Originally Published EMDM May/June 2002
TESTING EQUIPMENT
Handheld tester integrates displacement and force
A handheld tester is suited for the measurement of mechanical properties in the field, when it is more convenient to bring the tester to the material or component than it is to bring a sample to the lab. Instron Corp. (High Wycombe, Bucks, UK) introduced the device, which it claims is an industry first, at the recent Medical Design & Manufacturing West 2002 conference and show in Anaheim, CA, USA.
The tester accepts a variety of fixtures and has two modes of operation, says Lorenzo Majno, principal–new ventures at Instron's US facility. "The closed-frame mode is used for tension-compression tests, in which the force is reacted against the crosshead," he says. The crosshead can be removed to conduct push-pull open-frame tests. In both modes, the tester applies load or displacement at known, repeatable speeds to ensure consistent results. "Unlike force gauges, this unit integrates displacement and force," Majno stresses.
The Hand-Held Mechanical Tester is equipped with a colour personal digital assistant that monitors tests, captures results, and downloads data to a PC or network. Data can also be uploaded to individual testers to provide instructions and work requirements. The tester can be customized with grips, fixtures, and application software to meet specific testing requirements.
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