Pressure film products, like Fujifilm Prescale, are one of the more common methods used for testing interface pressure between two surfaces. When pressure is applied, tiny microbubbles burst within the film to show various degrees of pressure, through color density, that corresponds to the pressure and pressure distribution.

While pressure film products essentially produce a "snap shot" of peak pressure, an I-Scan pressure mapping system offers the luxury of being able to capture dynamic, real-time pressure data that can be viewed throughout the entire testing process.

How do pressure film and I-Scan pressure mapping systems compare? Follow the graphics below to find out.

Data Captured

As mentioned, pressure film only captures the moment of peak pressure during a testing process. There is no way for a pressure film user to determine when the peak pressure moment occurred during the process. On the other hand, I-Scan systems capture the entire range of pressure that occurs over the entire test. Not only can a I-Scan user determine where peak pressure occurred in the testing process, they can analyze any changes in pressure that occurred as adjustments were made.

Analysis Capabilities

Pressure film users can use a digital scanner and import images into a digital analysis system to quantify the readings into a digital numerical format. This data cannot be calibrated, though -- it only can show the degree of pressure. I-Scan users have access to a robust software with numerous analysis tools and features to bring more insight to the pressure test. Recording & playback features with I-Scan software also allows for more comprehensive analysis, as well as the ability to export data reports into user-friendly file formats (.doc, .csv, ASCII, etc.).

Efficiency & Productivity

Because pressure film is a single-use product, the setup process can be time consuming, especially if several tests are required. I-Scan sensors are reusable, and can stay within the testing surfaces for as long as they are needed.

Which Option Serves Your Needs Best?

Put simply, if you just want to capture a raw glimpse of a single peak-pressure event, pressure film may be an economical choice for you. But, if your project can be enhanced with actionable data that can analyze pressure changes in real time, consider investing in an I-Scan system.

Click here to download an infographic summarizing the information presented in this blog.