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Indirect Tensile Testing
Indirect tensile testing of rock, also known as the Brazilian Test, provides an alternative to direct tensile testing, producing tensile failure in the end faces of cylindrical rock samples by subjecting these specimens to compressive force along their length. Specimens usually have a height-to-diameter ratio of 2.5:3.0, and a typical diameter is 54 mm. The specimen is placed horizontally and loaded in compression until the flat ends split, revealing important tensile strength data.
MTS offers a specialized indirect tension fixture that is placed inside the rock mechanics load frame. This fixture ensures optimal conditions are maintained during testing, including alignment of load train and prevention of stress concentrations. It is designed so that the radius of the contact area where the compressive force is applied matches the contact area on the specimen. Large-diameter, low-friction columns ensure proper alignment and spherical seats in the upper loading strip prevent uneven loading. Other offerings for indirect tensile testing include:
• Robust, reliable rock mechanics test systems
• Specialized software for advanced data monitoring, acquisition and processing
• Technical support from MTS experts with more than 40 years of rock testing
experience
MTS offers a specialized indirect tension fixture that is placed inside the rock mechanics load frame. This fixture ensures optimal conditions are maintained during testing, including alignment of load train and prevention of stress concentrations. It is designed so that the radius of the contact area where the compressive force is applied matches the contact area on the specimen. Large-diameter, low-friction columns ensure proper alignment and spherical seats in the upper loading strip prevent uneven loading. Other offerings for indirect tensile testing include:
• Robust, reliable rock mechanics test systems
• Specialized software for advanced data monitoring, acquisition and processing
• Technical support from MTS experts with more than 40 years of rock testing
experience

Universal Test Systems
The MTS Criterion® and MTS Exceed® families combine high-performance electromechanical and static-hydraulic load frame technology, easy-to-use MTS TestSuite™ TW software, and a full complement of test accessories to address a full spectrum of monotonic testing demands.