Service Guide

Service Guide

MechTest is a NATA accredited testing laboratory based in Archerfield, Brisbane. We specialize in mechanical testing, metallurgical and polymer testing, materials engineering, failure analysis, load testing, weld quality assurance, and the research and development of industrial and retail products.

About Us

With decades of experience testing materials, MechTest has worked as a trusted partner with many of the biggest global names in industry, including brands operating in aerospace, transport, power, energy, construction, medical and marine applications.

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Quality Standards

MechTest now has a SpectroMaxX M OES chemical analysis instrument adding the capabiltity to test and analyze Carbon Steels, Stainless Steels and other Alloys. The instrument can provide chemical analysis of a range of elements including: iron, aluminium, carbon, boron, silicon, sulfur, manganese, nickel, chromium, copper, etc.

Why Choose Us?

MechTest is committed to:

Company Services

Materials testing is performed for a range of purposes, including quality control and reverse engineering. With Advanced Materials Testing Services, NATA-accredited test reports are available for many test methods.

Mechanical Testing

MechTest offers a full suite of mechanical testing services for metallic and non-metallic materials, as well as components and specialty products. Whether testing to An Australian or international standard or developing a custom program, our experts can provide you with accurate, reliable results for projects large and small.

Tensile testing, also known as tension testing, is a fundamental mechanical test used to determine the mechanical properties of a material under axial loading. This test helps researchers, engineers, and manufacturers understand how materials respond to tensile forces and provides important information about their strength, elasticity, and ductility. Tensile testing is commonly performed on metals, plastics, polymers, textiles, composites, and other materials to assess their suitability for various applications. Axial; Longitudinal; Transverse – AS 1391; ASTM A370; ASTM E8M; F606M; ISO 6892-1

Fastener testing involves assessing the performance, durability, and reliability of various types of fasteners, such as screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, and other connecting elements. Fasteners are critical components used to hold structures, machines, and components together in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing. Testing these fasteners helps ensure their safety, integrity, and functionality under different loading conditions. Hardness – AS 1252.1; AS 4291.1; AS/NZS 4291.2 Tensile including Wedge Test – AS 1252.1; AS 4291.1; AS/NZS 4291.2; MRTS 78; RMS B240 Assembly Tests – NSW Roads and Maritime Services – RMS B240

Hardness testing is a method used to measure the resistance of a material to deformation, indentation, or penetration by an indenter of a specific shape and size under a defined load. The hardness of a material is an important mechanical property that provides insights into its strength, wear resistance, and suitability for specific applications. Different hardness testing methods are available to accommodate various materials and testing requirements. Vickers/Micro Vickers / Rockwell and Knoop – AS 1817.1; AS 1815.1; ASTM E384; ISO 6507-1; ISO 6508-1 Shore Durometer Hardness Testing Shore A and D

The cold flattening test is a method used to assess the ductility and soundness of steel pipes. It involves flattening a cylindrical pipe to a specific degree without cracking or showing signs of defects. This test is particularly relevant in industries where steel pipes are used for transporting fluids, gases, or other substances under high pressures and varying conditions. Tubing/Piping (Flattening) – AS 1163

A hydrostatic pressure test, also known as a hydrostatic test or hydro test, is a non-destructive testing method used to assess the integrity, strength, and leak-tightness of pressure vessels, pipelines, tanks, and other equipment that will be subjected to fluid pressure during their operational use. This test involves pressurizing the equipment with a liquid (usually water) to a level that exceeds its maximum operating pressure to check for any leaks, deformations, or weaknesses. MechTest have capability to 25000psi. AS 1210; AS 3788; AS 4037; AS 4041

The Charpy impact test is a standardized method used to assess the impact toughness or notch toughness of materials, especially metals and alloys. It measures the amount of energy absorbed by a material when it fractures under impact loading. The test provides insights into the material's ability to withstand sudden loading conditions and resist brittle fracture. Charpy V-notch impact test (-196°C and -20 to 174) – AS 1544.2; AS 1544-5; ISO 148-1; ASTM E23; ASTM A370

Compression testing is a technique used in materials science and engineering to determine the mechanical properties of a material, specifically its ability to withstand compressive forces or loads. This type of testing is commonly performed on materials like metals, plastics, ceramics, and concrete to understand how they behave under different levels of compression. The basic principle of compression testing involves applying a gradually increasing compressive force to a specimen until it deforms or fails. During the test, various measurements are taken to assess the material's response to the applied force. Key parameters that can be obtained from a compression test include:

The flexural or modulus of bend test, commonly known as the three-point bending test, is a mechanical test used to determine the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of a material. This test is particularly useful for brittle materials like ceramics, composites, and concrete, as well as for some polymers. It provides valuable information about the material's ability to withstand bending or flexural loads, which is important for assessing its performance in real-world applications where bending forces are involved.

