All posts by 27481873

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025: Showcasing MicroSupport Micromanipulators

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to be exhibiting at SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025, the premier global event for sensing technologies in defense and commercial applications. Join us from April 13-17 in Orlando, FL, and visit us at booth 616 to explore advanced MicroSupport micromanipulators, designed to revolutionize micro sample handling.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Micromanipulators

MicroSupport’s micromanipulators are transforming micro sample handling in R&D and industry. These systems offer unmatched motion control, enabling precise manipulation of even the most delicate microscopic objects.

Imagine retrieving minute particles with pinpoint accuracy or processing specific areas on a sample with ease. MicroSupport makes it possible! This technology is ideal for a wide range of applications, from removing foreign contaminants in electronics and pharmaceuticals to analyzing microscopic crystals.

By combining a microscope with a MicroSupport micromanipulator, specialized micro-tools, and a stable environment, researchers achieve unparalleled performance in micro manipulation tasks. Barnett Technical Services, an authorized MicroSupport distributor, provides access to this comprehensive suite of tools, empowering you to tackle even the most demanding micro-object manipulation tasks.

Technical Activities at SPIE DCS

At this meeting, Steve Barnett is a Conference Co-Chair of Conference 13449 “Next-Generation Spectroscopic Technologies XVII” being held on April 14/15.  Dr. Barnett is also presenting some work of Soar Optics titled “Rapid surface imaging for dedicated process monitoring” (paper 13449-2) on April 14th at 9 AM in Tallahassee 2, Ballroom Level.

Beyond the Booth: Exploring SPIE Defense and Commercial Sensing 2025

SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing is the leading global event focused on sensors, infrared technology, laser systems, spectral imaging, radar, lidar, and emerging sensing technologies. Attendees will have the opportunity to:

  • Discover the latest advancements in sensing and imaging technologies for defense and commercial applications.
  • Engage with industry experts and researchers to discuss groundbreaking innovations.
  • Explore a world-class exhibition featuring cutting-edge solutions in materials, components, systems, and analytics.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving field of sensing technology! Visit the SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing website for more details on registration and event programming.

See You at Booth 616!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 616 to explore advanced MicroSupport micromanipulators. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer your questions and demonstrate how these powerful tools can enhance your research and industrial applications.

Learn More:

We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!

News

Micromanipulator Demo at MIT

The MicroSupport Axis Pro Micromanipulator provides capabilities for precise micro sampling. A wide range of sampling tools are available including probes, knives, scrapers, liquid manipulation systems, and glass probes for ex situ lift-out. More details may be found here.

On-Site Demo Dates: Monday, March 31 – Thursday, April 3

We are currently finalizing the arrangements of our on-site demo.  Please contact us so we may let you know the details once they are ready.


Times: Available all day (on appointment) with organized demos at these times:
Tuesday, April 1 – 10:00 AM
Wednesday, April 2 – 1:30 PM
Thursday, April 3 – 10:00 AM

Note: To schedule a demo time, please call or text our on-site representative, Steve Barnett at 916-549-4423 or email at our Contact Us page.

Any questions, contact us

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at Pittcon25: Showcasing Advanced Raman Microscopes and Micromanipulators

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is thrilled to announce our participation at Pittcon25, the premier global conference and exposition for laboratory science, taking place March 1-5 in Boston, MA. Join us at booth 1752 to explore our innovative solutions in advanced microscopy and micro-manipulation technologies.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Manipulators

Founded in 2006, MicroSupport Co., Ltd. is a renowned Japanese manufacturer specializing in micromanipulators and related accessories. MicroSupport’s cutting-edge solutions cater to industries requiring stringent quality control and advanced material research, including high molecular compounds, petrochemicals, electronics, and semiconductors.

At the heart of MicroSupport’s offerings is the Axis Pro Benchtop Micromanipulator. This revolutionary system combines:

  • A zoom microscope with motorized XYZ stage.
  • Two motorized arms controlled via an intuitive software interface and mouse.
  • A versatile range of tools, including probes, knives, scrapers, and liquid deposition/pickup accessories.
  • Compatibility with electrical probes for precise measurements.

