Influence of Sampling Rate on Reproducibility and Accuracy of Miniature Kolsky Bar Experiments

The purpose of this work is to develop and verify a method for quantitatively analyzing data collected from Kolsky bar experiments and to confirm its validity by comparing it to a finite element (FE) model. This study also aims to demonstrate the need for higher sample rate capture in miniature Kolsky bars, 3.16 mm diameter used in this work, by comparing results from two different data acquisition setups on identically sized experimental setups. We identified that the sample capture rate needed to accurately depict experimental results on small-scale systems is at least 400 kHz, which is far greater than what is typically assumed for lager systems. Finally, a statistical method for evaluating results is presented and expanded upon, which removes the dependence on the knowledge and experience of the experimentalist to interpret the data. Using this analysis technique on the two different systems examined in this study, we find upwards of 3.5 times better loading condition reproducibility and up to a 20 MPa reduction in the standard deviation of the sample stress profile, confirming the need for higher quality frequency capture rates.