Fracture tests study the formation of cracks in materials. Experimental solid mechanics is used to characterize the material's resistance to fracture. Fracture mechanics is used to improve the mechanical performance of materials and components. In mechanical testing, fracture tests are used for both production and research purposes. TestResources has supplied equipment to world leaders in fracture mechanics and our support team has significant experience.

Fatigue crack growth rate tests expressed as a function of crack-tip stress-intensity factor range, da/dN versus delta K, characterizes a material's resistance to stable crack extension under cyclic loading. Temperature and aggressive environments can significantly affect da/dN versus delta K, and in many cases accentuate R-effects and introduce effects of other loading variables such as cycle frequency and waveform.

We offer standard test applications software to serve the range of needs associated with ASTM E647, ASTM E1820, ASTM E 399, and E 1290.

That said, leading edge research continues on with TestResources fatigue test machines at the University of Arkansas (Dr. Ashok Saxena), focused on improving and understanding mechanical behavior of metals at ambient and elevated temperatures. Time-dependent fracture mechanics and low - cycle strain controlled fatigue experiments contribute to the development of improved understanding of microstructure-property relationships, reliability and risk analysis and ultimately how to extend the life of aging structural components. Just call us if you have an interest in the subject.