Simple Connector Lab - Shear Failure Test

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Simple Connector Lab This simple connector was designed by students at SDSU to conduct an experiment. The connector is engineered to break at a specific shear force, revealing the ultimate shear strength of the 3D printed material. Our testing revealed that the average ultimate shear strength of 3D printed PLA is 7.1 MPa (1000 psi). To determine the ultimate shear strength of the material, use the following equation: S = P / A Where: P = The load at which the specimen broke - The connector is designed to break between 1.3 kgs and 1.5 kgs or 3.0 to 3.3 lbs. A = Area of the failure surface = (Thickness of layer below the block) * (Perimeter of the block) - The failure surface for the shear connector is the surface area around the perimeter of the diagonal block. - Dimensions are designed to be 6 mm x 3 mm for the block, and the thin layer below the block is 0.1 mm; however, measure the dimensions with a caliper to verify these values. This lab provides students with hands-on experience in basic engineering design and familiarizes them with the mechanical properties of 3D printed materials, which can be applied in design for future labs. More information on this lab and other labs will be available soon through a comprehensive lab manual from South Dakota State University.