Proof Load and Product Development Testing

Proof load testing is a method used to assess the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of various components, materials, or structures. It involves applying a known and controlled amount of force or load to the item being tested to ensure that it can safely withstand its intended use without failing. Proof load testing is commonly used in engineering, construction, manufacturing, and various other industries to ensure safety and reliability.

Scaffold component testing in Australia is governed by the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1576 series and AS/NZS 1577. These standards provide detailed guidelines and requirements for scaffold design, construction, and the testing of scaffold components. Manufacturers and suppliers of scaffold components are responsible for ensuring that their products meet the required quality and safety standards. This includes conducting quality control checks during manufacturing to detect defects, such as cracks, corrosion, or weaknesses. Testing Methods: Scaffold components may undergo various testing methods, including destructive and non-destructive tests, to evaluate their structural integrity and compliance with standards. These tests can include tensile testing, compression testing, and bending tests. Material Quality: Scaffold tubes, for example, are typically made of steel and must meet specific material quality requirements. The steel used should have the appropriate strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

Edge protection testing in Australia is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety of workers and preventing falls from heights in construction and other industries. Edge protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, and barriers, must be thoroughly tested and meet specific Australian standards to provide adequate protection. Edge protection systems in Australia must comply with the relevant Australian standards, primarily AS/NZS 4994.1:2009 "Temporary Edge Protection" and AS/NZS 4994.2:2009 "Temporary Edge Protection Working Platforms. Load Testing: Load testing of edge protection systems is essential to ensure they can withstand the expected loads and forces. Testing may involve applying a specified test load to the system, typically in the form of weights or hydraulic loads. Dynamic Load Testing: In addition to static load testing, dynamic load testing may be performed to assess how the edge protection system responds to dynamic forces, such as wind gusts or impacts from falling objects. Deflection Testing: Edge protection systems must be tested for deflection, which measures how much the system flexes or bends under load. Excessive deflection can compromise worker safety.

Props, shoring, and scaffolding used in Australia should comply with AS 3610-1995 "Formwork for Concrete" for general requirements. Additionally, AS/NZS 3610-2010 "Formwork for Concrete" and AS 3610.1-2010 "Formwork for Concrete—Formwork and falsework—Formwork" provide specific requirements and guidelines for formwork and falsework (props) used in concrete construction. Materials Testing: Like formwork, the materials used in props and scaffolding, such as steel or aluminium components, should meet quality standards and undergo testing for strength, durability, and compliance.

Chemical anchor proof testing refers to the process of testing and verifying the performance of chemical anchors used in construction and engineering applications. The goal is to ensure that chemical anchors are capable of providing the specified load-bearing capacity and meet safety standards. This testing process helps guarantee the structural integrity and safety of construction projects. Below are the key aspects of chemical anchor proof testing in Australia: Testing Procedures: The testing procedures for chemical anchors typically involve load testing to determine the anchor's capacity to withstand axial, shear, and tension loads. The tests are conducted under controlled conditions to simulate the actual working environment as closely as possible. Quality Control: Chemical anchor proof testing is often conducted as part of a quality control process to ensure that anchors are installed correctly and meet specified standards. Proper installation practices are crucial for anchor performance.

AS 3996-2019 "Access Covers and Grates" is the Australian Standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the testing of access covers and grates used in various applications, including road and pavement access, footpaths, and other areas where they may be subjected to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. This standard aims to ensure the safety, durability, and performance of these products. Below are key aspects of the testing of covers and grates according to AS 3996-2019: Testing Categories: AS 3996 categorizes access covers and grates into three classes, each representing different load-bearing capacities. These classes are Class A, Class B, and Class D, with Class D being the highest load capacity.

AS 1892 and AS 1657 are Australian Standards that provide guidelines and requirements for the testing, design, construction, and use of ladders and stairs in various applications. These standards aim to ensure the safety, durability, and performance of these structures. Below are key aspects of the testing of ladders and stairs according to AS 1892 and AS 1657. Load Testing: Ladders are subjected to load testing to determine their maximum safe working load (SWL). Load tests involve applying loads to the ladder rungs or steps and assessing the ladder's performance under various load conditions. Deflection Testing: Deflection tests measure the deformation or bending of ladder components under load. The standard sets limits on the maximum allowable deflection for different ladder types. Impact Testing: Impact testing evaluates a ladder's resistance to sudden shocks or impacts. It assesses whether the ladder can withstand accidental impacts during use without failure.

