Case study · Geoscience & subsurface studies

Combining three mechanical tests in one rig: a multi-function bench for geomechanics

For a geomechanics research lab, IRIAN Mecatronics designed and built a custom test rig that combines three mechanical tests (compression, bending, and fracture toughness) on a single frame. The solution optimizes floor space without sacrificing R&D-grade precision, using a design that guarantees perfect alignment for every test setup.

Client: Geomechanics research laboratory
Field: Geosciences
Technique: Mechanical testing (compression, bending, fracture toughness)

01 — The research question

How can multiple mechanical tests be combined on a single frame without compromising measurement accuracy?

In materials research, fully characterizing a sample often requires performing several types of mechanical tests. Each test—tensile, compression, bending—requires specific tooling, alignment, and a dedicated measurement chain, forcing labs to purchase multiple machines that take up valuable floor space.

Our client, a lab specializing in geoscience and subsurface studies, wanted to streamline its workflow by replacing three separate presses with a single piece of equipment. Off-the-shelf solutions were unsuitable; commercial multi-test presses are typically designed for quality control, and their flexibility comes at the cost of rigidity and precision—a trade-off unacceptable for R&D.

How to ensure perfect, repeatable rigidity and alignment for three mechanically distinct test configurations using a single loading axis and frame?

02 — Our approach

Our approach: from technical challenge to custom solution

The design hinged on three key choices to ensure that consolidating the functions would not compromise measurement quality. This principle guides all our custom test benches.

Integrating three test configurations on a single axis

To switch between tests quickly and without error, we designed a mobile platform that holds the specific tooling for each test. Instead of changing tools manually, the operator simply positions the platform under the single loading axis. This system provides a mechanical guarantee of alignment, ensuring maximum rigidity and repeatability for every test.
Measuring sample deformation, not machine compliance

Calculating properties like elastic modulus or Poisson's ratio requires measuring minute deformations. We decoupled the sample measurement from the actuator's displacement, which includes the compliance of the test frame itself. Dedicated displacement sensors placed directly on the rock sample ensure a direct and precise measurement of its axial and radial deformation.
Standardizing sample preparation to ensure reliable measurements

The validity of a fracture toughness test depends on the quality of the initiated crack. To minimize operator-related variability, we provided custom tooling specifically for the sample preparation steps. The client now has a complete, coherent solution that ensures reliable results from the raw sample to the final data.

03 — Beyond this project

Does your project have similar requirements?

Composite materials (aerospace, automotive)

Characterize a single material along multiple axes (tensile, compression, bending) to validate behavioral models. The single-frame architecture with an indexed mobile table for rapid test changes would be directly applicable, with adapted tooling and strain sensors.

Medical devices (orthopedics, dental)

Perform a series of standardized mechanical tests (compression, bending, fatigue) on implants or prosthetics. The core concept of a compact, repeatable multi-test bench would be preserved, with material adaptations and the potential integration of an environmental chamber to simulate physiological conditions.

Civil engineering and construction materials

Qualify the mechanical properties of new concrete or mortar formulations using various standardized tests on a single, versatile rig. The concept of consolidating multiple test setups would be retained, with adjustments to tooling size, load capacity, and software interfaces.

04 — Specifications

The values for this project. Every system is custom-built, so they adapt to your requirements.

Show specifications · Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS), 3-point bending, fracture toughness (tensile) · 20 kN (in compression and tension) · 0.1 N

Technical specifications — Combining three mechanical tests in one rig: a multi-function bench for geomechanics
Test types	Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS), 3-point bending, fracture toughness (tensile)
Maximum load capacity	20 kN (in compression and tension)
Load measurement resolution	0.1 N
Axial displacement resolution	0.001 mm
Radial displacement resolution	0.0001 mm

IRIAN Mecatronics designs and builds custom high-pressure, high-temperature equipment for research laboratories, technical centres and industry.

About the company

They trust us

05 — FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can this multi-test bench be adapted for soft materials or for tests at temperature?

Yes, the core design can be adapted. For soft materials, the force and displacement sensors would be replaced with lower-capacity, higher-sensitivity models. For tests at temperature, a thermal chamber would be integrated around the test area, requiring materials and instrumentation compatible with the desired temperature range.

Is it possible to integrate fatigue or creep testing on this type of multi-function mechanical test bench?

This is technically possible, but it depends on the type of loading. Integrating high-frequency fatigue testing would require a fundamental redesign of the actuator (e.g., using a servo-hydraulic system instead of an electromechanical one) and the frame to withstand millions of cycles. Creep tests, which involve applying a constant load, are much simpler to integrate.

How does the design of this custom mechanical test bench incorporate testing standards (ASTM, ISO)?

Our engineering team designs the tooling (grips, platens, supports) and control loops (e.g., loading rate, strain rate) to meet the geometric and kinematic requirements of the specific standards our client must follow. The control and data acquisition software can also be configured to execute standardized test sequences and generate compliant reports.

Can such a bench operate under high pressure or in a controlled chemical environment?

Yes, the principle of an external frame applying a load can be combined with a high-pressure vessel. The sample and its tooling would be placed inside a cell or a custom HPHT reactor, with the load transmitted by a feed-through piston. This enables mechanical testing under controlled pressure, temperature, and chemical conditions, as demonstrated in our custom HPHT triaxial cell.

Looking to streamline multiple test protocols on a single, compact, and precise piece of equipment?

Tell us about your requirements, no matter how unique. Our engineering team will analyze the feasibility of your project and respond with a technical proposal.

Discuss your project Download the case sheet (PDF)