Impact Testers

Universal Grip offers state of the art Pendulum Impact Testing Machine from Italian OEM Galdabini (est. 1890). The new STRIKE Impact Testers have been completely redesigned in 2025, offering the safest and most modern approach to Charpy & Izod Impact Testing

Impact Testing Machines: Precision Solutions for Material Toughness Evaluation

Universal Grip proudly supports Galdabini's STRIKE series of pendulum impact testing machines, engineered for Charpy and Izod impact testing on plastic and metal specimens. These high-performance systems are built for durability, safety, and ease of use, requiring minimal maintenance aside from annual calibration.

The Importance of Impact Testing in Material Science

Impact resistance is a fundamental property that determines a material's ability to absorb and dissipate energy under sudden shock or dynamic loading conditions. Engineers and material scientists rely on impact testing to evaluate a material's suitability for demanding applications, especially in industries where mechanical integrity, reliability, and safety are paramount.

Industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing require impact testing to ensure components can withstand harsh operational environments. Structural components, safety-critical parts, and moving mechanical elements must exhibit sufficient impact strength to prevent catastrophic failures in real-world conditions.

Understanding Impact Testing and Energy Absorption

Impact testers are used to measure the resilience of a material. Resilience is defined as the amount of energy absorbed during impact per unit volume, typically expressed in Joules per cubic meter (J/m³). While impact testing is most commonly performed on metals, it is also used for plastics and other materials that exhibit both elastic and plastic deformation during testing.

Impact testing with a pendulum striking arm is conceptually straightforward. In an ideal frictionless system, when the pendulum hammer is raised, it possesses 100% potential energy (PE) and 0% kinetic energy (KE). The potential energy at this raised position is given by:

PE = mgh, where:

• m = mass (kg)

• g = gravity (9.8 m/s²)

• h = height (meters)

Upon release, the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, reaching its maximum at the lowest point of the swing where the hammer strikes the specimen. The kinetic energy at this point is given by:

KE = 0.5mv², where:

• m = mass (kg)

• v = velocity (m/s)

After impact, the hammer continues its trajectory, reaching a new height where all remaining kinetic energy is converted back into potential energy. The impact tester uses an encoder to measure this post-test height, allowing the absorbed energy to be calculated as the difference between initial and final potential energies.

Galdabini STRIKE Series: Advanced Pendulum Impact Testing Machines

Galdabini’s STRIKE series of impact testers are designed for high-precision, repeatable impact energy measurements. These machines conform to ASTM E23, ASTM D6110, EN 10045-2, and ISO 148 standards, ensuring compliance with global material testing requirements.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Versatile Testing Capabilities – Supports both Charpy and Izod impact testing for evaluating plastic and metal samples across a wide range of impact energies.
• Robust & Reliable Design – Built with a sturdy frame and high-quality components for long-term accuracy and stability.
• User-Friendly Operation – The intuitive software interface simplifies test setup, execution, and data analysis, making it accessible for both novice and expert users.
• Precision Engineering – High-resolution sensors and precise force measurement systems ensure accurate and repeatable test results.
• Automated Data Collection & Analysis – The software allows seamless data transmission to a PC, enabling statistical comparison, automatic database entry, and advanced report generation.
• Multi-Language Support & User Permissions – Customizable language settings and role-based access controls enhance operational flexibility.
• Comprehensive Diagnostics Package – Integrated sensor diagnostics provide real-time machine health monitoring, ensuring optimal performance and easy troubleshooting.

Installation & Accessories for Impact Testing

Each impact testing system requires careful installation. The machine must be mounted on a platform with at least 40 times the mass of the impact hammer. This platform, known as a plinth, is typically constructed from concrete to provide stability. The plinth may be either embedded into the floor or exposed above it.

Common accessories for Charpy and Izod impact testing include:

• Broaching Machines (Notchers): Used to create a precisely centered notch in test specimens, typically 10x10x50 mm rectangular bars.

• Chilling Machines: Refrigerated baths capable of cooling specimens to -40°C for temperature-controlled impact testing.

• Sample Placement Tongs & Aligners: Designed to transfer samples from the chilling bath to the testing machine within 5 seconds, as required by ASTM and ISO standards.

• Automated & Roboticized Test Systems: Galdabini offers fully automated solutions to enhance efficiency and throughput.

ASTM & ISO Standards for Impact Testing

Galdabini's impact testers conform to the most widely recognized international standards, including:

• ASTM E23 – Standard test method for Charpy impact testing of metallic materials.

• ASTM D6110 – Impact resistance testing of plastics using the Charpy method.

• ASTM D256 & ASTM D4812 – Izod impact testing methods for plastics.

• EN 10045-2 – European standard for impact testing on metallic materials.

• ISO 148 – International standard for Charpy impact testing of metals.

Why Choose Universal Grip for Your Impact Testing Needs?

Universal Grip is the leading distributor of Charpy and Izod impact testing machines in the USA. Our premium Galdabini impact testers feature motorized pendulum reloading systems, reducing test cycle times and improving efficiency.

In addition to impact testers, we provide complete turnkey solutions, including:

• Plinths and Metal Rails: Ensuring stability and proper leveling with adjustable screws.

• Machine Relocation & Setup Support: Easily moveable components designed for forklift transportation.

• Comprehensive Training & Calibration Services: Ensuring compliance with ASTM and ISO standards.