Question 1

Are all of Instron's procedures documented?

Accepted Answer

Instron has full documentation meeting or exceeding the requirements of accreditation bodies and ISO/IEC 17025. Our Field Service Engineers carry all relevant documentation in electronic format for immediate accessibility. Full info is available on our calibration lab and accreditations page.

Question 2

Is Instron fully insured?

Accepted Answer

Instron is fully insured for liability. To see a copy of Instron's liability insurance certificate, please contact your local service office.

Question 3

Are Instron Field Service Engineers properly trained, and do they receive ongoing training and competency testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all Instron Field Service Engineers are properly trained and undergo testing and auditing. They are independently monitored and audited in accordance with our accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 from NVLAP under Lab Code 200301-0 to maintain our high operational standards. This is possible because of our size and regionally structured organization — something that smaller calibration organizations are not able to resource. This approch to managing our worldwide calibration business is often positively commented upon by ISO and ASTM accreditation bodies. Find out more about calibration.

Question 4

Can Instron develop a customized calibration plan that will optimize my costs and give me a competitive advantage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron can help you develop a customized calibration plan. While Instron has developed calibration products designed to meet the needs of a wide range of industries, quality organizations, and regulatory bodies such as ASTM and ISO, we are also flexible and have the expertise and equipment to work with you if you need something special. Find out more about calibration service.

Question 5

Can Instron manage the scheduling of all my calibrations, and will you arrange the visit in advance?

Accepted Answer

Instron's local Service teams can help manage the scheduling of your routine calibrations. Our teams have access to your testing instrument's service history and can schedule calibration services in advance. Learn more on our calibration page.

Question 6

Can Instron provide a full range of calibration services?

Accepted Answer

Instron can provide a full range of accredited calibration services including: force, speed and displacement, strain, alignment, and more. Many of these services are also available for non-Instron materials testing instruments. Learn more about the types of calibrations.

Question 7

Can Instron provide documentation to show traceability to national standards?

Accepted Answer

Instron can show traceability to the national standards. Unless specifically indicated, all measurement results produced with Instron standards are traceable to the SI (The International System of Units) through internationally recognized National Metrology Institutes (NIST, NPL, PTB, Inmetro, etc.). Instron can provide an unbroken chain of calibrations that evidence this traceability. Learn more about standard organizations.

Question 8

Can Instron's Field Service Engineers repair and/or adjust an instrument on-site if it doesn’t pass calibration?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron’s Field Service Engineers are trained to repair and adjust Instron equipment. They also have access to replacement part inventories. Learn more on our repair service and parts page.

Question 9

Can Instron show calculations regarding your uncertainty reporting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron's uncertainty calculations are reported, and all uncertainties listed can be backed up with sound engineering and metrology principles. Learn more about calibration.

Question 10

Does Instron have materials testing and engineering backup expertise to support your field and in-house Service team?

Accepted Answer

Instron supports its Service teams with extensive training and engineering staff. Instron metrology experts are active in ISO and ASTM committees, helping with the development and evolution of global standards for materials testing equipment. Learn more about standard organizations.

Question 11

Does Instron have the necessary equipment and expertise to adjust and calibrate Instron equipment to accuracy levels demanded by national and international standards such as ISO and ASTM?

Accepted Answer

Instron Field Service Engineers are fully trained to calibrate and adjust Instron equipment to accuracy levels demanded by ISO and ASTM standards. They are equipped with calibration standards with the low uncertainties of measurement required to calibrate at this level. It should be noted that most Instron equipment operates to specifications that exceed international standards. Many calibration suppliers do not have standards with the accuracy required to verify at these levels. Instron maintains a primary force standard that is transferred to our deployed working standards, eliminating the need for a secondary standard, shortening the “chain of calibration” and reducing the measurement uncertainty. Learn more about calibration.

Question 12

How can I get a catalog of Instron system accessories?

Accepted Answer

You can view our accessories catalog online. We're also happy to discuss the best accessories for your individual testing needs. Learn more on our catalog page.

