At Shimadzu, our aim is to develop instruments that provide the highest level of test results. To this end, we created the AGX, the highest class of testing machine in the industry. It features a high rigidity frame; multi processors, high-speed sampling and high-accuracy automatic control; an intelligent crosshead; stroke limit switches; a high degree of safety; a smart controller equipped with a progressive user interface; and software that supports the creation of test conditions and data processing with intuitive operability.
Shimadzu has been manufacturing testing machines for more than 100 years. The AGX series is the culmination of the continuous evolution of the AUTOGRAPH based on our wealth of experience and achievements, and insights from customers around the world.
Equipped with Multi Processors and Multi Engines, Providing Ultrafast Data Acquisition and High Response Control
Shimadzu’s proprietary control box is equipped with two processors and three engine units. It provides 1 kHz high response crosshead control and 10 kHz high-speed data sampling through high-level simultaneous parallel processing, based on a meticulous timing design, and the allotment of various communications, measurement, and control functions across multiple devices.
Leave Strain Rate Control to the Machine by Utilizing New Autotuning
High-accuracy control is maintained under noisy, highly disturbed conditions, something that was hard to provide with conventional autotuning.
This high-level autotuning is achieved by using not only feedback measurement values but all measurement values in the calculations for real-time updates of the control model.
［Steel and Nonferrous Metal Testing］
Strain rate control, in which the rate of deformation measured by an extensometer is controlled to be constant, requires highly accurate control to follow rapid changes in material behavior.
Metal Tensile Test Standard: ISO 6892:2016(JIS Z 2241:2011) specifies that the allowable range of increase in strain to the yield point is ± 20% or less. The strain rate control specified in ISO 6892:2016(JIS Z 2241:2011) is possible*1 to achieve with the AGX-V for many materials.
［Practical Simulation Testing］
To maintain engine mounts and other rubber materials at a constant test force, it is necessary to gradually change the retention position to suit the characteristics of the test sample. In order to maintain the test force at a constant value, high control stability is required, with high control responsiveness and no vibrations generated due to excessive response.*2
［Free Running Compression Testing］
Stable control is achieved even in free running compression tests. In these tests, the compression indenter or bending punch is allowed to run free until it makes contact with the sample, at which point the load is increased up to a set test force. The overshoot of the target value is kept to 1 % or less of the indicated value even in free running compression tests of highly rigid materials, resulting in a high-accuracy test force retention.*2
*1 The graph is an example. The control accuracy may vary depen ding on the material properties and the surrounding environment . It does not guarantee accuracy.
*2 The graph is an example. The state of control can vary depen ding on the material properties and the surrounding environment .
Captures Instantaneous Changes
The ultra-high-speed sampling function has progressed up to a sampling rate of 10 kHz (0.1ms). Sudden and tiny changes, such as when brittle materials break, can now be assessed.
Reduces the Frequency of Load Cell Replacement
The guaranteed test force accuracy range has been enlarged to 1/2000 for an even wider range of data reliability. Even data from the very beginning of the test force application can be analyzed with confidence. Tests that previously required multiple load cell replacements to suit the test force are now supported by a single load cell, cutting back on replacement procedures and calibration expenses.
All the Data Are Synchronized and Acquired with High Accuracy A Data Logger is Not Required
The external input ports can be expanded to 20 channels. Analog input units and counter units can be selected, making it easy to acquire more data without a data logger. The load cell, extensometer, and external input ports are synchronized, and all channels are sampled simultaneously, improving the simultaneity of the data. This further improves the accuracy and reliability of the elastic modulus and other data calculated using two or more measurement values
Improved Operational Safety and Efficiency
The replacement of joints and heavy test jigs is now unnecessary as small-capacity load cells can be attached. This reduces the workload and risks involved in handling heavy objects, and can reduce replacement procedures.
ASTM Class 10 Shaft Alignment Guaranteed, an Industry First*2 ASTM Class10
This machine provides CLASS 10 shaft alignment accuracy, as prescribed in ASTM E1012. High shaft alignment accuracy heightens data reliability for high strength materials and composite materials.
Rigid Joint Included as Standard
A rigid multi joint (fixed type) has been adopted in place of the typical universal joint. In addition to improving safety and convenience, the shaft alignment accuracy has also been improved, improving measurement repeatability.
