Thermomechanical fatigue testing for aerospace

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jan 14, 2003

A new range of thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) systems simulates the combined effects of thermal cycling and mechanical fatigue, and is ideally suited for the aerospace industry.

Instron 8862 thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) systems simulate the combined effects of thermal cycling and mechanical fatigue, and are ideally suited for the aerospace industry.

These fully integrated TMF systems test materials used in gas and jet turbines to ensure they can withstand arduous operating conditions such as emergency shutdowns and afterburner activation.

Instron's uniquely engineered 8862 has a 100kN high-stiffness, precision-aligned load frame and a single ballscrew 100kN electromechanical actuator.

This combination provides a superior testing system designed for both low cycle fatigue and slow strain rate testing.

To simulate testing in extreme heat followed by rapid cooling, Instron's TMF systems feature an induction heater, as well as water-cooled hydraulic grips.

The 8862 uses Instron's FastTrack 8800 controller, which provides the accurate control needed for complex thermo-mechanical fatigue testing.

The system is controlled through Instron's FastTrack TMF software package, which can automatically compensate for thermal strain.

To ensure accurate, repeatable test results, the 8862 features Instron's patented Dynacell.

This innovative load cell prevents inertial load errors, because it is equipped with an accelerometer designed to measure and compensate for load-cell/grip inertia.

(This was Engineeringtalk's Top Story on 12 January 2003).