Product testing for SRG Global

Challenge

SRG Global is an engineering-led global specialist in asset services, mining services and construction working across the entire asset lifecycle.

The client required a quick response shear-tension test on the SureLok™ Slab to Slab connection system which is used in the post-tensioning, construction and mining industries. Test samples varied in depth from 160mm (min) to 300mm (max) with an estimated max shear load of 200kN and tension load of 400kN.

Solution

The Structural Testing Facility at UTS Tech Lab was utilised as it houses a state-of-the-art strong floor to provide the ability to create custom support structures to apply loads to structures. Using the reaction frame, actuator and load-measuring sensors, the UTS Tech Lab team tested the structural integrity of the concrete slab-to-slab connection system.

Hydraulic cylinders were used to apply the both the shear load and the tension load for all tests, utilising a closed loop PID control system to apply the loads in a precise manner in either a constant velocity rate for the shear or a constant force for the tension load. Load was applied to the side with the Surelok coupler, with the loading beam utilising pads to allow punching failure of the coupler through the concrete surface to not be restrained on either side of the connection.

Forces at all supports were monitored to provide information to calculate the shear force across the joint. Shear displacement was measured using 2x laser (non-contact) sensors on the underside of the sample on each corner that the shear load was applied to.