DIL L75 Laser (DIL L73 Laser): High-precision laser dilatometry
The LINSEIS DIL L75 Laser (DIL L73 Laser) is a high-end laser dilatometer for the ultra-precise, non-contact measurement of thermal expansion and dimensional changes. By using interferometric laser technology with a resolution in the sub-nanometer range (down to 0.3 nm), the system enables absolute length measurements with exceptional accuracy and long-term stability.
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) is designed for maximum versatility and enables analysis under vacuum, in inert, reducing or oxidizing atmospheres in a wide temperature range from -180 °C to 1000 °C. Its vertical design, advanced furnace concept and intuitive LINSEIS software ensure reproducible results and ease of use – ideal for research and quality control of ceramics, metals, polymers and composite materials.
Unique features
Laser interferometry for absolute length measurement
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) uses a frequency-stabilized helium-neon laser and a homodyne Michelson interferometer to measure absolute length changes without mechanical contact. This results in a resolution of up to 0.3 nm and exceptional long-term stability.
Non-contact measuring principle
The non-contact laser arrangement eliminates mechanical influences such as friction or hysteresis. This ensures maximum precision, even with sensitive, reflective or irregular sample surfaces.
Vacuum and pressure-tight measuring chamber
The closed measuring system enables analyses under vacuum, inert, oxidizing, reducing or humidified conditions – ideal for sensitive or reactive materials.
High reproducibility and signal stability
Automatic correction algorithms for offset, amplitude and frequency minimize drift and noise and ensure consistent and reproducible measurement results over long periods of time.
Vertical design for reliable measuring geometry
The vertical configuration uses gravity as a reference and thus guarantees reproducible contact pressure and stable optical alignment throughout the measurement.
Intuitive LINSEIS software platform
The integrated LiEAP software combines temperature control, data acquisition and analysis in one platform. It offers automatic calibration, rate-controlled sintering (RCS) and multi-method analysis for DIL, DSC, TGA and STA systems.
Precision without contact
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) enables absolute, non-contact measurement of dimensional changes using laser interferometry.
Its interferometric design eliminates mechanical distortions and ensures extremely stable results even with minimal sample expansion.
Developed for complex materials
Designed for research and quality control, the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) enables precise analysis of ceramics, metals, polymers and composites under vacuum, in inert or reactive atmospheres.
Its flexible furnace configurations and stable optical setup ensure reproducible results over a wide temperature range.
Advanced measurement technology architecture
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) is based on a closed, vibration-stable measuring frame with integrated laser optics.
This design minimizes drift and guarantees a linear signal response – a decisive advantage for long-term measurements and calibration-free operation.
Highlights
High precision: laser interferometer
for sub-nanometer resolution
Wide temperature range
Operation from RT to 1000 °C/
-180 °C to 500 °C/
-180 °C to 1000 °C/
Extended cooling options:
Air, liquid, nitrogen or closed cooling circuit.
Non-contact laser measurement
Adjustable measuring force on the sample, non-contact determination of expansion
User-friendly software: Comprehensive
data analysis and reporting.
Key features
Absolute, non-contact measurement
Laser interferometry enables direct, non-contact length measurements with sub-nanometer accuracy – ideal for sensitive or irregular samples.
Exceptional stability and reproducibility
Drift-free measurement signals and a vibration-stable frame ensure consistent accuracy, even during long-term or high-temperature tests.
Wide range of applications
Operates at temperatures from -180 °C to 1000 °C under vacuum, in inert, reducing or oxidizing atmospheres for universal material testing.
Integrated LINSEIS platform
The integrated LINSEIS software offers a comprehensive solution that combines hardware and software for maximum process reliability and precision. The standardized platform enables the seamless integration of components and devices from external partners – for a particularly robust and reliable overall system.
Questions? Just give us a call!
+49 (0) 9287/880 0
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.
We are here for you!
Specifications
Resolution: up to 0.3 nm
Temperature range: -180 °C to 1000 °C
Heating/cooling rates: 0.01 K/min to 50 K/min
Discover our high-precision laser dilatometer – developed for absolute measuring accuracy:
- Resolution: up to 0.3 nm (tested in laboratory environments)
- Temperature range: -180 °C to 1000 °C (depending on the oven configuration)
- Heating and cooling rates: 0.01 to 50 K/min
- Sample dimensions: up to 50 mm in length and 7 mm in diameter
- Atmospheres: Vacuum, inert, oxidizing or reducing conditions
Recommended equipment
EGA - Evolved Gas Analysis
Gas Dosing & Gas Safety
Water Vapor & Relative Humidity
Method
Dilatometry
Dilatometry measures the dimensional changes of a material as a function of temperature or time under precisely controlled conditions. The method provides direct information about thermal expansionshrinkage, sintering behavior and phase transitions – important parameters for understanding thermomechanical properties.
