Fatigue Testing at TWI
Our state-of-the-art fatigue test facilities include high cycle fatigue testing under constant and variable amplitude loading, with a particular focus on fatigue testing of welds and welded components. Fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) testing of parent metal, weld metal and the heat affected zone (HAZ) can also be carried out. Both FCGR and endurance tests can be performed in air or in a seawater environment.
TWI’s experts are able to conduct tailor-made full-scale testing to generate S-N data to validate the fatigue performance of welded joints, measure fatigue crack growth rates (FCGR) for use in engineering critical assessment (ECA), and provide designers and engineers with assurance of fatigue integrity. TWI is uniquely placed to offer a wide range of laboratory services, along with expertise, research and standards involvement to provide technical advice and interpretation alongside the data generated through our testing services.
TWI Fatigue Testing Capabilities
TWI’s fatigue endurance testing capabilities features:
- Servo-hydraulic test machines with capacities from 2kN to 2,500kN (3,000kN static)
- Reduced or elevated temperature capabilities
- Tests on sections of welds, welded attachments, threaded fasteners
- Specimen thicknesses up to 100mm
- Constant or variable amplitude loading
- Testing in air or seawater environments
- Post-test inspection of fracture faces
- Detailed analysis and interpretation of results
TWI’s FCGR testing capabilities:
- UKAS accredited for FCGR testing to BS ISO 12108
- Tests on SENB specimens, notched in parent material, weld or HAZ
- Air or aggressive environments (seawater, aqueous solutions containing CO2 and H2S etc.)
- Produce upper-bound Paris law constants to provide data for ECA, remaining life assessments, and environmental acceleration factors
- Detailed analysis and interpretation of results
We are also able to deliver fatigue testing on welds in full-scale pipes through our dedicated resonance fatigue testing facility. Our bespoke fatigue testing capabilities and test equipment also provide a range of options to support research work or unusual testing requirements, with the expertise and experience to design tailor-made test jigs, fixtures and machines to suit.
To find out more about our fatigue testing support for industry and how we can help meet your challenges, please email contactus@twi.co.uk.