upper temperature limit of the fluid, substantially reducing the fluid’s
lifetime.
8.1.8
Safety
When choosing a fluid always consider the safety issues associated. Obviously
where there are conditions of extreme hot or cold there can be danger to people
and equipment. Fluids may also be hazardous for other reasons. Some fluids
may be considered toxic. Contact with eyes, skin, or inhalation of vapors may
cause injury. A proper fume hood must be used if hazardous or bothersome vapors are produced.
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