AS 1170.1 is an Australian Standard that provides guidelines and requirements for the structural design actions to be considered in the design of buildings and other structures. It covers various aspects of structural design, including loads and load combinations. While AS 1170.1 does not specifically address balustrade testing, it does play a role in the design process by providing information on the loads that need to be considered when designing balustrades and guardrails. Local Variations: It's worth noting that AS 1170.1 is part of a series of Australian Standards related to structural design actions, and specific variations may apply to different regions or states within Australia. Engineers and designers should consult the relevant regional or local building codes and standards to ensure compliance. While AS 1170.1 doesn't provide detailed testing procedures for balustrades, it plays a critical role in establishing the load requirements and load combinations that engineers use as the basis for balustrade design. Balustrades must be designed to meet these load requirements to ensure safety and compliance with Australian building codes and standards.

AS 1926.1-2012 "Swimming Pool Safety Part 1: Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools" is an Australian Standard that sets out the requirements for the design, construction, and installation of safety barriers, including pool fences, to prevent unauthorized access to swimming pools and spas. Impact Testing: The standard specifies impact testing to assess the strength and durability of the barrier. This includes testing the ability of the barrier to withstand accidental impacts or forces that may be applied to it.

AS 1926.1-2012 "Swimming Pool Safety Part 1: Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools" is the Australian Standard that provides guidelines and requirements for pool gate design, construction, and installation. While it doesn't specify durability testing methods for pool gates explicitly, it does include requirements and recommendations to ensure that pool gates are durable and function correctly over time. Self-Closing Mechanism: AS 1926.1 requires that pool gates must be equipped with a self-closing mechanism. The purpose of this mechanism is to ensure that the gate closes automatically after it has been opened, helping to prevent unauthorized access. Self-Latching Mechanism: Pool gates should also have a self-latching mechanism. This mechanism ensures that the gate latches securely when closed, preventing it from being easily opened by young children. Latch Release Height: The standard specifies a minimum height for the release mechanism on the pool gate latch. This requirement is intended to ensure that young children cannot easily reach and operate the latch.

Welding Quality Assurance

MechTest is Queensland's leading provider of welding consultancy. Welding consultancy services play a vital role in various industries, ensuring that welding processes are conducted correctly, efficiently, and in compliance with relevant standards and regulations. As a trusted provider in this field, MechTest offers a wide range of services to support clients in achieving high-quality and safe welding outcomes. Here are some potential areas where MechTest's welding consultancy services may be valuable:

MechTest assists clients in developing Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) that follow relevant welding standards such as AS/NZS and ASME. These WPS documents provide detailed instructions on how welding processes should be performed to meet code requirements.

PQR documents the results of testing and qualification of welding procedures. MechTest can help clients generate PQRs that demonstrate that the welding procedures are capable of producing sound welds meeting specified standards.

MechTest offers welder qualification services to ensure that welders are qualified to perform welding processes as per code requirements. This includes testing and certification of individual welders to confirm their competency.

MechTest ensures that all welding procedures and welder qualifications conform to relevant codes and standards, including AS/NZS and ASME. This is essential for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the quality of welded products.

By offering a range of welding-related services, MechTest provides clients with a one-stop solution for all their welding needs, from procedure development to welder certification.

ISO 17025 accreditation and adherence to recognized welding standards demonstrate MechTest's commitment to maintaining high-quality welding practices and delivering reliable services to clients.

MechTest's services are likely tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of each client, ensuring that the welding procedures and welder qualifications align with project specifications.

Welding Inspection Services and Document Review

Welding inspection is a crucial quality assurance process that involves the examination and assessment of welded joints to ensure they meet specified standards, codes, and project requirements. The primary goal of welding inspection is to verify the quality and integrity of welds, prevent defects, and ensure the safety and reliability of welded structures and components.

Visual inspection is the most common type and involves a visual examination of the weld to detect surface defects, such as cracks, porosity, incomplete fusion, and weld discontinuities. Welding inspectors use various tools and instruments, including magnifiers and cameras, for detailed visual assessments.

NDT methods, such as radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, and dye penetrant testing, are employed to assess the internal quality of welds without damaging the weld or the base material.

Destructive testing involves taking samples or specimens from welded joints to subject them to physical tests, such as tensile testing, bend testing, and impact testing. These tests determine the mechanical properties and weld quality.

