AUTOGRAPH AGX-V2 Series

Significance of the Topic

The Shimadzu AGX-V2 series represents a state-of-the-art platform for universal mechanical testing across research, quality control, and industrial development. By integrating ultrahigh-speed data acquisition, precise control, and extensive safety measures, these systems address the growing demand for reliable material characterization under rigorous standards such as ISO 6892 and ASTM methods.

Objectives and Overview

This document outlines the design and performance features of the AGX-V2 family, highlighting three core goals:

• Aggregation of cutting-edge functions for ultrafast sampling and high-response control.
• Comprehensive safety for operators and equipment.
• Optimized operability for rapid setup and execution.

Methodology

The AGX-V2 employs parallel processing with multiple CPUs and engine units to achieve 1 kHz crosshead response and 10 kHz data sampling. A new real-time autotuning algorithm maintains high-accuracy strain-rate control under noise and disturbance. Integrated software supports single-direction, cyclic, spring, texture, and custom motion routines. A voice-operation option and touch-panel controllers (stand-alone or smart handheld) streamline test initiation and monitoring.

Instrumentation Used

Key hardware and accessories include:

• AGX-V2 load frames (10 N to 600 kN capacities) with rigid guide columns and multi-joint adapters.
• Extensometers: AEH-3HR high-accuracy automatic, SIE-560A semifixed, SG series strain-gauge, DT differential transformer, and TRViewX noncontact video type.
• Grips: Manual wedge, hydraulic and pneumatic flat grips, and specialty jigs for compression, bending, combined loading, and composite testing (e.g., ASTM D6641, D6671, D7137).
• Environmental chambers: high/low temperature furnaces, gas-injection and refrigeration atmospheres.
• Software suite TRAPEZIUM X-V for data acquisition, real-time calculation of elastic modulus, report design (PDF, Word, Excel, HTML), off-line analysis, and web-based remote result viewing.

Main Results and Discussion

Performance demonstrations show:

• Strain-rate control within ±20 % of target up to ISO 6892 yield point requirements.
• Stable force control without overshoot in free-running compression and rubber simulation tests.
• Capturing brittle fracture events at 10 kHz sampling and extending force accuracy from 1/2000 to full scale.
• Synchronized acquisition of up to 20 sensor channels without external loggers, enhancing modulus and multi-parameter analyses.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The AGX-V2 series delivers:

• Reduced test cycle times through fast return speeds and automated jig handling.
• Enhanced data reliability and regulatory compliance for metallic, polymeric, and composite materials.
• Flexible testing modes covering tensile, compression, bending, shear, biaxial loading, and residual strength measurements.
• Evidence capture via USB camera integration and embedded event logs for traceability.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging directions include:

• Integration of AI-driven autotuning and predictive maintenance diagnostics.
• Expanded noncontact 2D/3D strain mapping with higher-resolution imaging extensometers.
• Networked laboratories sharing test protocols and results via cloud platforms.
• Extended environmental and multi-physics test cells for coupled thermal-mechanical fatigue studies.

Conclusion

The AGX-V2 family embodies a comprehensive solution for high-precision mechanical testing, uniting advanced control, extensive safety features, and versatile software. Its broad capacity range and accessory ecosystem position it as a central tool for materials development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance across industries.