The Testing Times

The next evolution in materials testing

2010-04-20T16:04:00.002+01:00

The next step in the evolution of materials testing has arrived with the introduction of Horizon software from Tinius Olsen. This software has all the power of its popular Test Navigator software, but also incorporates the 'nice' features of its QMat software, including a huge library of standards test routines (including ASTM, EN, ISO and other international standards organization's testing standards), the ability to perform tests across different batches, and the ability to re-examine earlier test results. In addition Horizon incorporates the functionality of other Tinius Olsen software such as EP600 for use with their melt indexers, and Impact software for use with their impact testers.

Why is this the next evolution you ask? All these applications can be running at the same time and one pc can be controlling multiple types of machines all at the same time. Once the results are in, reports can be made that include different physical results and can be sent across company networks.

336-002 25kN 3 Point Flexure Bend Attachment - BS EN 13748-1

2009-07-27T11:48:00.006+01:00

This 3 Point flexure bend attachment was designed for testing the flexural strength of Terrazzo Tiles.

The attachment consists of two parts, and upper and a lower;

- The Upper attachment has a self-aligning single point of contact.

- The Lower attachment has variable span twin points of contact, one of which is self-aligning - this is to accomodate the profile of the tiles which may be uneven - keeping the application of the force perpendicular to the tile.

NEW Compression Platens for U-Series

2009-07-15T15:03:00.007+01:00

We have just addes nine new platens to our range of Compression platens, these are for use with our U-Series machine.

The New platens are available in 3 different capacities, 100kN, 150kN, and 300kN.

The Platens also come in 3 different Diameters, 100mm, 150mm, and 200mm.

123-005 50kN Hydraulic Geotextile grip

2009-07-02T10:25:00.005+01:00

This hefty grip was designed for a customer who was testing geotextiles. The grip weighs a whopping 60kg (approx) but is required in order to meet the requirements of the material.

These grips have a maximum clamping force of 200kN, with a maximum tensile load of 50kN. They accommodate samples to with a maximum width of 200mm, and maximum sample thickness of 14mm. The maximum hydraulic pressure is 700 bar.

We have engineered similar grips for different tensile loads, and clamping strengths - ideally for use on our U-Series machine.

For more information contact us

137-008 Self Tightening Double Bollard Cord Grip

2009-07-01T14:44:00.010+01:00

Our engineers took inspiration from the world of 'Yachting' when designing this grip. It is a variation of our existing HT32 grip which has a manual clamp.

The 137-008 Self Tightening Double Bollard Cord Grip has sprung loaded eccentric clamp rollers which increases the gripping pressure with cord tension.

These are rated at 20kN Max capacity.

Bridge Building Contest

2009-06-12T09:31:00.008+01:00

We hosted the Twelfth Annual Super Light Weight Composite Bridge & Wing Building Contest at the SAMPE 2009, in Baltimore, MD last month. The competition runs annually at SAMPE and we co-sponsored the competition.

The results were very impressive with over 80 entrants to the competition. Each bridge and wing was tested on a Tinius Olsen U-Series machine with self-aligning compression attachment & base fixture to position the bridge in place.

Students built bridges and wings to design specification by SAMPE (click here for more information) – one of the best bridges was number 41 – University Delaware.

The bridge which won the competition was designed by students of the University of Washington – Video number 71 – it had the highest ultimate load to weight ratio.

Video footage of the testing results which were performed at the show can be found on the Tinius Olsen website

Interested in taking part next year?
This is a competition which runs annually at the SAMPE show – SAMPE 2010 will be in Seattle, for more information visit the SAMPE website.

Tinius Olsen - Medical Grips

2009-03-26T14:14:00.010Z

We have designed a range of grips for use in the medical market.
The grips are manufactured from high quality stainless steel and every part is passivated. Each grip was immersion tested for 48hours in 0.9% saline at 37 deg C. After this they were stripped down and inspected for any signs of corrosion rusting or mould growth. Once satisfied that the immersion test had passed, we proof loaded the grips.

Every grip in the medical range is clearly marked with a grip reference number and a max load rate.

High temperature - Compression cages

2009-03-18T10:11:00.009Z

Here at Tinius Olsen the engineers have designed yet another custom grip attachment.

Two version of the new high temperature compression cages for use in an environmental chamber. Part numbers 270 032 & 270 033.

The Compression cages are rated at 25kN and 50kN, and can be tested at temperatures between -70 to +200 degrees C.

