Recently, a customer sent us some composite strips to be cut into ASTM D638 Type I tensile samples. We used the Tensilkut II, and the process was very fast and easy.
Tensilkut machines are sized for location in your testing laboratory, to be used by technicians without machining experience. The Tensilkut II is a floor model, manually operated machine; table model Tensilkut I machines are also available for labs with less space available. Visit our website at www.tensilkut.com or fill out the contact form below for more information on how Tensilkut can make your tensile specimen preparation easier!
The Tensilkut II is an efficient, cost effective way to prepare tensile samples. Recently, we cut some specimens from fiber filled composites for demonstration; the attached video shows the cutting of two ASTM D638 Type I tensile bars, from start to finish, in about 8 minutes.
This video also shows measuring of the specimen during the cutting process, which is not necessary with a properly adjusted Tensilkut machine and master template, but does demonstrate the accuracy of the system. Tensilkut machines are designed to be operated by lab personnel without previous machining experience. Please contact us today for further information on how we can help you with your testing program.
The Tensilkut II is used to easily prepare flat tensile, compression, flexural and other specimens from metals and non-metallics. This machine is designed for operation in the testing lab by technicians without previous machining experience.
The starting blank is inserted into the Tensilkut Master Template, and the clamping screws are tightened as shown in this video. The micrometer dial on the Tensilkut control head is set to its starting position, and a series of light passes are taken to cut the material from each side of the specimen. When the correct tensile specimen dimensions are achieved, the micrometer dial will stop turning, thus preventing cutting an undersized test specimen. After removing the completed ASTM E8 or other specimen from the master template, the tensile bar is ready for immediate testing.
Tensilkut Master Templates 50-92, 50-93 and 50-94 for preparing rubber test specimens in accordance with ASTM D412 Die C: Available for use on Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II models.
Also available: Templates for preparing 1″ ASTM D790 flexural specimens.
50-77 Tensilkut Template for 1.000″ wide flexural specimens in accordance with ASTM D790: for use on 10-20 and 10-40 series Tensilkut I and 10-82 Tensilkut II
Tensilkut Master Templates for preparing 1.000″ wide flexural bars in accordance with ASTM D790 are available for use on all Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II models.
50-78 Tensilkut Template for 1.000″ wide flexural specimens in accordance with ASTM D790: for use on 10-30 and 10-58 series Tensilkut I and 10-85 Tensilkut II
50-79 Tensilkut Template for 1.000″ wide flexural specimens in accordance with ASTM D790
ASTM D1822 Type S Tensile Impact bars are typically used when the available material is too small to prepare traditional impact bars. Tensilkut Engineering has a master template to fit every Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II machine which will easily prepare these test bars.
50-64 Tensilkut Master Template for preparing ASTM D1822 Type S tensile impact bars on 10-68 or 10-78 Tensilkut I and 10-88 Tensilkut II models
50-63 Tensilkut Master Template for preparing ASTM D1822 Type S tensile impact bars on select Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II models
50-62 Tensilkut Master Template for preparing ASTM D1822 Type S tensile impact bars
Tensilbits are the carbide cutting tools engineered specifically for the high speed specimen cutting achieved with the Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II. Super-sharp cutting edges combined with the proper angles of cut and relief are essential to achieve the fine shavings required for non-deformed specimen edges. The 40-74 Tensilbit is used specifically for general plastic cutting operations, and some customers have had excellent results using the 40-74 combined with very light passes to prepare specimens from hard materials such as stainless steel.
40-74 Tensilbit for plastics and hard materials
The 40-74 Tensilbit is an 8 flute, solid carbide cutter with a shank diameter of .500″. When used properly, Tensilbits can be resharpened, enabling you to extend their life.
40-74 Tensilbit: 8 flute, solid carbide
The 40-74 Tensilbit is designed for use with the 10-20 to 10-70 series Tensilkut I and all Tensilkut II models. They are in stock for immediate delivery. Please call for a price, or visit our website at www.tensilkut.com for more information on Tensilkut machines, Tensilbits and Tensilkut Master Templates.
Tensilbits are designed specifically for use with the Tensilkut I and Tensilkut II series machines. These carbide bits have a precise diameter with cutting edge angles, rakes and reliefs engineered for optimal surface finish on a variety of materials. Once a dulled cutting edge on a Tensilbit is noted, do not continue cutting your tensile specimens with that Tensilbit; permanent damage to the Tensilbit, including chipping of the edges can occur, making it impossible to resharpen the Tensilbits for extended use. A dulled edge will also result in a lesser quality surface finish, yielding inaccurate test results.
Before replacing the Tensilbit, be certain that you’ve used all available sections of your carbide Tensilbit by moving it up and down. This can be accomplished by loosening the bolt which holds the motor secure within its mount, and twisting the motor to move it up and down, allowing new sections of the carbide flutes on your Tensilbit to be used.
Tensilkut I
To install a new Tensilbit, remove the motor from its mound and loosen the collet with the wrenches provided with your Tensilkut machine. Remove the worn Tensilbit and insert the new one, sliding it far enough into the collet that it is securely held in place. Be certain that the chuck, chuck nut and Tensilbit are free of dirt and debris to insure trueness of the bit and accurate alighnment of the carbide cutting edges.
Tensilkut Engineering makes a wide variety of special templates to meet each customer’s needs. The ASTM A370 Template for making tensile samples with an 8″ gauge length is pictured at the top of this picture. Also shown is a template with bushings for drilling holes for use in pin loaded grips. Other custom configurations, including very small and very large templates, can be made.
Contact us for more information on completing your specimens.
