Metal matrix composites are high strength materials used in a wide range of applications including automotive and military vehicles. Metal matrix composites can be designed to have specific stiffness, controlled thermal expansion confinements, and specific thermal conductivity. Fatigue testing metal matrix composites is an essential part of research and development, design, and quality audits. Fatigue testing MMC's can be done a number of different ways: strain controlled fatigue, load controlled fatigue, and thermomechanical fatigue are all common methods. Currently, there are no ASTM or ISO test methods for determining the fatigue characteristics of metal matrix composites. However, TestResources suggests the use of metal fatigue test standards.
High cycle fatigue testing can be done with either strain control or load control. For strain control, refer to ASTM E606 or ISO 12106. For load control refer to ASTM E466 or ISO 1099. Fatigue testing is done using three different methods, all of which are covered by ASTM. First, ASTM E606 covers strain control axial fatigue. Third, ASTM E466 covers load controlled fatigue testing. TestResources equipment, including servo hydraulic and electrodynamic testing machines are perfect for fatigue testing materials. Servo hydraulic test machines, such as the 902 Series has high load capabilities up to 22 kip and high cyclic frequency capacity up to 100 Hz. Electrodynamic test machines, such as the 830, 820 and the 810 Series, are more affordable with lower load capacities and lower speed capacities. Call today to speak directly with a fatigue testing engineer about configuring a machine to match your specific needs!
Applicable Testing Standards
- ISO 1099 Axial Force-Controlled Method of Fatigue Testing of Metallic Materials
- ISO 12106 Metallic Materials Axial-Strain-Control Fatigue Testing
- ASTM E466 Load Controlled Constant Amplitude Fatigue Tests of Metals
- ASTM E606 Strain-Controlled High and Low Cycle Fatigue Testing
- ASTM E2368 Thermomechanical Fatigue Test Equipment
Recommended Test Machine
Static and fatigue forces up to 50 kN (11,250 lbf)
Frequency ratings up to 75 Hz
Oil-free, all electric actuator for clean test conditions
Lower purchase, operating, and maintenance costs than hydraulic equivalents
Static and fatigue forces up to 25 kN (5,500 lbf)
Frequency ratings up to 100 Hz
Servohydraulic
Small, portable footprint
Recommended Testing Accessories
Load ratings from 50 kN to 300 kN (11,250 lbf to 67,500 lbf)
Hydraulic actuation
Designed to cycle dynamically through zero-load
Temperature ratings up to 1,000°C (1,800°F)
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