ASTM C1550 Flexural Toughness Testing of Fiber Reinforced Concrete

ASTM C1550 determines the flexural toughness of fiber-reinforced concrete. Flexural toughness is the maximum stress (put) onto a specimen before it cracks or breaks. In this instance it is expressed as energy absorption in the post-crack range using a round panel supported on three symmetrically arranged pivots and subjected to a central load point.

To test in accordance to ASTM C1550, the size of your specimens should have a diameter of 800 mm . This standard requires a detailed analysis of the deflection vs. load data to ensure the accurate reporting of flexural toughness.

A servo-controlled testing machine that uses the measured deflection of either the specimen or the loading actuator to control the motion of the actuator is required to produce a controlled and constant rate of increase of deflection of the specimen without requiring the intervention of an operator. 

The special fixture supporting the panel during testing includes three symmetrically arranged pivot points on a pitch circle diameter of 750 mm. The supports are capable of supporting a load of up to 100 kN (22 kip) applied vertically at the center of the specimen.