Question 13

How long has Instron been providing accredited calibration services?

Accepted Answer

Instron has been accredited to NVLAP (Lab Code 200301-0) since 1997. In Europe, Instron was accredited by the previous accreditation body, UKAS, since 1969. Learn more about our accreditation.

Question 14

I have an auditor asking for software verification documentation and Instron accreditation information. Where can I find this information?

Accepted Answer

Instron software verification documentation, accreditations, and certificates can be viewed and downloaded on our accreditations and certificates page.

Question 15

Is the uncertainty of measurement listed in Instron's scope of accreditation realistic, or does it represent an ideal case that will not be duplicated in my lab?

Accepted Answer

The uncertainties of measurement listed in Instron's scope of accreditation represent those that can be achieved in the field with the equipment being used by our Field Service Engineers. View our scope of accreditation.

Question 16

Should I unpack my Instron when it arrives at my facility?

Accepted Answer

It is the customer's responsibility to arrange for the off-loading, unpacking, and transportation of the equipment to the test site. This includes all insurance and safety responsibilities. If installation is included with your system, please allow the Field Service Engineer to open boxes and verify all parts and contents. This helps to avoid the possibility of losing small pieces or parts. Learn more about installation and relocation.

Question 17

Does Instron offer technical support services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron offers a technical support service called Instron Connect, which includes four technologies to provide you with different ways to connect with Instron to get technical support. Learn more on our Instron Connect page.

Question 18

What is the backup plan if your local Field Service Engineer is unavailable to perform a critical calibration?

Accepted Answer

Instron has more than 300 Field Service Engineers globally to support you with your calibration requirements. Learn more on our services page.

Question 19

What is Instron's scope of accreditation?

Accepted Answer

Instron's scope of accreditation defines exactly what the calibration service has been accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 to do. Frequently, a calibration service will have accreditation for some of its calibrations, but not all. A calibration lab's scope of accreditation can be found on the accrediting agency's website. View Instron's scope of accreditation.

Question 20

Are the calibrations that Instron provides accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 98% of the calibrations that we carry out are in our scope of accreditation. View our scope of accreditation.

Question 21

Are Instron Field Service Engineers properly trained, and do they receive ongoing training and competency testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all Instron Field Service Engineers are properly trained and undergo testing and auditing. They are independently monitored and audited in accordance with our accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 from NVLAP under Lab Code 200301-0 to maintain our high operational standards. This is possible because of our size and regionally structured organization — something that smaller calibration organizations are not able to resource. This approch to managing our worldwide calibration business is often positively commented upon by ISO and ASTM accreditation bodies. Find out more about calibration.

Question 22

Can Instron develop a customized calibration plan that will optimize my costs and give me a competitive advantage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron can help you develop a customized calibration plan. While Instron has developed calibration products designed to meet the needs of a wide range of industries, quality organizations, and regulatory bodies such as ASTM and ISO, we are also flexible and have the expertise and equipment to work with you if you need something special. Find out more about our calibration service.

Question 23

Can Instron perform preventative maintenance on my materials testing system?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Instron Field Service Engineers are fully trained to perform preventative maintenance on Instron equipment. This increases the instrument's useful life and avoids potential downtime. Learn more on our preventative maintenance page.

Question 24

Can Instron provide a full range of calibration services?

Accepted Answer

Instron can provide a full range of accredited calibration services including: force, speed and displacement, strain, alignment, and more. Many of these services are also available for non-Instron materials testing instruments. Learn more about our calibration services.

Question 25

Can Instron provide documentation to show traceability to national standards?

Accepted Answer

Instron can show traceability to the national standards. Unless specifically indicated, all measurement results produced with Instron standards are traceable to the SI (The International System of Units) through internationally recognized National Metrology Institutes (NIST, NPL, PTB, Inmetro, etc.). Instron can provide an unbroken chain of calibrations that evidence this traceability. Learn more about standard organizations.