During a DIL measurement, the change in length (ΔL) of the sample is recorded continuously while the temperature and atmosphere are varied in a defined program. From this, the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) and other temperature-dependent parameters can be determined with high precision.
As the measurement is carried out directly on the sample – without destructive preparation – even subtle transitions such as glass transitionsoftening or compaction processes can be precisely recorded.
Laser-based dilatometers such as the LINSEIS DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) enable absolute, non-contact length measurements with a resolution in the sub-nanometer range. This eliminates mechanical influences such as friction or drift and ensures reproducible results for all materials and geometries.
Dilatometry is used in materials science, ceramics, metallurgy and polymer research indispensable. It supports the reliable characterization of dimensional stability, sintering kinetics and process optimization under realistic thermal conditions.
Operating principle of the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser)
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) determines the thermal expansion and dimensional changes of a sample with absolute precision using laser interferometry. The sample is positioned vertically in a vacuum and pressure-tight measuring chamber and subjected to a defined heating or cooling program.
A frequency-stabilized helium-neon laser generates two coherent beams that are superimposed in a Michelson interferometer. The resulting interference pattern changes proportionally to the thermal expansion or shrinkage of the sample. The absolute change in length (ΔL) is determined in real time from the phase shift of the interference signal – without mechanical contact.
This non-contact measuring principle completely eliminates influences such as friction, hysteresis or drift, which are typical for conventional push rod systems. It enables a resolution in the sub-nanometer range (down to 0.3 nm) and ensures excellent reproducibility, even with materials with very low expansion coefficients or sensitive surfaces.
The measurement can be performed under vacuum, in inert, oxidizing or reducing atmospheres, and the temperature is controlled by an advanced LINSEIS furnace system with homogeneous heat distribution. The result is a precise, linear expansion curve that provides valuable insights into thermal stability, phase transitions, sintering behavior and material transformations.
Measured variables of the dilatometer
Possibilities of thermal analysis using dilatometry:
A head start with the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) - precision and flexibility for every application
DIL L74 HM
Questions? Just give us a call!
+49 (0) 9287/880 0
Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm
and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.
We are here for you!
DIL L75 Laser (DIL L73 Laser) explained - function, use and capabilities
What is the difference between a dilatometer and a TMA?
A dilatometer measures the absolute dimensional changes (ΔL) of a sample as a function of temperature or time, typically under minimal mechanical load.
A thermomechanical analyzer (TMA), on the other hand, exerts a defined force on the sample and records its deformation. In addition to thermally induced changes in length, effects from viscoelastic or plastic behavior are also recorded.
Dilatometry is therefore ideal for investigations into thermal expansion, shrinkage and sintering behavior, while TMA concentrates on mechanical deformation under load.
In addition to classic compression and penetration measurements, the TMA can also work under tension. This method allows the precise analysis of materials that stretch when heated or subjected to mechanical stress. This allows elasticity, creep behavior and thermal expansion to be investigated under realistic conditions – ideal for polymers, films and composite materials.
What are the advantages of the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) compared to conventional systems?
The DIL L75 Laser (DIL L73 Laser) uses laser interferometry to measure absolute changes in length without the application of force.
This avoids errors due to friction, hysteresis or drift, enabling sub-nanometer resolution (down to 0.3 nm) and excellent reproducibility – even with reflective or sensitive samples.
What is the difference between a laser dilatometer and one with an optical encoder?
The optical encoder serves as a detection method on the push rod and measures the relative displacement using reflected light and mechanical contact. This technique enables precise detection of the change in length between the sample and the reference based on the movement of the push rod.
A laser dilatometer, on the other hand, determines the absolute expansion directly from the interference phase shift of coherent laser beams. This ensures maximum accuracy, no mechanical wear and no need for calibration standards.
What are the most important requirements for sample preparation?
The samples should have a smooth, parallel surface and clearly defined dimensions in order to achieve reproducible results.
The DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) enables flexible geometries with a length of up to 50 mm and a diameter of up to 7 mm. Thanks to the non-contact laser principle, even reflective or non-reflective surfaces can be analyzed without modifications.
What types of detectors are used to measure changes in length in dilatometers?
Conventional systems use LVDT sensors (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) or optical encoder sensors.
Laser dilatometers, on the other hand, use interferometric detectors that measure phase shifts in light with extreme precision and thus achieve a much higher resolution than mechanical sensors.
How much does a DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) cost?
The price of a DIL L75 Laser (DIL L73 Laser) system depends on the chosen configuration and additional options, such as temperature range, furnace type, cooling system, automation features or special measurement modes. As each system can be tailored to your specific application requirements, costs can vary considerably.
For an exact quote, please send us your requirements via our contact form – we will be happy to provide you with a customized quote.
How long is the delivery time for a DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser)?
