High cycle fatigue test rig with axial preload capability

A high cycle fatigue test rig comprising:

• a base;
• a first preload element attached to the base;
• a second preload element attached to the base;
• a test specimen attached to the base;
• the test specimen having a first end and a second end opposite the first end;
• the test specimen located in between the first preload element and the second preload element;
• the first preload element and the second preload element attached to the test specimen proximate the second end;
• a first clamp in operative communication with the first preload element;
• a second clamp in operative communication with the second preload element;
• an end cap in operative communication with the second end of the test specimen, the first preload element and the second preload element;
• a dynamic force generator in operative communication with the end cap;
• and
• a controller in operative communication with the dynamic force generator, and in operative communication with the first actuator and the second actuator.

A process for a high cycle fatigue test rig comprising:

• forming a base;
• attaching a first preload element to the base;
• attaching a second preload element to the base;
• attaching a test specimen to the base;
• the test specimen having a first end and a second end opposite the first end;
• locating the test specimen in between the first preload element and the second preload element;
• attaching the first preload element and the second preload element to the test specimen proximate the second end;
• coupling a first clamp in operative communication with the first preload element;
• coupling a second clamp in operative communication with the second preload element;
• coupling an end cap in operative communication with the second end of the test specimen, the first preload element and the second preload element;
• coupling a dynamic force generator in operative communication with the end cap;
• and
• coupling a controller in operative communication with the dynamic force generator, and in operative communication with the first actuator and the second actuator.