They are designed to test the largest possible samples that can be tested in the Environmental chamber. As sample with maximum size of 100mm wide x 200mm deep x 200mm high.

For more information contact us.

300kN Self Aligning tensile fitting

2009-03-09T10:49:00.010Z

This is a 300 kN Self Aligning fitting designed for Tension testing applications only.

It has an M36 lower and an M42 Upper bolt - to fit to the machine.

The fitting to fitting to which you would attach the grips is M36.

It meets the requirements of ASTM E8 Standard test method for tension testing metallic materials.

It may also be used when working to ASTM E21-03a Elevated temperature tension tests.

New High-Tech Grip Range

2008-12-18T14:45:00.005Z

Tinius Olsen’s new high-tech grip range sets the standard for all quality control testing needs. The new range of grips are quick and easy to use. They have a metallic appearance and are corrosion and rust resistant, finished to with-stand harsh conditions. The grip capacity, and part number are etched onto the grips body for easy reference, and are supplied with digital manuals and consumables parts list. As well as this standard range of grips, there are medical compliant versions, which are designed to be used in saline environments.

What if I don’t have a Tinius Olsen machine?
The new high-tech grip range is interfaced to fit all major brands of Testing Machine. Industry standard adaptors allow the grips to be used on Testing Machines including Instron materials testing machines and many more. The grips have interfaces to fit the B,C, and D fittings of Instron Testing machines as well as 5/8 interface, 3/4 interface and an M6 interface for lighter loadcells. We are aware of the various interfaces of different testing machines, from the different manufacturers, and our grips are designed to meet the different interface requirements.

Pipe deflection measuring device

2008-11-25T14:34:00.009Z

Here at Tinius Olsen, we manufacture a range of different measuring devices to measure the defletion of the material you are testing. One of these tools is the 'Pipe crush LVDT'. This tool is used in compression tests of plastic pipes to accurately measure the pipe deflection at given forces. We supply different sizes corresponding to the different pipe diameters.

For more information on LVDT's or other extensometers used to measure the deflection of a sample under going test visit our main website here or contact us.

Tinius Olsen to announce 12 new developments at Interplas

2008-07-14T08:33:00.005+01:00

Materials testing equipment experts Tinius Olsen will be using the Interplas Show in September to announce the addition of 12 new developments to their extensive range of testing equipment, details of which will be available at the show.

Also on display will be a representative range of bench-top testing machines from their extensive range of testing equipment.

Tinius Olsen will be on stand number F255. For more information or for information on how to get tickets for Interplas please contact Tinius Olsen Ltd.

90 degree Peel test for Solar Panels

2008-07-09T09:28:00.020+01:00

A 90 degree Peel test for semi-rigid samples. The edges of the sample are clamped down, the tail is prepared and clamped in the vice grip.

The seperated substrate is fed under the roller, and the rolled holds the substrate down during the test preventing the sample from lifting and maintaining the peel test angle.

This grip was designed for a customer testing solar panels.

For more information on this product or if you have a product which may require a custom made grip contact Tinius Olsen.

School of Testing

2008-05-14T12:27:00.007+01:00

Tinius Olsen have just launched the School of testing website. This focus site is designed specifically for the Education Industry, with a very helpful Question and Answer section with our very own Testing expert Mr David Lockyer.

If you have any questions regarding your materials testing machine, or servicing your materials testing machine why not visit http://www.schooloftesting.com/

Maintenance and servicing your Materials testing machine and grips

2008-05-13T16:50:00.007+01:00

If you are noticing variations in results from your tensile tests, and these cannot be attributed to the material under test, it is worth considering the condition of your test specimen gripping equipment. In particular grip faces e.g. face profiles on metal jaws, condition of rubber faced jaws and grip pressure activation systems e.g. springs, quality of pneumatic air or hydraulic oil – often these parts are consumable items and will wear over time.

Regular servicing (preventative maintenance) and calibration is your best insurance that this type of problem should not occur during normal machine use, progressive and undetected wear of the gripping system faces is one of the biggest contributors to poor testing results. Remember that in almost all cases grip face wear will take place and regular checking and replacement (when necessary) should be a prerequisite of a proficient testing laboratory.

For more information please contact the Tinius Olsen Help Desk on +44 (0) 1737 765001 option 3.

150kN Hydraulic Grips

2008-04-11T11:55:00.003+01:00

This is a large High force Hydraulic tensile grip.

Spring pre-load jaws are held open magnetically to facilitate the easy loading and unloading of samples. Once the sample is loaded, a handle releases the magnetic hold to initiate the sprung pre-load retention of the sample.

