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Melt Flow Index test

Melt Flow Indexer is used to measure the flow rate of different polymers. The reported Melt Index value helps to distinguish between the different Grades of Polymers. This is due to the fact that plastic materials are seldom manufactured without incorporating additives, which affect the processing characteristics of material like stability and flowability.

UnitedTest Melt flow index tester

Feature:

  • Weight automatic lifting
  • Touching screen, MFR and MVR method
  • Manual cutting + Automatic cutting

Key parameter:

  • Temperature range: 450℃
  • Weight: 8 levels, total 21.6kg mass
  • Measuring method & range: MFR (0.1-100)g/10min; MVR(0.1-350) cm3/10min
Details

Feature:

  • Touching screen, MFR and MVR method
  • Manual cutting + Automatic cutting

Key parameter:

  • Temperature range: 450℃
  • Weight: 8 levels, total 21.6kg mass
  • Measuring method & range: MFR (0.1-100)g/10min; MVR(0.1-350) cm3/10min
Details

Melt flow index tester ASTM D1238

Model: MFI403, Plastometer ISO 1133, ASTM D1238

Feature:

  • LCD display, MFR and MVR method
  • Manual cutting + Automatic cutting

Key parameter:

  • Temperature range: 450℃
  • Weight: 8 levels, total 21.6kg mass
  • Measuring method & range: MFR (0.1-100)g/10min; MVR(0.1-350) cm3/10min
Details

Plastic Melt Flow Index Meter

Model: MFI402, Plastometer ISO 1133, MFI test MFR, MVR

Feature:

  • LCD display, MFR method
  • Manual cutting + Automatic cutting

Key parameter:

  • Temperature range: 450℃
  • Weight: 8 levels, total 21.6kg mass
  • Measuring method & range: MFR (0.1-100)g/10min
Details

What's melt flow index test?

Melt flow index (MFI) or melt flow rate (MFR) test is primarily used to measure the melt mass flow rate of thermoplastic plastics under specific temperatures and pressures, reflecting the flow performance of materials through standardized testing.  It include two different method, weight or volumns, mean MFR and MVR. 

It used to assess the flowability or melt viscosity of a polymer, and provides an indication of how easily a polymer can be processed through different processes. 


It is defined as the weight of the polymer in grams flowing in 10 min through a die of specific diameter and length by a pressure applied by a given weight at a given temperature. The unit of measurement for MFI is typically grams/10 minutes (g/10 min). 


The MFI test equipment is basically in Figure A according related standard like ISO 1133. When the volume of the extrudate is measured, the melt volume rate is reported. In polymer processing, the MFI value is correlated with polymer grade. This is done to choose appropriate processing methods.

Melt Flow Indexer 1.jpg

        Figure A


UnitedTest Melt flow index tester conform with standard of: 


ISO 1133 Plastics - Determination of the Melt Mass-Flow Rate (MFR) and Melt Volume-Flow Rate (MVR) of Thermoplastics

ASTM D1238 Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer

JIS K7210; DIN 53735;  ASTM D3364; BS 2782 Part 7: Method 720A (BS2782-7) 

Test Procedures

Approximately 7 grams of the material is loaded into the barrel of the melt flow apparatus, which has been heated to a temperature specified for the material. A weight specified for the material is applied to a plunger and the molten material is forced through the die. A timed extrudate is collected and weighed. Melt flow rate values are calculated in g/10 min. 


Specimen size:

At least 14 grams of material;


Data:

Flow rate = ( 600/t x weight of extrudate ) 

t = time of extrudate in seconds

melt flow rate = g/10 min.


Principle of measurement of melt flow rate tester

The heating material flow through an orifice at a prescribed temperature and load. It provides a means of measuring flow of a melted material which can be used to differentiate grades as with polyethylene, or determine the extent of degradation of the plastic as a result of molding. Degraded materials would generally flow more as a result of reduced molecular weight, and could exhibit reduced physical properties. Typically, flow rates for a part and the resin it is molded from are determined, and then a percentage difference is calculated. Alternatively, comparisons between "good" parts and "bad" parts may be of value. 


This instrument employs a mass method measurement principle, allowing the plastic melt to flow through a standard die (with a diameter of 2.095±0.005mm and a length of 8±0.01mm, made of tungsten carbide) at a preset temperature. It records the amount of melt that flows out within 10 minutes (measured in g/10min). 


Standardized test conditions are achieved by controlling the temperature (usually at the material's melting temperature, such as 190°C for PE, 230°C for PP), load (adjusting the weight of the weights), and shear rate (which is related to the die size).


Why the melt flow index test is important for polymer material? 

The melt flow rate tester characterizes the viscous flow properties of thermoplastic materials by measuring the mass or volume of the material that flows through a standard die over a period of 10 minutes at a specified temperature and load. Its core principle is to convert the flow resistance of the plastic melt into quantifiable numerical indicators, which are used to evaluate the processing flow properties of the material.


Main application reasons of melt flow index test? 

1, Assessing Material Flowability

The MFR measures the melt mass that flows through a standard die (diameter 2.095mm, length 8.000mm) within 10 minutes, directly reflecting the material's flowability under specific shear conditions. A higher value (e.g., the MFR of LDPE typically ranges from 1-20g/10min) indicates better flowability; conversely, a lower value (e.g., the MFR of HDPE is mostly 0.1-10g/10min) indicates poorer flowability.

2, Quality Control and Production Optimization

In plastic processing, the MFR can serve as a basis for adjusting formulations and optimizing processes. For example, by adjusting temperature, load, or shear rate, material formulations can be quickly screened or processing parameters improved, thereby enhancing production efficiency.


Other name:

Melt flow index testing equipment; melting flow indexer; melt indexer iso 1133; digital melt flow rate tester; quality melt flow index testing machine; melt flow index astm; plastic Melting Flow Index tester

Key Features and Benefits of UnitedTest Melt flow index test device

Accurate Measurement of MFR and MVR:

The Melt Flow Indexer provides highly accurate measurements of both the Melt Mass-Flow Rate (MFR) and the Melt Volume-Flow Rate (MVR). By meticulously following the ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133 protocols, users can ensure compliance with industry standards and produce reliable results that can be reproduced in subsequent tests.


Customization per Testing Standards:

The device allows for customization based on various testing standards, making it versatile for different thermoplastics. This adaptability is crucial for manufacturers who deal with multiple polymer grades and types.


Ease of Use:

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, this melt flow indexer comes with an intuitive interface that simplifies the testing process. Operators can easily input parameters and monitor the results in real-time, significantly reducing the potential for human error.


Robust Construction:

Built to withstand the rigors of the laboratory environment, the Thermoplastic Melt Flow Indexer features durable components that ensure reliable operation and longevity. This robustness translates to reduced maintenance costs and increased uptime.


Enhanced Quality Control:

By integrating the melt flow testing equipment into the quality control process, manufacturers can catch inconsistencies before they lead to defective products. This proactive approach not only boosts product quality but also enhances overall operational efficiency.


Data-Driven Insights:

The device includes advanced data logging and reporting features, allowing for in-depth analysis of melt flow characteristics over time. These insights support continuous improvement efforts and enhance decision-making in product development and manufacturing.


Wide Applicability Across Polymer Types:

Suitable for a variety of thermoplastic materials, the melt flow indexer can be used for polyethylene, polypropylene, and more, making it an essential tool for any operation focused on polymer processing.


Integration with Existing Systems:

The Thermoplastic Melt Flow Indexer is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing testing and quality assurance systems. This integration promotes efficiency and enhances the overall testing workflow.


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