Point Load Tester

The Point Load Tester (CT-PLT) is a portable hydraulic frame that loads a rock specimen between two conical platens until it breaks. Failure load and the platen separation at contact give the uncorrected point-load index Is and the size-corrected Is(50), a fast index of rock strength for use in the field or the laboratory. Load capacity is 100 kN and the largest specimen is 4 in (101.6 mm).

How it works

The specimen is placed between the platens and the diameter, or platen separation, is read directly on the frame. A hydraulic pump rated to 70 MPa drives the ram, the load rises through the platens until the specimen fails, and the failure pressure is read with an accuracy of 0.2% of full scale. The frame is stiff, so the reading is not affected by frame deflection. Axial and diametral tests are run on core, cut blocks and irregular lumps following ASTM D5731 and the ISRM suggested method.

From failure load and separation the test reports Is, Is(50), the strength anisotropy index Ia(50) and an estimated uniaxial compressive strength. The method gives strength data comparable to a UCS test at lower cost. The unit weighs 25 kg and measures 50 x 30 x 25 cm.

What is included

• Loading frame with conical platens
• Hydraulic pump and ram, 100 kN, 70 MPa
• Pressure indication, 0.2% of full scale
• Direct reading of specimen diameter (platen separation)

Specify for your project

• Specimen form (core, cut block or irregular lump) and maximum size within 4 in
• Test orientation: axial, diametral or both, and whether Ia(50) is to be reported
• Reference method: ASTM D5731 or the ISRM suggested method
• Field or laboratory use
• Readout and data recording requirements

This description defines the product family. Guaranteed performance, included hardware, exclusions, interfaces and acceptance criteria are stated only in the project-specific technical proposal and approved datasheet.

Features: 

• Manufacturer : Floxlab
• Load capacity: 100 kN
• Maximum sample size: 4 inches (101.6 mm)
• Pump pressure: 70 Mpa
• Pressure accuracy : 0.2% FS
• Weight: 25 kg
• Dimensions : 50 x 30 x 25 cm

Benefits

• Simple test
• Direct reading of specimen diameter
• Extreme rigidity
• Inexpensive instrument
• Portable, easy to carry on-site
• Attractive alternative to the UCS test because provides similar data at a lower cost