Structures and Mechanical Testing Laboratory

Our laboratory supports the teaching and research activities of the University at all levels. Whilst not a test house, it is also able to undertake some consultancy and external work.

The fundamental ethos of our laboratory is materials and structures characterisation, with testing from the nano- to macro-scales.

Primarily our facilities are for the School of Engineering, but we do also collaborate with the School of Veterinary Medicine and School of Biosciences and Medicine.

Instrumentation

The laboratory supports a broad portfolio of experimental activity, including:

High-strain and quasi-static characterisation
Strength, stiffness, fracture and fatigue investigations
Contact mechanics and component testing
Development of custom fixtures and test rigs
Mechanical validation of simulation and FEA models
Detailed strain and deformation measurement using DIC
Multi-stage prototyping for experimental method development.

How we can help

The Structures and Mechanical Testing Laboratories provide a comprehensive suite of external services for industry, engineering consultancies, manufacturers and public-sector organisations. Our facilities enable rigorous evaluation of material and structural behaviour, supporting product development, compliance verification, engineering assessment and research-driven innovation.

We also aid with test design, specimen preparation, instrumentation planning, interpretation of results and alignment with relevant standards.

Our team has experience working with engineering practices, manufacturers, infrastructure operators, materials developers and regulatory bodies. Previous external collaborations have included testing of existing infrastructure assets, reclaimed concrete slabs, metallic components, heritage materials, novel cementitious materials, under various loading and environmental conditions.