Testing
Testing and product development are at the heart of our material advances and product solutions. Whether this be within the laboratories, witness testing or ongoing research and development, testing is a major focal point for us.
We have the necessary equipment and personnel to conduct a wide range of materials testing and factory acceptance testing. All products and materials are subjected to a rigorous programme of qualification and process control:
- Density checks
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Water absorption testing
- Buoyancy loss checking
- Full scale buoyancy testing
- Fit-up and assembly testing
- Thermal testing
This test provides information about the compressive strength of the syntactic foam including its modulus of elasticity, yield stress and ultimate compressive strength.
A standard ASTM test specimen is placed between the compression platens of the testing machine. The platens move together at a fixed speed until the specimen fails, the results are then automatically calculated in accordance with the test method.
The standard ASTM test specimens are checked for density to ensure the foam batch is within specification. These samples may be filed as a permanent record of material quality.
On successful completion of the above tests, the foam batch is passed for construction. The test results are documented and held as part of a permanent record, also forming part of the final data book for each consignment.
In order to verify the performance of the product, we will typically perform various function tests. These tests will be tailored to the product in quesiton to satisfy both client and ourselves that it is fit for purpose. Typical tests performed are as follows:
- Proof load testing
- Destructive load testing
- Fatigue load testing
- Simulating installation tests
The proof load test is subjecting a fully assembled product to the calculated maximum in service loading for a defined time period, then examining the product for any signs of damage. The destructive load test includes a first proof load test, before increasing the load until failure of one or more of the elements occurs. The failure load is recorded and compared to the load anticipated by calculation methods.
Fatigue testing can be set up for products being used in high dynamic environments. The fit up and ease of assembly and timing will be verified through simulated installation testing prior to the product leaving the factory.
In addition to hydrostatic testing, the company has a comprehensive physical test laboratory and a calibration system fully compliant with BS 5781 Part 1 / ISO 10012-1 standards.
The company also designs and constructs full scale test rigs for new product design verification. The testing is carried out at our faciltiy and winessed by clients or third party inspection as required, including DNV, ABS, Lloyds and other independent authorities.
Extensive chemical laboratory facilities are available for analysis of the full range of polymer materials employed in the product range.