The entire system can be integrated into a glovebox, enabling micro-sampling in an inert atmosphere, ensuring accuracy and reliability in delicate environments. These tools empower researchers and industry professionals to handle microscopic samples with unparalleled precision, from contaminant removal to intricate sample analysis.

As an authorized distributor, BTS provides access to MicroSupport’s comprehensive suite of tools, ensuring you have the capabilities to tackle even the most demanding micro-sample handling tasks.

Precision Material Characterization with SOL Instruments Confocal Raman Microscopes

At BTS, we recognize the importance of equipping researchers with the best tools for advanced material characterization. That’s why we proudly offer the Confotec® Series Raman Confocal Microscopes from SOL Instruments, a leading manufacturer with over 25 years of expertise in Raman technology.

These powerful 3D scanning laser microscopes are designed to address diverse research challenges across scientific and industrial domains. The Confotec® systems feature:

  • A modular, flexible design for tailored configurations.
  • Exceptional performance for both routine Raman microscopy and cutting-edge applications.
  • Versatility to accommodate the evolving needs of analytical chemistry and material research.

Whether you’re conducting routine analysis or exploring groundbreaking applications, the SOL Instruments Confotec® series delivers precision, reliability, and unmatched capability.

Beyond the Booth: Exploring Pittcon25

Pittcon25 is more than a conference—it’s a global hub where analytical chemists and industry professionals converge to share ideas, foster collaborations, and explore the latest innovations. The event offers:

  • Technical Sessions: Discover the latest advancements in analytical chemistry and related fields.
  • Workshops and Poster Presentations: Gain insights from thought leaders and industry experts.
  • Exhibition Hall: Explore cutting-edge instruments, technologies, and solutions tailored to laboratory needs.

Pittcon25 provides a unique opportunity to network with leading researchers, specialists, and equipment manufacturers, driving innovation and scientific discovery.

See You at Booth 1752!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 1752 to learn how our advanced microscopy and micro-manipulation solutions can elevate your research and development capabilities. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer your questions, provide demonstrations, and discuss how our products can meet your specific needs.

Learn More:

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, innovate, and take your research to the next level. We look forward to seeing you in Boston!

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at the 2025 MRS Spring Meeting: Discover Cutting-Edge Characterization Tools

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to announce our participation in the 2025 MRS Spring Meeting & Exhibit, taking place April 7–11, 2024, in Seattle, WA. Join us at Booth 322 to explore our state-of-the-art solutions for advanced materials characterization and micro-sample manipulation.

This premier event is an unparalleled platform for researchers, innovators, and professionals to connect, share insights, and explore groundbreaking advancements in materials science. The 2025 MRS Spring Meeting will be held at the Summit, the Seattle Convention Center’s newest addition, and the Hyatt Regency Seattle.

Explore Our Product Lineup

We’ll be showcasing cutting-edge tools designed to revolutionize your research and inspection processes:

  1. MicroSupport Manipulators
    Experience unmatched precision with MicroSupport’s advanced micromanipulators, ideal for micro-sample handling in industries like semiconductors, electronics, and petrochemicals. These systems feature motorized XYZ stages and customizable arms, offering tools for micro-sampling, liquid deposition, and electrical probing—even in inert atmospheres with glovebox compatibility.
  2. SOL Raman Microscopes
    Designed for precision, the SOL Instruments Confotec® series offers advanced 3D confocal Raman microscopes for diverse applications. With modular designs and robust performance, these systems tackle challenges from routine Raman spectroscopy to cutting-edge material analysis.
  3. Attolight SEM-Spectroscopy Platform
    Elevate your materials inspection with Attolight’s Allalin platform, which integrates nanometer-resolution SEM-spectroscopy for quantitative cathodoluminescence (qCL) analysis. This versatile platform supports techniques like Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and more, making it ideal for wafer-scale analysis and beyond.
  4. Hot Disk TPS4500
    Harness the power of transient plane source (TPS) technology for thermal property measurements. The Hot Disk TPS4500 delivers precision and flexibility for research into thermal conductivity and diffusivity.

