Concrete Loading Stress-Strain Testing System for CT Successfully Delivered and Put into Use

On January 22, 2026, the independently developed and manufactured HC-UCTS-300 Concrete Loading Stress-Strain Testing System for CT was successfully installed, commissioned and finally accepted at a university in Central China, and has been officially delivered for operation.

Acceptance Focus

In-situ CT Imaging Tests

In the critical in-situ CT imaging tests, the system demonstrated its core advantages. Under the severe condition of applying complex loads up to 300 kN, the specimen achieved smooth and precise 360° rotation, realizing seamless coordination with the university’s high-end CT scanner.

The obtained 3D images of the material’s internal internal structure feature distinct layers, clear boundaries and rich details, successfully capturing the dynamic initiation and propagation process of microscopic defects inside the material under loading.

The test results fully verified the system’s stable capability of ensuring ultra-high imaging quality even under large loads, fully meeting the cutting-edge research requirements of the research group at China Three Gorges University for synchronous and precise observation of "mechanical loading–microstructure evolution".

The imaging effects are as follows:

Main structure of the equipment: Carbon fiber, PEEK and titanium alloy are used as the primary materials. The CT transmission section is constructed with carbon fiber and PEEK.

On-site Delivery Photos

Core Parameters

• Actuator stroke: 50 mm

• Maximum compressive force: 300 kN; maximum tensile force: 100 kN

• Static load measurement accuracy: ±0.5% of indicated value (measuring range 4%–100%) or ±0.1% FS

• Speed control accuracy: ±0.5% of set displacement

• Speed range: 0.01 mm/min – 3.6 mm/min

• Displacement resolution: 0.1 μm

• Load measurement accuracy: ±0.5% of indicated value within 0.4%–100% of full sensor range

• Strain measurement accuracy: conforms to ASTM E83 Class B or ISO 9513 Class 0.5

• Crosshead speed control accuracy: ±0.5% of set speed under constant load

• Crosshead displacement control accuracy: ±0.5% of set displacement

• Strain control rate accuracy: ±0.5% of set value

• Load control rate accuracy: ±0.5% of set value

• Maximum specimen diameter for testing: 100 mm

Application Value

• Empowering Cutting-Edge Scientific Research

• In the aerospace industry, the system can perform 360° CT scanning on single-crystal superalloy blades, ceramic matrix composite combustion chamber components and other parts under complex loads simulating actual service conditions.

• In the energy and geology sector, high confining pressure and fluid pressure simulating reservoirs several kilometers underground can be applied to core samples such as shale, tight sandstone and hot dry rock, with simultaneous in-situ CT scanning.

• In the advanced manufacturing sector, tensile, compressive or fatigue loads can be applied to metal 3D-printed aerospace joints and medical implants, enabling in-situ observation of stress concentration and crack propagation around defects.

Development of Internal Cracks in Specimens During Uniaxial Compression Tests Monitored by CT Scanning

Efficient Delivery

• The successful acceptance of this project would not have been possible without the high level of professionalism and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the delivery team throughout the process.

• From detailed on-site surveys and interface coordination in the early stage, to meticulous precision calibration and system joint debugging during installation and commissioning, the team remained focused on solving customer issues with rapid response and close cooperation.

• During the several-day systematic training, the delivery team provided comprehensive, patient and detailed instruction on equipment operation, software analysis and routine maintenance, ensuring that teachers and students in the laboratory could independently and proficiently operate this high-end equipment.

• The team gave clear and professional responses to all technical questions raised by the university, and established a long-term communication mechanism, providing a solid guarantee for the long-term stable operation of the equipment.

Summary

The delivered HC-UCTS-300 in-situ high-stress testing machine integrates advanced functions including high-precision loading (300 kN), 360° in-situ rotational observation, and intelligent integrated data analysis. It will serve as a powerful instrument for China Three Gorges University to conduct fundamental research and tackle key technical problems in fields such as aerospace materials, energy and geological materials, advanced composite materials, and biomedical materials. The equipment will help researchers reveal the failure mechanisms of materials under extreme service conditions and promote the generation of innovative research outcomes.