| The Mechanical and Material Engineering Laboratory of the Université de Bretagne-Sud in Western France has invested heavily in new mechanical testing equipment in order to maintain its leading role as a research organisation.
Back in 2002, Professor Pierre-Yves Manach, Head of the Laboratory, first visited Roell Amsler, part of the Zwick Roell Group, to discuss a high capacity dynamic tension - torsion testing system. He was interested in a fully equipped solution based on an extremely stiff four column load frame which would be capable of carrying out many different types of tests. Having studied offers from other suppliers of equipment, the decision was ultimately made to purchase a Zwick 250kN tension compression frame, type HBT250kN/2000Nm, fitted with a 2,000 Nm torsion actuator, high accuracy extensometry, temperature chamber, and hydraulic wedge grips for tension-torsion testing.
The University focuses on three main areas of interest:
The highest number of testing activities is split between the testing of metallic materials and components within the automotive industry, consisting mainly of tension-torsion tests on tubular specimens and deep drawing experiments on large automotive body parts, as well as testing tubes for the nuclear industry.
The second biggest activity involves the testing of materials, such as cement and structures, for the construction industry. Tests include flexural testing of beams as well as torsion and compression to evaluate the buckling of pillars or columns used in construction projects.
Thirdly, helped by its geographical location near the sea, the University carries out tests on composite materials used in the construction of boats and water sports equipment, including complete components or basic materials such as fibres and fabrics.
The Laboratory is discovering that many different applications can be handled by the system, especially since gaining the nuclear and automotive test programme, and strongly believes that this is the most flexible and technically advanced mechanical testing equipment in the Bretagne region of France. |
