Complete guide to classification and selection of testing machines | From 9 major types to 5 steps for accurate purchasing (2026 latest version)
2026-08-24 12:00:00In the fields of manufacturing quality control and materials research, testing machines are indispensable core testing equipment.However, in the face of a dazzling array of product names such as universal testing machines, electronic universal testing machines, hydraulic universal testing machines, tensile testing machines, pressure testing machines, fatigue testing machines, impact testing machines, torsion testing machines, many purchasing personnel and laboratory leaders are often confused: What are the differences between these testing machines?Which one should my business choose?How can we achieve accurate selection without wasting money?
This article will systematically sort out the 9 mainstream types of testing machines, explain in detail their functional characteristics and applicable scenarios, and provide a set of industry-proven 5-step selection methods to help you quickly find the most suitable testing equipment.
1. Detailed explanation of 9 types of testing machines
Testing machines are mainly divided into the following 9 categories according to test type and structural form.Different types of testing machines have different mechanical performance testing needs. Before purchasing, you must first clarify your testing goals.
Testing machine type | Core functions | Typical application scenarios | Common range |
|---|---|---|---|
Electronic omnipotenceTesting machine | Driven by a servo motor, it can complete various static mechanical tests such as tension, compression, bending, shearing, and peeling. | Routine mechanical property testing of metals, plastics, rubber, composite materials, textiles, paper and other materials | 10N-600kN |
Hydraulic universalTesting machine | Using hydraulic servo drive, it can complete tensile, compression, bending and other tests under large loads. | High-load mechanical testing of metal materials, steel bars, steel strands, building components, etc. | 300kN-2000kN |
TensionTesting machine | Focus on material tensile performance testing, some can expand compression and bending functions | Small load tensile testing of tapes, films, wires and cables, packaging materials, textiles, etc. | 5N-50kN |
pressureTesting machine | Focus on compressive strength testing of materials and components | Compression testing of building materials such as concrete, cement, masonry, blocks, and refractory materials | 100kN-10000kN |
fatigueTesting machine | Apply alternating loads to the specimen to test the fatigue life and performance of the material under cyclic stress. | Fatigue performance testing of metal materials, automotive parts, aerospace components, and medical devices | 1kN-500kN |
impactTesting machine | Test the impact toughness of the material by impacting the specimen with a pendulum or falling weight | Charpy impact test of metal materials, plastic simply supported beam/cantilever beam impact test, low temperature impact test | 15J-750J |
twistTesting machine | Apply torque to the specimen to test the torsional mechanical properties of the material or component | Torsional strength and torque testing of metal wires, bolts, drive shafts, and automotive parts | 10N·m-5000N·m |
Horizontal tensionTesting machine | Adopt horizontal structure to conduct tensile testing on large and long specimens | Tensile testing of long specimens such as steel wire ropes, steel strands, chains, cables, insulators, etc. | 100kN-20000kN |
CreepTesting machine | Test the long-term creep deformation and lasting strength of materials under constant temperature and constant load | Creep and durability performance testing of high-temperature alloys and metal materials in high-temperature environments | 5kN-100kN |
1. Universal testing machine: the "all-rounder" among testing machines
Universal testing machine is the most widely used type of testing machine and is divided into two series: electronic universal testing machine and hydraulic universal testing machine.The word "universal" means that it can complete various mechanical tests such as tension, compression, bending, shearing, peeling, and tearing by replacing different fixtures. It is the first choice basic equipment for most laboratories.
Electronic omnipotenceTesting machineUsing servo motor + ball screw drive, it has the characteristics of high precision, low noise and smooth operation. It is suitable for precision testing of small and medium loads (10N-600kN). It is widely used in plastics, rubber, composite materials, metal sheets, textiles, paper products and other industries.
Hydraulic universalTesting machineDriven by a hydraulic servo system, it can provide greater test force (300kN-2000kN) and is suitable for high-load testing scenarios such as metal bars, steel bars, steel strands, and large building components. It is the main equipment in the metallurgy, construction, and engineering machinery industries.
2. Tensile testing machine: "specialized" equipment focused on tensile testing
Tensile testing machines (also often called tensile machines) mainly focus on testing the tensile properties of materials. Some models can expand compression and bending functions by adding auxiliary tools.Compared with universal testing machines, tensile testing machines have a simpler structure and are more affordable. They are suitable for companies that only need to do tensile testing, such as tape factories, film factories, packaging materials factories, wire and cable factories, etc.
It should be noted that the industry often uses "tensile testing machine" and "universal testing machine" interchangeably.Strictly speaking, the tensile testing machine has a relatively single function, while the universal testing machine has more comprehensive functions.When purchasing, be sure to confirm the actual functional configuration of the device, rather than just looking at the name.