Question 26

Does Instron provide electronic calibration certificates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron provides electronic calibration certificates. To ensure high integrity, Instron provides digitally signed and encrypted calibration certificates, which gives the customer confidence in the soundness of the documentation with the added benefits of storage, distribution, and retrieval in their quality systems. Learn more about our calibration certificates.

Question 27

Do I need to calibrate a machine after it has been moved?

Accepted Answer

It is strongly recommended that all measuring equipment, other than hand-held instrumentation, be recalibrated after a move. This also includes after-installation. In many cases, ASTM and ISO testing standards such as ASTM E4 and ISO 7500-1 have a mandatory requirement for recalibration after equipment moves. Learn more about installation and relocation.

Question 28

Do I need to regularly check my Instron system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must regularly calibrate and perform maintenance on your Instron system. All systems, regardless of manufacturer or quality, should be regularly calibrated if the accuracy of your results is important to you and your customers. Learn more about calibration.

Question 29

Does Instron have materials testing and engineering backup expertise to support your field and in-house Service team?

Accepted Answer

Instron supports its Service teams with extensive training and engineering staff. Instron metrology experts are active in ISO and ASTM committees, helping with the development and evolution of global standards for materials testing equipment. Learn more about standard organizations.

Question 30

Does Instron have the necessary equipment and expertise to adjust and calibrate Instron  equipment to accuracy levels demanded by national and international standards such as ISO and ASTM?

Accepted Answer

Instron Field Service Engineers are fully trained to calibrate and adjust Instron equipment to accuracy levels demanded by ISO and ASTM standards. They are equipped with calibration standards with the low uncertainties of measurement required to calibrate at this level. It should be noted that most Instron equipment operates to specifications that exceed international standards. Many calibration suppliers do not have standards with the accuracy required to verify at these levels. Instron maintains a primary force standard that is transferred to our deployed working standards, eliminating the need for a secondary standard, shortening the “chain of calibration” and reducing the measurement uncertainty. Learn more about calibration.

Question 31

Does Instron take the calibration data manually or automatically?

Accepted Answer

Instron's Calpro CR software has been developed to take data automatically from the measurement standard and the testing instrument being calibrated. It structures and monitors the calibration process to eliminate the potential for manual error. Learn more about calibration.

Question 32

How do I know if my testing system is measuring correctly?

Accepted Answer

The only way to truly be sure that your testing system is measuring correctly is to have it checked against a known and traceable reference. Instron's calibrations provide such a service. Learn more about calibration.

Question 33

How do I prove my testing system is giving good results?

Accepted Answer

The best way to prove that your testing system is giving good results is to check them against traceable and known references and then compare the results with the requirements of recognized and established procedures or standards. This process is known as calibration and verification. Using international standards, such as ISO and ASTM, and reference devices that can be traced back to a National Measurement Institute (NMI) gives you and your customers confidence in the accuracy of the results. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 34

How frequently should I have my testing system checked or calibrated?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, your QA policies, contract requirements, or department procedures will stipulate rules on the frequency of calibration. In other cases, the equipment's operating manual may recommend how often the device should be recalibrated. In practical terms, it is all about risk. The longer the period you leave equipment between calibrations, the greater the risk of something going wrong or not being spotted. Because of this, you will find that many standards, such as ISO and ASTM, either recommend or state mandatory frequencies of calibration for compliance. If you are testing to an ASTM or ISO testing standard (e.g., ASTM E8 or ISO 7500-1), it is worth checking to see if it stipulates maintenance and calibration requirements. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 35

How long has Instron been providing accredited calibration services?

Accepted Answer

Instron has been accredited to NVLAP (Lab Code 200301-0) since 1997. In Europe, Instron was accredited by the previous accreditation body, UKAS, since 1969. Learn more about our accreditation.

Question 36

I have a materials testing machine &#151; what needs calibrating?

Accepted Answer

The materials testing system calibrations that Instron recommends as standard are load cell (force), speed and displacement, and strain. Learn more about Instron's types of calibrations.

Question 37

My materials testing system has undergone repairs and updates. Does it need to be recalibrated?

