Details
The Universal Snubber Test Facility is a cutting-edge testing solution engineered by Neometrix Defence Limited to ensure the performance and reliability of hydraulic and mechanical snubbers. These components play a critical role in safeguarding piping systems, nuclear power plants, and other sensitive infrastructure against seismic forces and dynamic loads.
This advanced facility is designed for in-service inspections (ISI) of snubbers, as mandated by ASME BPVC Section XI standards. It ensures that snubbers maintain their performance over their perational life, providing reliable support to systems with diameters ranging from 15 NB to 800 NB. Load capacities vary between 17.5 KN and 240 KN, and stroke lengths range from 140 mm to 245 mm, depending on application requirements.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
The Universal Snubber Test Facility incorporates advanced engineering and high-precision
technologies to deliver exceptional performance and versatility:
Snubber Compatibility: Hydraulic and Mechanical snubbers.
Load Frame Stiffness: 1500 MN/m for robust and reliable load testing.
Test Load Capacity: Designed to handle up to 25 tons, accommodating a wide range of snubber sizes and types.
Velocity Range: Adjustable from 0.1 mm/sec to 15 mm/sec, replicating operational dynamics with precision.
Acceleration Capacity: Up to 250 mm/sec², enabling realistic simulation of rapid dynamic loads.
Beam Length Adjustment: Up to 1200 mm, suitable for various snubber sizes.
Hydraulic Beam Locking Mechanism: Positive hydraulic clamp, which remains securely locked even without hydraulic pressure.
Stroke Length Range: Configurable between 50 mm and 300 mm to match different snubber designs.
High-Precision Servo Actuator: Supports loads up to 50 tons, ensuring accurate and consistent
force application.
Hydraulic Power Pack Pressure: Capable of generating pressures up to 300 bar for efficient
operation.
Software and Control System: LabVIEW software paired with NI/PLC hardware for seamless
operation and data acquisition.
Advanced Test Capabilities
The Universal Snubber Test Facility offers a comprehensive range of testing functionalities to
evaluate snubber performance meticulously:
Free Working Stroke Measurement: Ensures the snubber operates within its specified range
without restrictions.
Drag and Breakaway Force Assessment: Evaluates the force required to initiate movement,
ensuring proper responsiveness.
Blocking Speed and Activation Level Verification: Tests the snubber's response to rapid dynamic
forces and activation thresholds.
Drift Speed Analysis: Measures movement under sustained loads to verify stability and reliability.
Spring Rate Determination: Assesses the stiffness and energy absorption characteristics of the
snubber.
Lost Motion Evaluation: Identifies any gaps or delays in response, ensuring precise operation
under load conditions.
Applications
The Universal Snubber Test Facility supports performance evaluation for snubbers used in high-stakes environments, ensuring optimal functionality and safety. Typical applications include:
Nuclear Power Plants: Protecting reactors and piping systems from seismic forces and operational
stresses.
Sodium Piping Systems: Enhancing stability and reliability in dynamic environments.
Critical Infrastructure: Providing robust support to power plants and other facilities during seismic
events or under heavy operational loads.
The facility is ideal for routine quality assurance and in-service inspections to ensure long-term
reliability and compliance with safety standards.
