Tensile testing cargo netting is important in quality testing of the manufactured product to ensure that the end product meets standards for durability and performance. In addition, manufactures require the ability to test finished products to determine how various combinations of materials and design impact product performance. These types of tests are typically carried out in a research and development setting, and allow manufactures to determine which configuration best meets their needs for a variety of applications.
A manufacturer of cargo netting provided us with netting used in numerous automotive applications. The goal of the test was to determine what equipment was necessary to successfully test their product to failure in tension. The company provided test specifications that required specimens to be cut into rectangular blocks, which resulted in a 150 mm initial gauge length. It is important to make cuts as far away from the joints as possible to eliminate any weakening of the fiber. Depending on the product design and failure mode of the part, both pneumatic side acting grips or fabric loop grips can be used. Cargo netting is typically very elastic, which requires grips that apply constant clamping pressures or fixtures that will interlock with the specimen. For this study, 2 kN capacity fabric loop grips were used and tests were run at 150 mm/min.
Our 3300 or 5500 electromechanical testing systems are ideal for this type of test. We suggest using the TouchPanel with a 3300 series testing machine when the desired measurements are load or extension at the maximum or minimum points or if measured at specimen failure. This is recommended for quality control applications in which simple calculations are reported and ease of use or floor space is desired. Additionally, you may use use Bluehill® Software with either a 3300 or 5500 series testing machine.