UTM ? An Indispensable Equipment to Detect Compressive Strength

Posted by PCTE on September 5th, 2016

UTM stands for 'universal testing machine' and it is a versatile equipment that can determine the force applied to various materials and the result of the test. Among its common applications is to test the strength of steel reinforcing bars while under tension. A universal testing machine is also known as 'materials test frame', 'materials testing machine' or a 'universal tester', and it simplifies the testing of the compressive strength and tensile strength of various materials for building and construction. Hence, UTMs are specifically engineered to conform to different standards. 

Reputable retailers and leasing services of universal testing equipment will provide all the necessary accessories such as fixtures, platens, load cells, and grips. Likewise, they can provide customised solutions to physical testing laboratories. With the right accessories, some models of universal testing machines can be used in other tests, such as flexural and CBR tests. Regardless of the model, all UTMs are automatic, and they come with reliable hydraulic or motor stages or control systems. A typical system comes with platens for compressive testing of samples, which are prepared with the machine's maximum load in mind. A set of jaws will hold the samples for tensile testing. 

There are different types of universal testing machines, and each has its own unique set of capabilities for testing the compressive strength of certain types of materials. The servo hydraulic UTM, for instance, is a computer-controlled machine that is suitable for testing non-metallic and metallic materials. It can handle bending, flexural, compression, and tension tests. Hydraulic universal testing machines are used for testing ferrous samples and compression testing, which is performed up to the machine's maximum load rating. The best hydraulic UTM has dual test spaces for tension and compression testing.

A civil engineering laboratory that specialises in reinforcing steel and concrete testing should invest in a high-quality automatic tension and compression machine. A high-quality automated UTM should come with an automatic control system and a versatile frame that is made of welded steel. For lower strength tension and compression testing, consider using an electromechanical universal testing machine that comes with a high-precision load cell and consider ordering other test accessories like extensometers, platens, and gripping systems for it. Accessories are available for soil, concrete, wood, cement, and asphalt testing, too. This UTM should support displacement or load control. It can measure pressure by load cell or displacement by encoder while connected with a motor.

About the Company:

PCTE supplies a range of equipment from around the world to offer you a one stop shop with all of the latest equipment. Concrete Non Destructive Testing (NDT) comprises testing a property of concrete, largely without damaging the concrete to assess some parameter that either directly or indirectly provides a required characteristic of the concrete or its embedment. For more details, you can contact us at the website