Structures Research Facilities
Much of the research undertaken has been concerned with numerical structural analysis. This has involved both the development of problem specific computer programs, using Mathcad, Matlab and Maple, as well as the use of general-purpose finite element analysis software such as ANSYS and NASTRAN, which run on PCs. All of the computers are connected to the campus network and via that to other international networks.
Likewise, a significant proportion of the structures research involves physical testing. A variety of testing equipment is available in the Engineering Department. In the Main Laboratory there is a strong floor. A giant meccano kit is used to construct special purpose jacking frames and a range of jacks and load cells is available. Three universal testing machines with load capacities up to 1000kN are available for static load testing of materials and structural elements – one of the machines has an extended daylight between the grips of approximately 3m. In addition, a modern 250kN capacity computer controlled servo-hydraulic testing machine, which has a daylight between the grips of 1.3m approximately , is available for static and fatigue load testing. It is also equipped with a low/high temperature cabinet, a non-contact video extensometer and 100kN capacity mechanical grips for use within the cabinet. A stand-alone ?125mm travel, 50kN capacity actuator and controller are also available for conducting static and fatigue load tests on the strong floor. A portable Strainsmart data logging system, controlled by a dedicated PC computer, is available to record, store and process displacement, strain and thermocouple data from instrumented structural and materials tests. Recently, a modern vibration testing and analysis system has been acquired, consisting of an instrumented hammer, accelerometers and associated data acquisition and processing hardware and software. There is also a s eparate Materials Laboratory and a well equipped Workshop, staffed by experienced technicians who provide support for the structures/materials research through the manufacture of special purpose equipment for test rigs. Experienced electronics technicians may also be called upon to provide advice and assistance on matters associated with instrumentation and data acquisition.