MTS Fracture Template User Manual

MTS TestSuite

Fracture Templates User Guide

100-256-573 F be certain.

©

2014 MTS Systems Corporation. All rights reserved.

Trademark Information

MTS is a registered trademark of MTS Systems Corporation within the United States. This trademark
may be protected in other countries.Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. All other trademarks or service marks are property of their respective owners.

Proprietary Software

Software use and license is governed by MTS’s End User License Agreement which defines all rights
retained by MTS and granted to the End User. All Software is proprietary, confidential, and owned by
MTS Systems Corporation and cannot be copied, reproduced, disassembled, decompiled, reverse
engineered, or distributed without express written consent of MTS.

Software Verification and Validation

MTS software is developed using established quality practices in accordance with the requirements
detailed in the ISO 9001 standards. Because MTS-authored software is delivered in binary format, it
is not user accessible. This software will not change over time. Many releases are written to be
backwards compatible, creating another form of verification. The status and validity of MTS’s operating
software is also checked during system verification and routine calibration of MTS hardware. These
controlled calibration processes compare the final test results after statistical analysis against the
predicted response of the calibration standards. With these established methods, MTS assures its
customers that MTS products meet MTS’s exacting quality standards when initially installed and will
continue to perform as intended over time.

Manual Part Number—Publication Date—Release

100-256-573 F—February 2014—MTS TestSuite MP 2.6.4 or later
100-256-573 E—August 2013—MTS TestSuite MP 2.6
100-256-573 D—September 2012—MTS TestSuite MP 2.3

Table of Contents

Technical Support

How to Get Technical Support.........................................................................................................................7

Before You Contact MTS.................................................................................................................................7

If You Contact MTS by Phone.........................................................................................................................9

Problem Submittal Form in MTS Manuals....................................................................................................10

Preface

Before You Begin...........................................................................................................................................11

Documentation Conventions..........................................................................................................................11

Overview

Template Overview........................................................................................................................................16

Templates............................................................................................................................................16

Fracture Templates.............................................................................................................................17

Legacy Template Overview............................................................................................................................18

Importing Legacy Data.......................................................................................................................18

Table of Contents

Test Setup

Open the Controller Station............................................................................................................................22

Prepare Controller Station for Operation.......................................................................................................22

Crack Opening Displacement (COD) Sensor Signal Polarity........................................................................22

Enable Manual Control..................................................................................................................................23

Install Specimen.............................................................................................................................................23

Disable Manual Control.................................................................................................................................24

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Set Up the Test...............................................................................................................................................26

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Templates Overview...........................................................................26

Set Up a Test.......................................................................................................................................26

Dene Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................27

Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................27

Precrack Parameters...........................................................................................................................27

Crack Growth Parameters..................................................................................................................28

Delta K Control Mode Parameters.....................................................................................................29

Constant Load Control Mode Parameters..........................................................................................30

Data Storage Parameters Properties...................................................................................................30

Test Termination Parameters..............................................................................................................31

3

Table of Contents

Run the Test....................................................................................................................................................33

View Test Results...........................................................................................................................................38

Analyze Data..................................................................................................................................................38

Assign Precrack Values......................................................................................................................32

Calculator...........................................................................................................................................32

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control..........................................................................................33

Turn On Hydraulic Power..................................................................................................................34

Perform Crack Size Check.................................................................................................................34

Entering DCPD Initial Crack Values..................................................................................................35

Precrack Specimen.............................................................................................................................36

Run the Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Test........................................................................................36

Enter Measured Crack Sizes...............................................................................................................37

End Fracture Test................................................................................................................................37

Fracture Test Results..........................................................................................................................38

Fatigue Crack Growth Analysis Denition........................................................................................38

Analyze the Test Runs........................................................................................................................40

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Set Up the Test...............................................................................................................................................44

JIC Fracture Toughness Template......................................................................................................44

Set Up a Test.......................................................................................................................................44

Dene Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................45

Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................45

Precrack Parameters...........................................................................................................................45

JIC Parameters....................................................................................................................................46

Data Storage Parameters Properties...................................................................................................50

Test Termination Parameters..............................................................................................................51

Assign Precrack Values......................................................................................................................51

Calculator...........................................................................................................................................52

Run the Test....................................................................................................................................................53

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control..........................................................................................53

Turn On Hydraulic Power..................................................................................................................54

Perform Crack Size Check.................................................................................................................54

Precrack Specimen.............................................................................................................................55

Run JIC Fracture Toughness Test.......................................................................................................55

Enter Measured Crack Sizes...............................................................................................................56

Fatigue to Fracture.............................................................................................................................56

End Fracture Test................................................................................................................................56

View Test Results...........................................................................................................................................57

Fracture Test Results..........................................................................................................................57

Analyze Data..................................................................................................................................................58

JIC Fracture Toughness Analysis Denition......................................................................................58

4

Analyze the Test Runs........................................................................................................................59

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Set Up the Test...............................................................................................................................................62

KIC Template.....................................................................................................................................62

Set Up a Test.......................................................................................................................................62

Dene Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................63

Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................63

Precrack Parameters...........................................................................................................................63

KIC Parameters..................................................................................................................................64

Data Storage Parameters Properties...................................................................................................64

Test Termination Parameters..............................................................................................................65

Assign Precrack Values......................................................................................................................65

Calculator...........................................................................................................................................66

Run the Test....................................................................................................................................................67

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control..........................................................................................67

Turn On Hydraulic Power..................................................................................................................68

Perform Crack Size Check.................................................................................................................68

Precrack Specimen.............................................................................................................................69

Run the KIC Fracture Toughness Test................................................................................................69

Enter Measured Crack Sizes...............................................................................................................70

End Fracture Test................................................................................................................................70

View Test Results...........................................................................................................................................70

Fracture Test Results..........................................................................................................................71

Analyze Data..................................................................................................................................................71

KIC Fracture Toughness Analysis Denitions...................................................................................71

Analyze the Test Runs........................................................................................................................72

Table of Contents

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Set Up the Test...............................................................................................................................................76

CTOD Fracture Toughness Template.................................................................................................76

Set Up a Test.......................................................................................................................................76

Dene Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................77

Test Parameters...................................................................................................................................77

Precrack Parameters...........................................................................................................................77

CTOD Parameters..............................................................................................................................78

Data Storage Parameters Properties...................................................................................................78

Test Termination Parameters..............................................................................................................79

Assign Precrack Values......................................................................................................................80

Calculator...........................................................................................................................................80

Run the Test....................................................................................................................................................81

5

Table of Contents

View Test Results...........................................................................................................................................86

Analyze Data..................................................................................................................................................87

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control..........................................................................................81

Turn On Hydraulic Power..................................................................................................................82

Perform Crack Size Check.................................................................................................................82

Precrack Specimen.............................................................................................................................83

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test............................................................................................83

Perform Fatigue Crack Mark..............................................................................................................84

Constant Load Control Mode Parameters..........................................................................................84

Enter Measured Crack Sizes...............................................................................................................85

End Fracture Test................................................................................................................................85

Fracture Test Results..........................................................................................................................86

CTOD Analysis Denition.................................................................................................................87

Analyze the Test Runs........................................................................................................................88

6

Technical Support

How to Get Technical Support

Start with your manuals

The manuals supplied by MTS provide most of the information you need to use and maintain your equipment.
If your equipment includes software, look for online help and README files that contain additional product
information.

Technical support methods

MTS provides a full range of support services after your system is installed. If you have any questions
about a system or product, contact Technical Support in one of the following ways.

Web site

Outside the U.S.

For technical support outside the United States, contact your local sales and service office. For a list of
worldwide sales and service locations and contact information, use the Global MTS link at the MTS web
site:

www.mts.com > Global Presence > Choose a Region

www.mts.com > Contact Us (upper-right corner) > In the Subject field, choose
To escalate a problem; Problem Submittal Form

Worldwide: [e-mail]-mail

Europe: [e-mail]

Worldwide: 1 800 328 2255 - toll free in U.S.; [phone] - outside U.S.Telephone

Europe: [phone], International toll free in Europe

Before You Contact MTS

MTS can help you more efficiently if you have the following information available when you contact us for
support.

Know your site number and system number

The site number contains your company number and identifies your equipment type (such as material
testing or simulation). The number is typically written on a label on your equipment before the system
leaves MTS. If you do not know your MTS site number, contact your sales engineer.

Example site number: 571167

MTS TestSuite | 7

Technical Support

When you have more than one MTS system, the system job number identifies your system. You can find
your job number in your order paperwork.

Example system number: US1.42460

Know information from prior technical assistance

If you have contacted MTS about this problem before, we can recall your file based on the:

• MTS notification number

• Name of the person who helped you

Identify the problem

Describe the problem and know the answers to the following questions:

• How long and how often has the problem occurred?

• Can you reproduce the problem?

• Were any hardware or software changes made to the system before the problem started?

• What are the equipment model numbers?

• What is the controller model (if applicable)?

• What is the system configuration?

Know relevant computer information

For a computer problem, have the following information available:

• Manufacturer’s name and model number

• Operating software type and service patch information

• Amount of system memory

• Amount of free space on the hard drive where the application resides

• Current status of hard-drive fragmentation

• Connection status to a corporate network

Know relevant software information

For software application problems, have the following information available:

• The software application’s name, version number, build number, and (if available) software patch
number. This information can typically be found in the About selection in the Help menu.

• The names of other applications on your computer, such as:

— Anti-virus software

— Screen savers

— Keyboard enhancers

— Print spoolers

8 | MTS TestSuite

Technical Support

— Messaging applications

If You Contact MTS by Phone

A Call Center agent registers your call before connecting you with a technical support specialist. The agent
asks you for your:

• Site number

• Name

• Company name

• Company address

• Phone number where you can be reached

If your issue has a notification number, please provide that number. A new issue will be assigned a unique
notification number.

Identify system type

To enable the Call Center agent to connect you with the most qualified technical support specialist available,
identify your system as one of the following types:

• Electrodynamic material test system

• Electromechanical material test system

• Hydromechanical material test system

• Vehicle test system

• Vehicle component test system

• Aero test system

Be prepared to troubleshoot

Prepare to perform troubleshooting while on the phone:

• Call from a telephone close to the system so that you can implement suggestions made over the phone.

• Have the original operating and application software media available.

• If you are not familiar with all aspects of the equipment operation, have an experienced user nearby to
assist you.

Write down relevant information

In case Technical Support must call you:

• Verify the notification number.

• Record the name of the person who helped you.

MTS TestSuite | 9

Technical Support

• Write down any specific instructions.

After you call

MTS logs and tracks all calls to ensure that you receive assistance for your problem or request. If you
have questions about the status of your problem or have additional information to report, please contact
Technical Support again and provide your original notification number.

Problem Submittal Form in MTS Manuals

Use the Problem Submittal Form to communicate problems with your software, hardware, manuals, or
service that are not resolved to your satisfaction through the technical support process. The form includes
check boxes that allow you to indicate the urgency of your problem and your expectation of an acceptable
response time. We guarantee a timely response—your feedback is important to us.

You can access the Problem Submittal Form at www.mts.com > Contact Us (upper-right corner) > In the

Subject field, choose To escalate a problem; Problem Submittal Form

10 | MTS TestSuite

Preface

Before You Begin

Safety first!

Before you use your MTS product or system, read and understand the safety information provided with
your system. Improper installation, operation, or maintenance can result in hazardous conditions that can
cause severe personal injury or death, or damage to your equipment and specimen. Again, read and
understand the safety information provided with your system before you continue. It is very important that
you remain aware of hazards that apply to your system.

Other MTS manuals

In addition to this manual, you may receive additional manuals in paper or electronic form.

You may also receive an MTS System Documentation CD. It contains an electronic copy of the manuals
that pertain to your test system.

