The servo-controlled HYDRATEST system is designed for conducting triaxial tests on sediment samples containing methane hydrates under extreme conditions of low temperature (below freezing) and high pressure. Its primary purpose is to investigate the mechanical properties of methane hydrate-bearing sediments (MHBS) at various levels of methane hydrate saturation. These mechanical properties of MHBS are influenced by factors such as temperature, pore pressure, confining pressure, and hydrate saturation. Through triaxial tests, the system determines essential properties like Young's modulus, cohesion, and internal friction angle of laboratory-synthesized hydrate-bearing sediments. The system employs a hydraulic compression frame capable of applying axial loads of up to 100 kN on the specimen. It is servo-controlled, utilizing in-vessel load cells and strain sensors to precisely control the applied load on the sample. Triaxial stresses are imposed by applying circumferential confining pressure concurrently with the axial load. To facilitate the experiments, two dedicated syringe pumps independently inject methane and water into the specimen at controlled pressures. Additionally, a temperature control jacket connected to an external bath is utilized to regulate and maintain a consistent, isothermal temperature profile within the specimen, allowing for controlled cooling, heating, and temperature maintenance throughout the testing process.
Specifications
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Compression load capacity
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100 kN
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Maximum confining pressure
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70 MPa
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Maximum gas pressure | 70 MPa
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Maximum water pressure
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70 MPa
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Temperature
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-10 + 60 °C
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Specimen diameter
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50 mm (other upon request)
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Specimen length
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Twice the diameter
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Wetted parts
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Stainless steel
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Power supply
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110-220VAC, 50/60Hz
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Benefits
Designed for mimic gas hydrate mechanical behaviour in hydrate sediment specimens under temperature and triaxial test conditions
Automated tests with pre-programed stress and strain path
Delivers unparalleled accuracy and reliability