Simple Connector Lab - Tensile Failure Test

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Simple Tensile Connector Lab This tensile connector was designed by students at SDSU for an experiment. The connector is engineered to break at a specific tensile load, allowing researchers to determine the ultimate tensile strength of 3D printed materials. Our testing revealed that the average ultimate tensile strength of 3D printed PLA is 58.9 MPa (8500 psi). To calculate the ultimate tensile strength of a material, use the following equation: T = P / A Where: P = the load at which the specimen breaks The connector is designed to break between 2.4 kgs and 2.5 kgs or 5.3 to 5.5 lbs. A = area of the failure surface = (length) * (width) The failure surface for the tensile connector is the cross-section of the narrow neck, measuring 0.4 mm x 1 mm; however, dimensions should be checked with a caliper. This lab provides students with experience in basic engineering design and introduces them to mechanical properties of 3D printed materials, which will be useful in future design labs. Further information on this lab and other labs is available now through the South Dakota State University lab manual.