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By Lisa Novotny
Thin films are used in many industries and applications, from energy production to medical treatments. These films are typically cut into rectangular shapes of uniform size and then tested according to ASTM D882 and ISO 517-3 standards. These two standards are internationally recognized for their use in the evaluation of physical properties of thin films such as tensile strength and elongation.
Types of Grips for Thin Film Plastics Testing
Finding the right grip for thin film plastics testing can be a tricky process, especially when there are so many options available. It's important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each grip type so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Pneumatic Side Action Grips for Thin Films
Most versatile and provides the most accurate and repeatable results
Pneumatic side action grips provide a flexible gripping for a variety of materials. The gripping force is adjusted based on the inlet air pressure which remains consistent even if the specimen's thickness changes significantly as the sample is stretched. Because thin film samples are likely to become extremely thin during testing, the consistent clamping pressure makes pneumatic side-action grips stand out from other grips and ensures the highest consistency in the results in these materials.
The downside is that pneumatic side action grips can be a little more difficult to operate, as they require the user to apply pressure to the film with the grips, which can be a little more time consuming and difficult, especially for automated applications. Pneumatic side action grips are not effective for testing soft flexible materials.
Roller Grips for Thin Films
Simple to operate and cost effective
Roller grips clamp the sample by a spring loaded smooth steel surfaced horizontal cylinder that presses against a flat surface, carefully squeezing the flat and thin test sample. The line contact points of the two grips are then used for measuring sample strain.
Screw Side Action Grips for Thin Films
Capable of handling large rolls of film but are more difficult to operate
Screw side action grips are an option to consider if other thin film gripping methods are unsuccessful. These grips have a comparable construction to pneumatically operated side action grips, with the exception that they involve a rotating screw that must be manually tightened in order to secure the sample. Unfortunately, the inability to maintain gripping pressure throughout the entire testing process makes them more challenging to operate.
Accurate and reliable testing of thin film specimens is essential in a variety of industries. Testing thin film specimens without any reduction in gauge length can be challenging due to their fragile nature and potential decrease in cross-sectional area. It’s important to get the right grip for your application. Contact us for help choosing the right grip for your application.
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What is the price of a Universal Test Machine?
Updated in 2023
What is the price of a Universal Test Machine?
Updated in 2023
In 2023 the price of a universal test machine ranges from $12 900 to $150 000. The 3 main factors that affect the cost are force test space and controller with force capacity having the most impact.
Low force (ranging from 1 kN to 25 kN max force) universal test machines range in price from $12 900 to $30 000.
Medium force (ranging from 50 kN to 150 kN max force) universal test machines range in price from $32 000 to $57 000.
High force (ranging from 300 kN to 2 000 kN max force) universal test machines range in price from $77 000 to $150 000.
Let's refine those ranges a bit more
The higher the max force of the machine of the more metal is required. More metal means more cost. The larger the space required for the test specimen (or for an environmental chamber) the larger the frame needs to be. Additionally the total travel required for test setup and the test also impact the size of the frame and or actuator. Larger frames and actuators cost more. long travel ranges also cost more. Increased test speeds require bigger motors that cost more.
Similarly the higher the max force the more expensive the grips and fixtures. But the reverse can also be true very small fixtures and grips can have a higher price
Other factors that refine the price
The type of test affects the type of grips or fixtures as well as the software packages to run the test. In addition the type of test can affect the max travel and speed required. Again in general higher speeds and longer travel can increase the price of the tester. Some test types (e.g. metal tensile test) require a strain channel or an extensometer.
Versatility. Purchasing a system with the flexibility to perform multiple tests can cost more because of the number of variables involved. Many of our machines are designed from the ground up for flexibility.
Options: Video camera extensometers chambers and additional control channels (torsion). Additional channels of data instrumentation including signal conditioners digital IO's and more!
What Is the Price of a Tensile Test Machine?
In 2023 the price of a tensile test machine ranges from $12 900 to $150 000. The 3 main factors that affect the cost are force test space and controller with force capacity having the most impact. A tensile test machine would include tensile grips and perhaps an extensometer. Low force (ranging from 1 kN to 25 kN max force) tensile test machines range in price from $12 900 to $30 000. Medium force (ranging from 50 kN to 150 kN max force) tensile test machines range in price from $32 000 to $57 000. High force (ranging from 300 kN to 2 000 kN max force) tensile test machines range in price from $77 000 to $150 000.
