Automatic Compression Test Machines

Automatic Compression Machines are used to determine compressive, splitting and flexural strengths, usually applied to materials of high compression but low tensile strength, in which the specimen is subjected to increasing compressive forces until failure occurs.

In Australia, the most common compressive strength testing procedures are cylinder strength tests for concrete according to AS 1012.9, and cube tests for cement materials. 

The UTEST Automatic range of compression testing machines has been designed for reliable and consistent unconfined testing of concrete samples. The standard model is a 2000 kN system, but forces from 600 kN to 3000 kN are available, and other accessory frames can be operated using the same controller. 

Applications

• Early age unconfined compression strength test

• Unconfined flexural and splitting tests by using proper accessories

• Mortar (Cement) compression tests by using proper accessories

• Unconfined core testing

Operation

• Setting test parameters, including pace rate

• Pressing the START button on the control unit

• The machine automatically starts the rapid approach; switches the test speed after 1% of the load capacity of the machine, and stops once the specimen fails

• Automatically saves the test parameters and results

Components

A complete compression test machine encompasses the following components:

• Compression Frame- These are heavy-duty welded frames. Platens and distance pieces are also included in the frame, to adjust the system for different sample sizes.
  

• Control System- The control system is fully automated. This means that a macro is created containing the required loading rate, sample size etc. Once started the test is automatic. The data from the test is also logged in the control system.

• Powerpack- this is a hydraulic two-stage system with one motor to adjust the platens for rapid approach and another for the application of force during the test.

Four Column Compression Testing Machines

We also supply an automatic machine with a 4 column testing frame available, used for high capacity testing where the stiffness of the testing frame is crucial. The compression machines consist of a heavy-duty four-column frame, automatic hydraulic power pack with a data acquisition and control system.

Safety Features

• Maximum pressure valves to avoid machine overloading

• Piston travel limit switch

• Emergency stop button

• Front and rear transparent durable Plexiglass doors

• Software controlled maximum load value

Technical Specifications

Standard Welded Frames

Four Column Machines

Applicable Standards

• AS 1012.9

• EN 12390-3/12390-4

• BS 1881

• ASTM C39 

Accessories

• An additional flexural frame can be connected to the hydraulic control system. Load ratings are 100 kN, 200 kN and 300 kN. Switching between frames is simple, as it only requires switching a valve, and selecting the flexural option using the control system.
• Additional software includes predefined settings that allow the user to control multiple testing frames to match the relevant standard. It also allows for the output of data in a custom format to the user's data management system of choice used to control the machine from the computer and store data.
• Optional part list for special tests and specimens; Block test platens, splitting tensile and distance pieces 

Other Available Systems

Manual, Semi-Automatic hydraulic power packs are also available. UTEST also produce a range of advanced servo-controlled Automatic Power Packs with proportional valve.