Controller and application software manuals are typically included on the software CD distribution disc(s).

Documentation Conventions

The following paragraphs describe some of the conventions that are used in your MTS manuals.

Hazard conventions

Hazard notices may be embedded in this manual. These notices contain safety information that is specific
to the activity to be performed. Hazard notices immediately precede the step or procedure that may lead
to an associated hazard. Read all hazard notices carefully and follow all directions and recommendations.
Three different levels of hazard notices may appear in your manuals. Following are examples of all three
levels. (for general safety information, see the safety information provided with your system.)

Danger:

Danger notices indicate the presence of a hazard with a high level of risk which, if ignored,
will result in death, severe personal injury, or substantial property damage.

MTS TestSuite | 11

Preface

Warning:

Warning notices indicate the presence of a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if ignored,
can result in death, severe personal injury, or substantial property damage.

Caution:

Caution notices indicate the presence of a hazard with a low level of risk which, if ignored,
could cause moderate or minor personal injury or equipment damage, or could endanger test
integrity.

Other special text conventions

Important:

Important notices provide information about your system that is essential to its proper
function. While not safety-related, if the important information is ignored, test results may
not be reliable, or your system may not operate properly.

Note:

Notes provide additional information about operating your system or highlight easily
overlooked information.

Recommended:

Recommended notes provide a suggested way to accomplish a task based on what MTS
has found to be most effective.

Tip:

Tips provide helpful information or a hint about how to most efficiently accomplish a task.

Access:

Access provides the route you should follow to a referenced item in the software.

Examples show specific scenarios relating to your product and appear with a shaded
background.

Special terms

The first occurrence of special terms is shown in italics.

Illustrations

Illustrations appear in this manual to clarify text. They are examples only and do not necessarily represent
your actual system configuration, test application, or software.

12 | MTS TestSuite

Preface

Electronic manual conventions

This manual is available as an electronic document in the Portable Document File (PDF) format. It can be
viewed on any computer that has Adobe Acrobat Reader installed.

Hypertext links

The electronic document has many hypertext links displayed in a blue font. All blue words in the body text,
along with all contents entries and index page numbers, are hypertext links. When you click a hypertext
link, the application jumps to the corresponding topic.

MTS TestSuite | 13

Overview

Topics:

•

Template Overview............................................................................................................................16

•

Legacy Template Overview...............................................................................................................18

MTS TestSuite | 15

Overview

Template Overview

Templates

Templates eliminate the need to re-create existing information and provide an easy way to run standard
tests. Test templates can come from one of several sources:

• An existing test - you open a copy of an existing test and assign it a default name (the original test is
not changed). The new test does not contain test runs or analysis runs from the source test.

• A test that is converted to a template - you can convert a test to a test template (File > Save As >
Template). With the exception of test and analysis runs, specimen definitions, and completed reports,
the template contains all other test information.

• A template supplied by MTS - MTS offers a variety of templates designed to comply with test method
standards (such as ASTM). MTS templates provide all the components you need to run a test, analyze
the test data, and create reports of the results.

Test template content

A template can include all or part of the basic test definition information for one test:

• Procedure

• Monitor displays

• Variables

• Analysis definitions

• Resources

Note:

Although a template can include test resources, if the template is designed for a particular
controller configuration, the resources may not map to (match) the test station resources in your
system.

Test definitions

You can add a test definition to a test from a template. The source of the template can be any existing test
or template that has tests. With the exception of test and analysis runs, specimen definitions, and completed
reports, the new test contains all other test information.

Template locations

Projects and project templates exist on disk as folders with the .Project folder name extension. They are
typically located at C:\MTS TestSuite\Projects and C:\MTS TestSuite\Templates, respectively. Report
templates are located in the C:\MTS TestSuite\Report Templates folder.

16 | MTS TestSuite

Note: Do not rename, move, or change the contents of the Projects or Templates folders outside

of the MTS TestSuite applications. To rename an open project, use the Project Summary window
in any application.

Fracture Templates

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG)

The following templates are available for Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) tests and analysis:

Fatigue Crack Growth Templates

DescriptionTemplate

Overview

ASTM E 647 FCG
Compliance

ASTM E 647 FCG
DCPD

Legacy FCG

JIC Fracture Toughness

The following templates are available for JIC Fracture Toughness tests and analysis:

This template complies with ASTM standard
E647-08 and is designed to run FCG compliance
or bend tests, analyze the resulting data, and
provide reports of the results.

This template complies with ASTM standard
E647-08 and is designed to run FCG DC
Potential Drop (DCPD) tension tests, analyze the
resulting data, and provide reports of the results.

This template is designed to analyze data
acquired from tests run with the MTS Model

793.40 Fatigue Crack Growth Test Application
and provide reports of the results.

JIC Fracture Toughness Templates

DescriptionTemplate

ASTM E 1820 JIC

Legacy JIC

KIC Fracture Toughness

The following templates are available for KIC Fracture Toughness tests and analysis:

This template complies with ASTM Standard
E-1820-08 and is designed to determine the
fracture toughness (JIC) value of materials.

This template is designed to analyze data
acquired from tests run with the MTS Model

793.50 JIC Fracture Toughness Test Application.

MTS TestSuite | 17

Overview

KIC Fracture Toughness Templates

DescriptionTemplate

ASTM E 399 KIC

Legacy KIC

CTOD Fracture Toughness

The following template is available for KIC Fracture Toughness tests and analysis:

ASTM E1290 CTOD

This template complies with ASTM Standard E
399 and is designed to determine the plane-strain
fracture toughness (KIC) value of materials.

This template is designed to analyze data
acquired from tests run with the MTS Model

793.50 KIC Fracture Toughness Test Application.

CTOD Fracture Toughness Templates

DescriptionTemplate

This template is in compliance with ASTM E 1290

- 07 and is designed to determine the fracture
toughness value of materials.

Legacy Template Overview

Importing Legacy Data

Import Legacy Data provides support in MTS TestSuite for data archived from previous software products.
The currently supported versions include:

• Model 790.20—Low-Cycle Fatigue (LCF), High-Cycle Fatigue (HCF), and Advance Low-Cycle Fatigue
(ALC) version 4.2 or later

• Model 790.40—Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) version 4.2 or later

• Model 790.50—Fracture Toughness with J-Integral Characterization of Fracture Toughness (JIC),
Linear Elastic Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness of Metallic Materials (KIC), and E1820 Crack-Tip
Opening Displacement (CTOD) version 4.2 or later

Specialized templates map the archived data to the current format and variables for analysis:

• Advance Low-Cycle Fatigue (ALC)

• E1820 Crack-Tip Opening Displacement (CTOD)

• Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG)

18 | MTS TestSuite

• High-Cycle Fatigue (HCF)

• J-Integral Characterization of Fracture Toughness (JIC)

• Linear Elastic Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness of Metallic Materials (KIC)

• Low-Cycle Fatigue (LCF)

Legacy files

Legacy files have a similar naming convention. File names are not case-sensitive: <name><data
type>.<extension>

Legacy File Names

DescriptionItem

The user-supplied name.Name

Data Type Important:

You must select the RD file. Only the RD file is processed.

Overview

The data type is one of four following types created for an archive:

• BS—Batch-specimen data

• PR—Procedure data

• RD—Raw data

• TR—Test results

The extension indicates the type of test, such as E1820, FCG, or KIC.Extension

Import process

You can import legacy data in the Multipurpose Elite, Fatigue Analyzer, and Fracture Analyzer applications.

If you import legacy data in Multipurpose Elite, you can review the imported data in View Results. You
cannot create tests or test runs that you can run in the application.

The data is mapped from the legacy format and variables to the current format and variables by the
application. No user intervention is required.

When the import is complete, your test is saved and the test run is initialized. In Explorer, the test run name
appears blue. The next step is to create an analysis run in an analysis application.

Properties

Import Legacy Data Properties

DescriptionItem

Show the name of the Legacy template for the test type, such as Legacy FCG.Template

MTS TestSuite | 19

Overview

DescriptionItem

Show the name of the file you select to import, such as FCG_archiverd.FCG.Files

Import Legacy Data Procedure

To import legacy data:

1. Click File > Import > Legacy Data.

2. In the Import Legacy Data window, click Select, click the Legacy template for the legacy test type, and
click OK.

3. Click Add, navigate to the location of the legacy data files, select the raw data file (nameRD.EXT), and
click the Open button.

4. Click OK.

An informational message provides the name of the specimen selected for the test.

5. Click OK to clear the success or error message.

If there was an error during the import process, the message log contains more detailed information
about the error.

20 | MTS TestSuite

Test Setup

Topics:

•

Open the Controller Station...............................................................................................................22

•

Prepare Controller Station for Operation...........................................................................................22

•

Crack Opening Displacement (COD) Sensor Signal Polarity............................................................22

•

Enable Manual Control......................................................................................................................23

•

Install Specimen................................................................................................................................23

•

Disable Manual Control.....................................................................................................................24

MTS TestSuite | 21

Test Setup

Open the Controller Station

To open the controller station:

1. Start the Station Manager application.

2. In the Open Station window, select a a configuration file.

3. Click Open to open the configuration file.

Prepare Controller Station for Operation

The following procedure provides a basic outline of the steps required to prepare the controller station for
specimen installation and test operation.

1. Make sure all sensors are properly calibrated.

2. Make sure the test channels are properly tuned.

3. Make sure the polarity of the sensor signals are properly set for the test.

4. Set up error detectors.

5. Set up limit detectors.

6. After the Series 793 Station Manager application is properly set up for operation, make sure the user

access level is not set to Configuration.

The test control application will not allow you to connect to a station when the Station Manager application
user access level is set to Configuration.

Crack Opening Displacement (COD) Sensor Signal Polarity

The following templates require you to invert the polarity of the Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip
gage sensor signal in the Series 793 Station Manager application when used:

• ASTM E 1820 JIC template with an SE(B) specimen

• ASTM E1290 CTOD template with an SE(B) specimen

Note:

When running other template and specimen combinations, make sure that the COD sensor signal
is set to Normal in the Station Manager application.

You can manually set the signal polarity in each instance, or you can create separate station configuration
and parameter sets for the different signal polarities for use with the corresponding template and specimens.

22 | MTS TestSuite

Enable Manual Control

To enable manual control of the Station Manager controller:

1. On the Station Manager Station Controls toolbar, click Manual Command.

2. Select the Enable Manual Command check box.

3. Select a control mode.

You control the actuator for specimen installation with a control knob on a control panel mounted near
the load unit. Select your preference for a control mode, a channel limited channel (CLC) control mode,
a load control mode, or a stroke control mode can be used.

4. Make sure error and limit detectors are set up.

Because of the potential danger of working near high-pressure hydraulic systems, you must set proper
limit and error detectors before installing specimens.

5. Apply hydraulics, and if necessary, reset interlocks.

Test Setup

Warning:

Applying hydraulics can result in sudden actuator motion.

A moving actuator can injure anyone in its path.

Always clear the actuator area before applying hydraulics.

Use the Station Manager’s Station Controls panel for the following steps.

a) Click Reset to clear interlocks.

If the interlock remains on, use the Message Logs window to identify and correct the cause of the
interlock.

b) Click HPU Power Low, and then click HPU Power High.

The buttons stop flashing when pressure is reached.

c) Click HSM Power Low, and then click HSM Power High.

When possible, use low pressure to install specimens.

Install Specimen

The following procedure provides a basic outline of the steps required to install a specimen. Refer to the
load unit and grip manuals for detailed instructions on installing and operating these components in your
system.

1. Using manual control, move the actuator close to the specimen grips.

MTS TestSuite | 23

Test Setup

Warning:

Actuator movement can occur when you install a specimen.

Unexpected actuator movement can result in personal injury, as your hands will be in a
crush zone during this step.

