Test Instruments

The ever growing need for quality assurance and quality control has raised the demand for testing equipment. Test instruments refer to a wide range of tools and equipment that can be used to determine the properties of materials, efficiency of machines, and integrity of production power systems. Test instruments can be used to tell whether a rubber band is going to stretch or if a drive shaft can help to run a machine. The test instruments may run adhesion, fatigue, compression, shock, tensile, vibration and sheet tests to ensure that the material or equipment will behave in a specific way. The main types of test instruments include: 1. Scales and rulers: These instruments are used to measure length and other geo-parameters. 2. Calipers: These instruments are used to measure internal and external size of objects. 3. Vernier calipers: This is a precision tool for measuring small distances. 4. Micrometers: This is another precision tool for measuring small distances. 5. Feeler gauge: This is an instrument that comprises of fine thickened steel strips to measure gap width between bearings or other surfaces. 6. Bridge gauge: This instrument is used to measure the amount of wear of an engine bearing. 7. Line measurement tool: This tool is a set of straight assembled rod with market length for measuring wear of an engine liner. 8. Other measuring tools include Bore gauge, depth gauge, angle plate tool, flat plate, dial gauge, and oil gauging tape. When selecting a testing instrument, it is prudent to know the parameters to be tested. Not all items require every type of test. Note that the humidity and temperature of the environment in which the tests will be done should be factored when running tests. Many test instruments in the in the market today provide interchangeable test fixtures that connect top base instruments, making it possible to measure multiple characteristics at a go. Their integrated software, repeat testing, atmosphere control, and variable rotational speeds enhance usability of the test equipment.