A compact strain viewing instrument which can be located either in the laboratory or at the point of product manufacture for small glass objects has been launched by Sharples Stress Engineers. With a 105mm diameter viewing field, the S-70 bench-top strain viewer can be used for examining precision glassware, ampoules, vials, miniature containers and other glass products in a polarised light. Articles to be inspected are viewed through an 80mm diameter analyser. This will allow two people to carry out product checks simultaneously, either for discussions on manufacturing defects or as an aid to operator training. The instrument can be used in the vertical or horizontal operation mode and a replaceable component support stage is provided for the vertical applications. The addition of an angled base also allows the strain viewer to be converted to a tilted position.
