Project Description
In the proposed research and development effort, a standard servo hydraulic test frame will be modified and equipped with the necessary hardware (furnace, digital extensometry, etc.) to perform high temperature tensile testing of milli-scale specimens. The test stand will be horizontally oriented for two reasons: 1) To promote uniformity in the thermal profile across the gauge section and 2) To enable the ability to "drop in" specimens as a step towards automated materials tensile testing. This test frame will have the capability to test a wide range of conventionally processed and additively manufactured metals, refractory alloys, and composites in extreme environments.
Tasks and Responsibilites
1) Develop 3D computer aided design (CAD) model of the hardware components (furnace, digital cameras, mounting components, etc.) within Solidworks or PTC Creo. 2) Design and procure necessary hardware to perform mechanical testing at high temperatures. 3) Design and machine milli-specimen and attendant specimen grips based on ASTM sub-scale testing specimens. 4) Utilize commercial off the shelf software to perform digital extensometry measurements within the gauge section of the milli-tensile specimens. 5) Analyze development of oxide layer(s) on specimens using optical microscopy. 6) Report research findings periodically to Academic mentor and within poster session at Undergraduate Research Symposium.