The growth of modern technology has enabled more and more industries to design high performance materials with smaller dimensions. Generally, the manufactured products are tested in the laboratory to evaluate its strength and mechanical properties. A single column tabletop force tester with force capacity of 5kN (kiloNewtons) or less is used to test the mechanical strength of these products. It is suitable for this type of measurement tasks as it is generally more economical compared to the larger scale force tester while offering sufficient force capacity for testing of small products. Thus, the demand for these small-scale force testers has increased in the industry. So, what are the advantages for using a single column force tester for testing in the laboratory or production environment?
Advantages of Using Small Scale Force Testers
Value
A single column material tester is specifically designed for low budget requirement and is among the lowest price force testing device available in the market. The pricing generally falls below the required dollar threshold for approved capital appropriations which makes the single column force tester an attractive option for the industry.
Size-Footprint
A single column force tester offers a compact design that requires less space than a double column force tester. The design of the single column tester also focuses on simplicity and ease-of-use. Therefore, it is commonly set up on a workbench or tabletop in a production environment. With minimum training, production operators may attain full competencies in performing wide range of tests and generating results.
Reliability and Versatility
A wide variety of jigs and fixtures can be used in conjunction with a single column force tester for testing a wide range of products. Therefore, a single column force tester offers an ideal solution for lower force testing of wearable technology, medical implants, electronic components, thin films, and micro mechanical assemblies. They are also rugged enough to provide reliable and accurate test results in long-term use despite rough handling in production environments. In the industry, they have been widely used across wide range of applications such as in testing packaging, paper, plastics, textiles, medical devices, pharmaceutical products, foods and drinks to ensure continuing compliance with performance and reliability standards.
Top Questions to Ask When Choosing a Suitable Material Tester
With a wide range of models available, it can be confusing to choose the most suitable device to fit your needs. Listed below is a compilation of several key topics to be considered while deciding to purchase a material tester.
- What is the maximum force applied during the test and what consideration does that have on possible future testing? Will a single column tester have the force capacity for any future testing needs?
- What accuracy is required from both the force and displacement measurements?
- Is speed an important parameter and if so, what speed is required? If speed is not important, will a manual tester with a gauge suffice?
- What types of grips are needed?
- How many years has the supplier been in business and can they provide solutions for future applications?
- Can the supplier perform repair and calibration services?
