Commissioning of universal Split Hopkinson Bar for dynamic compression and tension experiments

Split Hopkinson Bar is an experimental apparatus designed for acquiring material properties in dynamic regime. The apparatus is usually constructed as a single purpose experimental device for specific type of loading, most commonly either compression (Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar) or tension (Split Hopkinson Tensile Bar). In this paper, a simple and highly modular design capable of testing for multiple types of loading is introduced, which can be a great advantage to obtain material properties under different loading conditions. The device was successfully assembled, including its electrical installation and implementation of a pneumatic launching system and was fitted with multiple sensors. Series of calibration procedures was conducted successfuly to analyze correct behaviour of the system. After calibration, the apparatus was subjected to multiple pilot tests with samples manufactured using 3D printing. The results were compared to those obtained using the quasi-static method.