Ensure that hydraulic power is turned off before placing your hands near the actuator. Read
and understand the safety information in the Safety manual, Series 793 Software manuals,
and Load Frame product manuals.

2. Install the specimen in the grips.

3. Zero the control channel sensor output signal.

4. Install the specimen gage.

5. Zero the gage sensor output signal.

Disable Manual Control

To disable manual control of the Station Manager controller:

1. In the Station Manager application, click Manual Command button in the Station Controls panel. The
Manual Command window opens.

2. Deselect the Enable Manual Command check box and close the window.

3. Turn off hydraulics in the Station Manager application.

a) Click HSM Power Off.
b) Click HPU Power Off.

24 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Topics:

•

Set Up the Test..................................................................................................................................26

•

Define Test Parameters.....................................................................................................................27

•

Run the Test......................................................................................................................................33

•

View Test Results..............................................................................................................................38

•

Analyze Data.....................................................................................................................................38

MTS TestSuite | 25

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Set Up the Test

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Templates Overview

There are two versions of Fatigue Crack Growth templates. Both templates comply with ASTM standard
E647-08.

• ASTM E 647 Fatigue Crack Growth Compliance

• ASTM E 647 Fatigue Crack Growth DCPD

The primary difference between the two templates is how the crack size is measured. The compliance
template uses a Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip gage to measure the crack opening. The DC
Potential Drop (DCPD) template uses electrical leads that carry voltage, and the change in voltage relates
to a change in crack size.

Control modes

The template guides you through the steps of running a test and provides all the software components
you need to run a fatigue crack growth test in one of two control modes:

• Constant Load—The test cycles between a specified minimum and maximum load.

• Delta K—The test cycles between the minimum and maximum loads that correspond to the desired
minimum and maximum stress intensities (K).

Features

The main features of the FCG template are listed below:

• The main template window guides you through setting up all test parameters, performing crack size
checks, precracking the specimen, and running the test.

• As the test runs, you can stop the test to change test parameters.

• Comprehensive monitor views help you monitor test progress.

• Tabular and graphical displays make it easy to review test results.

• Analysis definitions provide all necessary analysis calculations and views to analyze test runs.

• Report templates help you generate reports for analysis runs.

Set Up a Test

To create and run a new test:

1. Create a new test from a template.

a) Click File > New > Test from Template.
b) In the Create from Existing Test window, select a test.
c) Click OK.

26 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

The new test is automatically created and assigned a default name. You can change the name and
enter comments about the new test by clicking the Edit button and making the changes.

2. Create a new test run.

a) Click New Test Run button.
b) Select a specimen from the Select a Specimen window and then click OK.

To create a new specimen click Add a new item.

c) Review the variables in the Setup Variables window, modify values as necessary, and then click

OK.

3. Apply hydraulic power to the system.

a) Reset the interlocks if needed.
b) Click the Low, then High, power buttons.

4. In the MTS TestSuite Custom Message window for the template, click the buttons to define test
parameters, perform setup tasks, and run tests.

5. When prompted, click Run to run the test.

Define Test Parameters

Test Parameters

After a new test run is added to the test, the Main Menu window appears. This window provides access
to all necessary test parameters. Click the parameter buttons in the Main Menu window to specify parameter
values for the test.

Precrack Parameters

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Final Crack
Limit

Precrack Frequency

Precrack Load Ratio

Specify the desired crack size to achieve in
the precrack activity. When the specified
crack size is achieved, the activity stops.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal for the precrack activity.

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

MTS TestSuite | 27

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Lower Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Precrack Upper Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Precrack Measure Load
Level Percent

Precrack Cycle Limit

Precrack Final Maximum
K

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the lower limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the upper limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. The load
is applied at this level to ensure the crack is
open. All voltage data below this load will not
be used to calculate crack length. This
parameter is used only for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the number of cycles at which
precrack activity stops.

Specify the maximum stress intensity desired
at the end of precrack activity. The initial
precrack Maximum K is 1.4 times the Final
Maximum K value.

Shutdown Station at End
of Precrack

Select Yes to cause an interlock at the end
of precrack. This can shut down hydraulics,
if desired.

Crack Growth Parameters

In the Crack Growth Parameters section of the main menu, you select the control mode for the test and
then specify the parameters for the selected mode:

• Delta-K

• Constant Load

28 | MTS TestSuite

Delta K Control Mode Parameters

Delta K Control Mode Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

FCG Load Ratio

FCG Initial - K Max

Normalized K Gradient (C)

FCG Frequency

FCG Wave Shape

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
K applied to the specimen. The minimum K
is determined by this value and the maximum
K is specified by you.

Specify the initial maximum stress intensity
(K) value used in Delta-K control.

Specify the rate of change to stress intensity
as the crack site changes. Negative values
cause the alternating stress intensity to
decrease.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal.

Specify the wave shape of the command
signal.

The choices are True Sine or True Ramp.
Typically, you use a True Ramp wave shape
where uniform strain-rate sensitivity is
important, and a True Sine wave shape
where a continually varying strain rate is
acceptable because of the higher frequencies
of some tests.

FCG Measure Load Level
Percent

This MTS template does not support hold
times or creep-fatigue crack growth testing.

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. All voltage
data below this load will not be used to
calculate crack length. This parameter is
used only for FCG DCPD tests.

MTS TestSuite | 29

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Constant Load Control Mode Parameters

Constant Load Control Mode Paramters

DescriptionParameter

FCG Load Ratio

FCG End Level 1

FCG Frequency

FCG Wave Shape

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

Specify the desired maximum load of the
command signal.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal.

Specify the wave shape of the command
signal.

The choices are True Sine or True Ramp.
Typically, you use a True Ramp wave shape
where uniform strain-rate sensitivity is
important, and a True Sine wave shape
where a continually varying strain rate is
acceptable because of the higher frequencies
of some tests.

This MTS template does not support hold
times or creep-fatigue crack growth testing.

FCG Measure Load Level
Percent

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. All voltage
data below this load will not be used to
calculate crack length. This parameter is
used only for FCG DCPD tests.

Data Storage Parameters Properties

Data Storage Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Save Percent
Limit

30 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the percentage of precrack activity
that must complete before data is saved to
disk.

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

DescriptionParameter

Store Every Nth Precrack
Cycle

Crack Size Change Store

FCG Lower Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG Upper Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG N Cycle Save

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the precrack activity.

Specify the amount of crack length change
that will cause data to be stored to disk.
Typically, operators will not store every cycle,
but will only store data when the crack grows
by a significant amount, such as 0.05 mm.

Specify the lower load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the upper load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the test. Typically, this is more than
10,000.

Test Termination Parameters

Test Termination Parameters

DescriptionParameter

FCG Final Crack Limit

FCG Crack Growth Rate
Limit

Outside Crack Growth
Limits Allowed

FCG Cycle Limit

Specify the crack size limit that, if exceeded,
ends the test.

Specify the crack growth rate limit that, if
exceeded, ends the test.

Specify the number of times the FCG Crack
Growth Rate Limit can trip before the MPE
application ends the test.

Specify the maximum number of cycles to
run before the test ends. This parameter is
not used for FCG DCPD tests.

MTS TestSuite | 31

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

DescriptionParameter

Shut Down Station at End
of Test

Select Yes to cause an interlock at the end
of the test. This can shut down hydraulics, if
desired.

Assign Precrack Values

Specify these parameters if the specimen was precracked on another load frame. When the precrack
parameters are specified here, you can then skip Precrack Specimen in the Main Menu window.

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Cycles
Completed

Precrack Final Crack Size

Specify the number of precrack cycles
completed.

Specify the final crack size calculated from
compliance.

Specify the final load during precrack.Precrack Final P

Precrack P Maximum

Precrack K Maximum

Specify the maximum load measured during
precrack.

Specify the final K during precrack.Precrack Final K

Specify the maximum K value during
precrack.

Specify any additional comments.Precrack Comments

Calculator

Use the Calculator to calculate the load to use for new specimens. You can also use the Calculator to
calculate stress intensity (K). Load is calculated from the crack size value and stress intensity (K) value.
Stress intensity (K) is calculated from the crack size value and load value.

Typically, you use the Calculator after the crack size is checked. If the crack size check is performed, the
Multipurpose Elite application supplies the crack size value for the Calculator. You can also enter a crack
size value manually. You must enter the load or stress intensity value manually.

32 | MTS TestSuite

Calculate Load P

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Load P Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

Stress Intensity K

Calculate Stress Intensity K

Crack Size

Load

Run the Test

Specify the crack size value to use in the load
calculation.

Specify the stress intensity (K) value to use
in the load calculation.

Stress Intensity K Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Specify the crack size value to use in the
stress intensity (K) calculation.

Specify the load value to use in the stress
intensity (K) calculation.

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control

MTS-supplied fracture test templates calculate setpoint and span values for those portions of a fracture
test that use Delta-K control. For example, the fracture test templates use Delta-K control to pre-crack the
specimen, and the Fatigue Crack Growth template can optionally run in Delta-K control mode.

When a fracture test template uses Delta-K control, it calculates and sends out setpoint and span values
for Delta-K control at a rate of every 1.0 second to the Series 793 Station Manager application. However,
the Station Manager application has default settings for Setpoint/Span Times of 2.0 seconds, which is the
time used to ramp the span and setpoint values. When the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application are slower than the setpoint and span update rate in the fracture test template, the controller
may not complete the ramp to a command before the template sends out new span and setpoint corrections
for Delta-K control.

Before running a test with an MTS fracture test template, make sure in the Station Manager application
that the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options > Setpoint/Span Times are set to approximately

0.5 seconds for both Setpoint and Span.

MTS TestSuite | 33

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause specimen
or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes can
be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for other
purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

Turn On Hydraulic Power

Use the control panel to apply hydraulic power.

1. If the Interlock indicator is on, click Reset to release system interlocks.

If the interlock remains on, use the message logs to identify and correct the cause of the interlock.

Warning:

Applying hydraulic power can result in sudden actuator motion.

A moving actuator can injure anyone in its path.

Always clear the actuator area before applying hydraulic power.

2. Click Low Power.

This action sets the hydraulic power unit to high pressure and the hydraulic service manifold to low
pressure.

3. Click High Power.

This action sets the hydraulic service manifold to high pressure.

Perform Crack Size Check

This activity applies a load to the specimen and verifies the crack size and the modulus for tests that use
a Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip gage to measure the crack opening.

1. Click CSC on the main menu.

2. Optionally, click Change Parameters. These parameters determine how to measure crack size, and

how to calculate crack size and modulus.

34 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

Crack Size Check Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Entered Crack Size

Elastic Modulus

Ramp to Percent

1. Click Measure Crack Size.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the crack size check. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

3. When finished with this activity, click Close.

Specify the crack size used to calculate the
elastic modulus. The default value is equal
to the specimen notch size.

Specify the modulus used for crack size
calculations.

Specify the percent of load applied on the
specimen in order to check the crack size.
The load is ramped from zero to the specified
percentage of load. The percentage is based
on the last load command.

Specify the time to ramp to the target load.Ramp Time

Entering DCPD Initial Crack Values

This activity applies a load to the specimen and measures the initial voltage across the specimen crack
for DC Potential Drop (DCPD) tests.

1. On the main menu, click Enter Initial Crack.

2. Specify the following parameters, and then click OK. The parameters determine the load level that is

applied and how the voltage is measured.

DCPD Initial Crack Value Parameters

DescriptionParameter

DCPD Voltage Option

Initial Crack Size

On/Off—Turn the current that is applied to

the specimen on and off.

Reverse—Reverse the current that is applied
to the specimen.

Always On—Do not turn the current Off.
This is rarely used with moderns hardware,
but is available for older, legacy hardware.

Specify the crack size that was used to
perform the voltage-to-crack-size calibration.

