Fracture Observation in Glass Ring-on-Ring Bending Tests Using HPV-X3

Significance of the Topic

Glass components are widely used in electronics, automotive and architectural applications where high strength and reliability are essential. Evaluating biaxial strength without edge effects is critical for quality control and material development. The ring-on-ring bending test specified in ASTM C1499 enables accurate measurement of in-plane strength, while high-speed imaging captures rapid fracture initiation and crack propagation events.

Study Objectives and Overview

This work employs the newly developed Shimadzu Hyper Vision HPV-X3 high-speed video camera together with the AGX-V2 precision universal testing machine to observe fracture behavior in tempered glass using a ring-on-ring bending configuration. Objectives include capturing high-resolution images at 10 Mfps, pinpointing fracture origins, visualizing crack propagation dynamics, and comparing image clarity against previous HPV-X2 results.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The fracture observation system comprised:

• Specimens: Tempered glass discs mounted in a ring-on-ring test jig (load ring Ø18 mm, support ring Ø32 mm) per ASTM C1499.
• Testing parameters: 5 mm/min displacement rate, acceleration sensor on the load ring for triggering.
• Imaging setup: Hyper Vision HPV-X3 camera with 105 mm macro lens and teleconverter, recording at 10 Mfps.
• Illumination: Ultra-high output light source SLG-600V and a reflective sheet on specimen for enhanced contrast.
• Observation path: Mirror placed beneath a hollowed support ring for underside imaging of crack propagation.

Main Results and Discussion

High-speed footage captured fracture nucleation at the load ring interface, followed by radial crack propagation visible in successive frames at 1 µs intervals. Comparative analysis with the HPV-X2 demonstrated that the HPV-X3’s threefold improved resolution provides significantly clearer depiction of crack tips and radial fracture patterns. These enhancements enable more precise identification of the fracture origin and detailed analysis of crack growth kinetics.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Accurate localization of fracture initiation sites enhances failure analysis.
• High temporal resolution (10 Mfps) captures sub-microsecond crack propagation.
• Improved image clarity supports quality assurance of high-strength glass components.
• Findings inform design improvements and processing controls in electronics, automotive and architectural glass manufacture.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in high-speed imaging sensors and optics are expected to further increase resolution and sensitivity, enabling in situ visualization of microstructural events across diverse materials. Integration with digital image correlation and machine learning algorithms will facilitate automated fracture detection and quantitative analysis. Real-time monitoring during manufacturing processes and multi-axial testing configurations will expand applications in industrial quality control and research environments.

Conclusion

The combination of the HPV-X3 high-speed camera and AGX-V2 testing platform offers a powerful approach for detailed fracture analysis in ring-on-ring bending tests of glass. The enhanced resolution and high frame rate allow clear visualization of rapid crack initiation and propagation, contributing to improved material evaluation and design strategies.

References

• Fracture Observation of Glass in Ring-on-Ring Bending Test, Application News No. V30