ASEL has an array of research equipment that is critical for experimental testing.
MTS Hydraulic System
The facility is equipped with a 180 gpm MTS 515.180 Silentflo pump and cooler system with multiple connection points around the strong floor. The pump powers the 3,000 psi hydraulic system. Capacity was built into the facility to add a second 180 gpm pump.
MTS Equipment
ASEL owns and maintains a suite of MTS equipment. Nine hydraulic actuators that range in capacity from 52 kips up to 446 kips can be used for both static and dynamic loading. The actuator strokes range from 10 inches to 60 inches. Two dynamic Universal Testing Machines (UTMs), one 22 kip and one 225 kip capacity, are part of the facility. The large UTM has an environmental chamber for testing in the range of -200ºF to 1000ºF. To operate the actuator and UTMs, ASEL has five Hydraulic Service Manifolds (HSMs) and three MTS FlexTest controllers.
![[photo of an actuator and UTM]](../_image/equipment/actuator-1.jpg)
Power Team Hydraulic Equipment
ASEL has a wide array of 10,000 psi hydraulic cylinders with a capacity range from 30 tons up to 500 tons for static testing of a wide variety of structural components and systems. This includes several hydraulic electric and hand pumps.
Data Acquisition Systems
To support data collection, four high speed data acquisition (DAQ) systems are available. Each individual system has at least 60 channels with the capability of acquiring data from a wide variety of sensors (strain gages, displacement transducers, load cells, accelerometers, inclinometers and thermocouples). The systems can also be combined for larger or more complex tests. Non-contact sensing capability includes a Leica LIDAR system and a Digital Image Correlation system from Correlated Systems.
Lifting Equipment
The facility is equipped with two 30-ton cranes that run the length of the High Bay Laboratory. To support movements within the facility and out in the yard, a forklift is onsite along with a Skid Steer. ASEL owns a scissor lift to allow for safe elevated work. In addition, a clamshell bucket is available to fill and excavate the Geotechnical Chamber
Machine Shop and Cutting Equipment
ASEL has a machine shop along with a fully-automated band saw and plasma cutting table.
Wood Working Shop
ASEL has a wood working shop commonly utilized for building formwork, bracing and other miscellaneous items needed for testing.