MTS TestSuite | 35

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

DescriptionParameter

Initial Crack Load

Use Reference Specimen

3. Review the parameters.

a) Click Yes to start with the parameters that are shown.
b) Click No to return to the main menu and to change parameters.

4. Click Run on the control panel to start the activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change parameters,
click Return to Main Menu.

5. When the activity is finished, the MPE application returns to the main menu.

Specify the load level at which the voltage is
measured.

This option allows testing without a reference
specimen.

MTS recommends using a reference
specimen. However, this is not always
possible.

Precrack Specimen

1. Click Precrack in the Main Menu window.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the precrack activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change

parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity has started to run, click Hold. When you suspend the activity,
data collection stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

3. To review the process of the precrack activity, monitor the runtime displays.

4. Typically, the activity stops when a desired precrack parameter is achieved. In this case, review the
activity end result, and then click Close.

5. Check the precrack results, and if necessary, correct the values.

Run the Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Test

1. Click FCG Test.

2. Review the parameters.

a) Click Yes to start with the parameters that are shown.
b) Click No to return to the main menu, change parameters, and click FCG Test.

3. Click Run on the control panel to start the activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change parameters,
click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity starts, click Hold. When you suspend the activity, data collection
stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

36 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

4. To review the process of the test activity, monitor the runtime displays.

5. Typically, the activity stops when a desired test termination parameter is achieved. In this case, review
the activity end result, and then click Close.

Enter Measured Crack Sizes

The software automatically enters the crack sizes from the end of the precrack activity and the crack sizes
from the end of the test. By default, the Precrack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during
the precrack activity and the Crack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during the test.
These crack sizes are used during data analysis. Optionally, you can change these values for the test run.

Measured Crack Size Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack

Crack

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the precrack activity.

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the test activity.

End Fracture Test

1. When finished with the test run, click Done in the Main Menu window.

2. Click HPU Power Off.

3. In the Series 793 Station Manager application, set the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options
> Setpoint/Span Times back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for

other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause
specimen or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes
can be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment
damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station
Manager application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator
for other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

MTS TestSuite | 37

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

View Test Results

After the test run completes, you can view the test results.

1. In the Explorer panel, click the name of the test run.

2. Click Results.

3. Click on the different tabs to view different types of results.

Fracture Test Results

The Test Results show the following information about the test run:

• Variable Summary shows all the parameters and their last values for the test run.

• Crack Size Check Cycle - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the crack size check
activity.

• Precrack Command - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the precrack activity.

• Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the test activity.

The test does not generate any reports. You can generate reports with the results generated during post-test
analysis.

Analyze Data

Fatigue Crack Growth Analysis Definition

The template is preconfigured with an analysis definition that conforms to the analysis portion of the ASTM
standard. The analysis definition can be used to analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer application and contains the following tables and charts.

Analysis Inputs Table

The Analysis Inputs table contains the parameters used for the analysis. In the Display Name column, the
FCG da/dN Curve Fit row indicates the Secant or Polynomial fit calculation method. You can make the
corrections indicated in the message log by adding or changing the input values. If the variable is an array,
the entry is added to the expansion table. Click the + at the left of the row to see a table of entries. Click
another row to activate the Refresh All Analysis Views button in the toolbar at the top of the window. When
you click that button, the application recalculates the analysis. You can change the calculation method by
changing the Value column entry of the FCG da/dN Curve Fit row. After you refresh the values, the ones
you modified have check marks in the Modified column. The original test data is not lost and does not
change.

38 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

You can add and change values by typing in the table cell. Click another row to activate the Refresh All
Analysis Views button, and click the button. The Modified column becomes filled with a check mark in rows
where you specify the value.

Variable Summary Table

The Variable Summary table provides the data output of the test. The table contains the following columns
by default:

• Category

• Display Name

• Value

• Unit

• Modified

• Original Value

• Array

• Number of Stored Points

• Calculate

• Calculation

Crack Length, Min/Max K, Load by Cycles Table

The Crack Length, Min/Max K, Load by Cycles table provides values for the cycles in the FCG Cycle Array
column. Additional default columns are:

• FCG Crack Size Array (not used for FCG DCPD analysis)

• FCG K Maximum (not used for FCG DCPD analysis)

• FCG K Minimum (not used for FCG DCPD analysis)

• FCG P Max Array (not used for FCG DCPD analysis)

• FCG P Min Array (not used for FCG DCPD analysis)

• FCG COD Voltage Active Array

• FCG Crack Voltage Reference Array

Validity Results Table

The Validity Results table includes the Display Name, Value, Modified Indicator, Original Value, and
Calculation. The Display Name includes the validity criteria. The Value and Original Value columns contain
indicators that are Yes or No values. The validity of the test results can change because of changes in
test values.

da/dN, Delta K by Cycles Table

The da/dN, Delta K by Cycles table lists all data points collected in the Fatigue Crack Growth da/dN array.
If no valid points are collected, an error may occur. If data is reduced using the Secant fit method, two
valid points are required or an error may occur. If data is reduced using the Polynomial fit method, an error

MTS TestSuite | 39

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

may occur if the number of valid points is less than the two times the polynomial fit number plus 1. The
number of valid points is used to calculate the Apparent Delta-K Threshold. Invalid data points are not
used in calculations.

The Apparent Threshold calculation can fail:

• The da/DN-Delta K data is not available.

• The Least Square Fit limits are outside the range of the da/dN-Delta K data points.

• The Least Square Fit limits range is a number of valid da/dN-Delta K data points less than two times
the polynomial fit number plus 1.

Crack Length, Min/Max K, Load by Cycles Table

The Crack Length, Min/Max K, Load by Cycles table provides values for the cycles in the FCG Cycle Array
column. Additional default columns are:

• FCG Crack Size Array

• FCG K Maximum

• FCG K Minimum

• FCG P Max Array

• FCG P Min Array

• FCG COD Voltage Active Array

• FCG Crack Voltage Reference Array

Charts

The charts provide visual indicators of the crack growth rate and the forces that affect the rate.

• The da/dN vs. Delta K chart characterizes the specimen material’s resistance to stable crack extension
under cyclic loading.

• The Load vs. Cycle chart indicates the load range between the minimum and maximum values during
the last or other specified cycle.

• The Crack Opening Displacement vs. Cycle chart indicates the minimum and maximum crack opening
displacement during the last or other specified cycle.

• The Crack Size vs. Cycles chart indicates the crack growth during a number of cycles.

• The K vs. Cycles chart indicates the stress intensity factor, K, between its minimum and maximum
amount during a number of cycles.

• The Delta K vs. Array chart indicates the FCG Delta K Applied Array versus the FCG Crack Size Array.

Analyze the Test Runs

Each test that you create from an MTS template contains a default analysis definition that can be used to
analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application.

To analyze the test runs, use one of the following methods to open the test in one of the Analyzer
applications:

40 | MTS TestSuite

Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) Template

• From either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application, click File > Open Test and select
the test that you want to analyze.

• Open the test in the Multipurpose Elite application and on the Tools menu, click Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer.

The selected Analyzer application opens the test.

For more information

See the Fatigue Analyzer User Guide for information on how to create an analysis run.

MTS TestSuite | 41

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Topics:

•

Set Up the Test..................................................................................................................................44

•

Define Test Parameters.....................................................................................................................45

•

Run the Test......................................................................................................................................53

•

View Test Results..............................................................................................................................57

•

Analyze Data.....................................................................................................................................58

MTS TestSuite | 43

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Set Up the Test

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

The MTS ASTM E 1820 JIC template complies with ASTM E-1820-08 for determining the fracture toughness
(JIC) value of materials.

The JIC template provides all the components you need to run a test, analyze the test data, and create
reports of the results.

Control modes

The template guides you through the steps of running a test and provides all the software components
you need to run a test in one of two control modes:

• Crack opening displacement (COD)—The test uses a COD gage signal to provide control feedback.

• Displacement—The test uses a displacement transducer signal to provide control feedback.

Features

The main features of the JIC template are listed below:

• The main template window guides you through setting up all test parameters, performing crack size
checks, precracking the specimen, and running the test.

• As the test runs, you can stop the test to change test parameters.

• Comprehensive runtime views help you monitor test progress.

• Tabular and graphical displays make it easy to review test results.

• Analysis definitions provide all necessary analysis calculations and views to analyze test runs.

• You can modify the analysis method and reapply the calculations to the data.

• Report templates help you generate reports for analysis runs.

Set Up a Test

To create and run a new test:

1. Create a new test from a template.

a) Click File > New > Test from Template.
b) In the Create from Existing Test window, select a test.
c) Click OK.

The new test is automatically created and assigned a default name. You can change the name and
enter comments about the new test by clicking the Edit button and making the changes.

2. Create a new test run.

44 | MTS TestSuite

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

a) Click New Test Run button.
b) Select a specimen from the Select a Specimen window and then click OK.

To create a new specimen click Add a new item.

c) Review the variables in the Setup Variables window, modify values as necessary, and then click

OK.

3. Apply hydraulic power to the system.

a) Reset the interlocks if needed.
b) Click the Low, then High, power buttons.

4. In the MTS TestSuite Custom Message window for the template, click the buttons to define test
parameters, perform setup tasks, and run tests.

5. When prompted, click Run to run the test.

Define Test Parameters

Test Parameters

After a new test run is added to the test, the Main Menu window appears. This window provides access
to all necessary test parameters. Click the parameter buttons in the Main Menu window to specify parameter
values for the test.

Precrack Parameters

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Final Crack
Limit

Precrack Frequency

Precrack Load Ratio

Specify the desired crack size to achieve in
the precrack activity. When the specified
crack size is achieved, the activity stops.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal for the precrack activity.

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

Precrack Lower Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the lower limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

MTS TestSuite | 45

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Upper Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Precrack Measure Load
Level Percent

Precrack Cycle Limit

Precrack Final Maximum
K

Shutdown Station at End
of Precrack

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the upper limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. The load
is applied at this level to ensure the crack is
open. All voltage data below this load will not
be used to calculate crack length. This
parameter is used only for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the number of cycles at which
precrack activity stops.

Specify the maximum stress intensity desired
at the end of precrack activity. The initial
precrack Maximum K is 1.4 times the Final
Maximum K value.

Select Yes to cause an interlock at the end
of precrack. This can shut down hydraulics,
if desired.

JIC Parameters

In the JIC Parameters section of the main menu, you select COD or Displacement as the control mode
for the test, and then specify the parameters for the selected mode.

COD Mode Parameters

DescriptionParameter

JIC Absolute Unload

JIC COD Increment

Specify the amount of force, in force units,
to unload in both the unload and reload
segments.

Specify the COD increment that will be
added to the current COD level at the
beginning of each ramp segment to
determine a maximum COD for this step. If
the maximum COD is reached before the
maximum displacement or load level is
reached, it triggers the next segment of the
step.

46 | MTS TestSuite

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

JIC Crack Propagation Hold
Time

JIC Frame Stiffness

JIC Load Ramp Rate

JIC Number of Unloads

JIC Percent of Final
Precrack Load

Specify the length of time to hold at constant
COD or Displacement in the hold crack
propagation activity. If this time is zero, the
hold crack propagation activity is bypassed.

Specify the inverse of the compliance of the
test system. This term is used to determine
the displacement due to load frame
deflection and the deformation of fixtures.
The resulting displacement is subtracted
from the measured displacement when
calculating the energy absorbed by the
specimen. This is particularly important when
using SE(B) specimens.

Specify the ramp rate for the initial ramp
segment when it is done in load control.

Specify the number of unload and reload
segment pairs to perform in each step
increment of the JIC test.

Specify the percentage of the load of the final
precrack cycle to use as the load for the end
of the first ramp segment.