Before welding inspection begins, welding procedures and welder qualifications should be reviewed to ensure they comply with standards. Inspection plans and checklists are also prepared to guide the inspection process.

During welding, inspectors may conduct in-process inspections to verify that welding parameters, joint preparation, and welder techniques meet the specified requirements. This helps prevent issues before they become critical.

Comprehensive records and documentation of the inspection process are maintained. Inspection reports include details on inspection findings, test results, welder qualifications, and any required corrective actions.

Preparing and reviewing Manufacturers Data Reports (MDRs) is an essential aspect of quality assurance and documentation in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and engineering. MDRs provide comprehensive information about a product's manufacturing process, materials used, quality control measures, and compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

Chemical Analysis

MechTest is one of a small number of laboratories that have gained NATA accreditation for OES, which stands for Optical Emission Spectroscopy Optical Emission Spectroscopy relies on the principle that when a sample is subjected to a high-energy heat source (typically a plasma or an electric arc), it emits light at specific wavelengths that correspond to the elements present in the sample. This emitted light is then analysed to identify and quantify the elements.

The sample is introduced into the high-energy heat source, causing it to vaporize and form a high-temperature plasma. As the sample atoms or ions return to lower energy states, they emit light at characteristic wavelengths. The emitted light is passed through a spectrometer, which disperses the light into its individual wavelengths. The intensity of the emitted wavelengths is measured by a detector. A computer analyses the emitted wavelengths and their intensities to identify the elements present and determine their concentrations. Quantification: Quantification is typically achieved by comparing the intensity of the emitted lines to known standards or calibration curves. This allows for the determination of the concentration of each element in the sample. OES is widely used in various industries, including metallurgy, environmental monitoring, quality control in manufacturing, and research. It is especially valuable for detecting trace elements and contaminants in materials and environmental samples.

Polymer Properties Testing

Polymer testing is a critical process used to assess the properties and performance of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating subunits. Polymers have a wide range of applications, from plastics and rubber to textiles and coatings. Testing is essential to ensure that polymers meet specific quality and performance standards.

Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC): Measures heat flow in response to temperature changes, providing information about melting points, glass transition temperatures, and thermal stability.

Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR): Identifies the chemical composition of polymers and detects functional groups.

Melt Flow Index (MFI): Measures the flowability of molten polymers, which is crucial for extrusion and injection moulding.

Butt Fusion and Electro Fusion Weld Testing

Testing of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) butt and electrofusion welds is crucial to ensure the quality and integrity of the welded joints. Various tests and inspections are performed to verify that the welds meet the required standards and performance criteria. MechTest is Queensland’s leading Laboratory for destructive testing of HDPE welds.

Visual inspection is the initial step to assess the external quality of the weld. It involves examining the weld bead, alignment, and any visible defects such as cracks, voids, or irregularities.

Dimensional checks ensure that the welded joint meets the specified size and alignment requirements. Measurements are taken to confirm the correct pipe alignment and the fusion zone's dimensions.

Destructive testing is carried out on a sample of the welded joint to assess its mechanical properties.

Common Destructive testing are.

The electrofusion peel test ISO 13954 is a specific mechanical test used to assess the strength and integrity of electrofusion joints in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) piping systems. This test is essential to ensure that the welded joints can withstand the mechanical stresses and environmental conditions they may encounter during their service life. The electrofusion peel test evaluates the bonding strength between the electrofusion fitting and the HDPE pipe. Analysis: The results of the electrofusion peel test are analysed to determine the bonding strength and fusion quality between the electrofusion fitting and the HDPE pipe surface.

The butt fusion tensile test ISO 13953 is a mechanical test used to evaluate the strength and integrity of the butt-fusion joints in High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) piping systems. This test assesses the joint's ability to withstand axial (tensile) forces, which are important for determining the reliability and performance of the welded joints. The results of the HDPE butt fusion tensile test are analysed to determine the tensile strength of the joint. Tensile strength is the maximum stress the joint can withstand while being pulled apart. Ductility is another mechanical property assessed these measures its ability to undergo plastic deformation without breaking. In the context of HDPE butt welds, ductility refers to the joint's ability to deform and stretch before failure when subjected to tensile or other mechanical forces. The ductility of an HDPE butt weld is an essential property to ensure that the joint can withstand mechanical stresses and maintain its integrity in various applications.

Geomembrane Liner Testing

Geomembrane liners are used in various applications, including environmental containment systems, water management, and construction projects. The integrity of geomembrane liner welds is critical to prevent leaks, maintain environmental protection, and ensure structural stability. Several tests and quality control measures are employed to assess the quality of geomembrane liner welds.

