Hi. I have been told to perform coupon testing on composite materials of my choice for my school project. I don’t understand what coupon here means. Also, what do you mean by Coupon testing?
Please help me
In my experience, a “coupon” is a small sample of a material that is submitted for testing or experimentation. In your case, I would interpret this requirement to be a 3"x3" (75mmx75mm) piece of composite.
Coupons are used for many different things such as coating compatibility testing, strength/weight calculations or visual appearance.
Hope that helps,
db
A coupon is set cut size for a type of test. Usually its dimensions are specified by the ASTM test you are performing (and the coupon’s dimensions has some corresponding ASTM specification that will clue you into how the thing needs to be cut.)
astm 3039 tensile test will require 25mm wide strip abput 300mm long with alloy plates glued to the ends for clamping purposes. this is the clamped and put under tension
Look up the ATSM standards for testing… there are many types of tests. You can purchase the ATSM standard you need from their website. There are guidelines you could at least use some of if you don’t plan to follow a strict test regiment.
In addition to the definition for a coupon already described, I would suggest that when you don’t understand the assignment, you should ask your professor to clear up anything you are not sure of. This will also work for you later, when you enter the workforce. Asking your boss to clarify tasks will keep you out of trouble.
Coming to an internet forum and asking questions can be a good resource but it is nothing like getting the info straight from the horse’s mouth. Most often, I use this forum (and all others) as backup. Usually, there is good info but, sometimes, it can be questionable.