About the MRS Spring Meeting

The MRS Spring Meeting is a leading interdisciplinary forum that unites global experts to discuss innovations in materials science. This event showcases breakthroughs across fields such as quantum materials, biomaterials, energy, and sustainability.

Take advantage of this opportunity to network with Nobel and Kavli Prize laureates, postdoctoral researchers, and industry leaders. Participate in discussions that drive the future of materials science and explore the latest research presented by multidisciplinary experts.

See You at Booth 322!

Don’t miss the chance to connect with our team at Booth 322. We’ll be delighted to demonstrate how our advanced solutions can support your research needs. Discover how Barnett Technical Services empowers professionals with tools that redefine precision and performance in materials characterization.

Learn More:

We look forward to meeting you at the 2025 MRS Spring Meeting!

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at AGU24: Showcasing Revolutionary MicroSupport Manipulators and SOL Raman Microscopes

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to announce our participation in AGU24, the premier annual gathering for Earth and space scientists, happening December 9–13 in Washington, D.C. Visit us at Booth 251 to explore groundbreaking MicroSupport Manipulators and SOL Raman Microscopes, tools that are transforming research and innovation in diverse fields.

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Manipulators

MicroSupport Co., Ltd., founded in 2006, has become a leader in micromanipulation technology, offering innovative solutions for micro-sampling in fields such as petrochemicals, electronics, semiconductors, and advanced materials research.

The MicroSupport Axis Pro benchtop micromanipulator combines a zoom microscope, motorized XYZ stage, and two motorized arms, all controlled through a user-friendly software interface. This system allows for:

  • Precision micro-sampling with tools like probes, knives, and scrapers.
  • Liquid deposition and pickup, ideal for detailed chemical analysis.
  • Electrical probing for advanced semiconductor research.

What sets MicroSupport apart is its ability to operate within a glovebox environment, ensuring safe and effective micro-sampling in inert atmospheres. As the authorized distributor, BTS provides access to this comprehensive suite of tools, helping researchers tackle complex micro-manipulation challenges with ease.

Precision Material Characterization with SOL Raman Microscopes

Understanding the importance of advanced research tools, BTS proudly offers the SOL Instruments Confotec® series confocal Raman microscopes. Designed for 3D scanning and laser microscopy, these systems provide unmatched performance for analyzing materials in both fundamental and applied research.

Key features include:

  • Modular design for tailored solutions.
  • Exceptional resolution for high-precision Raman spectroscopy.
  • Versatility for routine and cutting-edge applications in diverse scientific fields.

Whether you’re analyzing nanomaterials, polymers, or geological samples, SOL Raman Microscopes deliver the accuracy and reliability you need for transformative discoveries.

About AGU24: “What’s Next for Science”

AGU24 invites the global scientific community to explore how Earth and space science can address today’s most pressing challenges. This year’s theme, “What’s Next for Science,” emphasizes:

  • Expanding data accessibility and interoperability to tackle global issues.
  • Encouraging cross-disciplinary collaborations to accelerate progress.
  • Promoting leadership in data stewardship and scientific software innovation

As the largest Earth and space science event, AGU24 will welcome over 25,000 attendees from 100+ countries. The conference features:

  • Groundbreaking research presentations in Earth, planetary, and space sciences.
  • Workshops and networking events to foster collaborations.
  • Interactive sessions on open science, climate change solutions, and data innovation.

AGU24 is the perfect platform for scientists, educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to connect, share knowledge, and drive meaningful change.

For more information about the event, visit the AGU24 website.

Visit Us at Booth 251

Stop by Booth 251 to discover how our innovative tools can enhance your research:

  • Explore the MicroSupport Manipulators for precise micro-sampling and manipulation.
  • Learn how SOL Raman Microscopes can advance your materials characterization projects.
  • Meet our team of experts, who will demonstrate the capabilities of these cutting-edge technologies and answer your questions.