3. Pressure testing machine: the "exclusive judge" of compressive strength
Compression testing machines are specially used to test the compressive strength of materials and components. The most common application is the compression testing of concrete, cement, masonry, blocks and other materials in the construction industry.In addition, the compression performance testing of brittle materials such as refractory materials, ceramics, graphite, etc. is also inseparable from the pressure testing machine.
The measuring range of pressure testing machines is very large, ranging from small presses of 100kN to large presses of 10,000kN. When purchasing, you need to determine according to the maximum compressive load of the material being tested.
4. Fatigue testing machine: the "time examiner" of cycle life
The fatigue testing machine simulates the cyclic stress state of the material in actual use by applying periodic alternating loads to the sample, and tests the fatigue life and fatigue limit of the material.Many mechanical parts have qualified performance in static tensile tests, but fatigue fracture occurs due to repeated stress in actual use. Fatigue testing machines are key equipment used to discover such problems.
Fatigue testing machines are widely used in automotive parts (such as crankshafts, connecting rods, springs), aerospace components, medical equipment, rail transit and other industries that require extremely high reliability.According to the driving mode, it can be divided into electro-hydraulic servo fatigue testing machine and electromagnetic resonance fatigue testing machine.
5. Impact testing machine: "Explosive force test" of instantaneous toughness
The impact testing machine applies an instantaneous impact force to the sample through a pendulum or falling weight to test the impact toughness of the material under dynamic load.The most common ones are the Charpy V-notch impact test for metal materials, and the simply supported beam and cantilever beam impact tests for plastics.
Impact testing machines are usually equipped with low-temperature tanks, which can conduct impact tests in low-temperature environments from -40°C to -196°C to simulate the toughness changes of materials in severe cold environments. This is particularly important for engineering construction and polar equipment in northern regions.
6. Torsion testing machine: the "rotating examiner" of torsion resistance
The torsion testing machine applies torque to the sample to test the torsional strength, torsional elastic modulus, torsional yield strength and other mechanical performance indicators of the material or component.It is mainly used for testing products that need to withstand torque, such as metal wires, bolt fasteners, drive shafts, automobile steering system components, tool handles, etc.
7. Horizontal tensile testing machine: "long-range test bench" for large-size specimens
Ordinary vertical tensile testing machines have limited sample space and cannot test long-length samples such as steel wire ropes, steel strands, chains, cables, and insulators.The horizontal tensile testing machine adopts a horizontal structure. The test space can be customized according to the length of the sample. It can complete the tensile test of large-sized and long samples. It is an essential equipment in the power, bridge, cableway, and hoisting machinery industries.
8. Creep testing machine: the "endurance judge" for high-temperature endurance strength
The creep testing machine tests materials for a long time (hundreds to tens of thousands of hours) under constant temperature and constant load to measure the creep deformation and lasting strength of the material.This is a key performance indicator for high-temperature alloys, heat-resistant steel and other materials used in high-temperature environments such as aerospace engines, gas turbines, and nuclear power equipment.Creep testing machines are usually equipped with high-temperature furnaces that can perform tests at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 1200°C.
2. 5-step accurate selection method
After understanding the classification of testing machines, how to choose the most suitable equipment for your company from many models?The following 5-step selection method has been verified by industry practice and can help you complete the selection decision systematically.
Step 1: Identify test materials and test types
The first step in selection is not to look at the equipment parameters, but to answer two questions:What material do I want to test?What experiment should I do?
Different materials require different testing methods and equipment configurations.For example, testing plastic films requires a small-scale, high-precision electronic universal testing machine equipped with a tensile fixture and a large deformation extensometer; testing concrete blocks requires a pressure testing machine; testing the fatigue life of automobile parts requires a fatigue testing machine.By clarifying the test requirements first, you can directly exclude 80% of irrelevant device types.
If your company needs to test multiple materials and multiple test types, a universal testing machine is the most cost-effective choice; if you only need a single type of test, you can choose a dedicated testing machine to reduce costs.
Step 2: Determine the maximum test force
After determining the type of test, the next step is to determine the maximum test force required.The selection principle of test force is:The maximum damage load of the material being tested should be between 20% and 80% of the full scale of the equipment..
For example, if the maximum tensile force of the material you are testing is about 50kN, then it is more appropriate to choose a testing machine with a 100kN range.If the measurement range is too large (such as 600kN), the test accuracy under small loads will decrease; if the measurement range is too small (such as 50kN, which is exactly the full scale), long-term operation at full scale will accelerate equipment wear, and there will be no margin to deal with material performance fluctuations.
