The machine applies tension, compression, bending, and shear forces to test the strength, elasticity, and durability of various materials such as metals, plastics, textiles, rubber, ceramics, and composites. It can measure parameters such as tensile strength, yield strength, elongation, modulus of elasticity, and fracture toughness.
A typical UTM consists of a load frame, grips or fixtures to hold the specimen, a load cell or force transducer to measure the applied force, and a displacement transducer to measure the deformation or displacement of the specimen. The machine is controlled by a computer or a control unit that allows the user to set the testing parameters and record the test data.