Spark testing is a non-destructive method used to detect pinholes, punctures, or defects in geomembrane liners. An electrical spark is applied to the liner's surface, and if a defect or discontinuity is present, it will create a spark.

Destructive testing involves removing samples of geomembrane liner welds for laboratory analysis. Common destructive tests include: Peel Test: This test measures the peel strength, or the force required to separate the welded geomembrane layers. It assesses the integrity of the weld. Tensile Test: Like ASTM D638 for plastics, a tensile test can assess the weld's tensile strength and elongation properties. Shear Test: Shear testing evaluates the shear strength of the weld by applying a force parallel to the weld seam.

Metallurgical Services

Metallurgical testing involves analyzing metallic materials to understand their composition, structure, and properties. This ensures quality, safety, and performance in industries like manufacturing and construction. Techniques include chemical analysis, microstructural examination, mechanical testing, corrosion assessment, and more. It helps optimize material use, design, and reliability.

Ferrite testing is a rapid, cost-effective, and precise method used to determine the ferrite percentage in austenitic and duplex stainless steel component and welds. This test finds applications in various industries including:

Ferrite is a critical microstructural phase that directly affects the mechanical and corrosion performance of stainless steel and welds. Through our advanced testing techniques, we accurately measure and analyse the ferrite content in your components and provide you vital information for assessing material integrity, determining corrosion resistance, and evaluating weld quality. Our experienced team utilizes advanced equipment and follows industry best practices to deliver reliable and precise ferrite measurements. With our Ferrite Testing service, you can make informed decisions about material selection, optimize manufacturing processes, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Metallurgical replication is a non-destructive technique employing portable equipment to obtain precise replicas of microstructures from surfaces that are in active service. This methodology allows for meticulous analysis without causing any damage to the equipment or requiring its removal. Applications include:

It enables informed decision-making, maintenance planning, and cost reduction, thereby minimizing the risk of equipment failure. Metallurgical replication finds applications in various industries, including:

Corrosion Testing

Salt spray testing, also known as salt fog testing or salt corrosion testing, is a widely used corrosion testing method to evaluate the corrosion resistance of materials and coatings, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, marine, and manufacturing industries. This testing method simulates the corrosive effects of saltwater or salty environments on materials and products over time. It helps assess how well a material or coating can withstand exposure to salt-laden air or water, which is important for determining their durability and suitability for use in harsh conditions. Common salt spray test, methods are ASTM B117 or ISO 9227, these are widely used method for evaluating the corrosion resistance of materials and coatings.

ASTM G48 is a widely recognized standard test method developed by ASTM for conducting pitting and crevice corrosion resistance testing of stainless steels and related alloys. The ASTM G48 test method involves exposing a specimen to a solution that simulates aggressive chloride-containing environments, which are known to promote pitting and crevice corrosion. The test helps evaluate the susceptibility of stainless steel and other corrosion-resistant alloys to localized corrosion phenomena, which can lead to rapid and severe corrosion damage.

ASTM G31 is a standard test method developed by ASTM International for conducting laboratory immersion corrosion testing with specific emphasis on pitting and crevice corrosion. This test is used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of stainless steels and related alloys in chloride-containing environments, particularly those prone to localized corrosion. The test results provide valuable information about the resistance of the material or alloy to localized corrosion in chloride-containing environments, especially in applications where pitting and crevice corrosion can lead to rapid and severe damage, such as marine equipment, offshore structures, and chemical processing plants.

ASTM G28 is a standard test method for conducting the Intergranular Corrosion in Wrought, Nickel-Rich, Chromium-Bearing Alloys. ASTM G28 is specifically designed to assess the susceptibility of nickel-rich, chromium-bearing alloys to intergranular corrosion, which is a form of corrosion that occurs along the grain boundaries of these materials. Intergranular corrosion can compromise the integrity of these alloys in certain environments, particularly when they are exposed to elevated temperatures.

Failure Analysis and Investigation

The failure of engineering components and plant can injure workers and the public, cause environmental damage, and lead to lengthy production interruptions. Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) is a systematic approach by which investigators aim to determine and address the root cause of a failure. By addressing the root cause, future failures of same kind can be efficiently and effectively prevented. Advanced Materials Testing Services has a team with extensive RCFA experience, built serving a wide range of industries.

Microscopic examination of polished metal specimens can be used to assess heat treatment, detect degradation, diagnose failure mechanisms, and characterise materials in myriad ways. Advanced Materials Testing Services has materials engineers experienced in the following:

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