How to choose a universal tensile and compression machine
By Grant, Inspection Tool Specialists. Reviewed November 2026.
Three things decide which universal tensile and compression machine you need: the largest force you must apply, the type of test (pulling, pushing or peel), and the standard you test to. Answer those and the choice narrows to a few capacities and configurations.
We supply Sinowon universal testing machines. We do not carry every brand, so if a specification names one, tell us and we will quote the closest equivalent and say where it differs.
Tensile, compression or peel?
A tensile test pulls a specimen until it breaks or yields. A compression test pushes it. A peel test measures the force to separate two bonded layers, and it needs a peel fixture. Most laboratories and production sites need more than one, so check that the machine is configured for each test you run, not only the one you buy it for.
Capacity: match your largest force, with margin
Choose a capacity above the largest force you will apply, with a margin. A machine far larger than your loads reads coarsely at the low end. Dual-column machines are stiffer for heavier loads, while single-column machines suit lighter work and smaller specimens.
Control and software
Servo-controlled machines hold a set speed or strain and record force and displacement throughout the test. Computer servo machines report results and store them, which helps where you must keep records. Ask about the grips and fixtures you need for your specimens, and about an extensometer if you must measure modulus or strain accurately.
Our range
| Application | Suggested starting point |
|---|---|
| Benchtop tests up to 500 kg | SL-8198 benchtop tensile and compression machine, 500 kg |
| Single-column tests, lighter loads | SL-8170 single-column machine |
| Small-force tensile, compression and peel | ST-1162 small-force system, 500 kg |
| Dual-column, 500 to 2000 kg | ST-1160 dual-column machine |
| Pull and compression, computer servo | ST-1176 computer servo machine, 500 kg |
| Higher force, 50 to 200 kN | ST-1100 5-ton, 10-ton or 20-ton servo machine |
| Ultra-precision, 500 kg | ST-1179 ultra-precision servo machine |
| High-precision pneumatic, 2000 kg | ST-1169 pneumatic servo machine |
As a guide to our current range, including VAT: from about R52,500 for a benchtop 500 kg machine to about R429,700 for a 2000 kg pneumatic servo machine. Prices change, so check the product pages and confirm the grips and fixtures each quote includes.
Questions we will ask you
Tell us the specimen material and size, the largest force and the test types you need, the standard or procedure you test to, whether you need a peel or other fixture, whether you need an extensometer, and the records and software you must keep. With that we can recommend a configuration and provide pricing.