Development of a Computerized Method to Measure Cotton Tenacity at Different Extension Rates

Abstract

Published research has indicated that cotton strength increases as the specimen loading rate increases when measured by Stelometer and Pressley methods. This report describes an instrument designed to test 1/8 gauge bundles at constant rates of extension from 0.05 to 50 cm/min. A computer analyzes voltage signals from force and dis placement transducers. Pressley jaws hold the fiber bundles, and a Stelometer vice is used to load them in the jaws. Specimens are selected with a mechanized sampling and combing procedure. The method provides measurements of strength, elongation, modulus, and two forms of toughness.