Crash Testing Development

Test 1: 20km/hr (12.4mph)

Machine: 1,000 litres

Test Result: FAIL

Comments:
Tremendous energy involved in the impact is revealed by this test. The steel underplates that were holding the machine in place simply ripped through the floor. This allows the machine to pitch forward, resulting in a failed test.

Additionally, further strengthening of the clamps is needed as two of them failed. This test well illustrates why development testing is important, as parts of the chassis and clamping systems needed to be completely redesigned.

Once design changes and improvements had been made, the test was repeated.

Test 2: 30km/hr (18.6mph)

Machine: 1,000 litres

Test Result: PASS

Comments:
The lower speed test was useful in highlighting points of potential weakness. The machine remained attached to the vehicle floor. Resulting in a successful test, but improvements were needed for the clamps.

Test 3: 30km/hr (18.6mph)

Machine: 1,000 litres

Test Result: PASS

Comments:
Successful test at 18.6mph. After lessons learned from the previous tests, a completely new installation method was devised. This did not involve securing the machine to the vehicle floor.

Strengthened clamps, though remaining secured, still showed signs of imminent failure, and so needed to be not just strengthened but totally redesigned.

Test 4: 50km/hr (31.1mph)

Machine: 1,000 litres

Test Result: PASS

Comments:
30mph impact releases a huge amount of energy. However, the chassis design changes and re-designed clamps were clearly effective. Despite the large forces involved, none of the clamps or anchorage points failed. The machine stayed secured to the floor.