Electromechanical Universal Testing Machine: Torsion Add-On 3.0

The Torsion Add-On 3.0 testing machine from Instron has been redesigned recently to carry out torsional and axial loading on materials and components simultaneously on any 5900 or 6800 Series table model system. This feature enables users to increase product development capabilities and mimic real-world applications of their products.

The Torsion Add-On 3.0 has been integrated completely with Bluehill Universal software to provide an easy solution to characterize the performance of automotive components, consumer products, medical devices, packagingand electronics that necessitate both torsional and axial testing.

The testing machine can also comply with different international testing standards such as ASTM F543, ISO 80369, ISO 11040-4and many more.

Instron® | Torsion Add-On 3.0 for Electromechanical Testing SystemsPlay

Video Credit: Instron - USA

Capabilities

Users can Simulate Real-World Use of Their Product

Functional testing involves the simulation of real world applications of users’ products. Various consumer products, specifically packaging for food, pharmaceuticals, makeup, etc. are subjected to simple multi-axis loading. It is crucial to ensure consistent quality of the end-user experience for the long term growth and success of the product.

Torsion Add-On on 6800 Series Single Column Universal Testing System. Image Credit: Instron - USA

Accelerate Product Development

Ensuring that the products are durable under biaxial loading is vital while creating new products in the electronics and medical device industries. Several companies separate the torsional-only and axial-only testing processes. But if both tests are combined, laboratories can reduce the total time taken for the tests and accelerate the process of product development.

Save Lab Benchtop Space

For several laboratories, benchtop space is expensive real estate. The laboratories that carry out torsional-only and axial-only tests on separate machines can save space by including torsion capabilities in their conventional axial-only machine. The add-on is compatible with both single-column and dual-column table models.

Torsion Add-On On Single and Dual Column Universal Testing Systems. Image Credit: Instron - USA

Integrated Handset for 6800 Series with the Torsion Add-On. Image Credit: Instron - USA

What is New in 3.0?

Improved durability and more sturdy design

In-built with 6800 Series handset for safe and ergonomic operation

Software and system icons are coordinated for clear indication of the rotary direction

New Rotate to Angle Feature enables users to move quickly to a specific angle

Specifications

Maximum angular speed of 80 RPM

Torque capacity of up to ±20 N-m or ±177 in-lbf

Angular resolution of 0.001°

Ability to be integrated to any new or existing 5900 or 6800 single-column or table model system

Compatible with Bluehill Universal’s large library of calculations and Traceability Module to comply with 21 CFR Part 11 standard

Supported by Instron local service

IQ/OQ documentation provided

Common Applications

Luer Lock Connections

Medical devices universally use Luer connections to guarantee secure, leak-free connections. Thus, they require rigorous testing. The ISO 80369 standard describes the procedures to test the functionality of these devices properly and necessitates biaxial testing to characterize the Luer connection. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 is perfect for carrying out such tests and can satisfy all the needs mentioned in the testing annexes.

Instron® | Low-Torque Testing of Luer Connections to ISO 80369Play

Video Credit: Instron - USA

Glass Syringes

In general, pre-filled glass syringes are tested to comply with ISO 11040-4 standards. When compared to plastic syringes, glass syringes are more prone to failure, and thus a broader range of tests must be performed on them. ISO 11040 lays out 10 mechanical tests, which include torque, needed to characterize the syringe completely. An axial system equipped with the Torsion Add-On 3.0 can fulfill the entire requirements of the standard.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Glass SyringesPlay

Video Credit: Instron - USA

Pen Injector

Pen injectors are often used for drug management in patients suffering from chronic diseases. These devices enable patients to self-administer their medication simply and reliably. It is crucial for these devices to work as desired by providing a precise dose that the patient can easily self-administer. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 offers the potential to characterize push-button activation, cap removaland dial dose forces on a single test system.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Pen InjectorsPlay

Medical and Consumer Packaging

Packaging provides the first impression of a product on an end-user. It is highly crucial to be in a position to characterize and test packaging accurately to ensure package secureness consistency and ease of opening.

Several packages need simultaneous torsional and axial forces for proper testing, such as pharmaceutical bottles tested in compliance with ASTM D7860. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 has the ability to ensure more realistic testing for developing high-quality packaging.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Consumer PackagingPlay

Bone Screws

Bone screws are applied in surgical procedures to secure osteosynthesis devices, implants, or fracture fixation plates to the skeletal system. During normal clinical use, a surgeon uses combined torsional and axial forces to the bone screw while implanting them inside the body. The Torsion Add-On can test bone screws in compliance with ASTM F543 to characterize the mechanical properties and assess new designs and materials.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Bone ScrewsPlay

Tubing, Cables, and Wires for Medical and Electronics Applications

Medical tubing finds a range of applications and procedures. Navigating through a complicated network of arterial cavities, guidewiresand tubing will experience both torsional and axial forces as they get pressed against the arterial wall. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 helps assess the biaxial characteristics of these products to avoid failures during a procedure and potential risks to a patient.

Electronics cables and wires undergo twisting when they are snaked through and around different components. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 can help create more durable components that have a longer service.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Electrical WiresPlay

Flexible Electronics

Flexible displays and circuit boards are now being used in more and more products. With the increase in their demand, the need for testing also increases. Biaxial tests enable manufacturers to ensure that the circuitry within their products is strong and can ensure long-term use. The Torsion Add-On 3.0 offers operators the ability to create biaxial testing procedures to quickly assess the durability of circuit boards and flexible displays.

Instron® | Torsion Testing Flexible ElectronicsPlay

Buttons and Switches

The design of several products includes buttons and switches, and these products must thus go through intensive development. Mechanical testing helps characterize the tactical feedback of buttons and switches to enhance the experience of users. It is possible to program the Torsion Add-On 3.0 easily to carry out these tests, simulating real-world conditions.

Button and switch torsion testing. Image Credit: Instron - USA