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
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Early age unconfined compression strength test
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Unconfined flexural and splitting tests by using proper accessories
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Mortar (Cement) compression tests by using proper accessories
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Unconfined core testing
Operation
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Setting test parameters, including pace rate
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Pressing the START button on the control unit
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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
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Automatically saves the test parameters and results
Components
A complete compression test machine encompasses the following components:
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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.
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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.
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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
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Maximum pressure valves to avoid machine overloading
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Piston travel limit switch
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Emergency stop button
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Front and rear transparent durable Plexiglass doors
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Software controlled maximum load value
Technical Specifications
Standard Welded Frames
Models | UTC-4602.FPR | UTC-4713G.FPR | UTC-5727.FPR | UTC-5737.FPR |
Capacity | 600 kN | 1500 kN | 2000 kN | 3000 kN |
Dimensions (WxLxH) mm | 640x454x922 | 750x451x1104 | 790x453x1144 | 845x497x1204 |
Platen dimensions (Diameter) mm | Ø165 | Ø310 | Ø310 | Ø310 |
Flatness Tolerance | 0.02/150 mm | 0.025/150 mm | ||
Vertical Clearance | 340 mm | 250 mm | 250 mm | 250 mm |
Piston Diameter | 150 mm | 230 mm | 250 mm | 310 mm |
Maximum piston movement | 50 mm | 50 mm | 50 mm | 50 mm |
Weight | 613 kg | 808 kg | 895 kg | 1117 kg |
Four Column Machines
Model | UTC-6727.FPR | UTC-6737.FPR | UTC-6748.FPR |
Capacity | 2000 kN | 3000 kN | 4000 kN |
Roughness of Platens | ≤ 3.2μm | ||
Platen Diameter | 300 mm | ||
Vertical Clearence | 340 mm | 520 mm | |
Piston Diameter | 300 mm | 350 mm | 400 mm |
Maximum Piston Movement | 50 mm | 100 mm | |
Horizontal Clearance | 385 mm | 445 mm | 495 mm |
Power | 750 W | ||
Oil Capacity | 20 L | ||
Maximum Working Pressure | 28 MPa | 31 MPa | 31.5 MPa |
Frame | UTC-6727 | UTC-5730 | UTC-5740 |
Power Pack | UTC-4830FPR | UTC-4830FPR | UTC-4840FPR |
Frame Dimension (mm) | 660x660x1090 | 735x670x1140 | 805x710x1370 |
Power Pack Dimensions (mm) | 370 x 400 x 920 | 370x400x920 | 605x455x1015 |
Frame Weight | 1030 kg | 1800 kg | 2350 kg |
Power Pack Weight | 85 kg | 85 kg | 150 kg |
Applicable Standards
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AS 1012.9
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EN 12390-3/12390-4
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BS 1881
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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.