Artificial turf testing equipment

"A" Missile Artificial Turf Tester

After a decade of research and development, Playground Clearing House has created a portable "A" Missile artificial turf impact tester.

"A" Missile features:

• Screen shows Gs, HIC, and impact velocity as required by ASTM 1936-98.
• The velocity, time, and date of each drop are reported. Since they cannot be altered, honest reporting is ensured.
• Graphs of all drops can be reviewed on small computer screen with the push of a button.
• The "A" Missile computer can store up to 48 drops for later upload to computer.
• After uploading, comments can be inserted for each drop.
• Foam-filled, heavy-duty plastic case for both computer and head form ensures safe transport/shipment.
• Case is fitted with wheels and retractable handles.
• Total system weighs less than 65 pounds and can be set up in less than 5 minutes.

The "A" Missile can be used to test all kinds of playing fields including football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, and multi-purpose fields, and complies with the following regulations:

ASTM F 1936-98 Standard Specification for Shock-Absorbing Properties of North American Football Field Playing Systems as Measured in the Field:

"[A] test method and maximum impact attenuation for all types of installed turf playing systems in North American football.

"The impact missle shall be cylindrical with a circular, flat, metal impacting surface weighing 20 pounds (9.1 kg) having a 20-inch² surface face with edges slightly beveled to eliminate sharp edges, a provision for mounting the accelerometer within ± 1° of the vertical axis and for reaching a velocity of 11.35 ± 0.56 ft/in² for a theoretical drop of 24 inches at sea level upon impact from the drop height."