Impact Test Rig
Parent Body: Health and Safety Executive, Health and Safety Laboratory, Harpur Hill, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 9JN

Principal Functions
To test the performance of engineering materials and components when they are subjected to impact forces.

General Details
This facility is used to test the performance of materials and components when they are subjected to impact forces. It is spread over two acres on HSE’s Buxton site and comprises 265 metres of four-rail track laid such that a specimen truck (on the inner pair of rails) can run freely down the opposite slopes of a valley. The trucks are released automatically at selected positions so that they collide on the lower section of the track thus subjecting the specimen to a large impact force. Scientific equipment to measure the physical effects of the impact is housed in a control building in the valley. The facility has been used to investigate the effects of dynamic loading on the fracture behaviour of a wide range of components including wire ropes, chains and hooks.

Specification
The truck masses and speeds are such that specimens can be subjected to impact forces in excess of 3MN (300 tonf) at speeds up to 27m/s (60mph). The maximum usable impact energy is 1.8MJ.

Special Features
Support staff for the operation of the facility could be provided.

Future Plans
The facility could be available for use by other bodies for some periods over the next five years.

Availability
The facility is available to other bodies in both the private and public sector. There are no restrictions on the type of body that can apply to use the facility. Three months advance notice is required when asking for time on the facility. Time is allocated on the following basis; HSE has first call, then vacant slots for repayment work.

Charging Basis
Charging rates are subject to individual negotiation. There is a possibility of negotiating an exchange agreement.

Site Access
The site has ready access for vehicles and local accommodation is available for the hirer’s staff.

Contact Information
Business Development Unit
Health and Safety Laboratory
Broad Lane
Sheffield
S3 7HQ
Telephone: 0114 2892920
Fax 0114 2892830
E-mail: hslinfo@hsl.gov.uk