Open Source Universal Material Science Destructive Testing Machine

Basics

• Part of the Open Source Laboratory Construction Set
• An Open Source "Universal Tester"
• Used to measure the Compressive Strength , Shear Strength , and Tensile Strength of any material made into the standard shape (usually a bar or hook
• Uses load cells, but the early versions could use Hook Style Scales
• Is almost essential if we start making any materials to provide hard, consistent evidence of material properties, especially for metals, and plastics
• Can also be used to test various weld techniques (On a purpose built small destructive test sample however for proof of concept, it doesn't replace a X-Ray Based Weld Inspection Device
• Can also test the "tackyness" / cohesion+adhesion of various glues, and greases

Existing Open Source Designs

FreeLoader

• FreeLoader
• Their Main Website

Testbot

• A ~300 USD machine
• Instructable on the device
• The Youtube Video on the Device

CNC Kitchen

• Supposeldy ~110 USD
• Uses a diy optical Extensometer
• The Youtube Video on the Device

Minimum Viable Product

• Perhaps a low strength, and "it will break anything" version
  • The former for education, and plastic workflows (as well as low level tests etc)
  • The latter as a direct substitute for high end machines

Basic Design

• Can Universal Axis develop enough torque? would a gearbox, and/or "stacking" multiple axis work?
• If not that, the Open Source Hydraulic Cylendar perhaps?

See Also

• Materials Science Testing Methods

Useful Links

• A Page Descibing using such a Device to Check Welds