A Strain Controlled Compression testing machine is used to crush various concrete specimens to verify that the material is strong enough for its intended use. These multipurpose instruments are the workhorses of any concrete testing facility. The proper one might make or break your testing programme due to its versatility and adaptability to diverse sample types.

Material Characteristics & Test Parameters

Determine the exact performance and requirements of your material or product before investing in a testing machine. It is possible to narrow down the search for the ideal universal testing machine by considering material features such as the needed maximum force capacity and specimen size and test parameters such as the desired testing speed. Carefully examine any applicable ASTM, ISO, or EN test standards. Make sure there's enough room for all the fixturing and specimens if you want to use a single UTM to conduct multiple sorts of testing.

Test Results & Reporting

Select the mechanical characteristics for which you want a report to be generated. The controller and software suite are expected to perform the tests and supply the necessary information. If real-time performance is required, search for a software interface to deliver real-time data. Ensure the software you use has graphing capabilities if you use visuals in your report.

Test fixtures and mounting choices

Testing in tension, bending, and compression each call for a unique set of test fixtures. The following is a machine setup that is an example of a testing system used for various tests that call for specialised test fixtures. The electromechanical UTM machine includes high-capacity wedge grips with grip/fixture adapters. With these dual-fixture adapters, the operator can keep the wedge grips on the testing machine while also mounting alternative fixturing, such as an ASTM bend fixture or high-capacity compression platens.

You can use the wedge grips permanently attached to the UTM to conduct tensile testing. Attach the compression platens to the top and bottom wedge grips for a compression test using the appropriate adapters. Finally, the compression platens from the wedge grips must be removed before the bend fixture can be attached for testing. High-capacity test fixtures like high-capacity wedge grips are typically bulky and difficult to remove. This dual-fixture layout helps the operator save time and effort.

The load cell and transducers

Select a load cell whose force range is adequate for the tests you intend to conduct. The load cell must be bidirectional, meaning it can measure force in either tension or compression. If more than one load cell is required, the high-capacity load cell can be kept in place without removing it from the system by using a piggyback adapter to attach a load cell with a lesser capacity directly to it.

Additional testing of the UTM may necessitate the use of displacement transducers and strain measurement instruments. To decide whether the crosshead displacement data is sufficient or whether other displacement transducers are needed to acquire the most accurate data, refer to the standardised test procedures or choose your test techniques. Displacement transducers require a fixture mount or a yoke assembly, while axial extensometers can be clipped directly onto the specimen.

Conclusion

When choosing a compression tester made by a Strain Controlled Compression testing machine manufacturer, it is crucial to consider the factors above. Multiple tests can be done efficiently on a single universal testing machine by carefully characterising the material qualities, desired test results, and equipment selection.