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Insights for Materials Testing Professionals
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July 24, 2014
How Do You Prepare Your Specimens?
How Do You Prepare Your Specimens? Elena Mangano Depending on the materials you are testing and the size of your test lab, there are a multitude of ways to prepare […]
July 18, 2014
Looking for Ways to Keep Bent Test Specimens Securely Aligned?
Gripping bent test specimens can be difficult, but several proven approaches help ensure proper alignment and prevent slippage. This post explores common solutions—from flattening specimen tabs to using convex/concave jaw faces—and explains why synchronized dual side‑acting grips offer the most reliable performance. It also highlights how Instron’s DuraSync™ grips overcome the limitations of traditional mechanical and hydraulic synchronizers, providing robust self‑centering, overload protection, adjustable clamping force, and easy field serviceability for demanding pipe and tube applications.
June 25, 2014
Composites on the Move
Composites on the Move Composites are now a broad and well-established family of materials, but industry press releases frequently discuss “new and exciting” developments and opportunities. It should be remembered […]
June 23, 2014
Reducing Variablity in Plastics Testing
This presentation provides a practical overview of the most common factors that contribute to variability in mechanical test results. Through clear examples and guidance, it highlights how specimen alignment, gripping technique, extensometer placement, thermal effects, data‑capture settings, and equipment condition can significantly influence accuracy and repeatability. The embedded PDF outlines actionable steps for reducing variability—such as proper alignment, consistent gripping force, improved strain measurement, and minimizing handling effects—helping laboratories ensure confidence in their procedures, equipment, and final test data.
June 10, 2014
Does a Charpy or an Izod Impact Test Replicate any Real-Life Scenarios?
Does a Charpy or an Izod Impact Test Replicate any Real-Life Scenarios? Shalmalee Vaidya Q: Does a Charpy or an Izod impact test replicate any real-life scenarios by impacting the […]
June 10, 2014
Reminder to Not Let Your Standards Slip
Reminder to Not Let Your Standards Slip You most likely understand the importance of regularly calibrating your testing and measuring equipment and making sure it is maintained to the highest […]
June 10, 2014
Quick Tip: Determining if a Specimen is Too Heavy for Your Test
Quick Tip: Determining if a Specimen is Too Heavy for Your Test Q: I have a 1 kN load cell. How do I determine if a specimen would be too […]
June 10, 2014
Backward Strain at Yield — Discontinuous Yielding/YPE Material
Backward Strain at Yield – Discontinuous Yielding/YPE Material David Fry During a recent customer visit, a concern was raised about a turnaround point on the graph that they had not […]
May 12, 2014
Wedge Action Grips: Which is Moving?
Wedge Action Grips: Which is Moving? Janice Tan Wedge action grips are a very popular choice for gripping high-strength materials, such as metals and composites, because the strong clamping force […]