Testing: Flexible Force Testing Solution

A new flexible series of motorized test machines is the latest addition of specialized force testers from Ametek STC, Largo, Fla.  The Chatillon TCM Series--which replaces the company’s current Chatillon LTCM Series of force testers, consists of two force testers offering fast and effective force testing up to 350 lbf (1500 N) at an affordable price.

The TCM100 is suitable for low capacity testing up to 100 lbf (500 N) whereas the TCM350 is suitable for testing samples at a capacity of up to 350 lbf (1500 N). Both force testers feature a standard crosshead travel of 406 mm (16 in) and are available in extended editions with a crosshead travel of 812 mm (32 in). A throat depth at a full 100 mm (3.9 in) enables the operator to perform force tests including tension, compression, bending, peeling, adhesion, insertion and extraction on samples up to 200 mm (7.8 in). This leaves the operator with a wide variety of testing options at a large working area while keeping a compact footprint. A large LED display indicates travel speed and similar information so the operator can continuously monitor the test. The TCM Series force testers feature haptic feedback which reportedly reduces the time spent on test configuration as well as operator errors. The tactile buttons have no moving parts or membranes and durability, especially in production environments, are thereby maximized.

Coupling the TCM Series force testers with the digital Chatillon DF Series force gauges offers a load accuracy that exceeds 0.1% full scale as well as added benefits such as drive to limit. For fast and easy analysis, the Chatillon ForceTest software can be added to the solution enabling seamless serial data communication from the force tester to a computer, saving of test setups for faster workflow, live data view during tests and easy export of test results to CSV or PDF.