It tests tension, compression, and other mechanical properties by applying tensile, compressive, or transverse stresses to a test specimen. The machine can record the distance between the cross heads on which the specimen is held if an extensometer is not installed. However, this method records the specimen’s length change and the specimen’s slipping in the grips and any other extending or elastic components of the testing machine and its drive systems. The Universal tensile testing instrument has been named given the many tests it can perform on various materials. This article discusses the primary characteristics of UTM’s components and functions.
UTM parts and components
Utilize our helpful glossary to understand the details of a typical universal testing machine.
Loading Unit
The following essentials form of UTM’s loading unit:
Load Frame
A universal testing machine’s load frame can be constructed with either a single or double support. The upper crosshead, lower crosshead, and table on which the specimen is placed for the compression test make up the load frame.
Elongation Scale
An elongation scale with the loading unit is used to measure the relative movement of the lower and upper tables.
Upper and Lower Crosshead
One last part of the test sample is compress using the top cross beam. The moveable crosshead in the load frame is the lower crosshead, which may be raised or lowered by loosening and tightening its screws. A set of racking jaws in this slot is designed to grasp and retain the tensile test specimen.
Control Unit
The following are the main component of a UTM control unit:
Hydraulic Power Unit
This unit’s oil pump provides a non-pulsating oil flow into the load unit’s main cylinder. This flow aids in the specimen’s smooth load application. An electric motor and sump run the oil pump in a hydraulic power unit.
Control Devices
Electric or hydraulic control mechanisms are possible. Control is used in electric manage devices to shift the crossheads and roll the part on and off. There are two valves in a hydraulic control device: the right control valve and the left control valve, also known as the Release Valve. The specimen is loaded with force through a proper control valve.
Load Measuring Unit
The pendulum dynamometer in this device travels with non-pulsating oil flow in a tiny cylinder. Through a pivot lever, the pendulum is connected to the piston. Depending on the load placed on the specimen, the pivot lever will flex.
Working principle
With the aid of testing machines, several testing techniques can be used to determine how the material behaves. A universal testing apparatus is a tool for conducting static tests on materials, such as compressive or tensile tests. The term also goes by the Universal tensile testing instrument. The UTM’s design and operation have been covered in detail in this article.
- Where these vertical bars will slide the movable crosshead.
- The specimen will be secured by locking clamps on these two heads, such as rods and wires, primarily for tensile testing.
- If it is a compressive test, the example will be in the middle between the versatile head and the table.
- The speed of the two vertical threaded shafts is controlled by a speed controller, resulting in a change in the specimen’s load with the help of the movable crosshead.
- With the assistance of the stacking dial pointer, we can see how much burden is applied to the example during the test.
The tensile and compression tests’ underlying principles and construction of UTM have been discussed.
