A universal tensile testing instrument is used to test the mechanical properties (tensile, compressive, etc.) of specified specimens through the action of tensile, compressive, or transverse stress. The machine is so named because it can perform different tests on different types of materials. Various tests such as peel test, flex test, tensile test, flex test, friction test, and spring test can be performed by him using UTM. The universal testing instrument primarily consists of two main parts.

• Loading Unit
• Control unit
• Loading Unit

 A UTM loading unit consists of the following components:

1. Load frame

The load frame of the universal testing machine is either single support or double support. The load frame consists of a table (where the specimen is placed for compression testing), an upper crosshead, and a lower crosshead.

2. Upper and lower crossheads

The upper crosshead is used to clamp one end of the specimen. The lower crosshead of the load frame is a movable crosshead that can be adjusted in height by loosening or tightening the screws. Both crossheads have a tapered slot in the middle. This slot has a pair of serrated jaws designed to grip and hold the tensile specimen.

3. Strain Scale

The relative movement of the lower and upper tables is measured with a strain scale attached to the loading unit.

The function of the universal testing machine

The main function of UTM is the testing of the mechanical properties of materials. The standard tests administered by UTM are:

• Tensile Test
• Compression test
• Adhesion test
• Pull-out test
• Hysteresis Test

UTM can be used to test the respective displacements of a variety of materials including concrete, steel, cables, springs, steel wire and chains, slings, links, ropes, winches, and steel cords. A load-deflection diagram is obtained from the observations. It shows the load value on the Y-axis and the displacement on the X-axis. Displacement is actually the movement of the truss during load application. The stress-strain analysis, modulus of elasticity, and yield strength of the specimen can be determined from the load-deflection diagram.

The machine is operated by a hydraulic load transfer from the specimen to a separately housed load indicator. This system is ideal because it replaces power transmission through levers and knife edges, which are subject to wear and damage from impact impacts when specimens break. The load is applied by hydrostatically lubricated rams. Pressure from the master cylinder is transmitted to the cylinders of the pendulum dynamometer system housed in the control panel. The dynamometer cylinder is also self-lubricating. Pendulum deflection describes the absolute load on the specimen, and if the specimen suddenly breaks, the pendulum’s return motion is effectively damped, absorbing energy.

Application

• Tensile test
• Compression test
• size test
• cross test

Instructions for use

• Testing should be performed in accordance with relevant standards or guidelines.
• Attach the upper and lower pressure plates to the upper fixed head and lower table respectively. Place the sample on the bottom plate and grab it to set the zero point. Do not turn on the machine without connecting the point to the machine ground wire.
• Be careful not to apply mains power before plugging in the cable connector.

With the above information, you get an idea of how to use a UTM and what are its uses. You can find several lab testing equipment manufacturers selling this product but always buy from a reputable brand like packing test.