Unmatched Performance
Universal Testing Machines
Universal Grip offers a complete line of Universal Testing Machines in partnership with Italian OEM Galdabini (est. 1890) These machines are manufactured in an ISO 9001 facility and offer an unparalleled combination of versatility & value.
Reach out today for a line item technical quote for your new universal testing machine.
Universal Testing Machines
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What Is a Universal Testing Machine?
A universal testing machine (UTM) is a load frame that pulls, pushes or bends a specimen at a controlled speed while measuring force and displacement. By changing grips and fixtures, the same machine runs tensile, compression, flexural, shear and peel tests to ASTM and ISO standards. Universal Grip supplies Galdabini Quasar machines from 2.5 kN to 2,000 kN in benchtop and floor-standing frames. For a longer introduction, read What Is a Universal Testing Machine? Ready to buy? Read our buyer's guide on how to choose a universal testing machine.
Universal Grip offers the full solution for universal testing machines in the continental USA and Canada. We also export and remotely support our material testing systems worldwide. Installation, Calibration, Training, and Support are all handled and supported by our staff and OEM partners. We have scoured the globe for the ultimate UTM partner and Galdabini has met the challenge with their focus on quality and high functionality.
UGC is the official American distributor for the premium line of the Quasar Universal Testing Machines from the Italian manufacturer Galdabini. Each high quality machine is manufactured under a strict ISO 9001:2008 quality control process and is accompanied by an unwavering and expertly trained support team. These electro-mechanical material testing machines are competitively priced, easy to maintain, and built to last for decades.
Galdabini's precision systems are crafted with the highest quality hardware from component suppliers such as Bosch Rexroth (ball screw assemblies) and Beckhoff (Windows based PLCs with embedded PCs). Along with hardware, Galdabini also develops and supports its own control and analysis software in-house. The Galdabini approach is unique, in that all of the core competencies and technologies are developed in-house, within the company's four walls. No black boxes here, this machine is 100% designed to be remotely operated, serviced, and repaired worldwide.
Discover the Galdabini Difference.
The Galdabini Difference - Quality Testing Systems since 1890
The Galdabini difference truly shows in several aspects of the machine ownership experience. For instance, the company understands that these machines must be both highly reliable as well as easy to troubleshoot and service by virtually anyone across the globe. With this concept in mind, the Quasar line has been designed from the ground up with an open architecture to allow for easy on-site replacement of electronic components. The Beckhoff PLC connects all component sub-systems and allows Galdabini headquarters to quickly diagnose any problems and provide an immediate course of action through TeamViewer. Mechanical system failures of the frame and twin ball-screw system are the only reason that a UTM would ever need to be moved or shipped back to the manufacturer. These types of failures are exceedingly rare, with the last mechanical failure of a Galdabini UTM drive system occurring more than 30 years ago.
The Quasar universal testing machine is also easy to calibrate and certify. The machines are specifically designed to be certified by any local force calibration professional according to ASTM E4, ISO 17025, and many other international calibration standard. They are not locked down by any passwords, and Universal Grip can provide a calibration Verification Guide on request to any local calibrator house. Universal Grip can recommend a calibrator for you and has dedicated partners within the United States.
Testing machines from Universal Grip are also easy to install. Check out our installation guide for tips on how to uncrate, move, and hoist your new universal testing machine into its final resting location.
Galdabini machines meet and exceed ASTM E4, ISO, JIS, EN and other global standards for materials testing systems.
Benchtop Universal Testing Machines - Selection Guide
Floorstanding Universal Testing Machines - Selection Guide
Universal Testing Machine Models and Specifications
Quasar machines are electromechanical ball-screw frames that run Galdabini’s own control and analysis software. Total stroke is 1 m (39.4 in) on most models; longer stroke (up to 1.75 m on benchtop frames) and wider frames are available. Column clearance is the distance from the load axis to the column.
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Quasar 2.5 kN (562 lbf): single-column benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 1,000 mm/min; 101 mm (4.0 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 5 kN (1,124 lbf): benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 175 mm (6.9 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 10 kN (2,248 lbf): benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 175 mm (6.9 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 25 kN (5,620 lbf): benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 175 mm (6.9 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 50 kN (11,240 lbf): benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 205 mm (8.1 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 100 kN (22,481 lbf): the largest benchtop; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 205 mm (8.1 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 200 kN (44,962 lbf): floor-standing, dual column.
