Large structures testing laboratory

More Information

About the Large structures testing laboratory

Part of the National Infrastructure Laboratory, this is a strongfloor facility for testing structures, components and materials. It can test them at a range of scales across a wide range of application areas.

This laboratory also houses the Structures 2025 facility which provides data-rich structural testing, using multi-axis loading and advanced image analysis techniques to measure system behaviour.

Uses include:

  • non-destructive and destructive testing of sub-structure of large components from a wide range of industries
  • applying optical metrology techniques to obtain data-rich response from each test
  • applying hybrid testing (FE model with actuator control) to maritime stiffener components
  • ballast/sleeper interactions for the rail industry
  • testing full-scale masonry structures to validate numeric models of earthquake response
  • sub-structure/component testing of wind turbine blades for the energy industry
  • assessing the influence of corrosion on reinforced concrete structure

Commercial services

We carry out consultancy and enterprise projects for clients outside the University. Contact us to find out how we can work with you.

Technical specification

Structural and component testing

  • large structural testing hall, 30 metres by 15 metres
  • multi station controller capability
  • complex multiaxial testing
  • range of hydraulic actuators, from 100 kN to 2.5 MN capacity
  • static and dynamic testing

Instrumentation

  • range of traditional measurement techniques such as strain gauges and LVDTs
  • digital image correlation and infrared thermography non-contact techniques
  • wide range of camera systems to support imaging from sub Hz to kHz

Structures 2025 facility

  • multi axis/actuator testing
  • flexible test bed to enable wide range of applications for loading up to 500 kN
  • hybrid testing
  • integrated optical measurement techniques

Other capabilities

  • concrete manufacturing workshop for small scale projects
  • small machining workshop for minor adjustments to fixtures

Connect

Contact us

Get in touch to find out more about the lab and how we might be able to work with you.
National Infrastructure Laboratory, Building 178, Boldrewood Innovation Campus, Southampton SO16 7QF
We’re open Monday to Friday 09:00 to 17:00 UK time