Nothing’s worse than investing in the wrong universal testing machine. It’s like buying a car without comparing models – you may end up more frustrated and disappointed than expected.
So how do you ensure you get the most bang for your buck? This article will give you a complete breakdown of what you need to look out for when comparing universal testing machines, so you can make the right choice.
What is Universal Testing Machine?
Before we dive in to compare UTM’s, let’s quickly define what a universal testing machine is.
A universal testing machine (UTM) is a system that tests the tensile strength and compressive strength of materials, components, and structures. By applying different loads at different points on the test specimen, the UTM can determine how much force is required to break the material or cause it to deform.
In short, it’s a versatile and handy tool for anyone in the materials testing industry. A typical UTM machine consists of a load cell, crosshead, extensometer, specimen grips, electronics, and a drive system. It is controlled by testing software used to define machine and safety settings.
The Universal Testing Machine: How does it work?
Universal Testing Machines apply a mechanical force to a specimen to measure its resistance. This is accomplished by clamping the specimen between two grips and then applying a force or a pull. The specimen is monitored while the force gradually increases until it reaches its breaking point.
As the force on the specimen increases, a load cell records the tension and compression applied. The UTM will then record the maximum force needed before it breaks. This helps engineers and researchers understand the properties of their materials, allowing them to make better decisions when designing components or structures.
Things to Look Out For When Comparing Universal Testing Machines
Now that you know what a UTM is and how it works let’s take a look at some of the key factors you should consider when comparing them.
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Flexibility:
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a UTM is its flexibility. You want to make sure that your testing machine can handle a wide range of materials and load ranges. This will allow you to conduct multiple types of tests on the same specimen, saving time and money.
You should also look for a UTM that allows you to quickly and easily switch between accessories designed for specific industry standards, types of material, and applications. This will ensure that your machine can always be adapted to suit the tests you need to conduct.
All of these features should come together to give you a versatile machine that can handle any type of test, so make sure to look out for them when comparing your options.
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Safety:
Safety is another essential factor to consider when purchasing a UTM. You should ensure that the machine has been tested and certified according to industry standards and includes a range of safety features such as external doors, enclosures, interlocks, limit switches, and system monitoring.
This will ensure that you, your staff, and your machine are always kept safe during the testing process. And most importantly, it will give you peace of mind that you have invested in the right machine for your needs.
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Ease of Use:
One of the mistakes people often make when investing in a UTM is assuming that it will be easy to use. But this isn’t always the case.
Make sure to look for a machine that is both sophisticated by design and operability, so you can quickly install test fixtures, set up test configurations, implement test programs, run tests, and interpret results. This will save you time and money in the long run and increase your results’ accuracy.
With an easy-to-use UTM, you can be confident that you have the right machine for your needs. And with a few simple steps, you will be ready to test your materials and get the desired results.
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Adaptability:
Next, you should look for a UTM that can adapt to market developments and standard requirements. Many machines are designed with specific industry standards in mind, but these standards are always changing. You must ensure that your UTM can quickly and easily adapt to the changes, from fixtures and accessories to electronics and software programs.
An adaptable UTM will save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to purchase a new machine every time the industry standards change. So, look for one that can easily be upgraded and adapted when necessary.
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Software:
Another important factor to consider is the software that comes with your UTM. The software should be easy to use and understand so you can quickly and easily set up and run tests. It should also provide clear and detailed results, so you can better understand the properties of your materials.
Finally, the software should be able to work with other programs and systems in your laboratory. This will make it easier for you to integrate UTM into your overall workflow.
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Automation:
You should also consider how much automation the UTM offers. Many modern machines have automated features such as presetting, auto data logging and graphing, automatic load control, and auto-calibration.
These features make it easier to set up and run tests more quickly and accurately, and they can help you save time and money in the long run. So, when looking for a UTM, look for one that offers the level of automation you need.
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Service:
Next up, you should look for reliable customer service and support from the supplier. A knowledgeable team of experts can help you set up the machine and run tests, as well as provide ongoing maintenance and technical support.
Access to this service will ensure that your machine remains in optimum condition and that you are always getting the most accurate and reliable results. So make sure to look for a supplier who offers excellent customer service.
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Company stability:
Last but not least, you should also look for a supplier with a proven track record of stability and reliability. Many suppliers come and go over time, so look for one with a long-standing history in the industry.
A reliable supplier can provide better after-sales service and help you with any technical issues that may arise. So, look for a supplier who is here to stay and can help you get the most out of your UTM.
Final Take:
No matter what type of UTM you choose, consider all the factors mentioned above. With a little research, you can find the perfect machine for your needs and ensure that you get the most accurate and reliable results every time.
And if you want the best of the best, then look no further than NL Scientific. We provide top-notch equipment tailored to your needs, with the best technical support and customer service available. Learn more at https://nl-test.com/ and start testing your materials today!