JIC Percent Unload

JIC Ramp Displacement
Limit Increment

JIC Ramp Load Limit
Increment

JIC Ramp Rate

Specify the amount of force to unload as a
percentage of the increment peak load.

Specify a value other than zero to apply a
displacement limit during the ramp segment
of a JIC step. The limit trips if the measured
displacement exceeds the specified limit
value during the ramp segment of a step.
When the limit trips, the JIC step immediately
switches to the hold segment of the JIC step.

Specify a value other than zero to apply a
load limit during the ramp segment of a JIC
step. The limit trips if the measured load
exceeds the specified limit value during the
ramp segment of a step. When the limit trips,
the JIC step immediately switches to the hold
segment of the JIC step.

Specify the rate for the ramp segment of the
JIC step.

MTS TestSuite | 47

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

JIC Reload Rate

JIC Unload Method

JIC Unload Rate

Specify the rate at which the system reloads
the specimen to the load value at the
beginning of the first unload segment in each
step increment. If the ramp rate is invalid for
the specimen being tested, the application
corrects the value of the ramp rate when you
click Run to start the test.

Specify the method for determining the
amount of force to apply in both the unload
and reload segments:

• Absolute—Specify that the amount force
to apply is in absolute terms.

• Percentage—Specify that the amount of
force to apply is a percentage of the
increment peak load.

• Minimum of absolute and
percentage—Specify that the amount
force to apply is the smaller resulting
value of the two methods above.

Specify the rate at which the system unloads
the specimen in the unload segments in each
step increment. If the ramp rate is invalid for
the specimen being tested, the application
corrects the value of the ramp rate when you
click Run to start the test.

JIC Absolute Unload

JIC Displacement Increment

48 | MTS TestSuite

Displacement Mode Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Specify the amount of force, in force units,
to unload in both the unload and reload
segments.

Specify the displacement increment added
to the current displacement level at the
beginning of each ramp segment to
determine a maximum displacement for this
step. If the maximum displacement is
reached before the maximum COD or load
level is reached, it triggers the next segment
of the step.

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

JIC Crack Propagation Hold
Time

JIC Frame Stiffness

JIC Load Ramp Rate

JIC Number Of Unloads

JIC Percent Of Final
Precrack Load

Specify the length of time to hold at constant
COD or Displacement in the hold crack
propagation activity. If this time is zero, the
hold crack propagation activity is bypassed.

Specify the inverse of the compliance of the
test system. This term is used to determine
the displacement due to load frame
deflection and the deformation of fixtures.
The resulting displacement is subtracted
from the measured displacement when
calculating the energy absorbed by the
specimen. This is particularly important when
using SE(B) specimens.

Specify the ramp rate for the initial ramp
segment when it is done in load control.

Specify the number of unload and reload
segment pairs to perform in each step
increment of the JIC test.

Specify the percentage of the load of the final
precrack cycle to use as the load for the end
of the first ramp segment.

JIC Percent Unload

JIC Ramp COD Limit
Increment

JIC Ramp Load Limit
Increment

JIC Ramp Rate

Specify the amount of force to unload as a
percentage of the increment peak load.

Specify a value other than zero to apply a
COD limit during the ramp segment of a JIC
step. The limit trips if the measured COD
exceeds the specified limit value during the
ramp segment of a step. When the limit trips,
the JIC step immediately switches to the hold
segment of the JIC step.

Specify a value other than zero to apply a
load limit during the ramp segment of a JIC
step. The limit trips if the measured load
exceeds the specified limit value during the
ramp segment of a step. When the limit trips,
the JIC step immediately switches to the hold
segment of the JIC step.

Specify the rate for the ramp segment of the
JIC step.

MTS TestSuite | 49

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

JIC Reload Rate

JIC Unload Method

JIC Unload Rate

Specify the rate at which the system reloads
the specimen to the load value at the
beginning of the first unload segment in each
step increment. If the ramp rate is invalid for
the specimen being tested, the application
corrects the value of the ramp rate when you
click Run to start the test.

Specify the method for determining the
amount of force to apply in both the unload
and reload segments:

• Absolute—Specify that the amount force
to apply is in absolute terms.

• Percentage—Specify that the amount of
force to apply is a percentage of the
increment peak load.

• Minimum of absolute and
percentage—Specify that the amount
force to apply is the smaller resulting
value of the two methods above.

Specify the rate at which the system unloads
the specimen in the unload segments in each
step increment. If the ramp rate is invalid for
the specimen being tested, the application
corrects the value of the ramp rate when you
click Run to start the test.

Data Storage Parameters Properties

Data Storage Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Save Percent
Limit

Store Every Nth Precrack
Cycle

Crack Size Change Store

50 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the percentage of precrack activity
that must complete before data is saved to
disk.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the precrack activity.

Specify the amount of crack length change
that will cause data to be stored to disk.
Typically, operators will not store every cycle,

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

but will only store data when the crack grows
by a significant amount, such as 0.05 mm.

FCG Lower Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG Upper Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG N Cycle Save

Specify the lower load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the upper load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the test. Typically, this is more than
10,000.

Test Termination Parameters

Test Termination Parameters

DescriptionParameter

JIC Maximum Load

Specify the load that, if reached, stops the
test.

JIC Maximum COD

JIC Maximum Displacement

JIC Maximum Crack Size

JIC Maximum Crack
Extension

Specify the Crack Opening Displacement
that, if reached, stops the test.

Specify the displacement that, if reached,
stops the test.

Specify the crack size that, if reached, stops
the test.

Specify the crack extension that, if reached,
stops the test.

Assign Precrack Values

Specify these parameters if the specimen was precracked on another load frame. When the precrack
parameters are specified here, you can then skip Precrack Specimen in the Main Menu window.

MTS TestSuite | 51

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Cycles
Completed

Precrack Final Crack Size

Precrack P Maximum

Precrack K Maximum

Specify the number of precrack cycles
completed.

Specify the final crack size calculated from
compliance.

Specify the final load during precrack.Precrack Final P

Specify the maximum load measured during
precrack.

Specify the final K during precrack.Precrack Final K

Specify the maximum K value during
precrack.

Specify any additional comments.Precrack Comments

Calculator

Use the Calculator to calculate the load to use for new specimens. You can also use the Calculator to
calculate stress intensity (K). Load is calculated from the crack size value and stress intensity (K) value.
Stress intensity (K) is calculated from the crack size value and load value.

Typically, you use the Calculator after the crack size is checked. If the crack size check is performed, the
Multipurpose Elite application supplies the crack size value for the Calculator. You can also enter a crack
size value manually. You must enter the load or stress intensity value manually.

Calculate Load P

Load P Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

Stress Intensity K

52 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the crack size value to use in the load
calculation.

Specify the stress intensity (K) value to use
in the load calculation.

Calculate Stress Intensity K

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Stress Intensity K Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

Load

Specify the crack size value to use in the
stress intensity (K) calculation.

Specify the load value to use in the stress
intensity (K) calculation.

Run the Test

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control

MTS-supplied fracture test templates calculate setpoint and span values for those portions of a fracture
test that use Delta-K control. For example, the fracture test templates use Delta-K control to pre-crack the
specimen, and the Fatigue Crack Growth template can optionally run in Delta-K control mode.

When a fracture test template uses Delta-K control, it calculates and sends out setpoint and span values
for Delta-K control at a rate of every 1.0 second to the Series 793 Station Manager application. However,
the Station Manager application has default settings for Setpoint/Span Times of 2.0 seconds, which is the
time used to ramp the span and setpoint values. When the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application are slower than the setpoint and span update rate in the fracture test template, the controller
may not complete the ramp to a command before the template sends out new span and setpoint corrections
for Delta-K control.

Before running a test with an MTS fracture test template, make sure in the Station Manager application
that the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options > Setpoint/Span Times are set to approximately

0.5 seconds for both Setpoint and Span.

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause specimen
or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes can
be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for other
purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

MTS TestSuite | 53

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Turn On Hydraulic Power

Use the control panel to apply hydraulic power.

1. If the Interlock indicator is on, click Reset to release system interlocks.

If the interlock remains on, use the message logs to identify and correct the cause of the interlock.

Warning:

Applying hydraulic power can result in sudden actuator motion.

A moving actuator can injure anyone in its path.

Always clear the actuator area before applying hydraulic power.

2. Click Low Power.

This action sets the hydraulic power unit to high pressure and the hydraulic service manifold to low
pressure.

3. Click High Power.

This action sets the hydraulic service manifold to high pressure.

Perform Crack Size Check

This activity applies a load to the specimen and verifies the crack size and the modulus for tests that use
a Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip gage to measure the crack opening.

1. Click CSC on the main menu.

2. Optionally, click Change Parameters. These parameters determine how to measure crack size, and

how to calculate crack size and modulus.

Crack Size Check Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Entered Crack Size

Elastic Modulus

Specify the crack size used to calculate the
elastic modulus. The default value is equal
to the specimen notch size.

Specify the modulus used for crack size
calculations.

Ramp to Percent

54 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the percent of load applied on the
specimen in order to check the crack size.
The load is ramped from zero to the specified
percentage of load. The percentage is based
on the last load command.

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

Specify the time to ramp to the target load.Ramp Time

1. Click Measure Crack Size.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the crack size check. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

3. When finished with this activity, click Close.

Precrack Specimen

1. Click Precrack in the Main Menu window.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the precrack activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change

parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity has started to run, click Hold. When you suspend the activity,
data collection stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

3. To review the process of the precrack activity, monitor the runtime displays.

4. Typically, the activity stops when a desired precrack parameter is achieved. In this case, review the
activity end result, and then click Close.

5. Check the precrack results, and if necessary, correct the values.

Run JIC Fracture Toughness Test

1. Perform the crack size check at least three times after precracking the specimen.

This must be done to run the JIC test.

2. Click JIC Test.

3. Click Run on the control panel to start the test activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change

parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity starts, click Hold. When you suspend the activity, data collection
stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
command and saves the test data.

4. Review the process of the test activity by monitoring the runtime displays.

• Monitor Axial Force, Axial COD, Axial Displacement values.

• Monitor Axial Force versus Time plot.

• Review Summary table.

• Review Statistics table.

MTS TestSuite | 55

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

5. Typically, the activity stops when a desired test termination parameter is achieved. In this case, review
the activity end result, and then click Close.

Enter Measured Crack Sizes

The software automatically enters the crack sizes from the end of the precrack activity and the crack sizes
from the end of the test. By default, the Precrack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during
the precrack activity and the Crack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during the test.
These crack sizes are used during data analysis. Optionally, you can change these values for the test run.

Measured Crack Size Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack

Crack

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the precrack activity.

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the test activity.

Fatigue to Fracture

When the test completes, you need to “mark” the final crack length. One method to do this is to fatigue
the specimen.

1. Click Fatigue to Fracture on the main prompt menu.

2. Review the fatigue to fracture parameters and click OK.

3. Click Run on the control panel.

4. After about 10 minutes, click Stop on the control panel.

5. Click Fatigue to Fracture on the main prompt menu.

6. Enter a Max Load value of about 20% greater than the previous value, and then click OK.

7. Click Run on the control panel.

8. Repeat steps 4 through 7 until the specimen breaks.

End Fracture Test

1. When finished with the test run, click Done in the Main Menu window.

2. Click HPU Power Off.

3. In the Series 793 Station Manager application, set the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options
> Setpoint/Span Times back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for

other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

56 | MTS TestSuite

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause
specimen or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes
can be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment
damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station
Manager application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator
for other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

View Test Results

After the test run completes, you can view the test results.

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

1. In the Explorer panel, click the name of the test run.

2. Click Results.

3. Click on the different tabs to view different types of results.

Fracture Test Results

The Test Results show the following information about the test run:

• Variable Summary shows all the parameters and their last values for the test run.

• Crack Size Check Cycle - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the crack size check
activity.

