Structural Testing Center
The Structural Testing Center (STC) houses two large scale structural testing frames capable of static and dynamic loading capacities up to 200,000 pounds. The STC contains 5 loading actuators for static and repeated loading tests of varying capacities, three state-of-art-data acquisition systems and several PC's loaded with TCS® software. Two hydraulic pumps with a capacity of GGPM and 35 GPM powers the actuators. Measurements of loads, deflections, accelerations, and strains can be taken electronically. Several linear potentiometers are available for measuring static and dynamic movements of testing specimens. DEMEC® gages are available for external assessment of strains. A number of accelerometers are available for use in dynamic/repeated load tests. Electrical and other types of strain gages are available to characterize compressive, tensile, and shear strains within the structural members. The STC has in-house construction capabilities for manufacturing of various configurations of structural concrete elements and pretensioned and post-tensioned concrete components. Adjustable formworks are used to construct various shapes of concrete beams. An adjustable reaction bulkhead system for prestressing is also available.
Most current testing involves fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforced and prestressed concrete structures. Current tests include static, repeated, dynamic, and ultimate load testing of double-T concrete bridge models. The models are 20 ft. long and represent 1/3 scale bridge prototype. The girders of these models are internally reinforced with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP); pretensioned and post-tensioned with Carbon Fiber Composite Cables (CFCC); and wrapped with CFRP reinforcing sheets and plates. Other ongoing tests in the STC are assessing the feasibility of using CFRP for drive shafts and other automotive components. Specially designed testing frame is available for repeated tensional load tests. This includes large capacity 50,000 in-lb MTS rotary actuator and tensional load cell. Smaller scale testing is also available with an Instron® Loading Frame. This apparatus has a capacity of 60,000 pounds (tension or compression) and can be used on a wide variety of materials. All of the equipment in the STC is capable of testing other large-scale structural members including steel and wood. Load cycles can be applied up to 10 hertz. All loading apparatus and controllers are the latest MTS® equipment.
Director: Dr. Nabil Grace