For many structural shapes, such as W and S shapes, flat or dogbone coupons may be cut from the shape's web or flange and tensile tests may be performed in accordance with general specifications, such as ASTM A370 or EN 10002-1. However, despite the simplicity of a normal flat geometry, these specimens can be large, heavy, and require significantly more loading capacity than specimens cut from sheet due to the thickness of the shape's web, flange, or stem. Because of these high forces, we selected a hydraulically powered univeral testing system. The SATEC™ Series frame is a
horizonal style system, which provided the capacity we needed and several nice options for loading heavy steel samples. Alternatively, hydraulic universal testing systems are also available in vertical styles with standard capacities ranging from 150 - 3,500 kN (33,750 lbf - 800,000 lbf).
To load a specimen we used our overhead crane and simply lowered the structural steel specimen directly into the open front wedge grips. For companies testing heavy samples, we recommend this horizonal set up because it reduces operator fatigue and risk of injury.
For this dogbone style specimen, we used wedge grips with flat faces. However, we also manufacture jaws for testing full-section angle and round specimens in a wide range of sizes. LVDT and strain gauge extensometers are available with industrial sized gauge lengths up to 300 mm (11.81 in).