Rugged, Long Gauge Length Extensometers – Model 3543
This model is available in gauge lengths from 50 mm (2 inches) and larger, with measuring ranges up to 100 mm (4 inches). The unique design separates into two halves and the extensometer may be left on through specimen failure. These extensometers are widely used where long samples are required. They are ideal for testing steel re-bar, weld joints, and wire materials.
Epsilon designed and built the world’s first fully separable, strain gaged axial extensometer.
Model 3543 has over a decade of proven performance in the harshest testing environments.
Provides the necessary performance to successfully record strain on some of the most mechanically demanding specimens.
For applications where the ruggedness of the extensometer is crucial, the model 3543 has proven itself time-and-time again.
WITH EPSILON’S 20+ YEAR HISTORY OF SERVICE
to the materials testing community, you know we will be there to stand behind our products when your critical application requires it.
With many years of proven reliability, Model 3543 extensometers are designed to be left on through failure with specimens such as rebar that would damage standard axial extensometers. Epsilon designed the Model 3543 to survive specimen failure by separating into two halves, thus preventing any damage to its strain gage module. During operation, the upper half of the extensometer pulls out of the main body and tapered measuring beams activate strain gaged flexures within the unit. This unique design allows long measuring ranges yet retains compatibility with electronics for strain gaged transducers. These models offer high accuracy and are lightweight but rugged, with low operating force. They are tension only units.
The units have hardened tool steel knife edges. Standard quick attach wire forms provided with the extensometer work on round specimens up to 25 mm (1 inch) diameter and flat specimens up to 12 x 31 mm (0.5 x 1.25 inch). Optional wire forms are available for use on larger samples. See Model 3542L for long gauge lengths with smaller measuring ranges and also Epsilon ONE® optical non-contact extensometers.
Model 3543 extensometers are strain gaged devices, making them compatible with any electronics designed for strain gaged transducers. Most often they are connected to a test machine controller with electronics for a strain channel, and Epsilon will equip the extensometer with a compatible connector that is wired to plug directly into the controller. For systems lacking the required electronics, Epsilon can provide a variety of signal conditioning solutions that enable connecting to data acquisition systems or other equipment.
- Specifically designed to withstand testing through failure for specimens with rough or non-uniform surfaces such as rebar.
- The unit is designed so that the two halves of the extensometer come apart to prevent damage at specimen failure.
- Designed for non-reversed tension only testing. This model is not intended for strain control, cyclic or compressive testing.
- Full bridge, 350 ohm strain gaged design for compatibility with nearly any test system.
- Rugged design for reliable testing.
- Standard quick attach kit for quick mounting to specimens.
- Hardened tool steel knife edges are easily replaced. A spare set comes with every extensometer.
- High temperature options extend operation to +150 °C (300 °F).
- Replaceable arms and spacers for ease of repair. The optional gauge length spacers allow the gauge length of the extensometer to be easily increased for different testing requirements.
- Includes the Epsilon Shunt Calibration System for on-site electrical calibration.
- Includes high quality foam lined case.
Excitation: 5 to 10 VDC recommended, 12 VDC or VAC max.
Output: 2 to 4 mV/V nominal, depending on model
Accuracy: Standard configurations meet ASTM Class B-2 requirements for accuracy. Suitable for measuring 0.2% offset yield stress, plastic deformation and elongation at failure. For measuring modulus and yield strain, Model 3542, 3542L or Epsilon ONE® is required.
Linearity: ≤0.20% of full scale measuring range
Temperature Range: Standard (-ST) is 1 °C to +100 °C (33 °F to 210 °F)
Cable: Ultra-flexible cable, 2.5 m (8 ft) standard
Standard Quick Attach Kit: Fits round samples up to 25 mm (1.0 inch) diameter and flats to 12 mm thick by 31 mm wide (0.5 inch by 1.25 inch)
Operating Force: 125 g typical
- Quick attach kit wireforms for large specimens
- Spacers to change gauge lengths
- Connectors to interface to nearly any brand of test equipment
- A twist option is available for use in applications where the testing machine’s grips / actuator are free to rotate and specimen twisting greater than 3° is expected. The 3543TW option can accommodate up to 15° of twist.
- Model 3543GT is an option for geotextile testing. The extensometer is manufactured with special clamps for testing fabric and mesh specimens up to 200 mm wide.
- Specialty Knife Edges
-
-
-
-
-
3543-TW - for testing twisted wire cable
-
3543GT - for testing geotextiles
Product Videos
Rebar testing through failure using a rugged extensometer
Ordering Information
Click table options to configure
Gauge Length i
| mm or inches | # |
|---|---|
| 50.0 mm | -050M |
| 100.0 mm | -100M |
| 150.0 mm | -150M |
| 200.0 mm | -200M |
| 250.0 mm | -250M |
| 500.0 mm | -500M |
| 600.0 mm | -600M |
| 2.000 in | -0200 |
| 4.000 in | -0400 |
| 6.000 in | -0600 |
| 8.000 in | -0800 |
| 10.000 in | -1000 |
| 20.000 in | -2000 |
| 24.000 in | -2400 |
Measuring Range i
| extension | # |
|---|---|
| +25 mm | -025M |
| +50 mm | -050M |
| +100 mm | -100M¹ |
| +1.00 in | -100T |
| +2.00 in | -200T |
| +4.00 in | -400T¹ |
Temperature Range
| degrees | # |
|---|---|
| 1 °C to 100 °C (33 °F to 210 °F) | -ST |
| 1 °C to 150 °C (33 °F to 300 °F) | -HT1 |
Model Number: 3543 – _ _ _ _ – _ _ _ _ – _ _
Selected Tensile Measuring Range: _ _ _ _
Model 3543 Available Versions: Any combination of gauge length, measuring range and temperature range listed above is available, except as noted. Intermediate and longer gauge lengths are easily attained by adding gauge length spacers.
¹Not available in 50 mm or 2 inch gauge length models.
Example: 3543-200M-100M-ST: 200 mm gauge length, +100 mm measuring range, standard temperature range (1 °C to 100 °C)
Related Models
Repairs/Service
If your unit is in need of service, calibration or repair, initiate the RMA process with us and we will be happy to assist.
Get Our Newsletter
Sign up for our newsletter to get the most up-to-date information on products and services.
Download Catalog
Our 2022 Extensometer Catalog, Version 110 is now available! Not finding something you’re looking for? Ask us about a custom quote.
