D-stroi – a uniaxial load frame for X-ray diffraction and imaging

We present a remotely controlled miniature load frame for in situ tensile deformation of millimetre-sized metal samples in synchrotron X-ray diffraction and imaging environments. The load frame features in-built digital image correlation-based controls to accurately track deformation until rupture at tensile loads up to 500 N. The mechanical setup is designed to minimize the shift in the sample's centre during loading, thereby maintaining a constant illumination volume.