Expert Services for Advanced Composite Testing

In the world of cutting-edge materials engineering, the demand for reliable, high-performance composites is ever-growing. Whether for aerospace, automotive, or other industrial applications, the need for precise testing and characterization of composite materials is crucial. At Datum Advanced Composites, based in Kanpur, we are dedicated to providing top-tier composite material testing services that meet the rigorous standards of modern engineering. Our comprehensive range of testing services ensures that your materials not only meet but exceed performance expectations.

Comprehensive Material Qualification Services

Material qualification is a critical step in the development and deployment of advanced composites. Our material qualification service encompasses every aspect of the process, from the initial processing of composite laminates and structures to the final analysis and reporting of results.

We begin by processing composite materials according to customer-prescribed specifications, ensuring that every step aligns with the precise parameters needed for the application. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Kanpur are equipped with advanced machinery to handle the machining and preparation of specimens. Once prepared, these specimens undergo rigorous conditioning to simulate the environmental factors they will face in real-world applications.

The core of our qualification services lies in our ability to perform detailed Composite Material Testing and Characterisation. This involves subjecting the materials to a series of mechanical, analytical, thermal, and electrical tests to assess their performance under various conditions. Our experienced Materials and Process Engineers, along with our skilled Test Technicians, manage and execute these testing protocols with precision, ensuring that all data collected is accurate and comprehensive.

Mechanical Testing Capabilities

Mechanical testing is vital to understanding the strength, durability, and performance of composite materials. We offer an extensive range of mechanical tests to evaluate different properties of composites. These tests include:

- Tensile Testing: Measures the material's resistance to being pulled apart.

- Compression Testing: Assesses how well the material withstands compressive forces.

- In-plane Shear Testing: Evaluates the material's ability to resist shearing forces in the plane.

- Rail Shear Testing: Used to determine the shear properties of composites in specific configurations.

- Interlaminar Shear Testing: Measures the shear strength between layers of composite materials.

- Flexural Testing (3-point and 4-point): Assesses the material's ability to withstand bending forces.

- Open-Hole Tension and Compression Testing: Tests the material’s strength around a hole, simulating bolt or fastener applications.

- Peel Testing: Measures the adhesive strength of bonded materials.

- Single and Double Overlap Shear Testing: Evaluates the shear strength of bonded joints.

- Flatwise Tensile Testing: Assesses the tensile strength perpendicular to the laminate.

- Tube Testing: Tests the mechanical properties of composite tubes.

- Heat Deflection Testing: Determines the material’s resistance to deformation under load at

elevated temperatures.

- Short-Term Creep Testing: Measures the material's deformation over a short period under a constant load.

- Bearing Strength Testing: Evaluates the material's ability to resist deformation under load.

- Climbing Drum Peel Testing: Assesses the peel strength of adhesive bonds.

Each of these tests is designed to provide critical insights into the material’s capabilities, helping engineers make informed decisions about its suitability for specific applications.

Analytical Testing for Enhanced Understanding

Beyond mechanical testing, our Composite Material Testing and Characterisation services include a variety of analytical tests. These tests are essential for understanding the composition and behavior of materials under different conditions. Our analytical testing capabilities include:

- Density of Core Materials: Determines the density of composite core materials.

- Void Content Analysis: Measures the amount of voids within the material, which can impact strength and performance.

- Moisture Content Analysis: Assesses the amount of moisture absorbed by the material, which can affect its properties.

- Moisture Absorption Testing: Evaluates how the material absorbs moisture over time.

- Fibre Volume Fraction Testing: Determines the proportion of fiber to resin in the composite.

- Cure Behaviour Analysis: Studies how the composite material cures under specific conditions.

- Gel Time Testing: Measures the time it takes for the resin to gel during the curing process.

These tests are crucial for understanding the material's composition, ensuring that it meets the necessary standards for performance and reliability.

Thermal and Electrical Testing for Comprehensive Insights

Thermal properties are critical in applications where composites are exposed to varying temperatures. Our Composite Material Testing and Characterisation services include advanced thermal testing methods such as:

- Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC): Measures the heat flow associated with phase transitions in the material.

- Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA): Evaluates the material's mechanical properties as a function of temperature and frequency.

Electrical properties are equally important, especially in applications where conductivity or insulation is a factor. Our electrical testing capabilities include:

- Volume and Surface Resistivity Testing: Measures the material's resistance to electrical flow, both through the bulk and across its surface.

Surface Analysis for Precision Manufacturing

Surface properties can significantly affect the performance of composite materials, particularly in bonding and coating applications. Our surface analysis services include:

- Surface Free Energy Testing: Determines the wet ability of the material's surface.

- Surface Tension Testing: Measures the tension at the surface of the material.

- Barcol Hardness Testing: Assesses the hardness of the material's surface.

- Microscopy: Provides detailed images of the material’s surface, revealing defects and microstructures.

- Cured Ply Thickness Measurement: Measures the thickness of each ply in a laminated

composite.

- Voids and Defect Size and Frequency Measurements: Assesses the presence and impact of defects within the composite.

Conclusion

At Datum Advanced Composites, our commitment to Composite Material Testing and Characterisation ensures that every product meets the highest standards of quality and performance. Our state-of-the-art testing and analysis capabilities cover a broad range of mechanical, analytical, thermal, electrical, and surface properties, providing a comprehensive understanding of composite materials.