Aerospace & Defense Technology - December 2023 - 12

Composites
inspection. Other single column stand
models are optimal for simple load, distance,
and break applications as well as
more complex material testing such as
performing tests for tensile strength,
stress, or strain. Dual column stands
are well suited for the previously mentioned
tests as well as for higher load
capacity testing.
Fixtures are required on every test
stand. These components securely hold
a workpiece during a test to ensure accurate
and repeatable results every time.
Fixtures are the largest category of components
for a test system for properly
accommodating the thousands of applications
where force and material testing
is used. Examples of fixtures include
platens, vice-action types, rope/ bollard,
flexural, wedge-action, eccentric rollers
and many more.
Load cells are also required for every
Precise.
Consistent.
Innovative.
test stand. A load cell is a type of strain
gage and is the part of the system
which measures the amount of force
being applied during a test. There are
various load cell configurations and
capacities, depending on the test stand
being used. However, there are three
primary load cell types such as fullbridge,
" S-beam " , temperature compensated
gage instruments designed
and optimized for basic force testing
applications. These S-beam sensors feature
high axial stiffness and minimal
deflection at full capacity, improving
measurement accuracy. Also, models
with a similar design but with low profile
sensors are optimized for material
testing applications.
A third versatile load cell type is
High-precision Products for
the Aerospace Industry
As a leader in deep-drawn and electroformed components and
assemblies, Alpha Metalcraft companies have extensive experience
delivering highly precise and complex products to meet the needs
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designed for force measurement, as well
as some material testing applications.
Considerations for sensor selection
include economy and value, non-laboratory
environments where dirt, oil,
dust, and debris may be present and the
load requirements.
Software is an integral part of every
SCAN TO
LEARN MORE
test system and the level of complexity
of the tests being performed will determine
the optimal choice. Software is
available for force applications including
incoming inspection, high-volume
inspection, demanding and complex
applications. Software is also available
for advanced material testing and characterization
such as Young's Modulus,
Ultimate tensile strength and more
being performed by research and design
engineers, and quality control and test
personnel. As always, it is prudent to
discuss your application needs with
your force equipment supplier.
AlphaMetalcraft.com
12
ADT Alpha Metalcraft Ad 1223.indd 1
mobilityengineeringtech.com
This article was written by James M.
Clinton, Inside Sales Manager, The L.S.
Starrett Co. For more information, visit
www.starrettmetrology.com/force.
Aerospace & Defense Technology, December 2023
11/3/23 5:05 PM
http://info.hotims.com/84486-752 http://www.starrettmetrology.com/force http://mobilityengineeringtech.com
Aerospace & Defense Technology - December 2023

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