See You in Washington, D.C.!

Join BTS at AGU24 and be part of the next chapter in scientific discovery. Whether you’re focused on climate research, planetary sciences, or materials innovation, our advanced tools and technologies are designed to empower your work. We look forward to seeing you at Booth 251!

Learn More:

Technical

Advanced Techniques for Evaluating Strain in Low Phase Difference Samples

Residual stress is a part of the total stress when an external load is applied to an object. This stress remains inside even after the load is removed. Measuring the residual stress in glasses and plastics is necessary to understand the structural properties . they may offer to a product if they are deformed due to heat, strain or likely to break, and how evenly stress is distributed throughout the sample. An accurate strain analysis of various glass and plastic types is useful in many applications ranging from semiconductor chips to glassware, especially in selecting the right materials. It is challenging to detect any deformities due to strain without using credible and advanced techniques, which show you minute details of where possible strain could be in a glass or plastic piece. Advanced spectroscopic instruments such as polariscope strain viewers play an important role in this regard. This post discusses the importance of polariscopes as an advanced evaluation technique in measuring strain in low-phase difference samples.

Understanding Low Phase Difference of Light

Key points to understand phase differences, and their significance, examples, and applications:

  • Phase differences in linear polarization refers to the distance between the crests and troughs of a light wave as it propagates its way.
  • This phase difference will be zero degrees if the crests and troughs of two light ways align, which means the waves are in phase. If this difference is 180 degrees, the two waves are said to be out of phase, which means when one wave goes through the crest the other has a trough. Understanding this phase difference is crucial in many optical applications, such as wave plates and retarders.
  • When light passes through an object or a sample, its speed changes based on the material’s refractive index, resulting in a phase shift between the waves.
  • Low phase difference refers to the minimal phase shift as the light wave passes through an object. It means there is minimal or no alteration in the light properties after the light wave exits the object. Such low phase difference is helpful in many applications such as polarized sunglasses and cameras, LCD screens, optical lenses, and so on.
  • Low phase difference helps reduce glare and enhances clarity and visibility. Typically, materials with low birefringence, such as glass, help achieve a low phase difference. Some common examples of low phase difference include semiconductor wafers and colored glass.
  • Semiconductors, especially the ones used in optical devices, optoelectronics, and photonics, are carefully manufactured to ensure minimal surface roughness, interference stability, uniform thickness, and more to achieve low phase difference.
  • Colored glass also may have certain impurities, and hence needs to be engineered to achieve low phase difference, especially in applications such as stained glass, lenses, optical filters, and more.

Challenges in Strain Detection

Some challenges in strain detection by methods other than polariscopes, include:

  • Detecting exact strain in low phase difference samples can be challenging because the crests and troughs of the light wave passing through show minimal variation.
  • Most other methods may not yield the level of precision and accuracy required, especially for glass or semiconductor applications.
  • Some strain portions may be missed out, which may directly impact the product quality. For instance, if even a slightly deformed glass is used in sunglasses, it will lead to poor or hazy visibility, may affect the users’ eyes, and lead to product recalls.
  • There is a growing importance for precise and sensitive measurement techniques across applications, and using a polariscope strain viewer can overcome these challenges.

Advanced Evaluation Techniques with Polariscope Strain Viewers

Polariscope strain viewers aide in the precise and accurate measurement of samples.

  • The polariscope strain viewer facilitates a non-destructive and highly accurate method to measure strain and structural defects in detail in various transparent materials such as glass and plastic. It accurately reports the direction of stress in addition to the degree of stress as reflected by the optical retardation.
  • A polariscope consists of two crucial components – a light source that emits polarized light and polarizing filters that control the orientation of the light. When the polarized light interacts with a material, it changes intensity and color, thus showing in detail the internal stresses within the material, which otherwise may have gone unnoticed. This detailing allows analysts to map and measure the strain distribution across the material precisely.
  • These polariscopes are supported by a robust data analysis software that provides images of the magnitude and direction of the optical retardation induced by strain.
  • Polariscopes have various modes to detect scratches, dents, foreign objects, and more on the sample.
  • Polariscopes measure birefringence and retardation values in a transparent sample. The retardation values can be used to determine the strain in the sample using the rotating analyzer method. Polarized light passes through the sample and then through another polarizer at a series of angles. The light passing through both polarizers falls on a CCD to provide XY data on the sample. By combining the data from all the angles of the second polarizer, the retardation may be calculated.

