Video of impact test (Flash video)

ifm impact test
ifm engineers developed an impact test that simulates the extreme metalforming conditions.

In the test fixture, the sensor is hit twice every second by a 2.2 lb. hammer. The impact test conditions are harsher than real-world applications and are designed to accelerate time-to-failure and validate product design. For comparison, plastic and teflon face sensors were also tested.

Results
The metal face sensor withstood over 500,000 impacts in the test fixture. The plastic and teflon face sensors failed after 32,000 impact.