The Material Evaluation Laboratory (MEL) is equipped with Instron servo-hydraulic load frames ranging from 25 kN to 200 kN, featuring closed-loop control for both static and fatigue testing applications. The facility supports mechanical testing at the material, coupon, and component levels, including standardized tests, material qualification, certification testing, and customized evaluations as per user requirements.

MEL plays a vital role in aircraft structural design data development and validation, providing reliable and repeatable mechanical test results that support material selection, allowables generation, and structural analysis inputs.

The laboratory is equipped with an environmental chamber capable of operating from -55 °C to +250 °C, enabling testing under a range of controlled temperature conditions. A comprehensive data acquisition system with over 100 channels allows for synchronized monitoring of strain gauges, temperature sensors, pressure transducers, and other high-level sensor outputs.

All testing is conducted in accordance with international and national standards, including ASTM, ISO, and BIS (Indian Standards). MEL is staffed by a dedicated team with a combined experience of over 100 years in material characterization, ensuring technical excellence and consistent execution of high-quality test programs.