Dilatometry

Dilatometry is the measurement of thermal expansion or dilation of solids and liquids as temperature changes. In food science it characterizes the melting behaviour of fats, where the solid fat content curve derived from dilatometric data predicts spreadability, mouthfeel and baking performance of margarines and shortenings. The technique also tracks expansion in packaging materials and ingredients, providing engineers with the precise volume-temperature data needed for fill control and seal design. Margarine manufacturers rely on these curves daily to hit the spreadability targets that consumers expect.