Fiber reinforced polymers and plastic composites are mechanically tested with a wide variety of test types including tensile, compressive, shear, flexural, and fatigue. Each specific type (FRP, CFRP, GRP or thermoplastic composites, short fibre composites, continuous wound, thermoset composites, etc) will typically require a special set of test methods that have evolved over time. That noted, uniaxial tension and compression tests on fiber reinforced composites and laminates require a properly sized or robust high quality load frame and accessories designed for precision and mechanical alignment. High alignment produces high strength in tensile tests. Knowledgeable customers familiarize themselves with the details of industry standards because they reveal many tips and techniques to ensure good results. Fiber reinforced composites may be used in high or low temperature environments and the addition of environmental chambers to the test machine. In addition grips and extensometers are available to match high and low temperature requirements. Tensile testing of flat composite test coupons require mechanical or hydraulic wedge action grips sized to the largest sample size. The grips feature interchangeable grip jaws selected to match sample dimensions including the length and thickness of specimen tabs. Compressive strength of fiber reinforced composites is typically less than tensile strength and require special testing fixtures and methods.
Applicable Testing Standards
- ISO 527 - Tensile Test of Plastics Composites
- ISO 604 Compressive Plastics Testing Equipment
- ISO 14125 Plastic Composites Flexure Bend Test Machine
- ISO 14126 Compression Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Composites Test Machine
- ISO 14130 Flexure Short Beam Plastic Composites Test Equipment
- ASTM D695 Compression Testing for Rigid Plastics
- ASTM D790 Testing for Flexural Properties of Plastics and Insulating Materials
- ASTM D3039 Tensile Testing for Advanced Composite Materials
Recommended Test Machine
Force range of 5 kN to 600 kN (1,125 lbf to 135,000 lbf)
Adjustable test space
The most popular choice for static tension and compression tests
These dual column testers are available in both tabletop and floor standing models
Recommended Testing Accessories
Load ratings from 20 kN to 250 kN (4,500 lbf to 55,000 lbf)
Works well with round or flat specimens
Load ratings of 2.5 kN and 10 kN (550 lbf and 2,250 lbf)
Span and roller dimensions made to order
Satisfies ASTM D790 and D7264
Loading nose is guided by linear bearing for high precision
Load ratings from 25 kN to 1,000 kN (5,625 lbf to 225,000 lbf)
Rated for both static and fatigue testing
Hydraulic actuation
Temperature ratings up to 350°C (662°F)
Load ratings from 25 kN to 500 kN (5,625 lbf to 112,500 lbf)
Jaws move laterally in stationary position while grip body moves on adjustment
Works well with round or flat specimens
Available from a 1 mm (0.04 in) measurement range to a 25 mm (1.0 in) measurement range
May be used in a wide variety of tests
Includes a magnetic and adjustable mounting base
Standard units meet Class B-1 of ASTM E83, Class 0,5 of ISO 9513
Measures displacement for axial tensile, compression, and cyclic testing
Gage lengths from 10 mm to 50 mm (0.5 in to 2.0 in)
Measuring ranges from 5% to 100% strain
Lightweight and self-supporting