Epsilon Technology Corp. Circumferential Extensometer Model 3544

Designed for concrete and rock compression testing or for compression tests on other large samples. The Model 3544 may be used simultaneously with the Model 3542RA axial extensometers. Circumferential extensometers measure the change in circumference as the sample is compressed. This is considered by many researchers to be a more accurate way to determine diametral strain, since the measurement is taken over the entire material inside the circumference. A high precision, custom roller chain with special rollers mounts the extensometer to the specimen. As the specimen diameter enlarges during the test, the chain causes the extensometer to expand. The unit is self-supported on the sample with integral springs. Links are easily added or removed to adjust for different size specimens. A mechanical adjustment allows the output to be set to zero. A breakaway device protects the extensometer in the event of specimen rupture. Often rock specimens are tested in tri-axial pressure cells. Versions of the Model 3544 are available to fit inside the vessel and operate in oil environments at up to 1360 bar at 200 °C (20,000 psi at 400 °F). These units were designed to fit inside small inner diameter vessels. The Model 3544 is the best choice for large diametral strains in large compression samples. Epsilon’s diametral rock and concrete extensometer, the Model 3975, is recommended for small strain measurements such as Poisson's ratio. The Model 3544 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. The signal conditioning electronics for the extensometer is typically included with the test machine controller or may often be added. In this case the extensometer is shipped with the proper connector and wiring to plug directly into the electronics. For systems lacking the required electronics, Epsilon can provide a variety of solutions, allowing the extensometer output to be connected to data acquisition boards, chart recorders or other equipment.