Ergonomic Digital Force Gauges for Broad Range of Plastic Parts

A new generation of digital force gauges that boast a unique ergonomic design that ensures a stable grip and features an easy-to-read full-color screen display with clear readings and icons for easy navigation, has been launched by Ametek Sensors, Test & Calibration’s Chatillon brand. The DF3 series force testers are finding use by manufacturers of syringes, plastic containers, toys, fasteners, and loads of plastic accessories, according to the company.

Other key features of the DF3 force testers include a rugged rubber keypad that ensures a single touch operation that corresponds to displayed options on the screen and guides its user during operation. The intuitive user interface, combined with several advanced features, makes the DF3 Series the ideal for users looking for an easy-to-use force gauge that will help them optimize their processes and save time.

Among the features that will help users become more efficient in their force testing include, the test setup functionality, where users can pre-define test setups, auto-save test results, and automatically export these for further analysis.  Also, the long battery life of up to 40 hours will increase the handheld longevity and will reduce the need for recharging. Additionally, the DF3 Series force gauges support a variety of standard gauge functions, including normal and peak readings, load averaging, break detection, high/low limits, setpoints, pass/fail results, statistical results, load cell actuation, and direction.

The DF3 Series offers two models which are available in several capacities and with a sampling rate of 30 kHz:

 ▪ DFE3 Series—An economy gauge designed for simple applications without compromising functionality. Available in capacities from 2 lbf (10 N) to 500 lbf (2500 N). Accuracy is 0.2% of full scale.
 

 ▪  DFS3 Series--A high-end gauge designed for basic and complex applications. Available in capacities from 0.5 lbf (2.5 N) to 500 lbf (2500 N). Accuracy is 0.1% of full scale.

Loads are displayed in ozf, gf, lbf, kgf and N units. The force gauges are supplied with durable carrying cases and adaptors.

With the new DF3 Series gauges, Chatillon also launched an upgrade of its force measurement software, ForceTest 3.0. The software interfaces directly to the DF3 Series force gauges to enable its users to automatically perform testing and record test graphs and data using a personal computer. The new, updated version of ForceTest offers an improved interface, filtering options, a strong raw data collection and presentation, and a comprehensive library of test result options. The software is included with the DFS3 Series force gauges or can be purchased separately as well.