Thermal Properties Testing Services
When precision matters, don’t leave critical material data to chance. Accurate thermal conductivity measurements are essential for predicting heat and mass transfer in soils, rock, concrete, insulation, and more—but traditional methods are often complex, slow, and prone to error. Backed by 25 years of expertise, METER scientists have engineered scientific-grade accuracy into every measurement. We deliver ASTM D5334- and IEEE 442-compliant thermal property data quickly and reliably, so you can trust your models, reduce risk, and keep your project moving forward with confidence.
Leave the complexity to us
Our labs use TEMPOS and VARIOS instruments to provide high-quality thermal conductivity analysis and thermal dryout curves. Rather than apply a one-size-fits all approach, we consider the specific material to be analyzed when selecting a method and use the instrument designed for the job. The result: you get a more complete picture of how well your material will conduct or insulate thermal energy over time.
Even better, our analyses are conducted by scientists who care about delivering top-quality, valid and verifiable data. METER thermal properties testing includes a full report including methods and procedures that go beyond a simple rho value.
A record of success
The technical expertise behind TEMPOS has been used by scientists and engineers for more than twenty-five years, and it was even trusted by NASA to measure the thermal properties of Martian regolith. VARIOS was specifically designed to create thousands of thermal dryout curves for the 400-mile Suedlink underground cable installation in Germany, so it’s engineered to be accurate, affordable, and low maintenance.
METER thermal properties analysis combines the well-tested TEMPOS and HYPROP technology to measure thermal conductivity as a function of soil water content.
Trust the experts
Protecting costly buried medium- and high-voltage cables from faults due to overheating is a complex task, and the rho value of the concrete or soil surrounding those cables is a significant component. Appendix B of the National Electrical Code (B.310.15(B)(2)) states that typical values of thermal resistivity (rho) are as follows:
- Average soil (90 percent of USA) = 90
- Damp soil (coastal areas, high water table) = 60
- Very dry soil (rocky or sandy) = 120.
However, as many engineers who have used “90” as a safe and typical rho value have discovered, the NEC is simply wrong. These numbers are essentially meaningless because there is no “average soil”, wet or dry. Thermal resistivity of porous materials like soil, rock, and concrete are not constants, and resistivity changes with density, water content, and temperature of the medium.
METER scientists go beyond simply reporting “Soil X has a thermal resistivity of XXX °C-cm/W.” We seek clarification by measuring moisture content, density, and soil makeup, and we report that to you, so your project can proceed with accurate, actionable data.
Sample temperature control
Sample temperature can be controlled for any of the thermal testing procedures that are available through METER Lab Services. The range of available temperature control is –40 °C to 150 °C. Please contact us to discuss temperature control needs.
Standards and protocols
Our lab services are performed in both the United States and Germany. As part of the initial consultation for service, we will help determine which office is the most appropriate for your project needs according to your location and any protocol or reporting standards that must be met.
Please see our instructions for collecting samples to ensure the best results for your project.
Ready for answers?
Use this form to help us to identify the perfect service, training, or consultation for your needs. We’ll contact you shortly after submission.