Research staff at CQU Gladstone will be the first in Australia and South-East Asia to use the latest technology designed to test fatigue in metal.

Staff at CQU's Process Engineering and Light Metals (PELM) centre have recently commissioned a machine called the Electropuls E3000.  The machine represents a new generation of technology that allows researchers to study the effects of fatigue on metal more accurately than ever before.

Professor Richard Clegg said the machine uses an electro-magnetic system that places samples of metal under a cycle of tension and compression.

PELM's Professor Richard Clegg and Instron Australia Service Manager, Jimmy Boo with the new ElectroPuls 3000

A computer monitors the process and provides extremely accurate data which allows researchers to determine how the metal will react under different circumstances.

"While our existing machines have allowed us to do similar fatigue testing in the past, the ElectroPulse E3000 is the most up to date equipment available and can operate at a wider frequency range than past equipment.  It is also more accurate, easier to use and quieter then any other similar machines on the market. 

"This machine will expand the PELM's research capabilities as it allows us to complete more testing in a shorter period of time with results more accurate than ever before.

The equipment was purchased as part of a CAST Cooperative Research Centre project to investigate the fatigue properties of new magnesium alloys.

For more information on the Electropuls E3000: http://www.instron.com.au/

For more information on CAST-CRC: http://www.cast.crc.org.au/

PELM Website: http://www.pelm.cqu.edu.au/