Strainoptics PS-100-SF User Manual

Strainoptics PS-100-SF
Polarimeter
Quick-Start Guide
Tardy Method (Analyzer Rotation)
Note: These instructions are not meant to replace the full Strainoptics PS-100-SF instruction manual
supplied with your polarimeter. If you are not yet familiar with the initial setup, general operation, and
maintenance requirements of your instrument, or if questions arise, please refer to the complete manual
for further details. Before proceeding, we recommend that you become familiar with the names of the
various instrument components as shown in the illustration below.
1. Configure the instrument for CIRCULAR polarization as follows:
a. Verify that the Polarizer plate (not shown) is installed with the nameplate “CIRCULAR” facing
up.
b. Loosen the Analyzer Scale Lock (L). Using the Rotation Handle (H), rotate the Analyzer Scale
(S) until the number “1” on the Analyzer Scale lines up with the Analyzer Scale Lock (L). The
Reference Mark (R) should be adjacent to the number “-45” on the Protractor Scale (PS).
Tighten the Analyzer Scale Lock.
c. Using the Analyzer Knobs (K), rotate the Analyzer (A) so that the Index Marks (I) are aligned
with the number “1” and “0” on the Analyzer Scale.
d. Move the P-C handle (PC) to the “C” position (under the Rotation Handle).
2. Turn on the illuminator. When looking through the Analyzer, the field will be dark. Place the sample to
be measured on the Polarizer plate.
Strainoptics, Inc.
www.strainoptics.com (Continued on other side)
In order to calculate stress in your material, you must first know its thickness in millimeters
and its material stress constant in Brewsters. In order to use the Tardy Method of analyzer
rotation, you must first know or be able to determine the direction of principal stresses at the
point of interest. See the PS-100 instruction manual for further details.
H. Rotation Handle
S. Analyzer Scale
L. Analyzer Scale Lock
R
. Reference Mark
(set scale to -45
º
)
PS. Protractor Scale
K.
Analyzer
Knob
A. Analyzer
I.
Index
Marks
PC. P-C Handle

Strainoptics PS-100-SF Specifications

General

Category	Measuring Instruments
Model	PS-100-SF
Type	Polarimeter
Output	Digital Display
Weight	2 kg
Light Source	LED
Power Supply	50/60Hz
Dimensions	250 mm x 150 mm x 100 mm
Wavelength	589 nm

Summary

Tardy Method for Analyzer Rotation

Instrument Configuration for Circular Polarization

Steps to configure the polarimeter, including polarizer and analyzer settings for circular polarization.

Initial Setup and Sample Placement

Turn on the illuminator, verify field darkness, and place the sample on the polarizer plate.

Sample Positioning and Stress Direction

Mark the point of interest (POI), determine stress direction, and position the sample correctly.

Fringe Order Identification

Identify lower (n) and higher (n+1) fringe orders based on observed colors at the POI.

Fractional Fringe Order Measurement

Rotate the analyzer clockwise until a fringe is centered and read the fractional fringe order (f).

Calculate Total Fringe Order (N)

Calculate the total fringe order (N) using n, n+1, and f, considering fringe movement direction.

Calculate Measured Stress (S)

Use the formula S = (T * CB) / N * λ to calculate stress in MPa, given material constants.