The newly designed guide column*2 is equipped with a support ring*2 that maintains a right angle with the table surface. As a result, measurement repeatability has been improved in tests of high rigidity materials and highly brittle materials, prone to the impact of frame rigidity or alignment, enabling stable testing.
?*1 Available table-top and floor models range from 300 kN to 20 kN.
*2 Only floor models from 300 kN to 20 kN are supported. Axial accuracy is guaranteed when the Shimadzu trial clamp and test specimen are connected to the main body of the tester.
The guaranteed accuracy range is up to the frame capacity (AGX -300 kNV up to 100 kN).
Protects Operators from Debris
Highly transparent, impact-resistant polycarbonate safety covers are provided as standard for the front and rear of the test space. This prevents samples from flying out when they break. An interlock function is provided, so that if the safety cover is not closed, testing and the return operation are prevented, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Using optional accessories, all movement including the jog operation can be prohibited.
Prevents Jig Impacts
The intelligent crosshead always recognizes its current position. If the jigs get too close due to an operational error, an impact warning is issued, and the crosshead is stopped automatically.
Contact Detection and Instantaneous Emergency Stop
The machine status is diligently monitored even when the crosshead is moved with the safety cover open, such as when adjusting the position of test jigs or attaching samples. If the machine detects the test force changes due to contact with jigs or hands, the crosshead performs an emergency stop.
Overload Detection Function
If the machine detects a test force exceeding the load cell capacity, the crosshead stops automatically. This reduces the risk of load cell damage from overloads during the jog operation and during testing. (Note that the possibility of damage cannot be completely eliminated.)
Pinch, Position, and Release Grips
A stroke limit switch, which sets the limits of crosshead movement, prevents crosshead and jig impacts. A spring mechanism within the switch reliably sets the position when the hand is released, preventing configuration errors due to procedural mistakes such as insufficient tightening.
Machine’s Self-Diagnostic Function
The function constantly monitors sensor amplifler calibration information, the operational status of the testing machine, the power supply voltage, and the communications status. The user is immediately notifled when a problem occurs. Additionally, the usage time and number of uses of the machine are checked, and a notification is issued when prescribed values are reached. This assists with the assessment of maintenance periods and helps reduce downtime. (It does not detect offsets in measurement values from load cells and extensometers due to age-related changes. Periodic maintenance and inspections by a field engineer are recommended.)
The multi joint, which connects jigs to load cells, enables all jigs, including tensile, compression, and bending jigs, to be connected easily. The replacement of heavy joints is no longer needed, which simplifies the replacement of test jigs. A small-capacity load cell can be connected to the tip, so tests with small-capacity load cells can be performed with a large-capacity load cell attached as is.
The controller is equipped with a touch panel LCD, which displays the optimal buttons and information for the situation. It shows a variety of operations and informational displays, including jig space adjustments prior to testing and confirmation of measurement values during tests. A universal interface standardized with the software has been adopted to support all kinds of testing by high operability and visibility.
Selection of operation sound according to environment
The special AUTOGRAPH operational sounds are adjustable. Select from a pleasant sound quality enhancing operational comfort or a sound that is easy to hear even in noisy conditions. (The sound can also be turned OFF.)
Voice alerts
A voice message warns the operator before the crosshead moves, preventing mistakes by the operator. (The sound can also be turned OFF.)/p>
Finish Settings and Operations with a Hand-Held Controller
Configure Optimal Grip Space
Automatically
With the intelligent crosshead function, the crosshead moves to ensure a user-defined jig separation. The jig separation is constantly monitored to prevent impacts between jigs. (The jigs must be pre-registered.) Additionally, the jig separation movement can be performed automatically in accordance with the test conditions by interlinking it with TRAPEZIUMX-V.
Perform the Opening/Closing of
Grips from a Single Controller
Using a hand-held controller, both pneumatic and hydraulic type grips can be opened and closed automatically. This controller improves productivity since everything needed to prepare for measurements, from crosshead movement and testing conditions settings to hydraulic adjustments, can generally be implemented.
Check Detailed Settings with
a Hand-Held Controller
The user can check the overview of the test conditions, set the sound, configure power saving settings, and set the system language. In addition to improving operational efficiency, pop-ups that check operations prior to movement reduce the risk of operational mistakes.
