Beam Impact Test of PVC Pipes

An instrumented impact test of a PVC pipe as a simply supported beam, comparing quasi-static and dynamic loading against elastic beam theory.

Data Acquisition
Experimental Mechanics
Structural Testing

Instrumented PVC beam test setup with strain gauges and DAQ

Overview

Axial and transverse strain gauges across the span
Full DAQ instrumentation and controlled loading setup
Model calibrated with updated material constants

Loading behavior

Quasi-static loading produced gradual, predictable strain
Dynamic loading produced sharp peaks and oscillatory response
Loading rate clearly influences deformation

Strain response under quasi-static and dynamic loading

Strain distribution

Peak bending strain near midspan, as expected
Strong elastic recovery and minimal creep
Load-strain relationship confirmed elastic response

Normalized strain showing elastic recovery and creep

Model correlation

Dynamic strain initially agreed with elastic beam predictions; deviations pointed to non-linear and localized material effects. Calibrating the numerical model with updated material constants improved its accuracy.