The grip has an adjustable sample width stop, and a gauge below the jaw face to set sample thickness. Adjustable fixed jaw ensures the sample remains centered at all times. There is also a choice of jaw faces to suit the application.

For more information please contact Tinius Olsen.

Product and Material test fixtures "Gripping systems"

2008-03-11T16:24:00.011Z

Tinius Olsen is a leading global specialist manufacturer of materials testing machines, with an extensive product range covering low and high force testing of both raw materials and finished components.
Our machines are suitable for use in manufacturing industries, as an integral part of quality control, product strength and performance analysis, research, and education.

A typical testing system as seen here, is comprised of a testing machine/test frame, control and analysis software, and critically, the test fixtures, accessories, parts and devices used to hold and support the test specimen. These parts are referred to as the “Gripping System” and are typically comprised of two components — an upper and a lower grip, which together hold and/or support the material under test and accurately transmit the forces being applied, obvious examples include mechanical testing grips, adhesive peel tests, 3 point flexure bend, Friction tests and many more. In some cases the material or test specimen is not of a standard size or shape, and custom test fixtures/ “specialized test components” are made to hold the specimen in place in order to run the test and are engineered to meet specific testing standards. A selection of these custom test attachments can be found on this site.

The test fixture or Gripping System is an integral part of a successful test and credible repeatable test data. The process of setting up a test should be fast and easy to achieve. The specimen must be held firmly and consistently for every test, and the system should be safe. Tinius Olsen’s standard range of test fixtures/Gripping Systems meet this criteria and are designed to test materials such as sheet metal, rebar, concrete, composites, wood, paper, board, rubber, plastics, textiles, non-wovens, and filter materials, insulation, leather, adhesives, and many more, as well as a diverse range of finished components including bearings, automotive clutch plates, fasteners, keyboards, electronic devices and printed circuit boards, zips, contact lenses, seat belts and even food products such as ice cream, fruit, and vegetables.
Using Tinius Olsen test fixtures/ Gripping Systems it is possible to apply forces in tension, shear, compression, flexure (bend), puncture (burst), friction, insertion, and extraction.
Beyond the standard gripping range, a specialist engineering team at Tinius Olsen works closely with international standards organizations such as ISO, JIS, ASTM, EN, and other industrial standards bodies, to continually develop ‘custom gripping solutions’ in support of customer development of tests for new materials and components.
Our team of specialist engineers work in house, continuously designing new grips and fixtures to hold and support these materials/ components for a successful test in order to meet the ever growing demands from customers.

The standard range of gripping solutions and technology can be found on our Tinius Olsen website if you require a Gripping System not profiled here, please share your needs with Tinius Olsen as we are developing new products every day.

Testing Metals? Need advice? Ask the Metals Testing expert!

2008-03-10T10:59:00.015Z

Earl A. Ruth, is the metals testing expert here at Tinius Olsen. You can ask Earl about any metals testing questions or problems you may have here at his Testing Metals Blog.

For Metals testing advice including Compression testing, Flexural testing, hardness, Impact, Sandwich Peel, Shear, Tear, Tension, Torsion testing and more contact Earl.

Earl has been a key member of the ASTM International Committee E28 on Mechanical Testing since 1985, responsible for 53 standards. He might just have the answer to that Metals testing problem you've been seeking an answer for, he is a very clever chap!

Visit his ASTM director page here;

H5KS and H5KT Through Base Test Machines.

2008-03-07T15:23:00.005Z

These are variations of our popular H5KS and H5KT machines. They have been specially designed for testing packaging and furniture.

The machines are securely bolted to the work bench (up to 30mm thick). The bottom M16 fitting is removed to allow an extension rod to be fed through a bearing. Attachments can be added for box crushing, seat and mattress testing, anything that will fit below your bench. Replace the lower fitting and it's back to business as usual.

270-026 300x300 Compression Platen load limited to 3kN

2008-03-07T14:23:00.008Z

This is a special for testing thin cardboard and foam samples.

The problem is that the sample goes from zero load to solid in 1 - 2mm.

The platen is designed to remain stable up to 3kN then compress allowing the machine to stop before exceeding 5kN and destroying the loadcell.

Testing Plastics? - Contact the expert

2008-03-06T09:37:00.016Z

Harry Yohn, the plastics testing expert here at Tinius Olsen has a blog of his own.

