AMETEK Chatillon DFS2-R-ND Digital Force and Torque Tester

Overview

The AMETEK Chatillon DFS2-R-ND is a second-generation, dual-function digital force and torque tester engineered for high-reproducibility mechanical property evaluation in quality control, R&D, and production verification environments. Unlike single-purpose instruments, the DFS2-R-ND employs a modular architecture that supports both axial force (tension/compression) and rotational torque measurement within a single display unit—eliminating the need for separate dedicated testers. Its core operation relies on precision strain-gauge-based transduction: when paired with an SLC-series load cell, it measures linear mechanical load via Wheatstone bridge output; when interfaced with an STS-series torque sensor, it quantifies torsional moment through calibrated shear-strain response. The instrument’s ±0.25% full-scale accuracy meets ISO 7500-1 Class 1 requirements for force measurement systems and aligns with ASTM E4 and ISO 376 traceability frameworks. Designed for flexibility, it operates in handheld mode for field inspections or integrates seamlessly with motorized test stands (e.g., Chatillon TCD Series) for automated, repeatable protocols under GLP/GMP-regulated workflows.

Key Features

• Modular dual-mode architecture: Automatically detects and configures for either force or torque transducers—no manual setup required.
• High-contrast, backlit LCD display with 5-digit resolution and user-selectable decimal places for optimal readability in lab or factory-floor lighting conditions.
• Comprehensive real-time analysis suite: Includes peak hold (max/min), pass/fail limit checking with audible/visual alerts, statistical averaging (n = 2–99), load comparison, and programmable break detection with slope-based rupture recognition.
• Multi-unit support: Switch between force units (lbf, ozf, gf, kgf, N) and torque units (lb·in, oz·in, g·cm, N·cm, N·m) without recalibration.
• RS-232 serial interface standard—enables direct data streaming to PCs for real-time logging, report generation, or integration into MES/LIMS platforms.
• Robust mechanical design: IP54-rated enclosure, shock-absorbing housing, and reinforced mounting threads (10-32 and 5/16-18 options) ensure durability across benchtop, portable, and fixture-mounted deployments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DFS2-R-ND accommodates a broad range of physical specimens—from polymer film peel strength and medical device button actuation force to automotive fastener torque verification and pharmaceutical tablet hardness validation. Its interchangeable probe system (SPK-FMG series) supports standardized geometries including flat, pointed, V-groove, hook, and extension configurations—each rated for defined capacity ranges (50–500 lbf / 5–50 N·m). All factory-calibrated units ship with optional NIST-traceable certificates compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements. When used with NEXYGEN DF software, the system supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails, electronic signatures, and secure data archiving—making it suitable for FDA-regulated environments requiring documented measurement integrity.

Software & Data Management

NEXYGEN DF is the dedicated application software for the DFS2-R-ND platform, offering advanced configuration, real-time graphing, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and customizable reporting. It enables users to define multi-step test sequences, assign operator IDs, set dynamic upper/lower limits per test step, and export results in CSV, PDF, or XML formats. Raw data streams include timestamped force/torque values, peak events, and pass/fail status flags—facilitating root-cause analysis in nonconformance investigations. The software also supports batch-level metadata tagging (lot number, material grade, operator ID) and integrates with enterprise databases via ODBC drivers. Local firmware updates and sensor parameter loading are performed directly through the GUI—ensuring consistent metrological performance across instrument fleets.

Applications

• Quality assurance of consumer electronics: Button click force, hinge torque, flex cable pull strength.
• Medical device testing: Syringe plunger force, catheter kink resistance, surgical stapler compression load.
• Automotive component validation: Seatbelt retractor torque, HVAC flap actuation force, battery terminal retention testing.
• Pharmaceutical packaging: Blister pack puncture force, child-resistant cap torque, vial seal integrity verification.
• Materials science labs: Adhesive bond strength, textile tensile modulus, elastomer torsional hysteresis.

FAQ

Does the DFS2-R-ND require manual transducer selection before each test?

No—the instrument features automatic transducer recognition. Upon connection, it reads embedded EEPROM data from SLC or STS sensors to configure scaling, units, and calibration coefficients.
Is the NIST-traceable calibration certificate included by default?

No—it is an optional add-on. Each unit ships with a factory calibration report; the ISO/IEC 17025-accredited NIST-traceable certificate must be specified at time of order.
Can the DFS2-R-ND perform continuous real-time data logging during dynamic tests?

Yes—when connected via RS-232 to a host PC running NEXYGEN DF, it supports sampling rates up to 1,000 Hz with synchronized timestamping and buffer overflow protection.
What is the maximum recommended cable length for RS-232 communication?

For reliable signal integrity without repeaters, the maximum recommended distance is 15 meters (50 feet) using shielded twisted-pair cabling.
Are third-party load cells or torque sensors compatible with the DFS2-R-ND?

Only AMETEK Chatillon SLC and STS series sensors are fully supported. Non-OEM transducers lack the required EEPROM identification and may not initialize or calibrate correctly.