Polymer analysis laboratory by MFI (Melt Flow Index) technique
A problem on your polymer part: what to do?
Problems and failures in your polymer parts can occur at any time in your production process. Their consequences are important since they can lead to a complete stop of the production, and even the recall of the batches already put on sale.
In this case, it is essential to identify the cause of the problem in order to avoid repeating the same pattern on subsequent productions. Therefore, it will be necessary to call upon a laboratory such as FILAB in order to study the production process and to apply the techniques adapted to your problem and to the polymer matrix. During our different phases of polymer failure studies, we use the MFI (Melt Flow Index) technique.
What is the MFI technique?
Thanks to the MFI, the polymer having undergone a deformation, a rupture or any other failure, will be compared to a reference sample. Indeed, the MFI (Melt Flow Index) will allow to melt the studied polymer part in order to extract the molecule chains which constitute it. These chains of molecules will then pass through a retention tube by means of a loaded piston for a given time. Thus, according to the size of the chains, they will be retained more or less time. This technique gives an indication of the fluidity of different types of samples during their transformation. It is therefore possible to compare the reaction of a failed polymer part to a reference polymer part in order to deduce the first hypotheses of the origin of the problem.
Other complementary analysis will enhance these first reflections in order not to neglect any lead.
In all cases, the FILAB laboratory will support you throughout the entire process of fault finding and problem solving. Our experts are at your disposal and can visit your site to audit the production conditions of your polymer parts.
So don’t hesitate to send us your request for polymer analysis by MFI to contact@filab.fr, our specialists will provide you with a quote within 2 hours.
MFI (Melt Flow Index) analysis is a method used to analyze the flow properties of thermoplastics. It measures the Melt Flow Index, which is a measure of the viscosity of a melted polymer. The Melt Flow Index value is obtained by measuring the amount of melted plastic that passes through an orifice at a given time and under controlled conditions. This MFI method is non-destructive and reproducible, and can be used for quality control.
MFI analysis is an important tool for quality control and research. It is widely used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, construction, medical device manufacturing, food packaging and many others.
MFI method is highly relevant to plastics analysis. It provides information on the molecular weight distribution and rheological properties of polymers, enabling rapid comparisons between different batches or types of plastic, including their flow behavior at high temperatures.
This method is also interesting before introducing plastic on the market : materials are tested on several chemical and physical parameters. Applying the MFI method is essential to ensure that the material can be used for the intended application.
Then companies are able to assess the quality of plastics before they are used in manufacturing.
Melt Flow Index analysis also enables rapid comparisons between different types of plastic or batches from the same manufacturer.
The MFI test is a widely used method in the plastic industry, and to get accurate viscosity information about your products or raw materials.
