Shear test machines are universal testing machines specially configured to evaluate shear strength or maximum shear stress. A shear test is performed when shear forces cause one surface of a material to move in one direction and the other surface to move in the opposite direction so that the material is stressed in a sliding motion. Shear tests are unique because the forces applied are parallel to the two contact surfaces. In tension and compression tests the force applied is perpendicular to the contact surface. The most common materials tested in shear are metal, plastic, ceramic, composite substrates, adhesives, layered composites and glued assemblies.
Each shear tester is configured to your requirements by our application engineers with the correct controller, grips, and an extensometer if you would like to accurately measure sample shear strain. Due to our modular machine design, your shear test machine can also be equipped to perform other applications such as tensile, cyclic, compression, flexure, bend, peel, and tear by adding appropriate fixtures.
Selecting a Shear Test Machine
Your first step to choosing the correct shear tester is to determine your specimen geometry, size and strength characteristics. Armed with this information our applications engineer can identify the test machine capacity and correct fixtures needed to shear your sample. The next step is to decide the test data you want which will help confirm the best controller and test software for your test, and if you need an extensometer.
| Type | Series | Type | Force Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electromechanical | 100 Series | Modular | up to 10 kN (2,250 lbf) |
| Electromechanical | 200 Series | Single Column | up to 5 kN (1,125 lbf) |
| Electromechanical | 300 Series | Dual Column | up to 600 kN (135 kip) |
100 Series Modular Shear Test Machines
Type: Electromechanical
Force: up to 10 kN (2,250 lbf)
100 Series Electromechanical Shear Test Machines are modular tabletop systems ideal for shear tests requiring load capacities up to 10 kN (2,250 lbf). This affordable series includes five lightweight load frames and four actuators that deliver different force/speed capacities. We offer both an affordable and a premium level controller and test software, and a selection of load cells from the full scale actuator rating down to sub-gram load levels. The 100 Series is our most flexible series, making them a popular choice.
200 Series Single Column Shear Test Machines
Type: Electromechanical
Force: up to 5 kN (1,125 lbf)
200 Series Single Column Shear Test Machines are capable of performing shear, compression, and tensile testing applications and feature higher travel and faster speed than the 100 Series. They are available with force capacities up to 5 kN (1,125 lbf) and speeds up to 2,500 mm/min (100 ipm). 200 Series load frames are compact and lightweight and apply to situations where lab table space is limited.
300 Series High Force Shear Test Machines
Type: Electromechanical
Force: up to 600 kN (135 kip)
As our most popular test machines, the 300 Series Electromechanical Shear Test Machines are the best choice for performing static compression applications at forces between 1 kN and 600 kN (225 lbf and 135 kip). These dual column testers are available in both tabletop and floor standing models which can perform a variety of other tests including Tensile, Bend, Bond, Flexural, Fracture, Peel, Shear, Tear, Stress Relaxation, and Short term Creep tests.
Shear Testing Machine Accessories
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