Using this unit, the basic principles of fatigue testing can be
studied. A rotating metal test bar, clamped at one end, is loaded using a
spring balance with a point force. This results in a cyclic bending load on the
cylindrical specimen. The amplitude of the cyclic loading can be continuously
adjusted using a screw with hand wheel. After a certain number of load cycles,
the specimen breaks as a result of material fatigue. In this case the machine
is shut down automatically by the stop switch. The number of load cycles is
counted by an electrical counter and displayed digitally. This can also be used
for measuring the speed. Different shape specimens enable the influence of
notching and surface finish on fatigue strength to be studied.