Why not contact Harry direct with any plastics testing questions you may have on mechanical tests such as Tensile strength, Tensile Modulus, Flexural testing, Melt Flow Indexers, Impact testing, Heat Deflection Temperature (DTUL) testing, Vicat testing and more.

Harry has a wealth of knowledge in the field of mechanical and physical testing of plastics and is here to help with all your polymer needs.

Visit Harry's blog here;

S0281 - Reinforcing Bar Rebend Test to BS4449, BS4482 & BS4483

2007-11-15T11:54:00.000Z

Used for testing reinforcing bars or reinforcement bar (Rebar) for the construction industry.

The way that mass produced Rebar is made requires test for consistency throughout a products manufacture life cycle.

The sample is placed on the lower support rollers, then bent to a certain angle (depending upon test). It is then treated (heated to a specific temprature) and then rebent, back to straight and an observations are taken.

S274 - Mesh Weld Shear Test

2007-11-15T11:39:00.003Z

This attachment is used to test the strength of the welds that hold mesh together.

The mesh is often used as a reinforcement for concrete structures. as this is a structural component it is essential to test the consistency of the weld in any given section.

A joint is cut from the mesh and placed in this attachment. A grip, the HW14 is then placed on the end of the rod. a force of up to 50kN is then applied and the shear strength of the weld measured.

There is some adjustment in the design with a sliding plate that allows for different gauges of wire.

The applicable standards are: BS4483, ASTM A185, ASTM A497 and ASTM A974.

The testing application note for this grip is available from the resource area of our School of testing microsite or by clicking here.

Need testing advice??

2007-10-18T21:05:00.004+01:00

I'm afraid that I've brought a bit of a bug to Tinius Olsen...

Everyone seems to be developing blogs. (I think you can get a cream for it from a good pharmacist).

If you want to learn about testing plastics, try this. http://www.testingplastics.com/

If you'd like to learn about testing metals, try this. http://www.testingmetal.com/

If you are a student looking for testing advice or examples try this. http://www.schooloftesting.com/

And of course testing textiles can be found here... http://www.testingtextiles.com/

Harry, Earl, David and Sylvia are all specialists in their specific areas and are happy to help... The question and answers section is very informative.

S0991 Carton Bend Test

2007-10-18T16:54:00.000+01:00

This attachment, the S0991 is designed to test how card and paper folds, a small sample section is taken and placed under a retaining bar, this is then forced to fold using the fold bar at the back.

A rotary digital encoder measures the rotation angle and compares it to the force measured on the loadcell.

To ensure self-alignment cord is used to rotate the pulleys that move the folding bar.

Used in the packaging industry this compares how easy is is to open your box of cereal in the morning and to see how strong the folds are...

160-002 - BS4370-2:1993 - Tensile Test Rigid Cellular Materials

2007-10-18T13:03:00.000+01:00

BS4370-2:1993 Method 9 tests the tensile strength of rigid Cellular Material.

This encompasses things like ridged foams used for padding and floatation devices.

Method nine calls for two different profiles of the sample material to be cut.

To save on having two different rigs, this one device can accept both sizes of sample. it also has interchangeable and modular test face profiles.

106-001 - Self-Aligining Fixture

2007-10-10T13:20:00.001+01:00

It's sometimes necessary to attach a grip or fitting that has no way of self aligning, in these cases we've developed several ingenious ways to add this function to the machines.

One of these methods is to use a Self-Aligning Fixture like the one shown in the picture.

As it is designed to fit a 150kN U-Series machine it is somewhat massive. The top thread being 1"UNF in diameter and the bottom an M33.

It weighs, a not insignificant, 7kg; has a 110mm body diameter and is nearly a foot tall.

The central pin that you can see has is supported by a Nitrile block which allows it to float, whilst absorbing the shock of a sample failure.

276-003 Compression Platens - With Guide

2007-08-20T13:10:00.001+01:00

The Compression of a spring can be quite a hard thing to measure, the spring has a tendency to want to exert it's applied force horizontally to the platens (in other words, fly off under the nearest table...)

This isn't really a problem, just a nuisance and in some applications a desirable feature of springs...

To stop the test sample from flying off these compression platens have a free running guide that retracts into the top body. This holds onto the spring, whilst having a known affect on the test.

A word about Bespoke Grips and Attachments...

2007-08-02T07:56:00.002+01:00

All of the testing grips and attachments listed here have a specific use. For example the Insulation Grip is designed to be used with insulation materials, but it can equally work just as well with any fibrous material.

We often review or re-use previous designs because we know that they work and have been proved to be successful in the field.