• Precrack Command - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the precrack activity.

• Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the test activity.

The test does not generate any reports. You can generate reports with the results generated during post-test
analysis.

MTS TestSuite | 57

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

Analyze Data

JIC Fracture Toughness Analysis Definition

The template is preconfigured with an analysis definition that conforms to the analysis portion of the ASTM
standard. The analysis definition can be used to analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer application and contains the following tables and charts.

Analysis Inputs Table

The Analysis Inputs table contains the parameters used for the analysis. You can make the corrections
indicated in the message log by adding or changing the input values. If the variable is an array, the entry
is added to the expansion table. Click the + at the left of the row to see a table of entries. Click another
row to activate the Refresh All Analysis Views button in the toolbar at the top of the window. When you
click that button, the application recalculates the analysis. You can change the calculation method. After
you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified column. The original test
data is not lost and does not change.

You can add and change values by typing in the table cell. Click another row to activate the Refresh All
Analysis Views button and click the button. The Modified column becomes filled with a check mark in rows
where you specify the value.

Variable Table

The Variable table provides the final values of the variables defined in the Variable Editor. You can change
one or more values in this table and rerun the calculations in the same way described for the Analysis
Inputs table. After you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified column.
The original test data is not lost and does not change.

Validity Results Table

The Validity Results table includes the Display Name, Value, Modified Indicator, Original Value, and
Calculation. The Display Name includes the validity criteria. The Value and Original Value columns contain
indicators that are Yes or No values. The validity of the test results can change because of changes in
test values.

Step Validity Table

The Step Validity table provides for each test the step data values and validity results. The table includes
the J Delta a(p), J Exclusion, J MinMax, CTOD Delta a(p), CTOD Exclusion, CTOD MinMax, and CTOD
Step arrays.

Channels by Step Table

The Channels by Step table lists all data points collected in arrays:

• Segment Type Array

• Complete Load Data

• Complete COD Data

58 | MTS TestSuite

JIC Fracture Toughness Template

• Complete Displacement Data

• Complete JIC Step Array

Charts

The charts provide visual indicators of the data reported in the tables.

• The Crack Sizes vs. Steps chart indicates as a curve how the crack grows during the load steps.

• The Load vs. Time chart indicates changes in the load during the test.

• The Displacement vs. Time chart indicates changes in the displacement during the test.

• The Load vs. Load Line Displacement chart indicates changes in the load as the load line displacement
changes.

• The Load vs. COD chart indicates how the load changes as the load crack opening displacement gage
reading changes during the test.

• The Ramp Hold Load vs. Ramp Hold COD chart indicates how the load changes as the crack opening
displacement gage reading changes during the ramp-and-hold steps.

• The J vs. Delta a(p) chart indicates the J-integral value at each point of physical crack extension.

• The CTOD vs. Delta a(p) chart indicates the crack tip opening displacement value at each point of
physical crack extension.

Analyze the Test Runs

Each test that you create from an MTS template contains a default analysis definition that can be used to
analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application.

To analyze the test runs, use one of the following methods to open the test in one of the Analyzer
applications:

• From either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application, click File > Open Test and select
the test that you want to analyze.

• Open the test in the Multipurpose Elite application and on the Tools menu, click Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer.

The selected Analyzer application opens the test.

For more information

See the Fatigue Analyzer User Guide for information on how to create an analysis run.

MTS TestSuite | 59

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Topics:

•

Set Up the Test..................................................................................................................................62

•

Define Test Parameters.....................................................................................................................63

•

Run the Test......................................................................................................................................67

•

View Test Results..............................................................................................................................70

•

Analyze Data.....................................................................................................................................71

MTS TestSuite | 61

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Set Up the Test

KIC Template

The MTS ASTM E 399 KIC template complies with ASTM E 399 for determining the fracture toughness
(KIC) value of materials.

The KIC template provides all the components you need to run a test, analyze the test data, and create
reports of the results.

Control modes

The template guides you through the steps of running a test and provides all the software components
you need to run a test in one of two control modes:

• Crack opening displacement (COD)—The test uses a COD gage signal to provide control feedback.

• Displacement—The test uses a displacement transducer signal to provide control feedback.

Features

The main features of the KIC template are listed below:

• The main template window guides you through setting up all test parameters, performing crack size
checks, precracking the specimen, and running the KIC test.

• As the test runs, you can stop the test to change test parameters.

• Comprehensive runtime views help you monitor test progress.

• Tabular and graphical displays make it easy to review test results.

• Analysis definitions provide all necessary analysis calculations and views to analyze test runs.

• You can modify the analysis method and reapply the calculations to the data.

• Report templates help you generate reports for analysis runs.

Set Up a Test

To create and run a new test:

1. Create a new test from a template.

a) Click File > New > Test from Template.
b) In the Create from Existing Test window, select a test.
c) Click OK.

The new test is automatically created and assigned a default name. You can change the name and
enter comments about the new test by clicking the Edit button and making the changes.

2. Create a new test run.

62 | MTS TestSuite

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

a) Click New Test Run button.
b) Select a specimen from the Select a Specimen window and then click OK.

To create a new specimen click Add a new item.

c) Review the variables in the Setup Variables window, modify values as necessary, and then click

OK.

3. Apply hydraulic power to the system.

a) Reset the interlocks if needed.
b) Click the Low, then High, power buttons.

4. In the MTS TestSuite Custom Message window for the template, click the buttons to define test
parameters, perform setup tasks, and run tests.

5. When prompted, click Run to run the test.

Define Test Parameters

Test Parameters

After a new test run is added to the test, the Main Menu window appears. This window provides access
to all necessary test parameters. Click the parameter buttons in the Main Menu window to specify parameter
values for the test.

Precrack Parameters

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Final Crack
Limit

Precrack Frequency

Precrack Load Ratio

Specify the desired crack size to achieve in
the precrack activity. When the specified
crack size is achieved, the activity stops.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal for the precrack activity.

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

Precrack Lower Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the lower limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

MTS TestSuite | 63

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Upper Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Precrack Measure Load
Level Percent

Precrack Cycle Limit

Precrack Final Maximum
K

Shutdown Station at End
of Precrack

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the upper limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. The load
is applied at this level to ensure the crack is
open. All voltage data below this load will not
be used to calculate crack length. This
parameter is used only for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the number of cycles at which
precrack activity stops.

Specify the maximum stress intensity desired
at the end of precrack activity. The initial
precrack Maximum K is 1.4 times the Final
Maximum K value.

Select Yes to cause an interlock at the end
of precrack. This can shut down hydraulics,
if desired.

KIC Parameters

In the KIC Parameters section of the main menu, you specify the KIC Force Ramp Rate, which is the rate
for the ramp segment of the KIC step.

Data Storage Parameters Properties

Data Storage Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Save Percent
Limit

Store Every Nth Precrack
Cycle

Crack Size Change Store

Specify the percentage of precrack activity
that must complete before data is saved to
disk.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the precrack activity.

Specify the amount of crack length change
that will cause data to be stored to disk.

64 | MTS TestSuite

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

Typically, operators will not store every cycle,
but will only store data when the crack grows
by a significant amount, such as 0.05 mm.

FCG Lower Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG Upper Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG N Cycle Save

Specify the lower load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the upper load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the test. Typically, this is more than
10,000.

Test Termination Parameters

Test Termination Parameters

DescriptionParameter

COD Limit

Specify Yes to end the test when the COD
limit is reached.

Load Limit

Displacement Limit

Specify Yes to end the test when the load
limit is reached.

Specify Yes to end the test when the
displacement limit is reached.

Assign Precrack Values

Specify these parameters if the specimen was precracked on another load frame. When the precrack
parameters are specified here, you can then skip Precrack Specimen in the Main Menu window.

MTS TestSuite | 65

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Cycles
Completed

Precrack Final Crack Size

Precrack P Maximum

Precrack K Maximum

Specify the number of precrack cycles
completed.

Specify the final crack size calculated from
compliance.

Specify the final load during precrack.Precrack Final P

Specify the maximum load measured during
precrack.

Specify the final K during precrack.Precrack Final K

Specify the maximum K value during
precrack.

Specify any additional comments.Precrack Comments

Calculator

Use the Calculator to calculate the load to use for new specimens. You can also use the Calculator to
calculate stress intensity (K). Load is calculated from the crack size value and stress intensity (K) value.
Stress intensity (K) is calculated from the crack size value and load value.

Typically, you use the Calculator after the crack size is checked. If the crack size check is performed, the
Multipurpose Elite application supplies the crack size value for the Calculator. You can also enter a crack
size value manually. You must enter the load or stress intensity value manually.

Calculate Load P

Load P Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

Stress Intensity K

66 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the crack size value to use in the load
calculation.

Specify the stress intensity (K) value to use
in the load calculation.

Calculate Stress Intensity K

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Stress Intensity K Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

Load

Specify the crack size value to use in the
stress intensity (K) calculation.

Specify the load value to use in the stress
intensity (K) calculation.

Run the Test

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control

MTS-supplied fracture test templates calculate setpoint and span values for those portions of a fracture
test that use Delta-K control. For example, the fracture test templates use Delta-K control to pre-crack the
specimen, and the Fatigue Crack Growth template can optionally run in Delta-K control mode.

When a fracture test template uses Delta-K control, it calculates and sends out setpoint and span values
for Delta-K control at a rate of every 1.0 second to the Series 793 Station Manager application. However,
the Station Manager application has default settings for Setpoint/Span Times of 2.0 seconds, which is the
time used to ramp the span and setpoint values. When the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application are slower than the setpoint and span update rate in the fracture test template, the controller
may not complete the ramp to a command before the template sends out new span and setpoint corrections
for Delta-K control.

Before running a test with an MTS fracture test template, make sure in the Station Manager application
that the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options > Setpoint/Span Times are set to approximately

0.5 seconds for both Setpoint and Span.

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause specimen
or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes can
be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for other
purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

MTS TestSuite | 67

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Turn On Hydraulic Power

Use the control panel to apply hydraulic power.

1. If the Interlock indicator is on, click Reset to release system interlocks.

If the interlock remains on, use the message logs to identify and correct the cause of the interlock.

Warning:

Applying hydraulic power can result in sudden actuator motion.

A moving actuator can injure anyone in its path.

Always clear the actuator area before applying hydraulic power.

2. Click Low Power.

This action sets the hydraulic power unit to high pressure and the hydraulic service manifold to low
pressure.

3. Click High Power.

This action sets the hydraulic service manifold to high pressure.

Perform Crack Size Check

This activity applies a load to the specimen and verifies the crack size and the modulus for tests that use
a Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip gage to measure the crack opening.

1. Click CSC on the main menu.

2. Optionally, click Change Parameters. These parameters determine how to measure crack size, and

how to calculate crack size and modulus.

Crack Size Check Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Entered Crack Size

Elastic Modulus

Specify the crack size used to calculate the
elastic modulus. The default value is equal
to the specimen notch size.

Specify the modulus used for crack size
calculations.

Ramp to Percent

68 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the percent of load applied on the
specimen in order to check the crack size.
The load is ramped from zero to the specified
percentage of load. The percentage is based
on the last load command.

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

DescriptionParameter

Specify the time to ramp to the target load.Ramp Time

1. Click Measure Crack Size.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the crack size check. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

3. When finished with this activity, click Close.

Precrack Specimen

1. Click Precrack in the Main Menu window.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the precrack activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change

parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity has started to run, click Hold. When you suspend the activity,
data collection stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

3. To review the process of the precrack activity, monitor the runtime displays.

4. Typically, the activity stops when a desired precrack parameter is achieved. In this case, review the
activity end result, and then click Close.

5. Check the precrack results, and if necessary, correct the values.

Run the KIC Fracture Toughness Test

1. Click KIC Test.

2. Review the parameters.

a) Click Yes to start with the parameters that are shown.
b) Click No to return to the main menu, change parameters, and click KIC Test.

