Abstract: A creep testing fixture and method for applying a precise amount of constant tensile stress to a creep test specimen to allow for precise measurement of creep in the test specimen. The fixture includes first and second mounting grips for holding opposite ends of a test specimen. A frame supports the mounting grips for relative reciprocal movement toward and away from each other. A tensile spring is connected between the first and second mounting grips. The frame subjects a test specimen held between the mounting grips to tensile stress in response to axially inward force that the tensile spring applies to the frame.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the puncture resistance of an aluminum can that has improved repeatability and more accurately simulates end-use punctures. A penetrator that moves in a horizontal direction and is driven by a falling weight impacts a pressurized aluminum can containing liquid. The aluminum can is impacted by a penetrator of the puncture gauge in an area below the liquid level. Various sensors, such as a load cell and a displacement transducer, measure data from the impact and the data is compiled and analyzed by a data acquisition system.

Abstract: A creep testing fixture and method for applying a precise amount of constant tensile stress to a creep test specimen to allow for precise measurement of creep in the test specimen. The fixture includes first and second mounting grips for holding opposite ends of a test specimen. A frame supports the mounting grips for relative reciprocal movement toward and away from each other. A tensile spring is connected between the first and second mounting grips. The frame subjects a test specimen held between the mounting grips to tensile stress in response to axially inward force that the tensile spring applies to the mounting grips.

Abstract: A tensile test fixture for applying constant tensile forces to a tensile test specimen comprises two mounting grips, each mounted to one of two lever arms in a pivoted lever arm frame structure. One end of each lever arm is pivotally attached to a compression column while the other end of each lever arm is attached to one end of a force-applying assembly. The mounting grips are pivotally attached to their respective lever arms between the compression column and the force-applying assembly and are designed to hold opposite ends of a tensile test specimen. The force-applying assembly comprises stress and strain modules that are interchangeably installable into the force-applying assembly to selectively subject tensile test specimens to constant strain and constant stress.