Let's refine that price
Like UTM’s the maximum force capability and the size of the test space are big factors in the price of a tensile tester. A tensile test machine for metals is typically going to be more expensive than a tensile tester for plastics. Tensile testing a plastic inside a temperature chamber will typically require a taller frame and actuator than without a chamber and therefore will be more expensive.
Software controls and options
The price can vary greatly depending on the software you need. Industry standard specific software modules enhanced features and custom calculations are just a few of the options to choose from with Newton. Pre-configured software packages range from basic to premium tensile testing software or configure your own by adding tensile testing specific software modules.
The main difference from UTMs
Adding tensile grips to a UTM is what makes a universal tensile tester. There are over 25 different styles of tensile grips. The type of grips you require affect the overall price of your machine.
What Is the Price of a Flexural Bend Test Machine?
In 2023 the price of a bend test machine ranges from $12 900 to $150 000. The 3 main factors that affect the cost are force test space and controller with force capacity having the most impact. A bend test machine would include a bend fixture. Low force (ranging from 1 kN to 25 kN max force) bend test machines range in price from $12 900 to $30 000. Medium force (ranging from 50 kN to 150 kN max force) bend test machines range in price from $32 000 to $57 000. High force (ranging from 300 kN to 2 000 kN max force) bend test machines range in price from $77 000 to $150 000.
Let's refine that price
Like UTM's the maximum force capability and the size of the test space are big factors in the price of a bend tester. A bend test machine for metals is typically going to be more expensive than a bend tester for plastics. Bend testing a plastic or composite inside a temperature chamber will typically require a taller frame and actuator than without a chamber and therefore will be more expensive.
Software controls and options
The price can vary greatly depending on the software you need. Industry standard specific software modules enhanced features and custom calculations are just a few of the options to choose from with Newton. Pre-configured software packages range from basic to premium bend testing software or configure your own by adding bend testing specific software modules.
The main difference from UTMs
Adding bend grips to a UTM is what makes a universal bend tester. There are 4 different styles of bend grips. The type of grips you require affect the overall price of your machine.
What Is the Price of a Compression Test Machine?
In 2023 the price of a compression test machine ranges from $12 900 to $150 000. The 3 main factors that affect the cost are force test space and controller with force capacity having the most impact. A compression test machine would include compression platens. Low force (ranging from 1 kN to 25 kN max force) compression test machines range in price from $12 900 to $30 000. Medium force (ranging from 50 kN to 150 kN max force) compression test machines range in price from $32 000 to $57 000. High force (ranging from 300 kN to 2 000 kN max force) compression test machines range in price from $77 000 to $150 000.
Let's refine that price
Like UTM's the maximum force capability and the size of the test space are big factors in the price of a compression tester. A compression test machine for concrete is typically going to be more expensive than a compression tester for foam. Compression testing a cement block will typically require a stronger frame and actuator and therefore will be more expensive.
Software controls and options
The price can vary greatly depending on the software you need. Industry standard specific software modules enhanced features and custom calculations are just a few of the options to choose from with Newton. Pre-configured software packages range from basic to premium compression testing software or configure your own by adding compression testing specific software modules.
The main difference from UTMs
Adding compression platens to a UTM is what makes a universal compression tester. There are 4 different styles of compression test fixtures. The type of grips you require affect the overall price of your machine.
What Is the Price of a Peel Test Machine?
In 2023 the price of a peel test machine ranges from $12 900 to $150 000. The 3 main factors that affect the cost are force test space and controller with force capacity having the most impact. A peel test machine would include peel test fixtures. Low force (ranging from 1 kN to 25 kN max force) peel test machines range in price from $12 900 to $30 000. Medium force (ranging from 50 kN to 150 kN max force) peel test machines range in price from $32 000 to $57 000. High force (ranging from 300 kN to 2 000 kN max force) peel test machines range in price from $77 000 to $150 000.
Let's refine that price
Like UTM's the maximum force capability and the size of the test space are big factors in the price of a peel tester. A peel test machine for seal strength testing is typically going to be more expensive than a peel tester for light adhesive label testing.
Software controls and options
The price can vary greatly depending on the software you need. Industry standard specific software modules enhanced features and custom calculations are just a few of the options to choose from with Newton. Pre-configured software packages range from basic to premium peel testing software or configure your own by adding peel testing specific software modules.