Benefits for Researchers and Manufacturers

Polariscope strain viewers offer tremendous benefits in terms of accuracy and precision for both research and manufacturing. Here are some pointers.

  • Polariscopes offer precision, sensitivity, and accuracy when detecting minute strains in low-phase difference samples, which holds importance for high-precision applications.
  • They are easy to use with a user-friendly interface and facilitate automated data collection and analysis because of the inbuilt software. You can connect it to your computer to check the graphical and other data for further analysis.
  • These versatile instruments are portable and designed to use across environments from research labs to production floors to measure varied sample sizes and materials

Applications in Research and Manufacturing

Here are some application areas of polarizing strain viewers, especially in research and manufacturing segments.

  • Semiconductors
  • Quality control and assurance
  • Detection of defects and inconsistencies in glass, plastics, and more
  • Colored glass manufacturing
  • Ensuring structural integrity and performance of samples
  • Identifying stress points and potential failure areas
  • Scientific Research
  • Materials science research
  • Detailed strain mapping for new material development

If you have any questions about using polariscope strain viewers in your semiconductor or glass application or need to know about custom options or anything else, you can consult the team at Barnett Technical Services. The company is an authorized distributor for various models of spectroscopy equipment, such as polariscopes made by Luceo.

Related Products:

LSM-9002LE: Strain measurement in the visible across a 175×175 mm area

LSM-9002S: Strain measurement in the visible with a variable field of view for 10-10 to 60×60 mm

LSM-9001NIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in semiconductors

LSM-9100WNIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in resins and other plastics

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at ISTFA 2024: Experience Electrical Testing with MicroSupport Probe Stations

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to announce our participation in ISTFA 2024, the premier global event for the microelectronics failure analysis community. The symposium will take place from October 28th to November 1st at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California. Visit us at Booth 206 to explore the latest micromanipulation technologies and precision material handling tools, including electrical testing capabilities.

Electrical Testing with MicroSupport Probe Stations

BTS is proud to showcase our electrical testing solutions powered by MicroSupport’s cutting-edge probe stations. These versatile platforms are designed to precisely position micromanipulator probes for accurate electronic device testing. With their high-precision electrical probing capabilities, MicroSupport probe stations are ideal for semiconductor and microelectronics applications.

AxisPro: Unmatched Precision for Electrical Probing

The AxisPro electrical probe station delivers unparalleled precision with a remarkable 1µm probe-positioning accuracy. Its standard configuration features two arms, but can be easily customized with three or more arms to meet your specific testing needs. This adaptability ensures accurate and efficient electrical testing across a wide range of applications.

QuickPro: A Compact Solution for Electrical Testing

Designed for standalone high-precision electrical probing, the QuickPro electrical probe station offers exceptional flexibility. Configure it with up to four probes, each capable of being positioned with 1µm accuracy. When paired with a white light microscope, QuickPro provides precise and adaptable probing, making it an ideal choice for failure analysis and semiconductor testing.

D-MARK: Sample Marking For Failure Analysis Applications

The D-MARK systems is a simple tool that permits defects and failures to be marked for transfer to failure analysis groups.  This system facilitates defect localization and speeds up the failure analysis process.

Probe Micromanipulators
MicroSupport Four-Probe Station

About ISTFA 2024

The International Symposium for Testing and Failure Analysis (ISTFA) is the premier annual gathering for professionals dedicated to semiconductor failure analysis. Celebrating its 50th edition in 2024, ISTFA continues to be the cornerstone event for sharing knowledge and advancing techniques in the field. Organized by ASM International, the symposium provides:

  • In-depth technical programs on the latest advancements
  • Networking opportunities with global experts
  • Exhibitions featuring cutting-edge technologies for microelectronics testing and failure analysis

For more details, visit the official ISTFA 2024 website

Visit Us at Booth 206!

