Strength and durability tests
Strength and durability tests are crucial for assessing the performance and durability of mechanical systems and components. At our strength and durability testing lab, designs are put to the test under realistic, controlled conditions.
Using advanced hydraulic test systems, we apply static, dynamic and fatigue loads in both uniaxial and multiaxial configurations to accurately assess strength, durability and failure behaviour. With tailor‑made test rigs that replicate real‑world load cases, we support reliable design validation and help reduce development risks before products move into production or certification.
Here are some specific types of hydraulic tests we conduct:
Automotive
Both in uniaxial and multiaxial configuration:
- Air springs
- GFRP leaf springs
- Front and rear subframes
- Control arms
- Stabilizer bars
- Rigid axles
- Rollover bars
- Sunroofs
- Tow bar travel boxes
Non-Automotive
- Stress testing of high-tech components
- Specialized equipment for high-tech industry
- Automated collector systems for livestock farming
- Bending and durability test for lighting posts
In combination with our climate chambers and salt and mud spray equipment, the components can be exposed to climatic and environmental conditions during the durability test.
Special services:
- Non-destructive crack investigation with Dye Penetrant Testing (PT) and Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
- Equivalent damage calculation to convert complex input data into usable test rig inputs
- Strain gauge application and calibration (Read more)
- Test rig build: design, engineering and construction (Read more)
Our equipment:
- 40+ hydraulic actuators ranging from 5 to 165 kN with strokes up to 300 mm
- 6 MTS control systems with dedicated 793 Controller Software and MultiPurpose TestWare (MPT). In total 48 control channels including force and displacement measurement
- MTS RPC Pro software to tune complex test inputs and analyse measurements, e.g. road load input and multiaxial input with crosstalk, or durability test generation based on damage comparison
- Wide range of sensors to measure load, displacement, acceleration, pressure, temperature or humidity
- Faro 3D measurement arm for accurate test rig installation and commissioning (Read more)
- Meccano installation system: Wide range of standard metal building blocks, e.g. construction beams, connection adapters and supports, levers and linear guides
- Multiple air suspended T-slot beds for higher frequency and unwanted external resonance free testing
- 3 large climate chambers up to complete passenger car size (Read more)
- Helium leak detection system including a vacuum chamber with a volume of 230 liters (Read more)
Curious how we can support your development?
Let's talk about your ideas, needs and challenges.
VDL Enabling Transport Solutions
Automotive Campus 59 5708 JZ Helmond The Netherlands