The staff here have an encyclopedic knowledge of over 2,000 Bespoke products and custom test fixtures we've produced over the years, and are continuing to produce on a daily basis.

Basically, if you need to test something, and you require help call Tinius Olsen...

S985 - Insulation Grips - Screw Version

2007-08-02T07:45:00.000+01:00

To improve usability we have extended the range of insulation grips to include a screw based closing mechanism.

This gives the ability to close the grip like a vice and so you are relying on the mechanical advantage provided by the screw rather than by the lever, this can offer more control of the sample alignment and help prevent a jaw break... There are interchangable teeth, depending on requirements.

760-001 - ASTM D429-03 - Double Shear Adhesion Jig

2007-07-26T07:56:00.000+01:00

The ASTM D429-03 69.1 (Method G) is for testing the adhesion properties of rubber.

The rubber is pre-formed onto 3 metal plugs. this gives a double rubber sandwich that can then be tested.

This attachment holds the metal components of the sandwich and allows a double shear test to be performed.

123-001 - 250mm Textile Grip

2007-07-25T15:38:00.000+01:00

A range of faces make the 123-001 Textile Grip an adaptable and very useful attachment.

Textiles can be a very hard materials to test, they can be very strong in tension, and unless ripped, near impossible to break… it can hold large amounts of energy and can break with a bang!

The grips that hold fabric tend to be hydraulic and have special grip arrangements because of this property. There are 3 types of face of the jaws. Plain, Hatched and Grab each have a specific set of materials that they can be used with, each with singular benefits.

The 123-001 holds the sample between two 250mm wide faces, these come together with a clamping force and the test can then be performed.

If you're interested in this or other Textile testing, please contact Sylvia Hillier or go here: http://www.testingtextiles.com/

276-001 - Self Aligning Platens

2007-06-26T07:57:00.000+01:00

As mentioned before, we do a wide range of platens (two parallel plates that are used to compress the test specimen...)

Often the sample is uneven or has protruding features, the fixed platens are less effectual in this instance.

In cases like this, self aligning platens distribute the load across the sample by increasing the contact area.

(The arrows show movement...)

160-001 - ASTM D5801-95 - Bitumionous Material Test

2007-06-22T07:58:00.000+01:00

It's really nice to be able to show you some pictures of the finished products, rather than renderings. The attachments, once checked, go straight to the customer... (so we don't often get time for pictures).

This test is for Bituminous Materials, like tar -or- polymer modified asphalt (depending on you professional inclinations).

The ASTM Standard calls for a very precise procedure that includes warming and filling a 3oz. pot with the sample and lowering a semi-sphere into it.

This is then extracted and the forces required measured...

It's quite a demanding test for the equipment as the sample material is quite, well, sticky... so we've made the parts that would come in contact with the sample out of stainless steel, this should allow the parts to be cleaned without having to worry about affecting any surface finish.

121-004 - Tinius Olsen - Artificial Skin Test

2007-06-01T09:21:00.001+01:00

This attachment consists of a bath and holder to test the tension applied to a section of artificial skin. The sample is tiny, only 0.508 mm in section.

The sensitivity of the system allows for small samples to be tested.

Testing Artificial Skin has some unique requirements, the sample needs to be kept moist, in this case there is a simple saline bath.

The sample is lowered into the bath and then can be tested...

Wood Fixings - Tinius Olsen - BS EN 1382:1999 Fixture

2007-05-10T08:05:00.000+01:00

This attachment simply pulls nails and staples from wood, as you could imagine it is very important to know and understand the way in which fixings behave in wood.

As wood is a natural substance each plank is different from the next, and it is the job of BS EN 1382:1999 to ensure that fixings (nails and staples in this case) that are a known quantity behave the same way in different kinds of wood (nails and staples are produced on mass and so are quantifiable).

There are two attachments, one for nails and one for staples.

It can hold a variety of nails and staples due to the taper on the attachments.

The lower component holds the wood, it is common with ASTM D1037 & D1761 Standards which are similar wood tests.

Sometimes we all need a little more...

2007-04-25T07:45:00.002+01:00

We've been thinking, there are lots of great resources and information regarding testing machines and attachments, but we don't want to put them all on here.

It might get a little cluttered...

Our colleagues at Tinius Olsen have put together a good list of resources on the Tinius Olsen Homepage.