Join Barnett Technical Services at Booth 206 to explore our advanced micromanipulation probe statiations with electrical testing capabilities. Our experts will demonstrate these technologies and discuss how they can enhance your failure analysis and material handling workflows.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and discover tools that can make a significant impact in your work.

Learn More:

Conferences

Barnett Technical Services at SciX 2024: Showcasing Advanced Raman Microscopes and Micromanipulators

Barnett Technical Services (BTS) is excited to be exhibiting at SciX 2024, the premier international conference for analytical chemistry and allied sciences, taking place October 20th-25th at the Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Visit us at booth 317 to explore our cutting-edge solutions for advanced microscopy and micro manipulation.

Precision Material Characterization with SOL Instruments Confocal Raman Microscopes:

At BTS, we understand the importance of having the right tools for advanced research. That’s why we proudly offer a comprehensive range of confocal Raman microscopes from SOL Instruments, a leading manufacturer with over 25 years of experience.

The SOL Instruments Confotec® series Raman confocal microscopes are powerful 3D scanning laser microscopes designed to tackle diverse research challenges in various scientific and industrial fields. These advanced systems boast a flexible, modular design, allowing for customization to suit your specific needs. From routine Raman microscopy to the most cutting-edge applications, Confotec® systems deliver exceptional performance.

confotec-nr500-first-tab.webp

Revolutionize Micro Sample Handling with MicroSupport Manipulators:

MicroSupport’s revolutionary micromanipulators are transforming micro sample handling in R&D and industry. These systems offer unmatched motion control, enabling precise manipulation of even the most delicate microscopic objects.

Imagine retrieving minute particles with pinpoint accuracy or processing specific areas on a sample with ease. MicroSupport makes it possible! This technology is ideal for a wide range of applications, from removing foreign contaminants in electronics and pharmaceuticals to analyzing microscopic crystals.

By combining a microscope with a MicroSupport micromanipulator, specialized micro-tools, and a stable environment, researchers achieve unparalleled performance in micro manipulation tasks. Barnett Technical Services, an authorized MicroSupport distributor, provides access to this comprehensive suite of tools, empowering you to tackle even the most demanding micro-object manipulation tasks.

Axis Pro Benchtop micromanipulator

Beyond the Booth: Exploring SciX 2024

SciX 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event for anyone involved in analytical sciences. Organized by the Federation of Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy Societies (FACSS), the conference offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Learn about the latest advancements in analytical chemistry through an unparalleled technical program.
  • Network with leading researchers and industry professionals.
  • Explore a world-class exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and instrumentation.

Don’t miss out on this chance to connect, learn, and grow your expertise! Visit the SciX 2024 website for more information and registration details.

See You at Booth 317!

Visit Barnett Technical Services at booth 317 to explore our advanced microscopy and micro manipulation solutions. Our team of experts will be happy to answer your questions and demonstrate how these powerful tools can elevate your research.

Learn More:

We look forward to seeing you there!

Technical

Strain Analysis in Molded Plastics Using Polariscope Strain Viewers

Stress and strain analysis hold a huge importance in quality control processes in the mold plastics and resins industries. The strain on such plastics could happen due to injection molding where the molten polymers are poured into the mold, allowed to cool, and reform. Detecting such stains is crucial to avoid deformities, product recalls, and other damages. Polariscope strain viewers are used to identify and analyze strains in mold plastics across industries ranging from consumer electronics to automotive. This post offers information on the use and benefits of using polariscope strain viewers for strain analysis in mold plastics.

Overcoming the Challenge of Detecting Strain in Molded Plastics

Accurately identifying internal strains visually, especially in complex shapes or opaque materials, is next to impossible. With a polariscope, identifying stress patterns at a micro level is manageable. A polariscope works on the principle of optical birefringence, wherein polarized light is passed through stressed plastic to determine the magnitude and direction of residual stresses in a plastic piece. This is also called photoelastic effect and is a very effective and accurate way to measure stress patterns in translucent or transparent materials. Also, this process is fast, non-destructive, and does not require a highly trained operator.

