Structure Distortion Measurement
Southern Research Institute has developed a unique facility for measuring structure distortion in air from 275 K to 350 K. Distortions due to isothermal, thermal gradient and load changes are monitored with 0.05 arc-second precision using an autocollimator to measure relative tilt between targets on the part.
- Satellite Structures
- Optical Benches
- Tube Twist
- Thermal Distortion
- Hysteresis
- Load Deformation
Contact:
John Koenig
Director, Materials Research Department
(205) 581-2436
Koenig@southernresearch.org
Flexible Setup
- Parts up to 2 x 4 meters
- Multiple target acquisition from top, bottom and sides
- Up to 80 channels of thermal monitoring
- Thermocouples, RTDs and silicone diodes
- Isothermal control from 40° F to 170° F
- Applied gradients
- Dual axis, ±1000 asec capture
- Tests performed in air eliminate dry time and vacuum cost
Accurate Results
- Target pair approach yields 0.1 arc-second absolute accuracy
- Continuous, real-time data acquisition during thermal and mechanical exercise
- Used for thermal stability verification of Chandra, GOES and other space based systems
Ultrasonic Spectroscopy
Ultra-High Accuracy Thermal Expansion
Instrumentation and Software Support
Cryogenic Testing
