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NCAL: Cruciform Test Machine
A cruciform test machine is available in the NIST Center for Automotive Lightweighting. This machine deforms a cross-shaped specimen with four specimen end tabs. Each of the four actuators can be independently controlled to deform the sample through a range of strain paths without unloading. This device was funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
In addition to the test machine capabilities listed below, the default configuration includes:
- Two stereo Digital Image Correlation (DIC) strain mapping systems, one for large field mapping and one small field of view to study localizations or features in more resolution,
- A high-resolution high-speed infrared (IR) camera to measure adiabatic heating
- An optical DIC-based biaxial extensometer for control of the strain path during the test
- An X-ray diffraction (XRD) system to measure lattice strains and macroscopic stresses in situ
Specifications/Capabilities
Testing Machine Capabilities:
- Four hydraulic axial actuators
- 500 kN max. force per actuator
- Single actuator travel ±50 mm
- Single axis - actuator pair travel ±100 mm
- Force, displacement, or strain control on each axis
- Force and displacement control on each actuator
The instrument pages for NCAL DIC Measurement Systems and NCAL Diffraction Stress Measurement Systems include details of the DIC and XRD systems that can be used on this frame