Resonance-based testing facility for fatigue tests of different axially loaded structural elements

Abstract

This work presents a new resonance-based testing facility for axially loaded structural elements for performing efficient fatigue tests. Two different configurations make it possible to test specimens either under compressive or under tensile loads. In both cases, a mean load is applied. In contrast to conventionally used servo-hydraulic actuators, synchronised imbalance motors with low energy input were used, which allow to generate cyclic loads with high loading frequencies. By setting the excitation frequencies of the motors close to the natural frequency of the system resonant behaviour occurs, which results in a dynamic amplification. Thus, input forces and test duration can be reduced. As a verification of the developed testing facility, two tests, one in each configuration, were carried out and analysed.