3. Click Run on the control panel to start the activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change parameters,
click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity starts, click Hold. When you suspend the activity, data collection
stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

4. Review the process of the test activity by monitoring the runtime displays.

• On the KIC Test tab, monitor Force versus COD plot.

• On the KIC Data tab, monitor Time, Force, COD, and Displacement values in the array table.

5. Typically, the activity stops when a desired test termination parameter is achieved. In this case, review
the activity end result, and then click Close.

MTS TestSuite | 69

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Enter Measured Crack Sizes

The software automatically enters the crack sizes from the end of the precrack activity and the crack sizes
from the end of the test. By default, the Precrack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during
the precrack activity and the Crack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during the test.
These crack sizes are used during data analysis. Optionally, you can change these values for the test run.

Measured Crack Size Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack

Crack

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the precrack activity.

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the test activity.

End Fracture Test

1. When finished with the test run, click Done in the Main Menu window.

2. Click HPU Power Off.

3. In the Series 793 Station Manager application, set the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options
> Setpoint/Span Times back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for

other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause
specimen or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes
can be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment
damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station
Manager application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator
for other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

View Test Results

After the test run completes, you can view the test results.

1. In the Explorer panel, click the name of the test run.

70 | MTS TestSuite

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

2. Click Results.

3. Click on the different tabs to view different types of results.

Fracture Test Results

The Test Results show the following information about the test run:

• Variable Summary shows all the parameters and their last values for the test run.

• Crack Size Check Cycle - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the crack size check
activity.

• Precrack Command - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the precrack activity.

• Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the test activity.

The test does not generate any reports. You can generate reports with the results generated during post-test
analysis.

Analyze Data

KIC Fracture Toughness Analysis Definitions

The template is preconfigured with an analysis definition that conforms to the analysis portion of the ASTM
standard. The analysis definition can be used to analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer application and contains the following tables and charts.

Analysis Inputs Table

The Analysis Inputs table contains the parameters used for the analysis. You can make the corrections
indicated in the message log by adding or changing the input values. If the variable is an array, the entry
is added to the expansion table. Click the + at the left of the row to see a table of entries. Click another
row to activate the Refresh All Analysis Views button in the toolbar at the top of the window. When you
click that button, the application recalculates the analysis. You can change the calculation method. After
you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified column. The original test
data is not lost and does not change.

You can add and change values by typing in the table cell. Click another row to activate the Refresh All
Analysis Views button and click the button. The Modified column becomes filled with a check mark in rows
where you specify the value.

Test Summary Table

The Test Summary table provides the final values of the variables defined in the Variable Editor. You can
change one or more values in this table and rerun the calculations in the same way described for the
Analysis Inputs table. After you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified
column. The original test data is not lost and does not change.

MTS TestSuite | 71

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

Validity Results Table

The Validity Results table includes the Display Name, Value, Modified Indicator, Original Value, and
Calculation. The Display Name includes the validity criteria. The Value and Original Value columns contain
indicators that are Yes or No values. The validity of the test results can change because of changes in
test values.

K-R Curve

The K-R Curve table provides per-cycle data. If the specimen is a Single Edge (Bend) type, the table does
not receive data. The table includes:

• Load Intercept

• COD Intercept

• Effective Stress Intensity

• Physical Stress Intensity

• Net Section Stress

• Validity

Channels by Time

The Channels by Time table lists all data points collected in arrays:

• KIC Time Array

• KIC Load Array

• KIC Crack Opening Displacement Inverted Array

• Displacement Inverted Array

Charts

The charts provide visual indicators of the data reported in the tables.

• The Load vs. Time chart indicates changes in the load during the test.

• The COD vs. Time chart indicates changes in the crack opening displacement during the test.

• The Displacement vs. Time chart indicates changes in the displacement during the test.

• The Load vs. COD chart indicates how the load changes as the load crack opening displacement gage
reading changes during the test. This chart shows pop-ins, if any occur in the test.

• The K-R Curve chart indicates the valid and invalid stress intensity data points.

Analyze the Test Runs

Each test that you create from an MTS template contains a default analysis definition that can be used to
analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application.

To analyze the test runs, use one of the following methods to open the test in one of the Analyzer
applications:

72 | MTS TestSuite

KIC Fracture Toughness Template

• From either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application, click File > Open Test and select
the test that you want to analyze.

• Open the test in the Multipurpose Elite application and on the Tools menu, click Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer.

The selected Analyzer application opens the test.

For more information

See the Fatigue Analyzer User Guide for information on how to create an analysis run.

MTS TestSuite | 73

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Topics:

•

Set Up the Test..................................................................................................................................76

•

Define Test Parameters.....................................................................................................................77

•

Run the Test......................................................................................................................................81

•

View Test Results..............................................................................................................................86

•

Analyze Data.....................................................................................................................................87

MTS TestSuite | 75

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Set Up the Test

CTOD Fracture Toughness Template

The MTS ASTM E1290 CTOD template complies with ASTM E 1290 - 07 for determining the fracture
toughness value of materials.

The CTOD template provides all the components you need to run a test, analyze the test data, and create
reports of the results.

Control modes

The template guides you through the steps of running a test and provides all the software components
you need to run a test in one of two control modes:

• Crack opening displacement (COD)—The test uses a COD gage signal to provide control feedback.

• Displacement—The test uses a displacement transducer signal to provide control feedback.

Features

The main features of the CTOD template are listed below:

• The main template window guides you through setting up all test parameters, performing crack size
checks, precracking the specimen, and running the test.

• As the test runs, you can stop the test to change test parameters.

• Comprehensive runtime views help you monitor test progress.

• Tabular and graphical displays make it easy to review test results.

• Analysis definitions provide all necessary analysis calculations and views to analyze test runs.

• You can modify the analysis method and reapply the calculations to the data.

• Report templates help you generate reports for analysis runs.

Set Up a Test

To create and run a new test:

1. Create a new test from a template.

a) Click File > New > Test from Template.
b) In the Create from Existing Test window, select a test.
c) Click OK.

The new test is automatically created and assigned a default name. You can change the name and
enter comments about the new test by clicking the Edit button and making the changes.

2. Create a new test run.

76 | MTS TestSuite

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

a) Click New Test Run button.
b) Select a specimen from the Select a Specimen window and then click OK.

To create a new specimen click Add a new item.

c) Review the variables in the Setup Variables window, modify values as necessary, and then click

OK.

3. Apply hydraulic power to the system.

a) Reset the interlocks if needed.
b) Click the Low, then High, power buttons.

4. In the MTS TestSuite Custom Message window for the template, click the buttons to define test
parameters, perform setup tasks, and run tests.

5. When prompted, click Run to run the test.

Define Test Parameters

Test Parameters

After a new test run is added to the test, the Main Menu window appears. This window provides access
to all necessary test parameters. Click the parameter buttons in the Main Menu window to specify parameter
values for the test.

Precrack Parameters

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Final Crack
Limit

Precrack Frequency

Precrack Load Ratio

Specify the desired crack size to achieve in
the precrack activity. When the specified
crack size is achieved, the activity stops.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal for the precrack activity.

Specify the ratio of the minimum to maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

Precrack Lower Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the lower limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

MTS TestSuite | 77

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Upper Least
Squares Fit Percentage

Precrack Measure Load
Level Percent

Precrack Cycle Limit

Precrack Final Maximum
K

Shutdown Station at End
of Precrack

Specify the percentage of the measured load
range used as the upper limit for linear least
squares fit compliance determination. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the percent of maximum load level
at which the voltage is measured. The load
is applied at this level to ensure the crack is
open. All voltage data below this load will not
be used to calculate crack length. This
parameter is used only for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the number of cycles at which
precrack activity stops.

Specify the maximum stress intensity desired
at the end of precrack activity. The initial
precrack Maximum K is 1.4 times the Final
Maximum K value.

Select Yes to cause an interlock at the end
of precrack. This can shut down hydraulics,
if desired.

CTOD Parameters

In the CTOD Parameters section of the Main menu, you select COD or Displacement as the control
mode for the test, and then specify the Ramp Rate, which is the rate for the ramp segment of the CTOD

step.

Data Storage Parameters Properties

Data Storage Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Save Percent
Limit

Store Every Nth Precrack
Cycle

Specify the percentage of precrack activity
that must complete before data is saved to
disk.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the precrack activity.

78 | MTS TestSuite

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size Change Store

FCG Lower Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG Upper Least Squares
Fit Percentage

FCG N Cycle Save

Specify the amount of crack length change
that will cause data to be stored to disk.
Typically, operators will not store every cycle,
but will only store data when the crack grows
by a significant amount, such as 0.05 mm.

Specify the lower load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the upper load limit for linear least
squares fit compliance used to determine
when to start saving data to disk. This
parameter is not used for FCG DCPD tests.

Specify the cycle intervals written to disk
during the test. Typically, this is more than
10,000.

Test Termination Parameters

JIC Maximum Load

JIC Maximum COD

JIC Maximum Displacement

JIC Maximum Crack Size

JIC Maximum Crack
Extension

Test Termination Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Specify the load that, if reached, stops the
test.

Specify the Crack Opening Displacement
that, if reached, stops the test.

Specify the displacement that, if reached,
stops the test.

Specify the crack size that, if reached, stops
the test.

Specify the crack extension that, if reached,
stops the test.

MTS TestSuite | 79

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Assign Precrack Values

Specify these parameters if the specimen was precracked on another load frame. When the precrack
parameters are specified here, you can then skip Precrack Specimen in the Main Menu window.

Precrack Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack Cycles
Completed

Precrack Final Crack Size

Precrack P Maximum

Precrack K Maximum

Specify the number of precrack cycles
completed.

Specify the final crack size calculated from
compliance.

Specify the final load during precrack.Precrack Final P

Specify the maximum load measured during
precrack.

Specify the final K during precrack.Precrack Final K

Specify the maximum K value during
precrack.

Specify any additional comments.Precrack Comments

Calculator

Use the Calculator to calculate the load to use for new specimens. You can also use the Calculator to
calculate stress intensity (K). Load is calculated from the crack size value and stress intensity (K) value.
Stress intensity (K) is calculated from the crack size value and load value.

Typically, you use the Calculator after the crack size is checked. If the crack size check is performed, the
Multipurpose Elite application supplies the crack size value for the Calculator. You can also enter a crack
size value manually. You must enter the load or stress intensity value manually.

Calculate Load P

Load P Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Crack Size

80 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the crack size value to use in the load
calculation.

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

DescriptionParameter

Stress Intensity K

Calculate Stress Intensity K

Crack Size

Load

Run the Test

Specify the stress intensity (K) value to use
in the load calculation.

Stress Intensity K Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Specify the crack size value to use in the
stress intensity (K) calculation.

Specify the load value to use in the stress
intensity (K) calculation.

Setpoint/Span Times for Delta-K Control

MTS-supplied fracture test templates calculate setpoint and span values for those portions of a fracture
test that use Delta-K control. For example, the fracture test templates use Delta-K control to pre-crack the
specimen, and the Fatigue Crack Growth template can optionally run in Delta-K control mode.

When a fracture test template uses Delta-K control, it calculates and sends out setpoint and span values
for Delta-K control at a rate of every 1.0 second to the Series 793 Station Manager application. However,
the Station Manager application has default settings for Setpoint/Span Times of 2.0 seconds, which is the
time used to ramp the span and setpoint values. When the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application are slower than the setpoint and span update rate in the fracture test template, the controller
may not complete the ramp to a command before the template sends out new span and setpoint corrections
for Delta-K control.

Before running a test with an MTS fracture test template, make sure in the Station Manager application
that the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options > Setpoint/Span Times are set to approximately

0.5 seconds for both Setpoint and Span.