Accepted Answer

If your materials testing system has undergone a major repair that affects the measuring system, we strongly advise you to arrange for a recalibration. However, if the repair, update, or modification does not affect the measuring system, you probably do not need to recalibrate your tester. If in doubt, do not hesitate to discuss the subject with one of our experts. Please note that some standards do provide guidance and requirements concerning maintenance and repair, so review the standards you are working to for clarification. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 38

Is the software used by Instron to perform the calibration validated and proven?

Accepted Answer

Instron's Calpro CR software is designed specifically for the calibration of materials testing instrumentation to ensure compliance with calibration standards and eliminate common data transfer errors. Learn more about calibration.

Question 39

Is Instron accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by an agency that is a member of the ILAC agreement?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Instron is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) under Lab Code 200301-0, a signatory of the International Laboratory Accredited Cooperation Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC MRA). View Instron's accreditation certificate.

Question 40

Is the uncertainty of measurement listed in Instron's scope of accreditation realistic, or does it represent an ideal case that will not be duplicated in my lab?

Accepted Answer

The uncertainties of measurement listed in Instron's scope of accreditation represent those that can be achieved in the field with the equipment being used by our Field Service Engineers. View our scope of accreditation.

Question 41

Should I check accuracy in between full verifications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, users should check the accuracy of their test system on a monthly, weekly, even daily basis. ASTM E4 even requires it.

Question 42

What if adjustments or repairs are required for my testing equipment?

Accepted Answer

When an instrument is out of compliance, Instron's Field Service Engineers have the ability to make adjustments and/or make necessary repairs, but this depends on the nature of the non-compliance. Please note: No adjustments will be made without the authorization of the customer, as this could compromise their QA policies. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 43

What is Instron's scope of accreditation?

Accepted Answer

Instron's scope of accreditation defines exactly what the calibration service has been accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 to do. Frequently, a calibration service will have accreditation for some of its calibrations, but not all. A calibration lab's scope of accreditation can be found on the accrediting agency's website. View Instron's scope of accreditation.

Question 44

When is calibration required?

Accepted Answer

In many cases your QA policies, contract requirements, or department procedures will stipulate rules on the frequency of calibration. In other cases, the equipment's operating manual may recommend how often the device should be recalibrated. In practical terms, it is all about risk. The longer the period you leave equipment between calibrations, the greater the risk of something going wrong or not being spotted. Because of this, you will find that many standards, such as ISO and ASTM, either recommend or state mandatory frequencies of calibration for compliance. If you are testing to an ASTM or ISO testing standard (e.g., ASTM E8 or ISO 7500-1), it is worth checking to see if it stipulates maintenance and calibration requirements. For example, ASTM E8 requires compliance to the calibration standard ASTM E4, which recommends that test systems and all transducers be verified at least once a year. In addition, ASTM E4 (paragraph 20.3) requires re-verification whenever a test system is relocated. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 45

Why does my materials testing system need to be calibrated/verified?

Accepted Answer

If you have a requirement to test your products or materials, you need to be sure that the results you get are correct. Even the very best quality equipment can be affected by external influences that could affect the soundness of the system. Regular calibration and verification provide essential evidence that your equipment is operating to your expectations. Learn more about Instron's calibration services.

Question 46

I'm getting Message 2969 - The software is unable to establish communication with the configured devices. Controller communication error. Check all connections before trying again or contact Instron service to report error code: 0

Accepted Answer

If an error message similar to the one above displays when opening Bluehill Universal, Bluehill 3 or Bluehill 2, follow these instructions to try to resolve the error. If you are still not able to successfully connect, please contact Instron Technical Support at 1-800-473-7838, option 3 for additional assistance.

Steps to fix:

1. On the Message error screen select No

2. From the home screen of your version of Bluehill, choose Admin --> Configuration --> Frame

3. Identify the model of your Instron system as indicated on the base or crosshead of the system

4. Select the proper controller type and frame model NOTE: If your frame model is not show in the list below, please contact Instron Tech Support at 1-800-473-7838 option 3.

