Signs Your UTM Needs Calibration or Servicing

Why UTM Calibration Matters

Calibration means checking and adjusting the UTM so that it delivers accurate results. Several factors affect UTM, like regular use, temperature changes, or wear and tear over the years, making the machine less accurate; that’s why calibration matters. So, it becomes important to do regular universal testing machine calibration by an experienced provider. If calibration is neglected, you may get inaccurate results, fail quality checks, or produce unsafe products.

Common Signs Your UTM Needs Calibration or Servicing

If your UTM gives inconsistent results or shows error messages, it may need calibration. Unusual noises, vibrations, or visible wear, like frayed cable, are also warning signs.

Inconsistent or Fluctuating Test Results

If UTM gives different results even when testing the identical specimens through the same procedure, it is an obvious sign that something is wrong. This typically occurs when the machine becomes out of calibration, which can be caused by worn-out components like the load cell or sensors. So, inconsistent results make trusting the testing process tough.

Unusual Noises or Vibrations

UTM generally doesn’t generate noise, so a good and healthy UTM should run quietly without making any strange movements. If you hear sounds of grinding or clunking or feel vibrations, then something is worn out, misaligned, or loose inside the machine. These issues also affect the test results, making them less accurate and possibly causing more serious damage.

Error Messages or System Alerts

Modern UTMs have technologies that can self-diagnose and show error messages when something is wrong. These errors or alerts are signs that shouldn’t be ignored. These could indicate an issue with the electronics, software, or sensor, which could have an impact on the results.

Visible Wear and Tear

Sometimes, obvious signs of wear, such as frayed cables, loose fixtures, corrosion, or worn grips, must be addressed. These are the most commonly found physical issues that can affect the safety and precision of your UTM. In fact, you shouldn’t ignore minor wear and do a full inspection and possible recalibration.

Slower Performance or Response Time

UTMs don’t take a long time to start, but if your UTM is taking longer than before and has become slower than usual in following commands or handling test results, something inside might be wrong. These problems can arise due to old software, weak electronics, or the system being overloaded, and these delays lead to slower work and less reliable results.

Past Due Calibration Certificate

Calibration certificates are helpful because they show when your UTM needs its next service. If the certificate is expired or missing, you should book a universal testing machine calibration so that you don’t have to face a breach of the ISO or ASTM. Without a valid certificate, you are not meeting important standards.

Risks of Using an Uncalibrated or Poorly Maintained UTM

Universal Testing Machines are very useful for quality control and material testing but they have to be maintained properly because uncalibrated or poorly maintained systems can lead to risky consequences.

Safety Hazards for Operators

A poorly maintained machine can be unpredictable and start malfunctioning, such as sudden part failure, inaccurate force application, or faulty grips, which can lead to injuries for operators. That’s why proper maintenance is important: mechanical components can work smoothly and safely without causing any threat to operators.

Invalid or Non-compliant Test Reports

Calibration not only helps in the smooth working of UTMs, but it also makes sure results are accurate and comply with national and international standards. So, if your UTM is out of calibration, the data or outcomes could be wrong or invalid. This can lead to noncompliance with industry regulations, which can result in rejected products or fines, as well as a loss of client trust.

Financial Loss Due to Product Failure or Rework

Inaccurate test results may cause good parts to be discarded or faulty ones to pass unnoticed. Both cases can lead to unnecessary costs. Additionally, poorly maintained UTMs can contribute to warranty claims or in-field failures, which also lead to financial losses.

How Often Should You Calibrate or Service Your UTM?

UTM calibration is very important, and operators cannot miss it. However, calibrating or servicing your UTM depends on things like intensity, testing environment, and industry standards. So, generally, calibration of UTM occurs in the following scenarios:

• Annually, because annual calibration is the most important and minimum standard in many industries.
• When UTMs are used in high frequency or in a critical testing environment, then calibration has to be done every six months.
• Routine maintenance checks like lubrication, gripping and software updates have to be checked every quarter or once a month, depending on their usage and needs.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your UTM

Universal Testing Machines can last a long time if you take good care of them. Proper care and use of UTMS can lead to extended service life, better accuracy, and, most importantly, safety for years to come.

Routine Inspections

Checking your machines on a regular basis and keeping an eye out always helps to identify any problems as soon as possible, such as worn-out parts or out-of-place items. You should never overlook important parts like grips, load cells, crossheads, and cables to make sure everything is working properly and safely.

Proper Operator Training

While UTMs are easy to use, proper training is required to understand the machine fully. So, make sure the user knows test procedures, setup requirements, and safety protocols. This will not only avoid unnecessary damage but also extend the machine’s life.

Scheduled Servicing and Part Replacements

UTMs require regular servicing, such as oiling, software updates, and replacement of worn-out parts such as seals, grips, and sensors. Regular maintenance is less expensive than repairing major problems when machines break down.

How Test Machines Australia Can Help?

Test Machines Australia delivers nationwide, fast-turnaround calibration and servicing for all UTM brands and vintages. We have qualified technicians for calibration, routine maintenance, or technical training, so that you don’t have the stress. We strictly follow international standards such as ISO and ASTM, so there won’t be any compliance issues. With genuine replacement parts and detailed performance assessments, we help detect and fix potential issues early, saving you time, money, and downtime.