The direct link to the list can be found here

Tinius Olsen - ASTM D2519-02 Electrical Insulating Varnish

2007-04-24T13:55:00.000+01:00

830-001 ASTM D2519-02 Electrical Insulating Varnish

The ASTM standards (sometimes) give accurate and very precise instructions on how a specific test should be performed. This is an example of one of these tests, the parts and method are explicitly layed out within the standard document.

This attachment uses a 3 point bend applied to a coil to test the strength of Electrical Insulating Varnish.

The coil, made from various metals, are wrapped tightly around an anvil. The anvil is then removed and the coil placed in the varnish solution.

The coated coil is then placed in this 3-point bend and then tested. This is then used to show the properties of the varnish when applied to the metal.

As this test uses the appropriate materials in an accurate situation it should produce good results.

S0997 - Tinius Olsen - Smart Card Push Out Test

2007-04-17T07:51:00.000+01:00

We often come across the problem of testing the strength of fixing methods like adhesives.

But how do you test the finished product once the product is produced?

Increasingly credit and debit cards have small microchips on them. These are generically called 'Smart Cards' as they contain a great deal of information on the 'chip.

To test the strength of these cards, in particular the bonding strength, this attachment has been developed.

It is adjustable so that the 'chip can be tested wherever it is placed on the card. There is a retaining arm that is used to hold the card in place, this has a roller on the bottom that allows quick changes.

There is a specific routine that allows the chip to be pushed through and the force required is measured...

Right tool for the Job...

2007-04-13T14:26:00.000+01:00

We sometimes need a little help to get things off the ground...

For safetys sake, it's worth hiring the correct equipment to move Tinius Olsen machines around.

This is one of our machines being moved into our Demo Suite, which happens to be upstairs!

S0995 - Tinius Olsen - ISO 594 Female Luer Fitting

2007-04-02T13:22:00.000+01:00

A Luer fitting is the common name for a tapered fitting that adheres to ISO 594.

In this case it was necessary to hold a needle which had a Luer attachment on it. this was to be used for puncture testing, so no thread was required.

Used as in conjunction with S0994, this test used a range of standard needles with Luer ends.

This simple needle or luer attachment could be used for any number of compression, puncture tests on components with Luer ends.

S0994 - Tinius Olsen - BS7320 Specification for sharps containers

2007-04-02T13:11:00.000+01:00

This Grip is used to test the bodies of Sharps Containers. As you might imagine, it is very important that 'sharps' cannot penetrate the sides of the container.

This grip is used to hold a fine needle in one end, and a sample of the moulded box the other. There is a piece of foil underneath the specimen, this allows the system to know when the needle has punctured right through. An accurate measurement of the force required is then taken.

The needle holder rotates allowing the user to insert the needle without bending over or risking hurting themselves with the needle.

The base is a simple stand with hole, the connection to the foil is made with a clip.

S0453 - Tinius Olsen - 100kn Seat Belt Grip

2007-03-28T07:44:00.000+01:00

These grips are used to test seat belts and webbing up to 100mm thick.

seat belts have interesting properties, they have to cushion the shock of a crash without injuring the passenger of the car at low speed stops. In a collision it has a precise elastic limit, meaning that it stretching slightly to diffuse the shock, goes beyond its elastic limit, becomes plastic then holding it's passenger without breaking, there is a great deal of force involved in this process (which is why these grips are rated to 100kN...)

The testing can be quite explosive as the belt stores a great deal of energy before failing.

By exerting a tensile force on the belt it is possible to see how it will behave.

One of the important features of this grip is that it is self tightening. The specimen is feed through the grips in a specific manner as not to damage the belt.

A damaged belt can dramatically affect its ability to protect the passenger, and once it has been stretched to it's elastic limit and has become plastic, it doesn't have the same level of protection.

This is why seat belts should be replaced after an accident.

S0969 - Tinius Olsen - Astm D143 Wood Tension Parallel to Grain

2007-03-13T13:20:00.000Z

This grip is designed to meet the very strict guidelines set within the ASTM D143 standard. I have mentioned this standard before, it is one of the most demanding standards available for wood specimens.

One of the most important tests when it comes to the structure of wood is how it reacts in tension.

As wood can be very strong in tension it's is necessary to 'profile' the sample (cut the wood into a specific shape) so that the region undergoing test is uniform, in the middle and weaker than the grip or piece of wood the grip is holding onto.

It also needs to be smaller to allow an extensometer to be added to measure the small changes in the length of the sample.

This grip is essentially self-aligning, the sample slotting into the two fingers.

S0989 - Tinius Olsen – ASTM C1161-A.

2007-03-12T16:04:00.000Z

Articulated 4 Point Bend Test for Ceramic Samples.