A. 3343 = 3300 controller type, 3343 frame model
B. 5565 = 5500 controller type, 5565 frame model
C. 5567A = 5500A controller type, 5567A frame model
D. 5944 = 5900 controller type, 5944 frame model
E. 59R5565 = 5900 controller type, 59R5565 frame model

5. Locate the MAC address:
 - On the 3300 and 5500: on the back of the EFI adaptor
 - On the 5500A and 5900: near ethernet and load cell connections

6. Enter the MAC address into Bluehill - Admin --> Frame --> Frame Identification --> Mac Address

7. Set the IP Address
The ethernet port that is connected to the Instron frame uses a specific static IP address. Please follow the instructions below to ensure that the IP address is set properly. If you do not have access to change these settings on your computer, contact your IT department.

a) In Windows 7
i. Open Control panel --> Network and Internet --> Network and Sharing Center --> Change Adapter Settings
ii. Select the adapter (Ethernet connection) connected to the Instron, right click and select Properties Note: If you are unsure which network connection is for the Instron system, unplug the Ethernet cable from the EFI adaptor (3300/5500) or from the Instron itself (5500A/5900) and you should see a red “X” over the connection that the Instron is plugged into.
iii. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 and click Properties
iv. Set the IP address to 169.254.1.2 and the Subnet mask to 255.255.255.0

b) In Windows 10
i. Click windows home button and search for control panel --> Network and Internet --> Network and Sharing Center --> Change Adapter Settings
ii. Select the adapter (Ethernet connection) connected to the Instron, right click and select Properties
Note: If you are unsure which network connection is for the Instron system, unplug the Ethernet cable from the EFI adaptor (3300/5500) or from the Instron itself (5500A/5900) and you should see a red “X” over the connection that the Instron is plugged into.
iii. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 and click Properties
iv. Set the IP address to 169.254.1.2 and the Subnet mask to 255.255.255.0

8. Restart Bluehill to implement changes

Question 47

Both the up and down push button switch indicators on the pendent station light when trying to move the crosshead on a hvl frame. (note this is on the 24v dc system only)

Accepted Answer

This happens when the overload is tripped on the reversing line starter. Reset the line starter by pressing the button or tab by the overload devise in the electrical box.

Question 48

I have an auditor asking for software verification documentation and Instron accreditation information. Where can I find this information?

Accepted Answer

Instron software verification documentation, accreditations and certificates can be viewed and downloaded on our accreditations and certifications page.

Question 49

The 3-phase crosshead motor on a hydraulic hvl testing frame will not operate.

Accepted Answer

The motor has an overload protection devise on the 3 phase line starter in the electrical box. Turn off the main power and open the box. At the bottom of the reversing line starter is a reset button, it must be pushed in to reset the devise. At least three different styles of line starters have been used over the years, but all of them have the overload in about the same place.

Question 50

The 3-phase pump motor on a hydraulic hvl testing frame will not operate.

Accepted Answer

There are several things to consider here: 1. The controller type 2. The software 3. Power to the pump Check in the following order: 1. Make sure the Control box is on and the machine software is running in a pretest menu. 2. Make sure there is power to the electrical box. 3. Make sure the machine limit switch is not tripped or stuck in the tripped position. 4. Make sure the stop button is reset to the on state (Many machines have a twist to unlock switch). 5. Make sure the machine is not showing an overloaded condition on the input load signal.

Question 51

The position is not changing on the display when the ram is raised. (string style encoder box devise)

Accepted Answer

Check to see the string cable from the position devise is attached to the ram assembly. Check the encoder cable connection on both the encoder box and controller for proper installation. Replace the encoder or the encoder board in the controller.

Question 52

The pump will not come on and all the conditions are met (Mats II controller)

Accepted Answer

First: The limit switch rod on many of these machines has a dual purpose; if the crosshead has been run up and is resting on the limit it will prevent the pump from coming on. Back the adjustable crosshead off until this limit is no longer tripped.

