The MPCF has expertise to conduct various mechanical test experiments on structural materials in different environments and at temperatures from sub-zero to 1650°C. For use of core shared-user equipment, please contact MPCF Research Engineer for advice (if needed) and submit a Test Proposal. For specialized mechanical property testing (e.g., much lower or higher loading capacity, much higher strain rates) and material characterization facilities, please see our Partner Facilities.
Instructional Center
Instron 5982 Universal Materials Testing System
Pendulum (Charpy) Impact Tester
Student-friendly 750 lb (3.3 kN) Tabletop Testers
- configurations for tension, compression, and bending tests
A live video monitor is available for detailed audience observations.
Major Accessories and Expertise
- Gripping / Adapters
- for tension, compression, bending, fracture, etc.
- Displacement Measurement
- axial extensometers (room and high temperature)
- diametral extensometers
- axial-torsion extensometers
- digital image correction (DIC) for full field strain measurement using long-focal length optical microscopes
- digital image correction (DIC) for full field strain measurement using 50 mm focal length f/1.8 lens
- Environmental Chamber, Ovens, and Furnaces; Induction Heaters
- temperatures from -129°C to 1650°C depending on unit
- temperature measurement via thermocouples or pyrometer
- In-situ X-ray Monitoring
- Long-focal Length Optical Microscopes for In-situ Observation
- Imaging and Microstructure Characterization
- sample prep facility (sectioning, mounting and polishing)
- fume hood for etching
- optical microscopes with image analysis software
- AFFRI MKII Portable Hardness Tester
- hand clamp and microtester benchtop stand
- Thermal Aging Ovens