Used for testing the smallest ceramic samples 1.5mm x 2.0mm x 20mm. The test calls for articulated anvils that are free to move as the sample deforms. The problem is how to hold the anvils in place before loading the sample. The answer is it’s all done by magnets. The anvil is attracted towards the end of the bar magnet. The magnets are positioned so that the anvil will return to the start position as soon as load is removed. In case you loose the odd one, we supply a bag of spares!

S0977 - Tinius Olsen - 3 Point Flexural Test

2007-03-12T12:53:00.001Z

A flexural test tells the tester how much force a specimen can withstand in the middle when supported at a distance (or its flexibility!).

This test supports the specimen between two loose fitting ‘rollers’, the distance apart of which can be set for a specific test or specimen size. Once the sample is in place the anvil can be brought down just above the specimen.

A variety of tests can then be performed. The specimen can be flexed a certain number of times to judge it’s elasticity or plasticity over a given time. The specimen could be flexed until it breaks, it could be flexed for a specific time and the responding force measured.

This is a Heavy Duty system, which has been designed to suite the U-Series 100kN System. It has a travel of 400mm from centre (800mm overall) and Ø10mm rollers.

This can all be recorded in the software and multiple specimens can be tested.

Don't look now lads but we've got some competition...

2007-03-09T12:52:00.000Z

Sylvia Hillier, the Textiles expert here at Tinius Olsen has her own blog, she is very knowledgable and a really nice person to boot!

If you've got any textile related issues go here! http://www.testingtextiles.com/sylviablog.php

S0964 - Tinius Olsen - H100KU Guard

2007-03-09T08:15:00.001Z

Some of the more destructive tests that our systems are designed to perform can be quite violent, the forces and materials used can have some explosive results.

It is often important to guard the rest of the room or the user from flying shrapnel. We produce guards for these reasons, as the U-Series is over 2 metres tall and a large footprint; the U-Series needs to have a huge guard.

We made the guard a close rectangular fit around the system; it is free standing although there are some mounting points to attach it to the system. aluminium section and composite sheet make the frame up, which is a very strong (and heavy) structure.

It has two wrap around doors and polycarbonate windows that allow the user to see and control the test.

For safety the control unit and an emergency stop have been placed on the right hand door.

I can safely say that this is verging on architecture, rather than engineering!

S0985 - Tinius Olsen - Insulation Grip

2007-03-08T13:36:00.000Z

Imagine trying to hold a piece of fibre insulation (the stuff in your roof that stops the heat escaping) in a clamp and then pulling it apart using a tensile test, how on earth do you do it? It’s fibrous, comes in different thicknesses, breaks of easily into chunks…

Well the answer is Nails, and lots of them.

This is the most effective way to distribute the load across and through this particular sample, this means that the test specimen isn’t overly damaged when you grip it. If the sample is ‘waisted’ properly (like an hour glass), it will break in the weakest spot, not by the grip. This is a technique used time and again with all kinds of samples. You want to see how the material will break under load, not how the grip breaks it, and then the load pull it apart.

As there are a lot of nails it’s quite hard to push them through the top surface of the specimen (Imagine trying to nail 20 nails at once into something soft. It might be soft but there is a lot of friction to overcome).

To overcome this friction the plates that hold the nails have levers on the back, and run on rods of polished stainless steel. This keeps them parallel and gives the Insulation Grip a good structure. The operator can easily get hold of the sample but pulling the long lever.

Just watch your fingers! Nails are sharp!

One of the applicable standards is EN1608, there are several insulation tensile grips Tinius Olsen has done in the past these include the S0655, S0798, S0810 and S0811.

S0971 - Tinius Olsen - ASTM D143 Wood Shear parallel to grain

2007-03-07T07:52:00.000Z

The Standard ASTM D143 outlines several methods for testing wood. As a building material it is essential to understand the structural integrity of timber this is what ASTM D143 is designed to find out…

This is a heavy duty application (wood is an interesting substance in compressing and the jaws can get ‘gummed-up’ with the wood sap) and so for this particular application a Tinius Olsen H75KS system is used.

The S0971 is designed to perform one of the tests in the ASTM D143 stable. It shears the wood between two vertically offset, horizontally parallel faces.

This system uses a self adjusting blade to shear the sample against another supporting blade that is offset 3mm from the main cutting face. This distance can be adjusted using a simple shim. This simple modification could allow for future testing in these standards...

