Dome Trip Force Measurement:
Equipment Used
Test Stand - Electronic force displacement test gauge.
Test Tip – .050" diameter with flat bottom for domes 5mm and greater or .032" diameter with flat bottom for domes less than 5mm.
SETUP
Position the center of the dome to be tested within .010” of the test tip center. The test
tip must be perpendicular to the dome. The dome must be on a hard flat surface, and
needs to be vented to avoid air entrapment. Air trapped under the dome will increase the
trip force and give a false reading.
MEASURING
1. Precondition the dome with 10 actuations using the recommended test tip diameter.
2. Gradually apply pressure to the dome until it trips and record the reading. This reading
is the “trip force”.
3. Gradually release the pressure from the dome until it snaps back. If desired, record the
reading. This reading is the release force. Release force is the result of dome geometry
and is sometimes useful in identifying dome characteristics.
