Instron 6800 - Page 22

Chapter: Introduction
22 M10-17547-EN
• Load frame to be retrofitted
• Retrofit Controller
• Load cell mounted to the crosshead
• Grips for tension testing or table-mounted anvils on a platen for compression
testing.
• Bluehill
®
Operator Dashboard with Instron Bluehill
®
software.
Special fixtures are available for applications such as flexure and peel testing. For strain
measurement, an optional strain gauge extensometer attaches to the specimen. You
can use non-contacting extensometers with specimens that are unable to support a
contacting extensometer. Contact your regional Instron
®
office or check our web site at
www.instron.com for assistance with Instron’s grips and fixtures.
The following table defines the components of the testing system:
Table 3. Testing System Components
Component Description
Load Frame The load frame comprises a base, one or two columns, a moving crosshead,
and a top plate. It is a high stiffness support structure against which the test
forces react.
Each column comprises a guide column and a ballscrew. The crosshead is
mounted on both the guide column and the ballscrew. Rotation of the
ballscrew drives the crosshead up or down while the guide column provides
stability.
Retrofit Controller The hardware that controls the frame and any ancillary equipment connected
to the testing system. The controller panel contains all the connectors for load
cells, extensometers and any other sensors that are required for testing.
Indicator Panel Indicators showing the status of the testing system.
Handset Holds all of the controls for the testing system.
Load String Comprises all of the components that you install between the moving
crosshead and the load frame base (or fixed crosshead). Typically this involves
a load cell, a set of grips, any adapters that are required to connect the
components, and the specimen to be tested.
Typically, you mount a load cell on the crosshead, then a pair of grips or
fixtures on the load cell and frame base. The grips or fixtures secure the
specimen and when you start a test the crosshead moves up or down applying
a tensile or compressive load to the specimen. The load cell converts this load
into an electrical signal that the software measures and displays.
Bluehill
®
Software Instron
®
testing software that controls the testing system, running tests and
analyzing test data to produce test results.