Second: There is a pica fuse on the MMR rack in the back of the control box for each relay. The fuse is to the lower left of the relay socket on the board. The fuse is a 5 amp - plug in style that looks like a resistor.

Question 53

The pump will not start on a hvl style machine.

Accepted Answer

The limit switch rod on many of these machines has a dual purpose; if the crosshead has been run up and is resting on the limit it will prevent the pump from coming on. Back the adjustable crosshead off until this limit is no longer tripped.

Question 54

The pump will not start on a hvl style machine with partner or merlin software.

Accepted Answer

The computer must be on, the software loaded, in an application and the load cell calibrated.

Question 55

What are my technical support coverages and options?

Accepted Answer

You have four options: 
1) Purchase a System Support Agreement. This provides you with priority in the call queue, remote access to our engineering staff, discounts and additional services for one full year. 
2) Sign-on to our Consultation Service line. This Fee based support provides you with priority in the call queue for those times that you just specific help. 
3) Limited Free Technical Support on a call back basis. 
4) Schedule a Field Service Engineer to visit your site.

Question 56

What oil does my BTE, Baldwin or Southwark machine use?

Accepted Answer

If the machine has the original Helishaw pump one can use Mobile DTE Extra Heavy. This oil is 600 SSU at 100 degrees F. If you tell you oil supplier this information and he can not find Mobile DTE Extra Heavy he should be able to find a substitute.

Question 57

After opening a procedure on my model dx machine, the pump will not turn on.

Accepted Answer

The machine frame is not enabled. Enable the machine. For Partner systems, select Machine and then Enable Frame. For Merlin systems, select the Frame icon and Enable Frame. For systems operating with Partner software, the "Enable Frame Timer" setting may be enabled. Verify the status of the "Enable Frame Timer" Check Box in Partner. Select Tools/Configure/Controllers/I5500/Modify. Be sure the "Enable Frame Timer" box is NOT checked.

Question 58

After starting a procedure on my model dx machine, the live data and live graph appear on the computer monitor but the machine is not moving.

Accepted Answer

The software could be in Simulation mode. Verify that the lower right corner of the screen does not have the word "SIM". If it does, select Tools/Configure/Simulation and uncheck the "Simulate Test" box.

Question 59

I am getting this error on my model dx machine: ERROR: System lock up Test will not start Test Aborts Software post and error message stating that communication is lost Transducers will not calibrate Flashing single point LED on Diagnostic display is not present.. How do I resolve this?

Accepted Answer

Communication between the machine frame and controls is lost.

Back out of the software and then turn the PC off.

Remove power from the 5500 controller box and wait approx. 1 min.

Return power to 5500 controller and wait until the leds on the 5500 controller count down to 2. Then turn PC on and get into the testing software.

Question 60

I get this error on my model dx machine: test will not start test aborts pump shuts off software post an error message stating "Position loop failure". How do I resolve this?

Accepted Answer

First check to see if position will read by gently pulling on the string to the position encoder. If position does not read, check the position encoder assembly for damage. If position is reading correctly check to see if the hyrdaulic ram is sitting at the bottom. If the ram is on the bottom start the pump and move the ram up approxiaately 6 mm (.25 in), zero all measurements, and calibrate all transducers.

Question 61

Software posts an error message stating "Control panel watchdog timeout"

Accepted Answer

Communication has been lost with the user control panel. Check the cable for the user control panel for damage. If damage is found contact the Instron Hardware Technical Support Department at 800-473-7378.

Question 62

Can I convert my test results to a rockwell c scale from a tukon micro indentation tester?

Accepted Answer

NO, both ASTM E-140 and the Wilson Conversion Wall Chart stipulates a minimum load for a Knoop test is 500 grams. To get a Wilson Wall Chart contact the Sales Dept at 800-695-4273.

Question 63

Can I perform regular tests on my superficial rockwell tester?

Accepted Answer

No, you can not.

Question 64

Can I perform superficial tests on my regular Rockwell?

Accepted Answer

No, you can not.

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