Deflectometer
Deflection is measured with a single arm with an attached spherical contact tip, similar to those on a dial indicator. The full bridge strain gaged construction provides an electrical output compatible with any electronics designed for a strain gaged transducer.
The magnetic base furnished with the gage can be mounted to the desired reference surface, whether flat or round. The tip can then be positioned to measure the deformation encountered during the test. The magnetic base can only be used for low and standard temperature testing. Elevated temperature testing requires additional support considerations.
All models feature a spring loaded arm that can break free in the event of excessive displacement, protecting the deflection gauge from damage. The upper arm exerts a small spring force against the specimen, which is sufficient to allow dynamic cyclic testing if desired, yet light enough in force to avoid influence on the test. Because small variations in arm length can result in changes in the system calibration, the 3540 includes a mechanical stop for repeatable placement of the arm in situations where it becomes detached.
These units come standard with the arm set to measure downward deflections when oriented in the upright position. They can be used upside down or in any orientation. They may also be configured with the extensometer arm spring loaded downward. Specify this if desired. Note that the measuring ranges listed are total displacement.
The Model 3540 extensometers are strain gaged devices, making them compatible with any electronics designed for strain gaged transducers. Most often they are connected to a test machine controller. The signal conditioning electronics for the extensometer is typically included with the test machine controller or may often be added. In this case the extensometer is shipped with the proper connector and wiring to plug directly into the electronics. For systems lacking the required electronics, Epsilon can provide a variety of solutions, allowing the extensometer output to be connected to data acquisition boards, chart recorders or other equipment.