When you are unsure of the maximum test force, you can refer to the force value requirements for testing the material in relevant national standards, or consult an experienced testing machine manufacturer.
Step 3: Select the driving method (electronic vs hydraulic)
For universal testing machines, the choice of drive mode is the core decision.Electronic drives and hydraulic drives each have their own advantages:
Contrast Dimensions | Electronic universal testing machine | Hydraulic universal testing machine |
|---|---|---|
Drive mode | Servo motor + ball screw | Hydraulic servo system |
Common range | 10N-600kN | 300kN-2000kN |
Test accuracy | High (force accuracy can reach level 0.5) | Higher (usually level 1) |
operating noise | low | High (oil pump noise) |
Test speed | Wide range, capable of low-speed precision testing | Stable speed under large load |
Maintenance cost | Low (no hydraulic oil change) | High (hydraulic oil and seals need to be replaced regularly) |
Applicable industries | Plastics, rubber, composite materials, textiles, electronics, small metals | Metallurgy, construction, engineering machinery, steel bars and strands |
Generally speaking,If the load is below 600kN, the electronic universal testing machine will be preferred; if the load is above 600kN, the hydraulic universal testing machine will be preferred..If the budget is sufficient and high-precision testing is required, an electronic universal testing machine is a better choice even in the 300kN-600kN range.
Step 4: Confirm accuracy level and configuration
After determining the type and driving method, it is necessary to further confirm the accuracy level and configuration of the equipment.The accuracy levels of testing machines are usually divided into level 0.5 and level 1. Level 0.5 has higher accuracy and is suitable for scientific research institutes and enterprises with strict data requirements; level 1 meets most industrial quality inspection needs.
In terms of configuration, you need to focus on the following items:
force sensor: It is recommended to choose spoke-type or S-type high-precision sensors to avoid using hydraulic pressure sensors to convert force values (lower accuracy).
extensometer: Testing the yield strength and elongation of metallic materials requires an extensometer.Select the appropriate extensometer specifications according to the test material (such as a metal extensometer with a gauge length of 50mm and a deformation of 25mm, or a large deformation extensometer).
fixture: The fixture is a key accessory that affects the success or failure of the test.Different materials require different clamps (such as wedge clamps, flat clamps, winding clamps, pressure clamps, etc.). When purchasing, be sure to confirm whether the manufacturer provides a clamp solution suitable for your material.
Software function: Modern testing machines are equipped with computer control software. You need to confirm whether the software supports the test standards you need (such as GB/T 228 metal tensile, GB/T 1040 plastic tensile, etc.), whether it can automatically generate test reports, and whether the data can be exported.
Expansion capabilities: Consider the possible increase in testing requirements in the future and choose equipment with good scalability (such as the ability to add bending test aids, upgradeable control systems, etc.).
Step 5: Examine the manufacturer’s strength and after-sales service
Testing machines are precision instruments, and the manufacturer's strength and after-sales service directly affect the long-term use experience of the equipment.The last step in selection is to inspect the manufacturer, focusing on the following aspects:
R&D and production capabilities: Choose manufacturers with independent R&D and production capabilities instead of pure traders.Manufacturers with production capabilities are more secure in terms of customized needs, parts supply and technical support.
Industry experience and reputation: Understand the manufacturer’s operating years and customer reputation in the industry.Manufacturers that have been in business for a long time and have many customer cases are usually more reliable.
Metrology calibration capabilities: Testing machines require regular calibration to ensure accuracy.If the manufacturer has its own measurement and testing company or cooperates with an authoritative measurement institution, it can provide more convenient calibration services.
After-sales service response: Confirm the manufacturer’s after-sales response time, warranty period, and whether it provides on-site installation, debugging, and operation training.The installation and debugging of the testing machine requires professional and technical personnel, and good after-sales service can avoid many usage problems.
Non-standard customization capabilities: If you have special testing needs (such as special size specimens, special test methods), you need to confirm whether the manufacturer has non-standard customization capabilities.
3. Guide to pit selection and pit avoidance
In many years of industry practice, we have summarized the 5 most common pitfalls when purchasing testing machines to remind you to pay attention:
Pitfall 1: Only look at the price but not the configuration.It is also labeled as "10-ton electronic universal testing machine", and the price of different manufacturers may differ by more than double.The differences are mainly in the aspects of force sensor accuracy, servo motor brand, lead screw quality, software functions, etc.Low-priced equipment may have problems such as accuracy drift and data instability after half a year of use, which in turn increases the overall cost.
