BARATA, Pedro [et al.] (2014) - Development of an experimental system to apply high rates of loading. In Portuguese Conference on Fracture, 14, Régua, 6-7 de fevereiro. Vila Real: UTAD. p. 1-8
Title
Development of an experimental system to apply high rates of loading
The work presented in this paper is part of an ongoing research project at the University of Coimbra IMPACTFIRE PTDC/ECM/110807/2009, which the main focus is the characterization of the behaviour of bolted steel connections subjected to accidental loads, such as impact and fire. Detailed description of the experimental parts developed, designed and fabricated at University of Coimbra, to carry out tests under high rates of loading is presented. This experimental part is operated by high pressure nitrogen comprising three main components: pneumatic reservoir, pneumatic cylinder and a rapidly opening valve, which allows the instantaneous nitrogen flow from the reservoir to the cylinder. Furthermore, the data acquisition system, the methodology for analysis of the results and the results of preliminary tests are also reported.
