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NCAL: Tension-Compression Test Machine
A uniaxial sheet tension-compression test machine is available in the NIST Center for Automotive Lightweighting. This machine provides additional constraints to allow sheet specimens to be tested to significant levels of compression without buckling. In addition, friction forces are quantified with the use of a secondary load cell.
In addition to the test machine capabilities listed below, the default configuration includes:
- A stereo Digital Image Correlation (DIC) strain mapping system
Specifications/Capabilities
Testing Machine Capabilities:
- One hydraulic axial actuator
- 100 kN max. axial force
- Actuator travel ±75 mm
- Load cells placed above and below the sample to measure friction forces
- Axial Force, Displacement, or Strain control
- 2 pneumatic lateral actuators (3 kN max.)
The instrument pages for NCAL DIC Measurement Systems include details of the DIC systems that can be used on this frame.