FUTEK was recently called upon by the engineering talent behind Spike TV's Deadliest Warrior to play a critical supporting role in simulating the bites, strength, and endurance of zombies and vampires in preparation of its Vampires vs Zombies episode (9/14/11).

To achieve the desired results, the bite of a feverish zombie was simulated using a Rottweiler that was provoked to attack an armor arm housing the trainer’s arm as well as a FUTEK load cell. As hundreds of pounds of force originating with Joey the Rottweiler pressed down upon the load cell, FUTEK's USB SensIT Software detected Joey's maximum force exerted to be 255 lb.

How did that compare to that of Sir Dracula? In the attempt to bring in a source seemingly comparable to that of this apex predator, it only seemed appropriate that another four-legged friend—an alligator—be called upon. Apparently, Ripper knew he was on official jaw-dropping business and thus didn’t hold back as it delivered 1,723 lb. of force onto a 5,000-lb. Load Button.

It may seem that this duel was an easy feat for the fanged vampire. But there were other avenues for the zombie in which to excel.

The combative strength of a zombie is fueled by the virus he carries; he simply possesses the need to savagely spread the virus to which he was exposed. However, though his physical prowess may be impeccable, whether he is fast enough to make an efficient kill wasn’t known on the set of the Deadliest Warrior.

That is until a team of strong men was assembled and then timed as they dug through faux vampire flesh and guts to reach the vampire’s heart. Within two minutes they did. Yet, this retrieval was still no match for the vampire’s clawed hand thrashing the skull of the zombie and puncturing the brain in less than two seconds time

While FUTEK isn’t a member of the screen actors guild, its behind-the-scenes performance merits kudos. But judge for yourself and view the frightening episode in its entirety, if you dare. .