Component Tests

Introduction

There are many different types of part and component tests. Some are to characterize the structural performance of the part and some are to verify the performance of an associated finite element analysis.

A Few Experiments at Axel:

Relaxation and Thermal Recovery Sequence

A one day physical testing sequence has been developed to provide insight into the early effects of elevated temperature on compressed elastomers. By compressing an elastomeric material specimen (or actual elastomeric part) and holding it at a constant strain, the effects of time and temperature on the reaction force are measured. In particular, the reaction force at sub-ambient temperatures after first being subjected to an elevated temperature can be indicative of the changes that occur in the elastomer while at the earlier elevated temperature.

Bushing and Mount Characterization

The static and dynamic characterization of bushings, mounts and other vibration isolation devices is determined as a function of loading rates, frequencies temperatures. The information from these tests is sometimes used in kinematic software such as ADAMS or for basic product performance verification.

Load Deflection Tests

The examination the basic load deflection characteristics of components can be critical to understanding the complex behavior of components. It may also be performed for the purpose of verifying results generated using analytical tools. The use of imaging systems along with basic load deflection tests can provide information regarding the relationship between the part shape, the structural properties and the analytical model.

Axial + Torsional Testing

It can be valuable to examine parts and materials in a combined axial and torsional stress and strain condition. The system at Axel is capable of a combined 10 kN axial force and 100 N-m torsional force.

Impact Experiments

By dropping a weight or swinging a pendulum, impact experiments allow us to characterize the response of materials and parts to predefined energy input. The controlled paramters are mass and velocity. These experiments are a particularly useful way to verify material models that were calibrated using constant strain rate experiments.