TESTING | MATERIALS
technologies and efficient processes,” says Alexan- der Ebenbeck, SKZ Sales Manager Testing. “With the introduction of DSPro@skz, we can perform standard tests more cost-effectively than ever before.”
Melt measurement The latest generation of melt index testers from Instron — the MFi5 and MFi7 — are designed to handle a wide range of tasks, from monitoring incoming materials to product development and process control. Preset capabilities make the compact, manually operated MFi5 ideal for fast and reliable measurements, while the modular MFi7 can be used to accommodate increasing volumes. Both are suitable for test temperatures from 50°C to 450°C and are equipped with test weights from 0.1 to 21.6kg. The new models are said to cover the full range
of requirements for standard melt index tests in accordance with ISO 1133 and ASTM D1238, Methods A, B and C. Each system is operated via a 7” capacitive colour touchscreen. Optional equip- ment includes a motor-driven cutting device for precise, repeatable separation of the extrudate, automatic die plug opening, special pistons for high flow materials with high MFR (1600 g/10 min and more), and the use of corrosion-resistant steel for cylinders, pistons, and dies. A motorised lifting device is an additional
Below: TÜV Rheinland and now conduct UKCA certifica- tion in accord- ance with the new UK
Medical Device Regulations
feature of the MFi7, providing automatic, operator- independent application of test masses, while an easily removable die retainer facilitates cleaning. An automatic material compaction system is also included, as is automated purging and cylinder cleaning. Load-cell controlled compaction and emptying phases are said to avoid unwanted operator influence on results and help boost efficiency.
The latest additions to the Instron line of melt flow testers include the MFi7
IMAGE: INSTRON
Other options include a manual mass selector, and a safety cover that prevents unintentional access to the machine’s test area. Three inputs via the user interface create test methods quickly and easily, while user permissions can be set up individually and test results displayed in the form of real-time graphs. The MFi series of test equipment is supported
by Instron’s Bluehill Melt laboratory software, which is designed to simplify user training and test setup. Using the software, test methods can be deployed to any number of recipients, multiple measurement systems can be managed over a wired network, and reports can be generated, saved, and exported automatically. In addition, the InSkill app AI-driven support tool can be used to submit support requests and view the system’s calibration certifi- cates and service history. The latest developments of the Suntest CPS+
and XLS+ xenon instruments from Atlas Material Testing Technology aim to improve simulation of the effect of natural sunlight, moisture, and heat on UV durability and stability. The SunCool air chiller extension, for example, is designed to accelerate shelf-life testing (ASLT) of consumer products with transparent packaging. According to the company, a Suntest unit equipped with the Atlas StoreLight filter and SunCool chiller feature can replicate the effect of light exposure on packaging and product stability, simulating a day of product shelf-life in 30 minutes.
Atlas has also recently expanded the range of
pre-programmed tests for its Xenotest 220+ and 440 instruments, the latter now coming with a total of 15 on board covering common test methods for textiles, polymers, coatings, automotive interior and exterior.
50 COMPOUNDING WORLD | March 2024
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IMAGE: TÜV RHEINLAND
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