DIFFERENTIAL SCANNING CALORIMETRY (DSC) – A thermal curve is to be obtained by means a Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC). The test method is described in the Standard Test Method for Transition Temperatures of Polymers by Differential Scanning Calorimetry, ASTM D 3418, except that the specimen is to be heated at 20°C (36°F) per minute in a nitrogen atmosphere without a preliminary thermal cycle. The upper temperature limit is typically 300°C, but may be adjusted depending on the material degradation and melt temperatures. This analysis is further described in the Differential Scanning Calorimetry sections of the Reference Standard for Electrical Wires, Cables, and Flexible Cords, UL 1581, and the Standard for Polymeric Materials – Short Term Property Evaluations, UL 746A.