Hydraulic test cylinder system

© Sabine Liebelt (OML TUD)

The hydraulic test cylinder system is one of the centerpieces of the Otto Mohr Laboratory and is suitable for demanding static and dynamic tests.

It is possible to test components with a length of 1.50 m to approx. 6 m thanks to a clamping field directly under the test system. Because of the variably adjustable test height, even high components up to 3 m can be investigated. Different load portals and various interchangeable test cylinders with different load capacities are available. The maximum static load of up to 1 MN and dynamic loads of up to 600 kN allow tests in the higher force range. Quasi-static force- or displacement-controlled compression and bending tests are primarily used to determine the fracture behavior or the maximum load and elongation of materials and components, such as concrete beams, ceilings, and wall elements. In addition to static load tests, the test cylinder system can also be used to carry out dynamic load tests. The cyclic forces are applied via a synchronized cylinder located on the crosshead and supplied with oil from the central hydraulic unit. The maximum possible amplitude in the dynamic test range depends on the required test frequency. The maximum lift of the cylinders is limited to 250 mm.

An external multi-channel measuring system makes it possible to reliably record measurement data even over longer test periods. Photogrammetric measurements can also be handled thanks to the open design of the testing facility. A machine control system modernized in 2022 enables even better operability of the force or displacement control.