How Polariscope Strain Viewers Enhance the Accuracy of Strain Analysis

Polariscopes are used as strain viewers for analyzing stress patterns in molded plastics and identify warping, cracking, and other deformities. Here are some pointers regarding the accuracy these instruments offer, and help enhance the strength and integrity of the plastic product.

  • Polariscope strain viewers offer non-destructive testing (NDT), which means there is no physical contact and hence the integrity of the molded plastic is maintained.
  • They help assess the internal stresses within plastic components in detail, ensuring quality control in manufacturing processes and enhancing the reliability of plastic products.
  • Polariscopes evaluate 2D distribution map of colored resin products up to 175 mm. Most of these instruments are partially or fully automatic, and hence reduce measurement errors. They can measure colored resin products, residual stress, and cracks that are impossible to measure with conventional instruments.
  • It enables quantitative stress measurement by analyzing the number and orientation of fringes as well as calculating the magnitude and direction of internal stresses.
  • Polariscopes offer a clear and direct view of the internal stresses, which helps reduce errors.
  • It is effective for various types of plastics, regardless of color or state, such as opacity, translucency, or transparency.
  • It reveals hidden stress patterns, allowing for corrective actions before production issues arise.
  • It promotes consistent product quality and reduces the risk of failures and product recalls.

Importance of Quality in Molded Plastics

Any amount of strain in molded plastics leads to warping, cracking, and reduced strength. This may happen due any of the to the forming process steps such as uneven cooling, injection pressure variations, mold design, and more. Plastics with such stress patterns cannot be taken as is in making any parts or components. They are used across industries such as automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and so on in making significant parts. Hence, a thorough inspection of molded plastics is crucial to ensure quality. These plastics are used in making various parts across industries such as dashboards in cars, enclosures or covering parts in electronics, and more. Hence, they must have a high impact resistance and no deformities. Molded plastics must maintain both structural integrity and aesthetics, which reflects the features and functionality of the final product.

How Types of Plastics and Their Opacity Influence the Functioning of Polariscopes?

Material properties including the level of opacity, translucency, and transparency are reflected in the polarized light transmitted through a sample. In addition, materials such as acrylic and polycarbonate are prone to stress marking and exhibit a high coefficient of thermal expansion. This leads to internal stresses that build up during cooling and impacts the level of opacity. To view opaque plastics, the source light needs to be beyond the visible spectrum (>700nm). This near-IR light penetrates visibly opaque materials, which allows a near-IR polariscope to identify internal stresses. Combining these three aspects enables a polariscope strain viewer to identify stress patterns in a wide range of opaque plastics.

Applications of Polariscope Strain Viewers in the Plastics Industry

Molded plastics are used in many important industries such as automotive, electronics, and so on. Hence, polariscopes find use in all these industries to study the strain applied on plastics. Here are some application areas of polariscopes in the plastics industry.

  • Polariscopes are primarily used in quality control inspections of molded parts for internal stress patterns.
  • They identify stress caused by specific mold features or processing parameters.
  • They help optimize mold design and injection molding processes to minimize strain.
  • Using a polariscope ensures structural integrity for applications requiring high strength and reliable performance.

If you have any questions about using polariscope strain viewers in the molded plastics segment or need to discuss your requirements or custom options, feel free to contact the team at Barnett Technical Services. The company is an authorized distributor for various brands of spectroscopy instruments such as polariscope strain viewers and more.

