Testing Services
Metamet has access to extensive testing and analytical services at the Engineering Centre for Manufacturing and Materials.
These are some examples of our capabilities. Please contact us if you have specific queries.
Mechanical Testing
Computer controlled tensile testing machines are available with load capacities ranging from 100kN to 1000 kN (static loading) or 100kN to 250kN (dynamic loading), all with extensometers for the measurement of strain. A range of gripping and loading arrangements are possible, including tensile, compression and bending.
Hardness tests can be conducted using either Vickers or Rockwell methods. Microhardness testing is also available.
Microscopy
A range of high quality optical microscopes, with image analysis facilities, are available for the examination of material sections. Coupled with extensive experience of metallography, this enables the identification of metallurgical features. There is a particular expertise in surface coatings, failure investigation, heat treatment and welding assessment.
For high magnification examination of surfaces, a scanning electron microscope is available. This has an X-ray microprobe system attached, which enables the chemical composition of the features observed, to be analysed. This is a powerful tool for the examination of failed components.
Corrosion and Environment Testing
A fully equipped corrosion lab. houses the facilities for salt spray (fog) testing to ASTM B117, cyclic corrosion testing, constant humidity, etc. The tests are designed to accelerate the corrosion process by emulating the most aggressive conditions likely to be experienced by products and components in service.
Cabinets which control to constant or cycling temperature between –30 and 120°C, with and without humidity, are available to assess the effect of atmospheric exposure on materials. QUV cabinets are able to test plastics, plastic coated or painted test pieces for colour fastness and plasticiser loss, under exposure to UV emitting tubes, which mirror exposure to sunlight outside or under glass.
Surface Characterisation
The surface topography is a key parameter in coating adhesion, lubrication during pressing and in the appearance of treated components e.g. gloss and colour. Our testing facilities allow the two and three dimensional texture to be quantified and mapped.
We can measure texture parameters on glass, steel and other surfaces. The topography of surface defects can also be useful in forensic work. We have equipment to measure overall form (up to 1.5m wide samples), where surface undulations or flatness are important.
Heat Treatment
Controlled atmosphere (N2, HNX, Ar, etc.) furnaces are available to simulate batch and continuous annealing conditions. After this, we can measure the effects on material microstructure, softness and tensile properties.