“Swansea Materials Research & Testing Ltd (SMaRT) has been instrumental in supporting our extensive research program on tungsten qualification for nuclear fusion. Their expertise in mechanical testing, both at room and high temperatures, has been invaluable. Andrew Jones provided exceptional service, keeping us informed with near real-time updates and delivering well-structured reports, even when technical challenges arose. His flexibility in adapting to evolving test requirements was highly commendable. Having worked with multiple test labs across the UK, I can confidently say that SMaRT stands out as the best in terms of quality, reliability, and professionalism. Highly recommended.”
Prof. Moataz Attallah, School of Metallurgy and Materials, University of Birmingham
“Excellent service, very accommodating considering this project was a little bespoke. SMaRT are always willing to help and accommodate small changes to the program. Very fast turnaround with great communication.”
Dr Stephen Jordan, Haydale Ltd
‘Delivery was ahead of schedule, and communications from staff at SMaRT was always prompt . The Contract Review before commencing testing for each work package was a very good way of confirming that the work conducted was as required. We have also been grateful for the feedback provided on how to better machine test pieces for future testing. Thank you for the work in this project.”
Esyllt Williams, Rolls-Royce plc
“As part of an ongoing effort to support ITER and the qualification of EUROFER97 for TBMs, the UKAEA was tasked with evaluating the cyclic ratcheting behavior of EUROFER97 under true stress-controlled conditions withing a fusion (TBM) relevant environment. Prior to conducting this work, the state-of-the-art dynamic mechanical testing capability within the UK only facilitated cyclic testing under stress and strain control modes. Within the framework of this project, the UKAEA tasked Swansea materials research & testing ltd (SMaRT) with addressing the following scientific and technological problems: (I) develop a UK-based true-stress controlled dynamic testing capability within a fusion relevant environment, and (II), deliver a testing program of true-stress controlled ratcheting tests to address the paucity of information on the ratchetting behavior of EUROFER97 required for its inclusion in the RCC-MRx. SMaRT have successfully addressed both these scientific and technological problems, and the ratchetting data procured because of this work package has made a significant contribution towards large-scale international science and engineering projects. This contribution has both strengthen the UK’s relationship within the international fusion community and helped demonstrated that the UK (specifically SMaRT) are world leaders in the area of bespoke and novel mechanical testing.”
Dr Matthew Carrington, UK Atomic Energy Authority
“HBK has worked with SMaRT on a few projects over the years and we have always found the service to be very good along with the technical support given. Knowledge of testing and the discussion of our requirements have always been understood and reflected in the final results.”
Mark Chelu, Hottinger Bruel & Kjaer UK Ltd
“Clear communication was shown throughout highlighting the expected timescales and status of the work. The work was completed in good time to a high standard. The work followed the statement of work accurately as required.”
Dr William Beard, Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd