Papworths Construction Testing Equipment

There are several ways to test the strength of hardened concrete. Some tests are completely non-destructive while some are slightly destructive, leaving small holes that can easily be patched. Individuals performing concrete strength tests must be qualified and have appropriate certifications stipulated by the ASTM standard test methods. The easiest and most common strength test for concrete involves making a cylinder fresh and consolidated concrete and testing the hardened sample a specified age. A common requirement for casting concrete strength specimens is that moulds should be cylindrical, with a height to diameter ration of 2 is to 1. Moulds used to form concrete test cylinders vertically should conform to ASTM C470. Conforming to size and ratio standards is important to ensure accurate lab test results. The second most common type of concrete strength testing uses beam specimens that are hardened in a horizontal position instead of a cylindrical form. Beam specimens are commo...

The main advantage of investing in a universal testing machine is that the device can be used to test the strength, durability, and suitability for most any material. A universal testing machine has the capability to pull, compress, bend, or stretch material to its breaking point. It is primarily used by laboratories that manufacture and or mould different types of plastics. A universal testing device features one or two vertical columns mounted on a base. A second horizontal plate contains attachments that are used to hold the sample and slides up and down during stress testing samples. Dual vertical column machines are preferred by most laboratories as they can handle larger samples in terms of size and weight. Determining tensile strength is the most common test performed in a universal testing machine. This is done by holding one end of a sample in place while the other is pulled away until two sides are torn apart. The same process is used for testing flexural str...