Services

Specimen Machining

Specimen Machining

Your Source for Reliable Test Specimens

When it comes to preparing test specimens for rigorous destructive testing on metal materials, precision is paramount. At Laboratory Testing Inc. (LT), we specialize in crafting test specimens that meet the highest industry standards. Our meticulous workmanship ensures that your test results are accurate and reliable.

Machining Test Specimens

Complete Specimen Machining Capabilities: Our in-house machine shop is equipped with innovative technology and staffed by highly skilled operators. From metal raw materials to additive manufactured parts, we can prepare specimens for a wide range of materials, including hardened steels, nickel-base alloys, and some plastics.

Fast Turnaround: We understand the importance of speed in your testing processes. Our 12,000 sq. ft. machining area is designed for high-speed specimen preparation, ensuring quick project completion.

Unmatched Expertise: Our technical experts are available for consultation to meet challenging specification requirements. We can work from unique cut plans, providing tailored solutions for your specific needs.

LTI Tech testing a specimen

Test Specimens Summary

  • Compact tension C(T)
  • Middle tension M(T)
  • Single edge bend (SEB)
  • Single edge notch (SEN)
  • Surface flaw
  • Rotating beam fatigue
  • High and low cycle fatigue
  • Fracture toughness
  • Flat fatigue
  • RR Moore
  • Double edge notch (DEN)
  • Dynamic tear
  • Weld qualification
  • E238 bearing
  • B769 shear
  • Stress rupture
  • Gleeble
  • Charpy V-notch impact
  • Izod impact
  • Torsion
  • Flat tensile
  • Round tensile
  • Jominy
  • Round compression
  • Single and double-shear
  • Frequency severity (steel cleanliness)
  • Face, root, & side bend
  • Stress corrosion
  • Hydrogen embrittlement
  • Metallography samples

Quality You Can Trust

When you choose LTI, you’re working with a qualified supplier dedicated to delivering top-notch specimen preparation. LTI understands the importance of quality machined specimens for accurate test results. We adhere to industry specifications such as ASTM, AWS, ISO, EN, DIN, JIS, and NACE, ensuring that every project meets the highest quality standards. All details of our specimen machining services are meticulously documented.

Specimen Preparation Process

Sawing and Extraction

Test specimens are rough cut to length by sawing from a specific location on the sample material or part, as stated in a required specification or dictated in a drawing provided with the order. During this step, technicians cut the material into a workable size, generally close to the final specimen. If welds are involved, etching can identify the position of the center line or heat-affected zone. LTI’s sawing equipment includes a Maxiem waterjet cutting system.

Turning

Turning uses a lathe by rotating a part against a stationary cutting tool to center and turn in diameter. Lathing is a requirement for all round specimens, including tensile, stress rupture, Gleeble, Jominy, rotating beam, and fatigue, since rough-cut test specimens are usually square. In addition to further refining specimen dimensions, turning reduces the gage length and threads the ends when fixturing on test machines is required.

Milling

Milling removes material by feeding a workpiece past a rotating cutter with multiple teeth. The advantage: machined surfaces can be flat, angular, or curved, and milling produces a wide combination of shapes. This process precisely machines test specimens such as stress rupture, hardness, and flat tensile specimens. Also, side, face, and root bend specimens for weld qualifications and certain corrosion specimens are available. Milling can also further refine Charpy specimens for the next step: grinding.

Low-Stress Grinding

Grinding is the finishing step for many test specimens, including Charpy, hardness, compact tension, and macro specimens used in metallurgical examinations. Low-stress grinding capabilities for performing specific machining for Aerospace applications. During grinding, a rotating abrasive wheel smooths the surface to give the material a refined look or to attain the desired finish. This process also creates a high-quality surface finish of 32 Ra (roughness average) or better.

Put LTI’s Machining to the Test

Machining test specimens is a time-saving convenience for our customers requiring a specimen for destructive testing. Our machining capabilities allow the complete order to be processed right at LTI, from receipt of the sample to preparation of the Test Report. Laboratory Testing also provides test specimens to companies that perform their in-house testing.

  • “There has not been a single incident where LTI disappointed me”

    It was truly a pleasure to work with you and your team at LTI, and I will always cherish the friendship we have developed over the years. I can honestly say there has not been a single incident where LTI disappointed me.
  • “The LTI team is an important part of our success…”

    We’ve counted on LTI for many years to handle all of our testing needs because we know their work is always done with quality and integrity. The LTI team is an important part of our success in the metals Industry.
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    Partner With LTI Today

    Laboratory Testing Inc. has the capacity and capabilities to handle all your material testing needs in a single location. Since 1984, we’ve aided customers worldwide with accurate nondestructive testing and precise material lab services. Request a quote or contact us today to see how our industry-leading turnaround times can keep your mission-critical approvals moving forward.

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