Pit 2: The range selection is too large or too small.Some purchases choose a measuring range that is much larger than the actual demand in order to "get it right in one step", resulting in insufficient accuracy in small load testing; some choose a measuring range that is just enough to save money, and as a result, when the material performance fluctuates, it exceeds the measuring range and cannot be tested.It is most reliable to follow the principle of "the maximum damage load is 20%-80% of the full scale".
Pit 3: Ignoring the importance of fixtures.Many purchases only focus on the host parameters and ignore the fixture configuration.Improper fixtures will cause problems such as sample slippage, clamping breakage, and large data deviations, which directly affect the accuracy of the test results.When purchasing, be sure to communicate with the manufacturer's technical staff in detail about the test materials and confirm the fixture plan.
Pitfall 4: Calibration and maintenance costs are not considered.The testing machine needs to be calibrated every year, and the hydraulic testing machine also needs to regularly replace the hydraulic oil and seals.These long-term costs should be taken into account at the time of purchase.Choosing a manufacturer with its own measurement and testing capabilities can reduce subsequent calibration costs.
Pitfall 5: Believing that "imported brands must be good".In recent years, domestic testing machines have made significant technological progress and can completely replace imported brands in the mid-to-low-end market. The price is only 1/3 to 1/2 of imported brands, and after-sales service is more convenient.Of course, in the field of ultra-high-end and special applications, imported brands still have advantages, but the routine testing needs of most companies can be fully met by domestic high-quality brands.
4. FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between a universal testing machine and a tensile testing machine?
A: The universal testing machine can complete a variety of tests such as tension, compression, bending, shearing, and peeling, etc., and has comprehensive functions; the tensile testing machine mainly focuses on tensile testing, has a relatively single function, and is more affordable.The two are often used interchangeably in the industry, and the actual functional configuration needs to be confirmed when purchasing.
Q2: How to choose between electronic universal testing machine and hydraulic universal testing machine?
A: For tests below 600kN, electronic universal testing machines are preferred, as they have high precision, low noise, and low maintenance costs; for tests above 600kN, hydraulic universal testing machines are preferred, which can provide greater testing force.The specific decision needs to be made based on the test materials and budget.
Q3: What is the difference between the accuracy level 0.5 and level 1 of the testing machine?
A: Level 0.5 means that the force value measurement error does not exceed ±0.5%, and level 1 means that the error does not exceed ±1%.Level 0.5 has higher accuracy and is suitable for scientific research institutes and enterprises with strict data requirements; Level 1 meets most industrial quality inspection needs and is more affordable.
Q4: How often does the testing machine need to be calibrated?
A: According to the national metrological verification regulations, testing machines are generally calibrated once a year.If the frequency of use is high or accuracy requirements are high, calibration can be performed every six months.Calibration should be completed by a qualified measurement and testing institution.
Q5: What are the advantages of Jinan’s testing machine manufacturers?
A: Jinan is the main R&D and manufacturing base for testing machines in the country. It has a complete industrial chain and has gathered a group of professionals with rich technical experience.Testing machines produced in Jinan have a high market share in the country, mature technology, and convenient supply of accessories. It is the preferred place to purchase testing machines.
5. About Shandong Huayan Intelligent Equipment Group
Shandong Huayan Intelligent Equipment Group Co., Ltd. is located in Jinan, China's main research and development base for testing machines. It is a comprehensive technology enterprise integrating production, research and development, and sales.The company's core team has 20 years of experience in the testing machine industry and specializes in the development and production of a full range of products such as electronic universal testing machines, hydraulic universal testing machines, fatigue testing machines, horizontal tensile testing machines, pressure testing machines, torsion testing machines, impact testing machines, creep testing machines, compression and shear testing machines, and can customize non-standard equipment according to customer needs.
The company has passed three major certifications: ISO9001 quality management system, ISO14001 environmental management system, and ISO45001 occupational health and safety management system. It has participated in the formulation of more than ten industry group standards and has 17 national patents.The group consists of China Machinery (Shandong) Testing Instrument Co., Ltd. and Tianhua Metrology and Testing (Shandong) Co., Ltd., forming a full-chain service capability of "R&D-production-testing-calibration". It is a strategic partner of China Building Materials Inspection and Certification Group (Shandong) Measurement and Testing Co., Ltd., and has in-depth industry-university-research cooperation with Jinan University and other institutions of higher learning.
As the vice-chairman unit of Shandong Electrical and Technical Society, a governing unit of Shandong Equipment Manufacturing Association, and a governing unit of Shandong Composite Materials, Huayan Intelligent Equipment has always adhered to the concept of "high standards lead high-quality development" and is committed to providing customers with accurate, reliable, cost-effective testing equipment and professional technical services.If you have testing machine selection needs or technical questions, please contact us. Our professional engineers will provide you with one-on-one selection consultation and customized solutions.
