We carry out strength testing outside the scope of our accreditation, including bench tests at forces of up to 50,000 N. The Cartest laboratory can test any object, not just vehicle parts, within the capabilities of our equipment.
Looking to commission strength testing? Get in touch. Whether a specific test can be performed, and its exact scope, is agreed individually once we have discussed the details of your order.
Scope of strength testing at Cartest
The service covers static tests in which the load is increased up to a specified value or until the component fails, while sensors measure force and displacement throughout the test. The result is a force-displacement curve, from which the strength parameters of the test object are determined. We can test any product: from vehicle structural components and fittings to drawers and chair backrests. The only limitation is the capability of our equipment.
The test programme is defined at the client's request. The result describes how the component behaves under the agreed load configuration and allows its mechanical properties to be determined, e.g. resistance to compression, tension or rupture.
Strength testing methods
We carry out bench tests within the capabilities of our laboratory equipment, at forces of up to 50,000 N. These tests determine an item's resistance to compression, tension, rupture and similar loads.
Using sensors and measuring equipment, we record force, displacement and deformation. The recorded curve provides, among other things, the maximum or failure load, the deformation at a specified force and the permanent deformation after unloading. The loading and mounting method is selected to suit the material, geometry and intended use of the product.
The choice of method depends on the purpose of the test, e.g. prototype verification, comparison of product variants or products from different suppliers, or production batch inspection.
Basis of strength testing
The basis for testing outside the scope of accreditation is a test programme agreed with the client: the type and magnitude of the load, the mounting method, the measurement points and the end-of-test criterion.
Clients can specify requirements taken from their own specification or drawing, e.g. a minimum failure load or a maximum permissible deformation. Testing to a fixed programme keeps results comparable across successive stages of development and production. The result of a test performed outside the scope of accreditation applies to the tested structure or component under the agreed conditions and does not constitute confirmation of compliance with a standard.
Test procedure and reporting
The process comprises agreeing the test conditions, performing the test and preparing a report with the results.
- Agreeing the test conditions: selecting the type and parameters of the load (compression, tension, bending), defining the mounting method, measurement points and assessment criteria.
- Preparing the item: identifying the component, measuring its dimensions, and checking its geometry and condition before the test begins.
- Testing: checking that the mounting holds the component stable, as this determines measurement accuracy, followed by continuous recording of force and displacement until the specified value is reached or the component ruptures.
- Report: force-displacement curve, summary of results, permanent deformation values, and a description of the location and nature of the failure and of any deviations from the requirements.
Cartest laboratory team and testing expertise
Cartest has a qualified team and specialised measuring equipment that enable accurate, repeatable strength testing. This allows us to support our clients' R&D and quality control departments in:
- verifying prototypes and new designs before testing to standards,
- comparing product variants or products from different suppliers,
- selecting the static test set-up and the mounting method for parts.
Looking to commission strength testing? Contact Cartest
Do you have questions about our strength testing services? Would you like to check whether a specific product or part can be tested?
Email us at cartest@cartest.pl or call +48 605 335 804.
We will help you choose the right scope of testing to confirm the strength and safety of your product.