Novel Physical Testing Methods using the Texture Analyser

Our probes and fixtures range has developed due to the need for new ways to hold/support and test samples in ways that haven’t been previously available for traditional texture analysis test methods. For example, instead of using the Texture Analyser in an up and down mode you could support the instrument on its side and measure friction in a horizontal plane. This could be for the measurement of frictional properties of packaging or to assess the grating potential of cheese.

Horizontal Friction Rig 

Alternatively, if you need to mimic an action that a consumer typically performs in their use of a product why not challenge us to design a fixture that gives you the ability to imitate this during a test. Typical examples include the measurement of bread squeezing that imitates the action a consumer performs when assessing bread freshness or hair combing force which would allow the assessment of the effects of different hair products on the combability of hair:

To imitate the action of pushing a scoop of ice cream into a cone we developed this method (shown below) and to measure the ice cream’s scoopability we have the Ice Cream Scoop Rig. Sometimes you just need to keep the measurement simple and attempt to recreate the action that is performed in real life when a consumer makes a subjective assessment.   

Ice Cream Cone Support Rig, Ice Cream Scoop 

Measuring the force to open a drink or food can is another example of where force measurement is necessary to assess the ease that a customer will experience when trying to get to the contents.  There is a desirable force that sits between too easy to open (which risks accidental opening of something) and too difficult to open (which will affect customer loyalty and repeat purchase). These forces are therefore necessary to measure and control for consistent product quality. 

Ring Pull Rig

To see how to perform these and more unusual physical property tests using a TA.XTplus Texture Analyser to measure disintegration, grating force, friction, abrasion, scoopability, combability, powder flow analysis etc., watch this video and see typical physical property tests in action: 

There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.

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For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplus texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

No-one understands texture analysis like we do!

To discuss your specific test requirements click here...