LimsPulse
Construction materials testing

Universal Testing Machine (UTM)

A versatile machine that pulls, compresses or bends specimens while measuring force and extension. In construction labs it is mainly used for tensile testing of reinforcement bars to find yield strength, tensile strength and elongation.

  • Construction materials testing
  • Steel plants and rolling mills
  • Infrastructure projects
  • Fabrication and precast yards
  • Academic and research labs
Photo of a Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
Photo: Ganitz, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Daily / each use

  • Brush scale and dirt from jaw teeth
  • Check for oil leaks (hydraulic machines)
  • Check the emergency stop works

Weekly

  • Lubricate wedge grip sliding faces with the recommended grease
  • Check oil level and filter indicator
  • Check extensometer knife edges for damage

Six-monthly

  • Replace worn jaw inserts
  • Check frame alignment if specimens break near grips repeatedly
  • Service ball screws or hydraulic seals as required

Annual (or as SOP / accreditation requires)

  • Force verification to IS 1828 Part 1 / ISO 7500-1 or ASTM E4
  • Extensometer verification to ISO 9513 or ASTM E83
  • Speed / displacement check
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the UTM
  • Use the guard or stand behind a screen; fractured bars release stored energy suddenly.
  • Keep hands away from the jaws while they close.
  • Wear safety glasses, gloves and safety shoes when handling bars.
  • Never exceed the machine or grip capacity.
  • Switch off the hydraulic pump before changing grips or fixtures.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every UTM in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how