What is a UTM machine used for?

A universal testing machine (UTM), also known as a universal testing machine, universal tensile machine, materials testing machine, or materials testing frame, is a device used to test the physical properties of materials under various conditions. It primarily tests tensile strength (tension), compressive strength (compression), flexural strength, bending, shear, hardness, and torsion, providing valuable data for design and material quality assurance. Early tensile testing machines were called tensiometers. The term "universal" reflects the device's versatility, enabling it to perform a wide range of standard testing applications on a wide variety of materials, components, and structures.

Classification 

A universal testing machine is a versatile material testing device that can be used to evaluate the mechanical properties of a wide range of materials. Based on different standards, universal testing machines can be categorized into several types. The following are some of the main classifications:

Based on Drive Type

Electronic-driven universal testing machines: These machines are typically motor-driven and equipped with advanced servo control systems, providing highly precise force and displacement control. They are suitable for both static and dynamic mechanical testing. Hydraulically driven universal testing machines: These use a hydraulic system to apply force and are particularly suitable for high-load testing, such as strength testing of metal materials.

By Test Function

Single-function universal testing machines: These focus on one or several specific tests, such as tension, compression, and bending. Multi-purpose universal testing machines: These can perform a variety of testing tasks on a single platform, such as tension, compression, shear, and bending.

By Control Method

Manual control: This is a basic operating mode suitable for simple testing tasks. Semi-automatic control: This incorporates a degree of automation but still requires manual intervention. Fully automatic control: This is fully computer-controlled, automatically executing test procedures and collecting and analyzing data.

By Application

Laboratory universal testing machines: These are designed for research institutions and quality control departments, requiring high test accuracy.

Industrial universal testing machines: These are used on production lines to quickly test material properties, emphasizing ease of operation and durability.

By Technical Features

Traditional universal testing machines: These are built using traditional mechanical and electrical technologies. Intelligent universal testing machines: Integrating the latest sensing technology, data processing capabilities, and network communication functions, they support remote monitoring and data analysis.

Working Principle

The measurement principle is to apply a certain load to a specimen, record the specimen's deformation under the load, and calculate the material's mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus, yield strength, and ultimate strength, based on the load-deformation curve.

Universal testing machines typically use sensors such as strain gauges or extensometers to measure specimen deformation.

A strain gauge is a sensor capable of sensing minute strains. It is typically attached to the specimen and calculates specimen strain by measuring the change in resistance of the strain gauge.

An extensometer is a sensor that directly measures specimen deformation. It is typically attached to the specimen and calculates specimen deformation by measuring the extension of the extensometer.

Universal testing machines can also utilize computer control and data acquisition systems for automated measurement and data processing, improving measurement accuracy and efficiency. Universal testing machines are machines used for testing the mechanical properties of materials, primarily for tensile, compression, flexural, shear, and peel tests.

Key Features

Advanced sensors and control systems accurately measure specimen deformation and load with high precision.

It can perform a variety of mechanical property tests, including tension, compression, flexure, shear, and peel tests, to meet diverse testing needs.

Computer control and data acquisition systems enable automated measurement and data processing, improving measurement accuracy and efficiency.

Safety protection devices, such as overload protection and position limit protection, ensure operator and equipment safety.

The user-friendly interface makes it easy to use and maintain, making it suitable for both laboratory and production applications.

Applications

Material Testing: Universal testing machines are primarily used for tensile, compression, flexure, and shear tests on materials such as metals, plastics, rubber, and textiles.

Aerospace: Universal testing machines are primarily used for material testing and performance evaluation of aircraft and spacecraft components.

Electronics: Universal testing machines are primarily used for material testing and performance evaluation of electronic components.

Automotive: Universal testing machines are primarily used for material testing and performance evaluation of automotive components.

Construction: Universal testing machines are primarily used for testing and evaluating building materials such as concrete, rebar, and cement.

Medical: Universal testing machines are primarily used for testing and evaluating medical devices and materials.

Food: Universal testing machines are primarily used for testing and evaluating food materials and packaging materials.

Chemical: Universal testing machines are primarily used for testing and evaluating chemical products and materials.

Precautions for Use

When using a universal testing machine, please note the following:

1. The universal testing machine should be placed on a level, stable surface, and the base should be securely fixed.

2. When installing the fixture, ensure there is no gap between the fixture and the testing machine base, and that the clamping force is appropriate.

3. During testing, pay attention to the load and deformation rate to avoid material damage.

4. During testing, record data and observe the specimen status promptly to analyze and evaluate material properties.

5. During testing, follow safety operating procedures and pay attention to operator safety and personal safety.

FAQ

Q: What is the main purpose of a universal testing machine?

A: A universal testing machine (UTM) is used to evaluate the mechanical properties of materials by applying controlled forces (such as tension, compression, or bending). It can measure a variety of key parameters, including tensile strength, yield strength, elastic modulus, and ductility.

Q: What are the functions of a UTM?

A: A universal testing machine (UTM) can test the mechanical behavior and strength of materials under different types of forces (such as tension, compression, bending, and shear). By analyzing the material's response under these forces, properties such as yield point, elongation, and elasticity can be determined.

Q: What is the difference between a UTM and a CTM?

A: The primary difference between a universal testing machine (UTM) and a compression testing machine (CTM) lies in their range of capabilities. A UTM is a versatile device that supports a variety of tests, including tension, compression, bending, and shear; a CTM, on the other hand, is specialized for compression testing and is commonly used for testing materials such as concrete and brick.

Q: What parameters can a UTM measure?

A: A universal testing machine (UTM) can measure a variety of mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, compressive strength, yield strength, elongation, elastic modulus, and ductility. These data help evaluate a material's performance under various stress conditions.

Q: How do I choose the right UTM for my specific needs?

A: When selecting a universal testing machine, you need to consider several factors, including the test speed range, the type of material being tested, and the equipment's maximum load capacity, to ensure it meets the requirements of your application.

Q: What components does a UTM typically include?

A: A universal testing machine typically consists of several components, such as load cells, a human-machine interface (HMI) screen, grips, fixtures, a load frame, and specialized software.

Q: What are the benefits of using a UTM?

A: Universal testing machines are versatile and can be widely used in quality inspection, product safety verification, and new material research and development. They help improve product quality, ensure user safety, and promote technological innovation.

2025-10-28 13:09