The effect of test variables and extrusion conditions on heat deflection temperature of PVC

It is commonly expected that the heat deflection temperature of finished plastic products will match the values, reported by the material supplier. However, in practice, a significant deviation from the published data is frequently observed. This paper gives insight into the reasons for such a discrepancy. It presents information on the effect of the test variables, such as load, sample conditioning, sample flatness and extrusion conditions, such as: melt temperature and draw-down (internal stresses), on heat deflection temperature of rigid PVC.