ASTM D 143-94, ASTM D 905-98, ISO 6238 2001, JIS K 6802-1973, JIS Z 2117-1977, BS 373: 1957 and JAS 601-1974 testing standards.

Features:

This system uses a quick release, over center cam, handle for loading and removing sample.
This dramatically improves down times between tests.

The cutting blade also has a self clearing feature, once the test is complete, raising the cutting blade drags out the remaining sample.

The Shims are readily identified using the 3 holes marking on it.

S0616 - Tinius Olsen - Syringe Holder

2007-03-06T07:50:00.000Z

The Tinius Olsen S0616 is used to hold a standard syringe for testing fittings. It makes use of the end of the syringe, whilst holding it in place. The plunger cannot be used whilst in this grip; this is a method of testing the end fittings not the syringe.

There are a variety of fittings that attach to a standard syringe, the most common of which is a standard Luer fitting. We do a few grips to hold Luer fittings, but it’s sometimes just as easy to hold the syringe and use that as the ‘grip’ end. The materials are correct, syringes are cheap, and it’s a real world test. If there is any damage to the syringe it can be easily replaced…

S0984 - Tinius Olsen - GOST23785 Spiral Cord Grip

2007-03-05T13:12:00.000Z

From the same stable as the S0984 this grip uses similar materials but holds the specimen in a different way. Designed to meet GOST23785 it is designed around the drawings given in the standards.

The cord is wrapped around the Spiral Ebonite Bollards and held in place with a simple screw grip… This effectively distributes the load over a wider area on the cord. This means that delicate or multi-strand samples can be tested.

One of the main problems with testing cord is the grips can create weak points in the sample if it pinches or nips the sample. This results in the test being void or can give misleading results.

This grip is designed to avoid this...

It has a 5/8" Nosepiece which means that it would fit on one of the smaller systems.

S0404 - Tinius Olsen -Compression Platens - 350mm by 350mm by 35mm Thick

2007-03-05T07:40:00.002Z

At first sight, one of less intricate but useful tests is compression tests. This is basically applying a force (measured in Newton’s) to the sample and measuring the effect the force has. There are a wide range of tools for doing this but in general platens are used to hold the sample and apply the force.

Platens are large flat surfaces that can be used to compress a sample…

The S0404 platens are big, very big. They fit on the 100kN U-series Systems (they can apply a force of 100kN to an object) Tinius Olsen produce…

These behemoth platens are 350mm x 350mm and 35mm thick plough ground plate. I’m a big chap and I can’t lift one on my own…

A brute force approach, but the feedback received through the Loadcell and Compressometer is very precise and can show how much force a sample can take and spring back or fail.

The results gleaned from these tests can tell a great deal about the product under test, the 'intelligence' comes in the form of the Software, which can be used to determine a wide variety of things.

S0844 - Tinius Olsen- GOST 23785-1 Cord Grips

2007-03-01T13:29:00.000Z

S0844 Tinius Olsen GOST 23785-1 Cord Grips

The Russian Standards are called GOST, and we've recently had a few of these come through the doors.

This grip is designed to meet the GOST 23785-1, they are designed for testing cord. Interestingly the GOST standard calls for Vulcanite to be used as the grip faces, a difficult material to machine but can be used to great affect.

This grip simply holds the sample in a vice grip after being wrapped around the testing face.

ГОСТ 23785.1-2001

S0981 - Tinius Olsen - ASTM C736-00 Adhesion Test For Latex Sealants

2007-03-01T12:49:00.001Z

Used on some of our smaller systems, the S0981 Tinius Olsen ASTM C736-00 Adhesion Test For Latex Sealants, quite a recent one, this grip design is used to test the strength of sealants and adhesives used in the production of windows.

It's quite a complex process to prepare the samples, using a c shaped 'mold' the sealant is injected between a glass and aluminium plate. These are held together using (good ol') G-clamps. It is then allowed to cure for a specific time... as it's nice to prepare a few of these samples to test, we provided a few kits (C section, and the aluminium and glass plates).

It was odd, as you had to remember that the test specimen was a liquid that needed to cure, in a mold. I was something that I had to keep reminding myself.

This test allows you to find the Adhesion strength of the Sealant between the desired structural material types. In this case glass and aluminium.

What is this...?

2007-03-01T12:42:00.000Z

The 4 souls and I in the Design Department thought that the wider world might be a little interested in the projects that we engineer and the interesting and varied products that Tinius Olsen produces...

There is plenty of time at lunchtimes to do this...

and it's a healthy reminder of the projects we've done in the past...