In high-temperature industries such as metallurgy, building materials, and aerospace, an instrument that can accurately measure the deformation behavior of materials under high temperature and load is playing an irreplaceable role. The load creep tester is a key equipment used to determine the resistance of refractory materials and other high-temperature materials under high-temperature load softening. It provides key data support for evaluating the high-temperature performance of materials by simulating their deformation behavior under the combined action of high temperature and constant load. This instrument can test the load softening temperature and high-temperature creep performance of materials, which are directly related to the safe operating life and efficiency of industrial devices such as high-temperature kilns, glass melt pools, and metallurgical equipment.

The load creep tester measures the physical properties of material deformation behavior under high temperature and constant load. The testing process first requires the preparation of cylindrical specimens of standard size (usually 50 × 50mm), and then placing the specimens in a uniform heating furnace of the testing device. During the testing process, the instrument will gradually increase the temperature at a specified rate while maintaining a constant pressure load on the sample. By continuously monitoring the height changes of the sample through precision sensors, the corresponding temperature when the sample is compressed to a specific percentage height is recorded, which is the load softening temperature. For creep testing, the equipment will maintain a constant high temperature for a long time, measure the deformation of the sample under constant temperature and load conditions, and calculate the creep rate.

The load creep tester mainly consists of four parts: heating system, loading system, deformation measurement system, and control system. Heating systems usually use silicon molybdenum rods as heating elements, and the furnace size is designed according to the sample size. Common ones include a diameter of 50mm. The loading system provides a constant pressure to the sample, with a loading range of generally 50-500N and a stress error of less than ± 2%. There are two types of loading methods: direct pressure independent loading system and lever type loading system, the latter of which can provide more stable loading force. The deformation measurement system is responsible for monitoring the deformation of the sample at high temperatures, with a measurement range of usually 0-10mm, using high-precision displacement sensors. The key technical parameters include: the maximum heating temperature can reach 1700 ℃, the heating rate can be adjusted from 0-15 ℃/min, the temperature control accuracy is ± 1 ℃, and the deformation measurement accuracy is 0.1%. Different models of equipment have differences in these parameters to meet diverse testing needs. Testers usually support standard sample sizes such as φ 36 × 50mm and φ 50 × 50mm, and some models can test multiple samples simultaneously to improve testing efficiency. The control system often uses microcomputer measurement and control processing industry on-site control modules to achieve fully automatic control.

The Dutch creep tester follows multiple international and domestic standards, including YB/T370, GB/T5989, GB/T5073, GB/T7320, ISO1893, ISO3187, etc. These standards specify the specific testing process, sample specifications, and result evaluation methods. The operation process is divided into three stages: preparation work, testing process, and final cleaning. The preparation work includes checking the equipment status, preparing standard samples, and installing samples. The sample must have a smooth and defect free surface, and ensure correct positioning and even force distribution during installation. During the testing process, the operator needs to set parameters such as heating rate, target temperature, and load size through the control panel. After starting the test, the device automatically heats the sample according to the set heating program while maintaining a constant load. The system will monitor and record the temperature changes and deformation of the sample in real time. After the test is completed, it is necessary to allow the sample to cool naturally or use a cooling system to accelerate the cooling process, then carefully remove the sample and clean the testing area. The collected data will automatically generate temperature time, deformation time, deformation temperature and other curve graphs for further analysis.

When choosing a creep tester, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as testing requirements, technical parameters, equipment configuration, and after-sales service. Firstly, it is necessary to clarify the type of test, whether it is load softening temperature test, creep rate test, or comprehensive test. Determine the required technical parameters based on the type of test, such as maximum test temperature (e.g. 1700 ℃), heating rate (0-20 ℃/min), temperature control accuracy (± 1 ℃), etc. Sample specifications are also important considerations, and it is necessary to confirm whether the equipment is compatible with commonly used sample sizes such as φ 36 × 50mm and φ 50 × 50mm, as well as the number of samples to be tested simultaneously (single sample, double sample, or triple sample). In terms of key technical parameters, attention should be paid to temperature control accuracy, stability and accuracy of the loading system, and accuracy of deformation measurement. In terms of equipment structure, priority should be given to equipment using U-shaped silicon molybdenum rod heating elements to ensure high temperature stability. Maintenance is crucial for ensuring testing accuracy and extending equipment lifespan. After each use, the testing area should be cleaned, especially to remove any residue or dust. Regularly check the working status of heating elements to ensure that heating efficiency is not affected. Regular calibration of temperature control systems and displacement sensors is crucial to ensure the accuracy of measurement results. If the device contains moving parts such as lifting mechanisms, regular lubrication is required to reduce wear and tear. Safety inspections cannot be ignored, and the safety of electrical connections should be regularly checked to ensure that all protective measures are effectively in operation.