The delivery time for a DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) depends largely on the selected options and configuration. Additional features such as special ovens, extended temperature ranges, automation or customization can increase the production and preparation time and thus extend the delivery time.
Please contact us via our contact form to receive an accurate delivery time estimate based on your individual requirements.
How does the laser interferometry of the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser) work?
A frequency-stabilized helium-neon laser generates two coherent beams that are superimposed in a Michelson interferometer.
The resulting interference pattern shifts proportionally to the expansion or contraction of the sample.
The absolute change in length is calculated from this phase shift with an accuracy in the sub-nanometer range – completely contact-free.
Which atmospheres can be used with the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser)?
The system supports measurements under vacuum, in inert, reducing, oxidizing and even humidified atmospheres.
Optional gas dosing and safety modules as well as water vapor or humidity systems allow precise environmental control for advanced material studies.
Software
Making values visible and comparable
The powerful LINSEIS thermal analysis software based on Microsoft® Windows® performs all important tasks for the preparation, execution and evaluation of thermoanalytical tests.
Developed by LINSEIS software specialists and application experts, the system provides a robust, user-friendly solution for device control, data acquisition and advanced analysis.
All settings and functions are fully integrated into a single intuitive platform – the LINSEIS Evaluation and Acquisition Platform (LiEAP).
Dilatometer functions
- Determination of the glass transition and the softening point
- Automatic switch-off of the softening point (freely adjustable to protect the system)
- Display of absolute or relative shrinkage/expansion
- Calculation of the technical and physical expansion coefficients (αₜ, αₚ)
- Software option for rate-controlled sintering (RCS)
- Evaluation of the sintering process and density
- Automatic correction routines (temperature, zero curve, drift)
- Automatic zero point adjustment and control of the punch contact pressure
General functions
- Real-time color display and freely configurable axis settings
- Automatic and manual scaling with zoom and cursor options
- Mathematical tools (first/second derivative, curve arithmetic)
- Statistical evaluation (mean value curve with confidence interval)
- Multi-user and multitasking functionality
- Comparison of any number of curves
- Automatic calculation of zero curves and α-values (α_phys, α_tech, L/L₀)
- Data export to Excel® and ASCII formats
- Integrated online help and documentation
Optional extensions
- Module for rate-controlled sintering (RCS)
- Packages for kinetic and service life predictions
- Compatibility with multiple methods for DSC, TGA, STA, DIL and TMA devices
- Thermal library for rapid identification of known reference materials
LINSEIS Thermal Library
The LINSEIS Thermal Library software package is an option for the well-known, user-friendly LINSEIS Platinum evaluation software, which is integrated in almost all of our devices. With the Thermal Library, you can compare the complete curves with a database containing thousands of references and standard materials in just 1-2 seconds.
Multi-instrument
All LINSEIS instruments DSC, DIL, STA, HFM, LFA etc. can be controlled via a software template.
Multilingual
Our software is available in many different user-interchangeable languages, including: English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, etc.
Report generator
Convenient template selection for creating individual measurement reports.
Multiple users
The administrator can set up different user levels with different rights for operating the device. A log file is also available as an option.
Kinetic software
Kinetic analysis of DSC, DTA, TGA, EGA (TG-MS, TG-FTIR) data to investigate the thermal behavior of raw materials and products.
Database
The state-of-the-art database enables simple data management with up to 1000 data records.
Application
Metals and alloys
Metals and alloys used in industrial applications must have precisely defined physical and mechanical properties. Parameters such as hardness, strength, thermal expansion and resistance to oxidation or corrosion must be optimized in order to meet the requirements of the intended application and ensure long-term stability.
As pure metals often do not offer the required performance, they are alloyed with additional elements such as semi-metals or non-metals. These alloying systems allow the thermophysical and mechanical properties to be specifically adapted, enabling the development of advanced materials for applications in the aerospace, automotive and electronics industries.
Dilatometry plays a central role in the characterization of such materials. It enables the precise determination of linear thermal expansion, sintering behavior, phase transformations and softening or transformation temperatures. These parameters are crucial for evaluating the dimensional stability and thermal properties of metals and alloys under real operating conditions.
With the DIL L75 laser (DIL L73 laser), these properties can be measured absolutely and without mechanical contact. The interferometric laser system achieves a resolution in the sub-nanometer range (down to 0.3 nm) and delivers highly reproducible results even for materials with minimal expansion coefficients such as Invar or superalloys.
This makes laser dilatometry an indispensable tool for metallurgical research, quality assurance and process development in the metal industry.
Application example: Invar dilatometer measurement
An Invar sample was measured and evaluated four times from room temperature to 200°C in air. The reproducibility was measured by comparing a classic dilatometer with the laser dilatometer. A reproducibility of 0.01 % of the measuring range was achieved when measuring with the dilatometer and the reproducibility was 33 times higher when measuring with the laser dilatometer.
Well informed
