Improving the efficiency of labs

A provider of testing equipment designed to evaluate the mechanical and rheological properties of materials, Instron - an ITW Test and Measurement division - exhibited at Plast 2015 its latest developments for tests on plastics. Its presence at the fair was focused in particular on the ways to address the identified main challenges in plastics testing, including the difficulties in complying with ever evolving testing standards, the main factors that can cause variability of results, and solutions for increasing the efficiency and throughput within their labs.

Instron’s AutoX750 Automatic Contacting Extensometer is efficiently designed for the accurate measurement of elongation percentage and the elastic modulus of materials during tensile testing. Meeting the requirements of ISO 527-2, the AutoX750 is used to determine a variety of calculations including modulus, offset yield, and plastic (non-proportional) elongation to failure. It enhances the productivity of testing laboratories with features including automatic gauge length positioning and attachment to the test specimen, resulting in simplified testing routines and improved throughput. Additionally, the use of an automatic extensometer versus a traditional clip-on extensometer can reduce inconsistencies during attachment, greatly improving the repeatability and reproducibility of critical test results.

Instron also exhibited the MF30 Melt Flow Tester, allowing customers the most convenient solution for accurate measurement of the flow properties of plastics according to ASTM D1238 and ISO 1133. Conforming to strict tolerances with regards to temperature accuracy and stability, specimen quantity and pretreatment, the system complies with the stringent requirements of the new testing standard ISO 1133-2 for materials sensitive to time-temperature history and/or moisture.