What is a universal testing machine and how does it work?

What is Univeral Testing Machine (UTM)?

A Universal Testing Machine (UTM) is a vital piece of equipment used to test the mechanical properties of materials by applying controlled stress, such as tension, compression, and shear forces. It evaluates material properties like strength, elasticity, and ductility. The machine typically consists of a rigid frame, a load cell for measuring force, a crosshead that applies the load, and grips to secure the specimen. UTMs come in different types, such as hydraulic, electromechanical, or servohydraulic, depending on the force control mechanism used. They are employed in a range of tests, including tensile, compressive, flexural, and fatigue testing, to assess how materials perform under different conditions.

The data generated by these tests, often presented as stress-strain curves, offer critical insights into material behavior. This information is essential for applications in material development, quality control, and failure analysis. UTMs are widely used across industries such as manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and research to ensure materials meet required safety and performance standards. Their role in testing and validating materials is indispensable, helping companies create stronger, safer, and more efficient products.

Still, trying to meet the industry standards? Do you feel your resources are being wasted or can be better spent? Concerning much? Don’t worry! We’ve crafted an optimal solution for you. Acquainting you to the UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE (UTM). Let’s explore the instrument further and learn about its capabilities.

The word “universal” refers to the ability of an instrument to conduct multiple tests on the same apparatus. This machine is aptly named on various grounds because it is designed to perform a huge variety of tests on various kinds of materials, making it truly universal.

WHAT IS THE WORKING OF UTM (Universal Testing Machine)?

A universal testing machine is one of the critical tools with a high versatility that can be broadly utilized in the field of material testing. The main and primary purpose of this machine is the assessment of certain mechanical properties of various materials. These materials incorporate polymers, paper, metals, ceramics, and composites.

The best feature of this machine that makes it different from other instruments is that it is explicitly designed to conduct various tests. It is a jack of all trades in the lab testing instruments industry. In total, 37 tests can be performed by customizing the Universal testing machine as per each test.

Some of these tests are:

TENSILE STRENGTH TEST

Test to check how much force is to be applied to the sample to stretch it or elongate it before it breaks.

COMPRESSION TEST

Test to check how much pressure a sample can withstand before it ruptures or damages.

BENDING STRENGTH

To check how much force it takes to bend a sample.

SHEAR STRENGTH

To check how much force it takes to slide apart a material. And many other tests.

The term “universal” highlights that this machine is a solution to any and all needs. This machine can be considered an indispensable asset that can be used in any industry like manufacturing, automotive, construction, material science, packaging, etc.

For instance, if a company has a purpose to develop new alloys for automotive parts, test how durable is the concrete to be used for constructing a house or anything, or ensure the plastic components are safe to use, this universal testing machine can provide the accurate data with utmost precision in order to understand how the materials react when put through pressure that they may face in real life situations.

For various purposes such as pushing, pulling, twisting, or bending, the machine is highly equipped with different attachments and fixtures to place and hold the material and apply the force required as per the test. As the material starts undergoing stress, the UTM starts recording the data regarding the resistance and the deformation of the material until it completely breaks down. This recorded data helps in determining not only the strength of the material but also its elasticity and its performance in real-world situations.

Now hoping on to the main part,

HOW DOES THE UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE (UTM Machine)WORK?

Here’s a simple breakdown of what is the science behind the working of this instrument:

STEP 1: SAMPLE PREPARATION

Take a sample of the material to be tested, as per the standard dimensions which is 25 mm by 150 mm for paper or film. For rubber, it should be in a dumbbell shape. After preparing the sample place it between the grippers of the machine.

STEP 2: CALIBRATE THE MACHINE

To apply the force with accuracy, the machine needs to be calibrated according to the requirements of the operator. It is upon operator’s requirements how much pressure needs to be applied and at what speed..

STEP 3: APPLY THE FORCE

According to the set parameters, the machine starts applying the force on the material. The force is applied in the form of push, pull, bend, etc.

STEP 4: MEASURE THE FORCE

After applying the force, the machine measures the amount of force a material can withstand before collapsing or breaking down.

STEP 5: ANALYZE AND RECORD THE DATA

After the test is completed, analyze and record the data at which the material broke down. Measures the data regarding the properties of the product such as its tensile strength, yield strength, etc. You can easily fetch the data in the form of a graph, excel, or even a PDF!