Element Materials Technology Hitchin
TESTING AND TRIALLING FACILITIES
Element Materials Technology Hitchin Ltd
RTS PRIORITY AREAS1
Capability Statement
Element Hitchin is an independent R&D company specialising in developing and testing materials, components and structures involving rubber, plastics, composite and structural adhesives. Specialist services for rail include • condition assessment – effect of service environment on component performance & function • life extension studies – to establish basis for extended change out periods • design modification of components to improve service life • reverse engineering – materials, components where design information is not available • design of new products – materials performance and processing expertise • independent production audits • qualification testing – mechanical, chemical, accelerated ageing …
Capability – Systems
Static, dynamic and fatigue test frames for up to 400kN, drop weight impact up to 3kJ, temperature testing from -80C to 250C, high pressure testing up to 15,000 psi, bespoke component and small structures testing, Components tested include: coupling joints; air bag auxiliary springs ; vacuum toilet diaphragms; primary suspension (chevron spring); radial arm, centre pivot, anti-roll link, motor reaction bushes etc; rolling rubber bushes; pneumatic component seals/gaskets; air hoses; door actuator seals (low temperature performance); door gangway diaphragms; rail pads; composite cable carrying sleepers; bonded and lightweight structures; repair studies; interior components; Element Hitchin can also develop and apply instrumentation to components & structures and design data acquisition and analysis software.
Capability – Testing
Static, dynamic, fatigue, impact, fracture, creep, stress relaxation, controlled true strain rate testing, material compatibility, environmental exposure, seal testing, structural analysis using FEA, permeation of liquids and gases, material model development for FEA, failure analysis investigations, bespoke test development for service condition replication
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