Keywords
Citation
(2002), "Zwick kit for upgrading old testers", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 54 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ilt.2002.01854aad.015
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2002, MCB UP Limited
Zwick kit for upgrading old testers
Keywords: Materials, Testing
A new retrofit digital control package from the Zwick Roell Group enables spindle-driven materials-testing machines of any age or makes to be upgraded to fully automatic operation quickly and economically.
Based on the company's recently introduced "testControl" system, the package is aimed at users keen to save the cost of a new machine and/or retain the mechanical features or special accessories of an existing tester.
It is thought to be the first add-on kit of its type available in either PC-operated or stand- alone version. Both comprise a self-contained electronics unit incorporating processor, load cell, transducer, amplifier and a high-torque stepping drive motor powerful enough for a full range of testing functions. Provision is included for connecting and adapting to the existing load frame and sensors.
Zwick says that the modular closed-loop package raises the performance of an old machine to that of a modern electronic tester. Testing becomes simpler, faster and more accurate and repeatable, and machine versatility is enhanced with more capacity to configure individual test set-ups.
With automation of measuring and control allied to close regulation of drive and positioning, there is little need for unplanned operator intervention. An adaptive controller caters for irregular characteristics such as non-linearity automatically.
Test information is also provided more rapidly. "TestControl" has an online data transmission rate of 500Hz using a standard PC, an advanced transmission protocol that facilitates the instant capture of test events in real-time.
With the PC variant, the upgraded machine can be operated by standard or master "testExpert" software, Zwick's innovative intelligent software for automatic analysis and recording.
The stand-alone version, which provides the same testing features, is intended for applications where a PC is undesirable, on the shop floor, for example.
Both models comply with IS09000 and CE requirements.
More information is available from: Zwick Testing Machines Ltd, Southern Avenue, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 OQH UK. Tel: +44 1568 615201.