Related Products:

LSM-9002LE: Strain measurement in the visible across a 175×175 mm area

LSM-9002S: Strain measurement in the visible with a variable field of view for 10-10 to 60×60 mm

LSM-9001NIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in semiconductors

LSM-9100WNIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in resins and other plastics

Technical

Strain Inspection in Glass with Polariscope Strain Viewers

Strain is the deformation an object undergoes when external stress is applied. In several measurement applications, strain is quantified as a unitless measure expressed in percentage. Strain inspection and testing is crucial to measure how a material such as a piece of glass reacts to it to determine its yield strength, tensile strength, brittleness, and more. A piece of colored glass may show strain or deformation under stress due to various factors, such as uneven cooling and tool marks when shaping. This leads to breakage or uneven optical performance across the piece of glass. Polariscope strain viewers are commonly used to study/measure the properties of glass under stress,. This post discusses the significance of strain inspection before making glass articles, and the working and significance of polariscope strain viewers.

Challenges Associated with Detecting Strain in Glass

There are certain difficulties when visually identifying strain in colored glass, especially colored glass with vibrant hues. Here are some of the challenges.

  • With bare eyes or even a lens, spotting all the defects and deformities in a glass piece may not be possible.
  • It is not possible to measure the stress applied and the exact point at which the glass may break.
  • Spectral reflectance or Rλ is the light or energy ratio reflected by the glass surface to the incident light or energy on the surface, which is measured as a function of wavelength or lambda. The spectral reflectance in coated and uncoated glass is different, and hence it is challenging to measure manually. For instance, the daytime spectral reflectance of an uncoated, clear glass is around 8%.
  • Hence, a reliable inspection tool such as a polariscope strain viewer is needed to ensure invisible imperfections aren’t present in a glass before it is used in any commercial or industrial application.

Introducing Polariscope Strain Viewers

Colored glass has a wide application across industries including construction, home décor, and Polariscopes are used as strain viewers in the colored glass industry. It is an NDT tool that offers accurate analysis of stress and strain, structural defects introduced during manufacturing, variations in glass transparency, and more. It is an automatic 2D-measuring system which measures birefringence and retardation values in a transparent glass piece or any sample. The retardation values are used to determine the strain in the sample using the rotating analyzer method. Here, polarized light is passed through the glass piece, which helps interpret qualitative and quantitative defects in color distribution, tensile strength, and more. It then passes through another polarizer at a series of angles. Light falls on the CCD to get the data on the glass sample. The data from all angles of the second polarizer is combined and retardation is calculated

Benefits of Using Polariscope Strain Viewers for Glass

There are several benefits of using a polariscope strain viewer for colored glass. Here are some of them.

  • This is a nondestructive testing method that helps protect the beauty and integrity of the glass piece and can be done even if the glass piece is being processed.
  • It offers a clear optical view from various angles, large viewing areas, measurement area sizes around 205☓205mm, and a wider view of deformities, if any. Hence, this tool facilitates accurate data production.
  • It is effective for various glass types, regardless of the color intensity.
  • It reveals hidden stress patterns, allowing for corrective actions before assembly or final installation.
  • It facilitates consistent color distribution and enhances the overall aesthetics.
  • It ensures safety and prevents breakage by determining the tensile strength.

Applications of Polariscope Strain Viewers in Glasswork

Here are some application areas of polariscope strain viewers in the clear and colored glass segment.

  • It helps inspect individual colored glass pieces before assembly in stained glass windows or mosaics.
  • It is useful in identifying defects and measuring tensile strength of clear glass, which is used across industries such as medical, clinical research, automotive, electronics, and more.
  • It identifies the minutest strain caused by cutting, grinding, or polishing techniques.
  • It helps ensure the structural integrity for large glass art installations or even the glass used in construction of buildings, windows, and more.
  • It helps ensure the highest quality standards for colored glass production.

If you have any questions about using polariscope strain viewers in the glass ijnspection field or need to discuss your requirements or options, feel free to contact the team at Barnett Technical Services. The company is an authorized distributor for various brands of spectroscopy instruments such as polariscope strain viewers and more.

Related Products:

LSM-9002LE: Strain measurement in the visible across a 175×175 mm area

LSM-9002S: Strain measurement in the visible with a variable field of view for 10-10 to 60×60 mm

LSM-9001NIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in semiconductors

LSM-9100WNIR: Near-IR system to measure strain in resins and other plastics