MTS TestSuite | 81

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause specimen
or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes can
be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station Manager
application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for other
purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

Turn On Hydraulic Power

Use the control panel to apply hydraulic power.

1. If the Interlock indicator is on, click Reset to release system interlocks.

If the interlock remains on, use the message logs to identify and correct the cause of the interlock.

Warning:

Applying hydraulic power can result in sudden actuator motion.

A moving actuator can injure anyone in its path.

Always clear the actuator area before applying hydraulic power.

2. Click Low Power.

This action sets the hydraulic power unit to high pressure and the hydraulic service manifold to low
pressure.

3. Click High Power.

This action sets the hydraulic service manifold to high pressure.

Perform Crack Size Check

This activity applies a load to the specimen and verifies the crack size and the modulus for tests that use
a Crack Opening Displacement (COD) clip gage to measure the crack opening.

1. Click CSC on the main menu.

2. Optionally, click Change Parameters. These parameters determine how to measure crack size, and

how to calculate crack size and modulus.

82 | MTS TestSuite

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Crack Size Check Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Entered Crack Size

Elastic Modulus

Ramp to Percent

1. Click Measure Crack Size.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the crack size check. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

3. When finished with this activity, click Close.

Specify the crack size used to calculate the
elastic modulus. The default value is equal
to the specimen notch size.

Specify the modulus used for crack size
calculations.

Specify the percent of load applied on the
specimen in order to check the crack size.
The load is ramped from zero to the specified
percentage of load. The percentage is based
on the last load command.

Specify the time to ramp to the target load.Ramp Time

Precrack Specimen

1. Click Precrack in the Main Menu window.

2. Click Run on the control panel to start the precrack activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change

parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity has started to run, click Hold. When you suspend the activity,
data collection stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

3. To review the process of the precrack activity, monitor the runtime displays.

4. Typically, the activity stops when a desired precrack parameter is achieved. In this case, review the
activity end result, and then click Close.

5. Check the precrack results, and if necessary, correct the values.

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

1. Click CTOD Test.

2. Review the parameters.

a) Click Yes to start with the parameters that are shown.
b) Click No to return to the main menu, change parameters, and click CTOD Test.

MTS TestSuite | 83

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

3. Click Run on the control panel to start the test activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after the activity starts, click Hold. When you suspend the activity, data collection
stops and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

4. Review the process of the test activity by monitoring the runtime displays.

• On the CTOD Test tab, monitor Force versus COD plot.

• On the CTOD Statistics tab, monitor Time, Force, COD, and Displacement values in the array table.

5. Typically, the activity stops when a desired test termination parameter is achieved. In this case, review
the activity end result, and then click Close.

Perform Fatigue Crack Mark

1. Click Crack Size Check in the Main Menu window.

2. In the Main Menu window, click Fatigue Crack Mark.

3. Specify the Crack Growth Parameters.

This test activity uses fatigue crack growth with a constant load control mode.

4. Review the parameters.

a) Click Yes to start with the parameters that are shown.
b) Click No to return to the Main menu, change parameters, and click Fatigue Crack Mark.

5. Click Run on the control panel to start the test activity. Optionally, if you want to review or change
parameters, click Return to Main Menu.

To suspend the activity after it starts, click Hold. When you suspend the activity, data collection stops
and the application attempts to hold at the mean level.

To stop the activity, click Stop. When you stop the activity, the application immediately ramps to zero
load and saves the test data.

6. Review the process of the test activity by monitoring the runtime displays.

7. Typically, the activity will stop when a desired test parameter is achieved. In this case, review the activity
end result, and then click Close.

Constant Load Control Mode Parameters

Constant Load Control Mode Parameters

DescriptionParameter

FCG Load Ratio

84 | MTS TestSuite

Specify the ratio of the minimum-to-maximum
load applied to the specimen. The minimum
load is determined by this value and the
maximum load is specified by you.

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

DescriptionParameter

FCG End Level 1

FCG Frequency

FCG Wave Shape

FCG Measure Load Level

Specify the desired end level of the command
signal.

Specify the cycle frequency of the command
signal.

Specify the wave shape of the command
signal.

The choices are True Sine or True Ramp.
Typically, you use a True Ramp wave shape
where uniform strain-rate sensitivity is
important, and a True Sine wave shape
where a continually varying strain rate is
acceptable because of the higher frequencies
of some tests.

Specify the voltage that is measured at this
load level. This parameter is used only for
FCG DCPD tests.

Enter Measured Crack Sizes

The software automatically enters the crack sizes from the end of the precrack activity and the crack sizes
from the end of the test. By default, the Precrack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during
the precrack activity and the Crack values are the last series of crack sizes measured during the test.
These crack sizes are used during data analysis. Optionally, you can change these values for the test run.

Measured Crack Size Parameters

DescriptionParameter

Precrack

Crack

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the precrack activity.

Specify the series of crack measurements made
at the end of the test activity.

End Fracture Test

1. When finished with the test run, click Done in the Main Menu window.

2. Click HPU Power Off.

MTS TestSuite | 85

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

3. In the Series 793 Station Manager application, set the Tools > Channel Options > Command Options
> Setpoint/Span Times back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator for

other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

Caution:

Lower Setpoint/Span Times in the Series 793 Station Manager application can cause
specimen or equipment damage.

Decreasing the Setpoint/Span Times default of 2.0 seconds after the test run completes
can be too fast for other actuator commands, and can cause specimen or equipment
damage.

After the fracture test run has completed, set the Setpoint/Span Times in the Station
Manager application back to their previous values before you use it to command the actuator
for other purposes (for example, for specimen removal or installation).

View Test Results

After the test run completes, you can view the test results.

1. In the Explorer panel, click the name of the test run.

2. Click Results.

3. Click on the different tabs to view different types of results.

Fracture Test Results

The Test Results show the following information about the test run:

• Variable Summary shows all the parameters and their last values for the test run.

• Crack Size Check Cycle - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the crack size check
activity.

• Precrack Command - Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the precrack activity.

• Data Acquisition shows data that was acquired during the test activity.

The test does not generate any reports. You can generate reports with the results generated during post-test
analysis.

86 | MTS TestSuite

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Analyze Data

CTOD Analysis Definition

The template is preconfigured with an analysis definition that conforms to the analysis portion of the ASTM
standard. The analysis definition can be used to analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer application and contains the following tables and charts.

Analysis Inputs Table

The Analysis Inputs table contains the parameters used for the analysis. You can make the corrections
indicated in the message log by adding or changing the input values. If the variable is an array, the entry
is added to the expansion table. Click the + at the left of the row to see a table of entries. Click another
row to activate the Refresh All Analysis Views button in the toolbar at the top of the window. When you
click that button, the application recalculates the analysis. You can change the calculation method. After
you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified column. The original test
data is not lost and does not change.

You can add and change values by typing in the table cell. Click another row to activate the Refresh All
Analysis Views button and click the button. The Modified column becomes filled with a check mark in rows
where you specify the value.

Test Summary Table

The Test Summary table provides the final values of the variables defined in the Variable Editor. You can
change one or more values in this table and rerun the calculations in the same way described for the
Analysis Inputs table. After you refresh the values, the ones you modified have check marks in the Modified
column. The original test data is not lost and does not change.

Validation Results Table

The Validity Results table includes the Display Name, Value, Modified Indicator, Original Value, and
Calculation. The Display Name includes the validity criteria. The Value and Original Value columns contain
indicators that are Yes or No values. The validity of the test results can change because of changes in
test values.

Pop-Ins CTOD Table

The Pop-Ins CTOD table provides data that corresponds to the pop-ins that are marked in the Pop-Ins
Plot. The table includes:

• F(n)

• Pop-In(n)

• Vg(n)

• CTODc(n)

• CTODu(n)

• ap(n)

MTS TestSuite | 87

Run the CTOD Fracture Toughness Test

Channels by Time Table

The Channels by Time table lists all data points collected in arrays:

• Time Array

• Load Array

• CTOD Array

• Displacement Array

Charts

Charts provide visual indicators of the data reported in the tables.

• The Load vs. Time chart indicates changes in the load during the test.

• The COD vs. Time chart indicates changes in the crack opening displacement during the test.

• The Displacement vs. Time chart indicates changes in the displacement during the test.

• The Load vs. COD chart indicates how the load changes as the load crack opening displacement gage
reading changes during the test. This chart shows pop-ins, if any occur in the test.

• The Pop-Ins Plot indicates where pop-ins have occurred in a Load vs. COD chart. The Pop-Ins CTOD
table provides the actual values of the pop-ins.

Analyze the Test Runs

Each test that you create from an MTS template contains a default analysis definition that can be used to
analyze the test run in either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application.

To analyze the test runs, use one of the following methods to open the test in one of the Analyzer
applications:

• From either the Fatigue Analyzer or Fracture Analyzer application, click File > Open Test and select
the test that you want to analyze.

• Open the test in the Multipurpose Elite application and on the Tools menu, click Fatigue Analyzer or
Fracture Analyzer.

The selected Analyzer application opens the test.

For more information

See the Fatigue Analyzer User Guide for information on how to create an analysis run.

88 | MTS TestSuite

Index

Index

A

assign precrack values 32, 51, 65, 80
ASTM

E 1290 - 07 18
E 1820 JIC 17
E 399 62
E 399 KIC 18
E 647 Fatigue Crack Growth Compliance template 17
E 647 Fatigue Crack Growth DCPD template 17
E-1820-08 17
E1290 CTOD 18

C

calculator 32, 52, 66, 80
channel limited channel (CLC) control mode 23
COD signal polarity 22
constant load control mode parameters 30, 84
controller station 22
conventions 11
crack growth

parameters 28
crack size check (CSC) 34, 54, 68, 82
Crack Size Check Cycle 38, 57, 71, 86
CTOD

parameters 78

run test 83

form

problem submittal 10

H

HPU

high 23
low 23
off 24

HSM

off 24

hydraulics

power on 34, 54, 68, 82

I

import

legacy data 20

import legacy data

concept 18
properties 19

install specimen 23

J

J-Integral Characterization (JIC)

parameters 46
run test 55

D

Data Acquisition 38, 57, 71, 86
data le

legacy 20
data storage parameters 30, 50, 64, 78
DCPD

initial voltage 35
delta K control mode parameters 29
delta-K control 33, 53, 67, 81

E

enter initial crack 35

F

fatigue crack growth (FCG) test

execution 36
fatigue crack mark 84
fatigue to fracture 56

K

KIC

parameters 64
run test 69

L

Legacy FCG template 17
legacy le name 19
Legacy KIC template 18

M

manuals 7

P

polarity

COD signal 22
Precrack Command 38, 57, 71, 86
precrack parameters 27, 45, 63, 77

89

Index

precrack specimen 36, 55, 69, 83

R

run FCG test 36

S

SE(B) specimen 22
setpoint 33, 53, 67, 81
span 33, 53, 67, 81
specimen

precrack 36, 55, 69, 83

specimen geometry

import 20

specimen installation 23
station

open 22
prerequisites 22

support

phone 9
technical 7

T

technical support 7
template

CTOD 76
fatigue crack growth 26
JIC 44
KIC 62
legacy 18

test

execution 36
new run 26, 44, 62, 76

test denition

from a template 16

test parameters 27, 45, 63, 77
test results

fracture test 38, 57, 71, 86

test termination parameters

FCG 31
settings 65

V

Variable Summary 38, 57, 71, 86
variable summary test

view 38, 57, 70, 86

90

MTS Systems Corporation

14000 Technology Drive
Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344-2290 USA
Toll Free Phone: [phone]

(within U.S. or Canada)

Phone:[phone]

(outside the U.S. or Canada)
Fax [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Internet: www.mts.com

ISO 9001 Certified QMS