Testrite MK 5 Dry Heat Shrinkage Tester
| Origin | UK |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | MK 5 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Testrite MK 5 Dry Heat Shrinkage Tester is a precision-engineered instrument designed for quantitative thermal shrinkage analysis of synthetic and natural textile fibers, filaments, and yarns—including polypropylene, nylon, polyester, cotton, and monofilaments. It operates on the principle of controlled dry-heat exposure within a calibrated, thermally stable chamber, followed by high-resolution dimensional change measurement using integrated linear displacement transduction and microprocessor-based signal processing. Unlike conventional oven-and-ruler methods, the MK 5 eliminates manual handling errors and subjective interpretation by automating sample conditioning, thermal exposure, cooling stabilization, and length-change calculation in a single, repeatable cycle. Its architecture complies with fundamental requirements of ISO 17892-7 (geotechnical testing), ASTM D629 (textile fiber standards), and ISO 2077 (yarn shrinkage test methodology), ensuring data integrity for QC laboratories operating under GLP or ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-controlled thermal chamber with PID-regulated heating and real-time temperature feedback—ensuring ±0.25 °C uniformity across the 250 mm heater zone
- Dual-voltage compatibility (110 V/60 Hz or 230 V/50 Hz) with ±20% input tolerance, enabling stable operation in diverse facility power environments
- Integrated LCD interface with segmented display for simultaneous visualization of setpoint temperature, actual chamber temperature, elapsed time, and calculated shrinkage percentage
- Multi-mode data storage: automatic session logging, manual point capture, and single-sample snapshot—each tagged with timestamp, operator ID, and thermal profile metadata
- Optional USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity modules support seamless integration into LIMS or laboratory informatics platforms
- Positive-pressure purge and micro-negative pressure operational mode prevent particulate ingress while maintaining sensor isolation from thermal drift effects
- One-touch assay initiation with preloaded method templates—no calibration or warm-up delay required between samples
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MK 5 accommodates standardized textile specimens per ISO 2077 and ASTM D2256, including twisted and untwisted yarns (10–500 tex), staple fiber bundles (5–50 mg), and monofilament diameters from 10 µm to 1.2 mm. Chamber geometry supports both clamped-end and free-hanging configurations. All internal surfaces are constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel (AISI 316), and thermal insulation meets IEC 61000-4-3 immunity standards. The system conforms to CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD) and supports audit-ready documentation for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when paired with validated software modules.
Software & Data Management
Firmware v3.2 includes embedded data export protocols (CSV, XML) compatible with Microsoft Excel, LabArchives, and Benchling. Optional Testrite AnalyzeSuite™ provides full traceability: electronic signatures, version-controlled method libraries, audit trail logging (including parameter changes and user logins), and automated report generation per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.8.2. Raw sensor data (temperature vs. time, displacement vs. time) is retained at 10 Hz sampling resolution for post-acquisition reprocessing. No cloud dependency—the local database resides on encrypted onboard flash memory (8 GB, expandable via microSD).
Applications
- Quality control of heat-set polyester filament during draw-texturing process validation
- Comparative shrinkage profiling of PP spunbond nonwovens before and after calendering
- Stability assessment of nylon 6,6 monofilaments used in filtration membranes
- R&D screening of thermally responsive co-polymer blends for smart textiles
- Batch release testing of cotton-polyester blended yarns per AATCC TM201
- Pre-shipment verification of shrinkage tolerance in automotive interior fabrics (SAE J1885)
FAQ
What is the minimum measurable shrinkage value the MK 5 can resolve?
The system reports shrinkage with 0.1% resolution across the full –5% to +32.5% range, limited only by mechanical repeatability of specimen mounting.
Does the MK 5 require external calibration tools or annual service certification?
No—built-in NIST-traceable RTD sensors and factory-characterized thermal profiles eliminate routine external calibration; optional annual verification kits (PN: MK5-CAL-KIT) are available for internal QA audits.
Can the instrument operate unattended for sequential multi-sample runs?
Yes—up to 99 samples can be queued via the scheduler function; each run logs independently with unique identifiers and thermal history.
Is the micro-negative pressure mode mandatory for sensor longevity?
It is recommended for continuous operation (>8 hrs/day); ambient-pressure mode is permissible for intermittent use but may reduce long-term transducer stability.
How does the MK 5 handle humidity-sensitive samples during thermal exposure?
The chamber is sealed and inert-gas purgable (N₂ or dry air)—optional dry gas manifold kit (PN: MK5-DG-MK) maintains dew point < –40 °C throughout the test cycle.
