TPT May 2009

I nspection, M easuring, T esting & M arking

Versatile mechanical testing of tube and pipe

The versatile ‘Plus’ range of high performance material testing machines, from Lloyd Instruments, can be used for a wide variety of compression and tensile testing on tube and pipe. Typical tests include ring stiffness, tensile strength and compressive strength. The Davenport™ range of polymer test instruments, such as the MFI series of melt flow indexers, can be used for the evaluation of the materials from which tube and pipe are extruded. The ‘Plus’ range features 13 universal single column and twin column materials testing instruments and tensile testers. They are designed to make accurate and repeatable force measurements in

the range from 0.1N to 300kN (0.0225lbf to 67443lbf). These versatile products are renowned for ease-of-use, excellent reliability and precision measurement. Automation of testing is achieved using NexygenPlus™ test and control software, which provides an extensive library of pre- defined test setups based on international standards. They can also be used to set up routine tests or create an advanced multi- stage test. An extensive range of standard grips, probes, fixtures and flexural jigs – with a variety of sizes, gripping surfaces, styles and capacities – allow universal material testing machines to be used in a wide range of applications. Non-standard

 A TG166 pipe compression tester

Lloyd Instruments can produce customised versions of its universal testing machines. Examples have included a special extended 100kN machine to provide 2.1m free movement to perform a ring stiffness test on pipe. Lloyd Instruments is a unit of the Ametek Measurement & Calibration Technologies Division. Both are part of Ametek Inc, a New York Stock Exchange-listed company and a leading global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electric motors with annual sales of $2.2 billion. Lloyd Instruments Ltd – UK Fax : +44 1489 885118 Email : suzanne.sharpe@ametek.co.uk Website : www.lloyd-instruments.com ranges, Aicon also assembles MoveInspect cameras with a special body temperature control. This is managed by a central unit and allows for the precise identification of the geometric changes in a temperature range between -25°C to +70°C with an accuracy of up to 10µm. The recorded 3D movements can be shown in the same reference system. The first climate-controlled MoveInspect system is in use at a German vehicle manufacturer. The company performs endurance load tests lasting several days under different environmental conditions. Aicon 3D Systems GmbH – Germany Fax : +49 531 58 000 60 Email : info@aicon.de Website : www.aicon3d.com

applications can often be accommodated through the design of a special jig or fixture to hold the particular sample. For example, a self- aligning pipe compression jig has been developed in order to evaluate the resistance to collapse of smooth-walled or corrugated pipes manufactured from PVC, PP and HDPE. Some specialised applications may require the material tester itself to be modified.

 A TS36 pipe compression jig

Dynamic measurements in extreme conditions

Aicon 3D Systems is a provider of optical camera based 3D measurement systems. The company develops and distributes systems for inspection and testing, including car safety and tube inspection. The company’s MoveInspect optical measuring system captures 3D dynamic processes and analyses them with regard to geometric changes. Due to a new climate control concept, MoveInspect is also able to analyse movements and deformations under extreme climatic conditions, for example in environmental chambers. The optical system replaces mechanical travel sensors, significantly reducing the setup work.

MoveInspect is based on a camera bar that is equipped with digital cameras, and is offered in a number of different versions. The high-end version is able to conduct tests at a frequency of 1,000Hz. The system can also be applied for endurance testing, as it records data without time limit. The results of the dynamic measurements are displayed in a clear and descriptive manner. They may also be exported to external analysis software such as DIADem. By default, MoveInspect is provided with a rugged camera body suitable for industrial requirements (IP65). For dynamic measurements over large temperature

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