MTS Supplies State-of-the-Art Technology To The National Institute For Aviation Research

An array of state-of-the-art mechanical testing systems described as "extensive" has been sold to Wichita State University's National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) by MTS Systems Corporation. The systems will be used in NIAR's new Aircraft Structural Test and Evaluation Center (ASTEC), one of the world's largest and most sophisticated full-scale structural testing facilities.

At 130,000 square feet, ASTEC has the capacity to host full-scale structural testing for some of the world's largest aircraft or multiple aircraft simultaneously. The center also includes laboratories for component and materials testing, enabling commercial and military aircraft manufacturers to conduct virtually any kind of testing in one location. MTS systems are deployed throughout the center and include FlexTest Controllers, MTS FlexDAC Data Acquisition Systems and AeroPro Software for structural test applications, as well as high-force load frames for component and materials testing.

"ASTEC has significantly increased their testing capability through the application of synchronized MTS controls and data acquisition hardware and software," said Bill Hardy, MTS Test Worldwide Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "NIAR can now offer its customers simplified test setup, accelerated test execution and streamlined post-test data processing which greatly enhances its competitive position as a full-service contract lab."

"The integrated control and data acquisition streams enhance the speed and ease of data processing, allowing our clients to quickly verify that a test was successful so they can move on," said Tim Hickey, ASTEC Director. "Because of this, we have a lot of repeat clients; once they realize the full scope of capabilities and equipment we have, they want to do more kinds of testing on additional projects."

FMI: www.niar.wichita.edu