Disc springs (sometimes known as plate
springs) and disc spring sets have numerous
applications in machine construction
and the automotive sector, for example in
clutch and brake systems. Customers
need to determine the fatigue life and
durability of such springs and understand
how the spring properties change over
time. It is also important that the quality
of such springs meets a customer's specification
requirements and this can only
be verified with a sophisticated materials
testing system.
Zwick has developed a dynamic testing
machine which can be used to determine
the fatigue life and durability of such disc
springs and spring sets, which generally
require up to 2 million loading cycles. The
Amsler HB500 servo-hydraulic tester can
generate a maximum force of + / - 500kN
and can be used in load or displacement
control modes.
The test systems consist of a robust load
frame, which is very stiff and durable.
Features include a crosshead-mounted
actuator, hydraulically-adjustable crosshead,
hydraulic locks, and a “T-Slot” table
which accommodates a variety of complex-
shaped specimens, such as the
plate springs. A digital controller with
easy-to-use application software is used
to set up, monitor and to record test
data. A 180 lpm hydraulic power supply
with a sound isolation hood allows the
power supply to be located near the test
frame and lowers overall hydraulic facility
installation costs.
These features result in a test system
capable of performing accurate and
repeatable tests on materials and components
at relatively high forces which
helps to improve the overall quality and
long term durability of manufactured products. | |