The main difference from UTMs
Adding peel test fixtures to a UTM is what makes a universal peel tester. There are 9 different styles of peel test fixtures. The type of grips you require affect the overall price of your machine.
Take advantage of current prices - Waiting to order could cost you more in the long run. The world is changing daily and even by the minute. We have been taking a proactive approach at managing the industry wide supply chain issues that affect both lead times and cost so we can serve you better. We are here to help!
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Orders are coming in faster than you ever imagined. That’s great BUT you still have to pass all of your testing requirements before a shipment goes out the door. You’ve hit a speed bump. No worries you've overcome bigger obstacles than this.
You've got this! Take a deep breath and let's weigh the pros and cons… should you hire a contract testing service or buy your own test machine?
Contract Testing
Pros
Low Upfront Cost - If you know that you need to perform a one time test contract testing may be the best option for you. The upfront cost is low because the contract lab already owns the machine and you are paying them to provide a service. They handle the setup running the test and provide you with the reports. You will need to analyze the results and make important decisions.
Cons
Long Setup Times - When you hire an outside company to provide a service it takes some time to plan coordinate and perform the service. They will need time to set up the system and specifications in order to meet your exact testing requirements.
Limited Testing Ability - Contract testing isn't bad if you have a very common test but it's not so good if yours is anything other than standard. Custom testing is possible with some contract testing labs but as you can imagine it comes at a premium and possibly a contract. The lab isn't going to purchase a new system just for you without a guarantee that it is worth their while and will quickly earn their money back. Custom testing can become very expensive very quickly.
Overtime The Cost Adds Up - Is your test something that you are going to re-test periodically for quality assurance? Are you wanting the flexibility to test a variety of samples? The cost could really start to add up after a while. It starts out as a tempting option because of the lower initial cost but it could easily become a money pit and leaving you wishing that you would have just bought your own machine.
And how about the extra fees? Some of the common ones are:
- Same day turn around or high priority rush jobs
- Special handling
- Return of samples
- Freight/customs
- Consulting fees
- Evaluation of test protocols
- Modifications
- And more!
Chances are that you don’t have a testing lab right across the street. It can get expensive shipping your samples and products to and from the warehouse.
The Dreaded Queue - You know what they say time is money. Sure contract testing frees you and your staff up but how much time do you have to spend with the contract lab to make sure they are going to test your product correctly? You might begin to feel like it would have been faster to just do it yourself. And what if you miss a customer deadline?
If you are expecting to test the sample multiple times anticipate more sample testing or hope to grow your business then buying new might be your best fit.
Buying Your Own Test Machine
Pros
Save Money Over Time - You need to take a look at your business goals. Are they long term goals or short term goals? Where do you see the company in 1 year how about 5 years? 10 years? If your goal is to grow then buying a test machine may be in your best interest. Once you own the machine you save money over time.
On-Demand Testing - You no longer have to wait to get on a schedule or wait for someone else. Need to run a test on a small batch of samples? You can! Want to do a quick quality test and report the results during the upcoming board meeting? No problem. You are in control.
Systems Designed to Meet Your Exact Requirements - Get a machine that is designed to your exact needs. Buying your own system provides freedom for future expansion. It’s your machines you can design it the way you want it.
Testing Flexibility - Opens you up to a wider range of applications with a few tweaks of the machine/accessories. Quick change adapters make it faster than ever to switch between a wide variety of grips and fixtures designed to handle a wide variety of test samples. Need an environmental chamber? No problem! We have what you need to be successful both now and in the future.
Tax Advantages - Did you know that you can deduct the entire purchase price of test equipment and software purchased during the tax year? With the Section 179 tax deduction you can buy or finance qualifying equipment and deduct the full purchase price from your gross income up to $1 0 000. That's right you get to write off the entire equipment purchase price during the year you buy it. Learn more about the benefits of the section 179 tax deduction
Cons
Higher Upfront Cost - The initial investment is typically more than hiring a contract testing company. Some companies aren’t comfortable making the large investment upfront for a variety of reasons. In that case contract testing may be the best option.
Cons
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Higher Upfront Cost - The initial investment is typically more than hiring a contract testing company. Some companies aren’t comfortable making the large investment upfront for a variety of reasons. In that case contract testing may be the best option.
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Trying to decide between contract testing or buying your own system? Let us help you decide which option is best for you. There are other options like used test machines upgrading your existing system and more! We will compare all the options with you so you can make an informed decision. Contact us!
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