The world of materials testing is set to change with a new £1 million on-line testing facility launched to help customers world-wide develop products and test materials rapidly
The world of materials testing is set to change with a new £1 million on-line testing facility launched to help customers world-wide develop products and test materials rapidly and cost-effectively from the comfort of their own premises.
Analysis Online, developed by Exeter Advanced Technologies, was launched along with other new facilities at the University of Exeter on 28th March.
In his keynote address to local businesses and academics, Ken Poulter, Director of the Government's Small Business Service hailed Analysis Online as an "important interface between research and industry" to help small companies develop products and remain profitable.
Analysis Online uses universal browser software to bring test data, from advanced testing equipment supplied by Ametek Lloyd Instruments and other leading companies, direct to the client in real time.
After a client submits a sample, experienced staff at Exeter set up the instruments, perform the tests and collate the results. "Data Interpretation is the key here.
The client can interact at any stage using the browser on a standard PC and a 56K internet connection," said Dr Lee Bridger following the first successful live demonstration.
"Analysis Online is a really exciting opportunity and clients will be able to test many materials using the wide range of equipment we have supplied," said Mark Bartlett, Managing Director of Ametek Lloyd Instruments.
Such equipment includes a 20kN EasyTest test machine, a 300kN LR300K universal testing machine, and Davenport polymer test equipment including the HDT/VICAT test station, a melt flow indexer and melt viscometer for PET.
The companyûs industry proven Nexygen application software is also used for instrument control, accurate test analysis and clear data formatting.
The laboratory and software has been financed with an RDA grant of œ250,000.
This is part of the œ3m facility and has been supported by contributions from the university and industry. The launch of Analysis Online coincides with further initiatives at the University of Exeter including a new microscopy suite, electronics service, materials characterisation centre and product development.
Formerly the Polymer Centre, Exeter Advanced Technologies works with a large number of industrial partners to benefit industry with a range of expertise including research and development, troubleshooting, networking, training and online services.
Analysis Online is now available at http://www.analysis-online.co.uk where registered clients can book the service and download the viewer software.
