Shimadzu Autograph AGS-X2 Series Universal Testing Machine

Overview

The Shimadzu Autograph AGS-X2 Series Universal Testing Machine is an electromechanical materials testing system engineered for high-precision static mechanical characterization of metals, polymers, composites, ceramics, and biomedical specimens. It operates on a closed-loop servo-controlled architecture, utilizing precision ball-screw drive mechanisms and high-stiffness load frames to deliver stable force application and displacement control in tension, compression, bending, peel, shear, and cyclic loading configurations. Compliant with international standards including ISO 7500-1 (static calibration of force-proving instruments), ASTM E4 (load verification), and ISO 5893 (tensile testing machines), the AGS-X2 series supports traceable, auditable test execution required in quality control laboratories, R&D facilities, and third-party certification environments.

Key Features

• Precise Dual-Mode Control: Simultaneous and independent real-time control of stress rate (MPa/s) and strain rate (mm/min or %/min), with automatic parameter adaptation based on specimen stiffness and crosshead position feedback.
• Extended Load Accuracy Range: Maintains ISO 7500-1 Class 0.5 accuracy across 0.2% to 100% of full-scale sensor capacity — enabled by Shimadzu’s proprietary multi-range load cell technology and digital signal conditioning with 24-bit ADC resolution.
• High-Speed Crosshead Return: Achieves up to 2200 mm/min return speed at 20 kN capacity, reducing non-testing cycle time and improving throughput in high-volume QA/QC workflows.
• Ultra-High Data Acquisition Rate: Supports sampling intervals as short as 1 ms (1000 Hz), capturing transient deformation events such as yield point onset, crack initiation, or viscoelastic relaxation without aliasing.
• Integrated Safety Architecture: Includes dual redundant emergency stop circuits (hardware-level cutoff), single-button stroke limiter with programmable soft/hard limits, interlocked transparent polycarbonate safety enclosure, and touch-sensitive load detection that halts motion upon unintended contact during setup.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AGS-X2 accommodates standard and custom test specimens per ISO 6892-1 (metallic tensile), ASTM D638 (plastics), ISO 527 (polymer tensile), ASTM C293 (flexural strength of concrete), and ISO 1133 (melt flow index auxiliary fixtures). Optional accessories include pneumatic wedge grips, hydraulic side-action clamps, environmental chambers (−70 °C to +300 °C), extensometers (contact and non-contact), and video extensometry systems. All mechanical and electrical designs conform to IEC 61000-6-2 (EMC immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (EMC emissions), while safety systems meet EN ISO 13857 and EN 60204-1 requirements for industrial machinery.

Software & Data Management

Trained on Shimadzu’s proprietary TRAPEZIUM X software platform, the AGS-X2 supports fully customizable test methods, multi-step loading profiles (ramp-hold-relax, staircase, creep, stress relaxation), and automated report generation compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements. The software includes audit trail functionality with user authentication, electronic signatures, and immutable data logging aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 expectations. Raw data export is available in CSV, XML, and universal .tdms formats; integration with LIMS and MES systems is supported via OPC UA and TCP/IP protocols.

Applications

Typical use cases span aerospace component validation (e.g., titanium alloy fasteners per AMS 2300), automotive material qualification (steel sheet formability per VDA 238-100), medical device testing (suture tensile strength per ISO 10993-12), packaging integrity assessment (peel strength of laminated films per ASTM F88), and construction material certification (reinforcing bar yield strength per ASTM A615). Its modular design allows seamless transition between routine QC checks and advanced research protocols requiring high-resolution force-displacement mapping.

FAQ

What load frame capacities are available in the AGS-X2 series?
The AGS-X2 series offers standardized models with nominal load capacities of 20 kN, 50 kN, 100 kN, 200 kN, and 300 kN — each calibrated and certified to ISO 7500-1 Class 0.5 or Class 1.
Is the system compatible with third-party extensometers?
Yes — TRAPEZIUM X supports analog and digital inputs from major extensometer vendors (e.g., MTS, Zwick, Epsilon) via standardized voltage/current interfaces and TTL synchronization signals.
Can test methods be locked to prevent unauthorized modification?
Yes — administrator-defined method templates can be set as read-only, with version-controlled revisions tracked in the audit log and enforced via role-based access permissions.
Does the system support GLP/GMP-compliant data archiving?
Yes — all raw test data, metadata, operator logs, and calibration records are stored in a tamper-evident database with SHA-256 hashing and optional encrypted backup to network-attached storage (NAS) or cloud repositories.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term accuracy?
Shimadzu recommends annual recalibration of load cells and displacement transducers by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited service provider, with quarterly functional verification using certified reference standards per ASTM E4 guidelines.