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Sandwich Core Shear and Rigid Cellular Plastic Shear Testing Extensometers – Model 3421

For measuring shear properties of sandwich cores and rigid cellular plastics. The simple clip-on design attaches in seconds and provides repeatable test results.
Epsilon extensometers are COMPATIBLE WITH VIRTUALLY EVERY BRAND OF TEST EQUIPMENT and can be supplied with the correct connector to plug in directly, or supplied with a separate conditioner and amplifier.

Operation of these, and all of Epsilon’s extensometers, are

VERIFIED TO APPLICABLE STANDARDS SUCH AS ASTM E83 OR ISO 9513

using in-house calibration systems that are calibrated with Epsilon’s laser interferometer system.

WITH EPSILON’S 20+ YEAR HISTORY OF SERVICE

to the materials testing community, you know we will be there to stand behind our products when your critical application requires it.

Model 3421 extensometers measure shear strain of foam and honeycomb sandwich cores, as well as rigid cellular plastics. These extensometers can be used to measure shear modulus, 2% offset shear strength, and stress-strain curves prior to specimen failure. The extensometer may be used to measure strain through specimen failure with specimen fixturing to limit out-of-plane expansion. The Model 3421 may also be used for sandwich core shear fatigue testing.

The Model 3421 is applicable for testing to the following standards:
ASTM C273 Shear Properties of Sandwich Core Materials
ASTM C394 Shear Fatigue of Sandwich Core Materials
ISO 1922 Rigid cellular plastics — Determination of shear strength
DIN 53294 Testing of sandwiches; shear test
EN 12090 Determination of Shear Behavior of Thermal Insulation Products (single specimen test only)

The extensometer mounts to the test specimen’s loading plates. It attaches to the specimen in seconds and can be used with tension or compression test fixture loading. The extensometer is adjustable to work with a range of specimen thicknesses and widths, and includes a built-in scale for setting it to the specimen width.

To use the extensometer, the test operator clips it onto the specimen by squeezing two pads, placing the extensometer against the side of the specimen, and releasing the pads. The extensometer is self-supporting and no further adjustments are necessary. It is removed before failure by unclipping.

Model 3421 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 and Epsilon will equip the extensometer with a compatible connector wired to plug directly into the controller. For systems lacking the required electronics, Epsilon can provide a variety of solutions for signal conditioning and connection to data acquisition systems, chart recorders, or other equipment.

Download Data Sheet

  • Replaces homemade extension gages and LVDTs with a reliable, repeatable solution.
  • Simple clip-on design attaches in seconds.
  • May be left on through specimen failure when fixturing is used to constrain thickness expansion of the specimen.
  • Meets ASTM C273 requirements for extensometers.
  • Includes the Epsilon Shunt Calibration System for on-site electrical calibration.
  • Extensometer measuring arm has mechanical overtravel stops for durability.
  • Replaceable components for ease of repair.
  • Full bridge, 350 ohm strain gaged design for compatibility with nearly any test system.
  • Includes high quality foam lined case.

Download Data Sheet

Excitation: 5 to 10 VDC recommended, 12 VDC or VAC max.

Output: 2 to 4 mV/V

Linearity:

±5.0 mm/±0.200” measuring ranges:
≤0.003 mm for displacement values <0.3 mm
≤1.0% of reading for displacement values ≥0.3 mm

±2.5 mm/±0.100” measuring ranges:
≤0.0015 mm for displacement values <0.3 mm
≤0.5% of reading for displacement values ≥0.3 mm

Temperature Range: Standard (-ST) is -40 °C to +100 °C (-40 °F to 210 °F)

Cable: Integral, ultra-flexible cable, 2.5 m (8 ft) standard

Specimen Size: Thickness (including core and both loading plates): 20–75 mm (0.8–3.0 inches); width: 40 mm (1.5 inches) minimum, 50-150 mm (2-6 inches) typical

ce-certified

 

Download Data Sheet

  • Connectors to interface to nearly any brand of test equipment 

Download Data Sheet

Product Videos

 
Extensometer for ASTM C273 sandwich core shear testing
 

Ordering Information

Click table options to configure

Measuring Range
displacement #
±2.5 mm -025M 025M
±5.0 mm -050M 050M
±0.100 in -010T 010T
±0.200 in -020T 020T
Temperature Range
degrees #
-270 °C to 100 °C (-454 °F to 210 °F) -LT LT
-40 °C to 100 °C (-40 °F to 210 °F) -ST ST
-40 °C to 150 °C (-40 °F to 300 °F) -HT1 HT1
-40 °C to 200 °C (-40 °F to 400 °F) -HT2 HT2
-270 °C to 200 °C (-454 °F to 400 °F) -LHT LHT
Model Number:  3421 – _ _ _ __ _
Model Number:
3421 – _ _ _ __ _
Model 3421 Available Versions: Other configurations may be available with special order; please contact Epsilon to discuss your requirements.
Example: 3421-050M-ST: ±5.0 mm measuring range, standard temperature range (-40 °C to 100 °C)

Repairs/Service

If your unit is in need of service, calibration or repair, initiate the RMA process with us and we will be happy to assist.

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Download Catalog

Our 2022 Extensometer Catalog, Version 110 is now available! Not finding something you’re looking for? Ask us about a custom quote.