VERNIER STRUCTURES AND MATERIALS TESTER
Evaluate the strength of model bridges and engineered structures by measuring the applied load with the Vernier Structures and Materials Tester. Utilizing both load and displacement sensors allows students to evaluate properties of materials (stress and strain).
The Vernier Structures and Materials Tester (VSMT) is the perfect device for all project-based STEM and engineering classrooms. Use the Tester along with the engineering design method to design, build and test structures, conduct bridge competitions and investigate and analyze beam designs and material properties.

Exact Force and Displacement for Bends and Breaks
The Tester is equipped with a load cell (measuring up to 1000N) and a displacement sensor (0.1mm resolution). Using both sensors allows you to record maximum breaking loads as well as load/displacement characteristics to allow students to evaluate stress and strain.

Use the video analysis function of Vernier Logger Pro 3 in conjunction with your sensor measurements to see how and when things bend and break.

Accurate Positioning for Centre and Off-Centre Loading
The top support beams of the Tester are designed to easily slide and lock into position. Ruled markings located on the Tester allow you to accurately position the support beams for centre or off-centre loading.

Easy Loading For Different Sizes and Shapes
The VSMT ships with a well-outfitted VSMT Tackle Kit that includes both a 50x50x6mm and a 50x80x6mm aluminum load plate, chain, rods, U-bolts and other accessories to make it quick and easy to load bridges, materials, beams and structures of varying sizes and shapes.

To collect data the Vernier Structures and Materials Tester (with VSMT Tackle Kit) requires a compatible interface and software, sold separately.



Vernier Logger Pro 3 includes several experiment files to help you conduct the following activities with the VSMT. You can find these files by clicking on File > Open > Probes & Sensors > Structures & Materials Tester in Logger Pro.
• Class Bridge Design
The VSMT is an ideal tool to use for class bridge and structure engineering and design competitions. Students can test their bridges or other structures to determine the maximum force or efficiency (force/weight of bridge).

• Individual Structure Analysis
This activity is designed to allow the student to test a single unit and evaluate its performance and failure mechanism. Combine this activity with Logger Pro's Video Capture to analyze the point of failure, develop explanations and re-design the structure to improve performance. This activity is at the heart of the engineering design process.

• Elastic Modulus Moment of Inertia
Students can explore properties of materials and beam construction. This experiment file is designed around the deflection of a beam supported on both ends and loaded by a downward force at its centre. The three pages of this file explore different aspects of the relationship between the deflection of the beam, the force applied, the length between the supports, the modulus of elasticity and the moment of inertia (by area) of the beam.

Included:
• Vernier Structures and Materials Tester device with force and displacement sensors
• VSMT Tackle Kit accessory hardware to connect bridges, structures and materials to the tester:
     One 50x50x6mm loading plate
     One 50x80x6mm loading plate
     One 30cm threaded rod
     One 20cm threaded rod
     Two welded eye bolts
     Two threaded quick links
     One coupling nut
     One large U-bolt
     One small U-bolt
     One 16.5cm chain

Force Sensor Specifications:
• Operational Range: 0 to 1,000N
• Safety Range (maximum force without damage done to sensor): 0 to 1,300N
• Resolution: 1N

Displacement Sensor Specifications:
• Range: 0 to 7cm
• Resolution: 0.01cm


NOTE: Due to the size and weight of this product it is expensive to import and our price reflects that cost. Extra domestic freight charges may also apply.

Download the current Vernier K-12 Catalogue
Download the current Vernier University Catalogue

Educational use only:
Vernier and Kidwind products are designed for educational use. They are not appropriate for industrial, medical or commercial applications. Details

• Warranty: 5 year limited warranty

  ---

  Dimensions
  • Weight: 10.047kg

    Last edited 1st Jul 2024

    Accessories / Spare Parts:	From
    VSMT-TK - Vernier Structure and Materials Tester (VSMT) Tackle Kit	$142.00
    VSMT-TRUSS - Vernier Truss Tester Accessory	$358.00
    VSMT-FORCE - Vernier VSMT Force Cell	$529.00
    Works with:	From
    LABQ2 - Vernier LabQuest 2 Data Logger and Interface	$835.00
    LQ-MINI - Vernier LabQuest Mini Data Logger Interface	$455.00
    GA4 - Vernier Graphical Analysis	$0.00
    LP - Vernier Logger Pro 3 Data Logging Software	$719.00

    Documents:
    Catalogue	Vernier Catalogue K-12
    Catalogue	Vernier Catalogue Uni
    Catalogue	May 2024 Web Catalogue
    Compatibility Guide	Sensor-Interface-Software Requirements (external link)
    User Manual	Vernier Structures & Materials Tester
    User Manual	Vernier Truss Tester Accessory

    
    Note: Prices do NOT include GST or freight