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Quasar 250 kN (56,202 lbf): floor-standing; 1 m stroke; up to 500 mm/min; 275 mm (10.8 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 600 kN (134,885 lbf): floor-standing; 1.145 m stroke; up to 200 mm/min; 320 mm (12.6 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 1,000 kN (224,809 lbf): floor-standing, electromechanical or servo-hydraulic; 1.1 m stroke; up to 200 mm/min; 412 mm (16.2 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 1,200 kN (269,771 lbf): floor-standing; 1.1 m stroke; up to 200 mm/min; 412 mm (16.2 in) column clearance.
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Quasar 2,000 kN (449,618 lbf): floor-standing; 1.1 m stroke; up to 200 mm/min; 625 mm (24.6 in) column clearance.
Force measurement is verified to ASTM E4 and ISO 7500-1 by any accredited calibration lab.
Hydraulic Universal Testing Machines
For very high forces, servo-hydraulic frames from about 200 kN to over 2,000 kN suit rebar, large metal bars, concrete and other heavy specimens. Electromechanical frames give finer speed and position control at low and medium forces. See hydraulic universal testing machines.
Versatile Testing Machines for Any Application
Our Universal Testing Machines (UTMs) are designed for maximum versatility, making them the ideal solution for a wide range of tensile, compression, flexural, and peel tests across various industries. Whether you’re testing plastics, metals, textiles, or composites, our machines are engineered to deliver high-precision results while fully complying with ASTM and ISO testing standards. With a modular design, our UTMs seamlessly integrate with a variety of accessories, allowing users to expand their testing capabilities as needed.
Compatible with All Universal Testing Machine Accessories
Grips & Fixtures – Our machines support a full range of grips and fixtures, including wedge grips, pneumatic grips, and specialized fixtures for shear, peel, and flexural testing. These accessories ensure that every sample is securely held in place, providing accurate and repeatable results.
Environmental Chambers – For materials that require testing in extreme temperatures, our UTMs can integrate with environmental chambers to simulate real-world conditions, from subzero temperatures to high-heat environments. This is essential for industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.
Video Extensometers – Achieve non-contact strain measurement with our high-resolution video extensometers. These advanced systems allow for precise elongation measurements without influencing the test, making them ideal for delicate or high-strain materials.
With full white-glove installation, training, and lifetime support, Universal Grip ensures that your testing setup is optimized for performance, compliance, and efficiency. Whether you need a basic tensile test setup or a fully customized testing system, our UTMs offer the flexibility and reliability to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn more!
Universal Testing Machine FAQ
What is the difference between electromechanical and hydraulic universal testing machines?
Electromechanical machines drive the crosshead with ball screws and a servo motor, giving precise speed and position control from very low forces upward. They suit plastics, rubber, composites, metals and most standards testing. Hydraulic machines use a pressurized cylinder to generate very high force for rebar, large metal bars and concrete.
Should I choose a benchtop or floor-standing machine?
Benchtop frames (2.5 to 100 kN) cover most plastics, rubber, adhesive, textile and light-metal testing. Floor-standing frames (200 kN and above) are needed for high-strength metals, fasteners, rebar and large specimens, and give more test space.
How much does a universal testing machine cost?
The price depends on capacity, frame size, grips, extensometer, software and options such as environmental chambers. Contact us for a line-item quote.
How is a universal testing machine calibrated?
Force is verified on site to ASTM E4 or ISO 7500-1 with calibrated reference devices, usually once a year. Quasar machines are not password-locked, so any accredited local calibration lab can verify them, and we supply a calibration verification guide.
Do I need a universal testing machine or a tensile tester?
For low forces and simple pull or push tests, a motorized tensile tester is often enough. A UTM is needed for higher forces, for stress-strain curves with an extensometer, and for standards such as ASTM E8 and ASTM D638. See Mark-10 test frame vs. universal testing machine.
Need help choosing a machine? Contact us for a line-item quote.