Geotextile Puncture Test Equipment

Geotextiles are commonly subjected to out of plane loads which can cause puncture and a loss of structural integrity. Although the size of the puncturing device differs between specific materials and testing standards, the test method is consistent. A material sample is stretched across a diaphragm and clamped into place, typically with a ring clamp. The material is then subjected to a load, applied by the puncture or burst probe, perpendicular to the plane of the fabric, until rupture. Although this is not a typical tensile test in that the material sample is clamped and pulled apart, the geotextile samples of a puncture or burst test are ultimately stretched in tension, providing another characterization of a material ASTM and ISO have specified standard test methods for testing the puncture or burst resistance and strength of geotextile materials. These test methods are primarily driven by industry needs for safety and quality assurance. Popular test methods include ASTM D6241 for puncture of geotextiles and ASTM 4833 for puncture of geomembranes. Geotextile puncture and burst tests are conducted using low force, high elongation, constant rate of extension, tabletop tensile or compression machines. Special fixtures are required for testing to ASTM and ISO standards for textile puncture and burst resistance and special clamping surface preparation may be necessary for specific textiles. The machine families below are configurable to meet test requirements. The fixtures shown are designed to meet specific ASTM standard requirements and are also representative of the custom fixtures that can be manufactured for special testing requirements.

Applicable Testing Standards

Recommended Test Machine

300 Series Electromechanical Universal Test Machines

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