MTS Exceed E45 Universal Testing Machine (50–300 kN)

Overview

The MTS Exceed E45 Universal Testing Machine is a high-performance, floor-standing electromechanical testing system engineered for precision mechanical characterization across a broad force range—from 50 kN to 300 kN. Built upon MTS’s proven Exceed platform, the E45 leverages closed-loop digital control architecture, high-stiffness structural design, and advanced servo-motor actuation to deliver repeatable, traceable, and standards-compliant tensile, compression, flexure, shear, and peel testing. Its measurement principle is based on direct-load sensing via TEDS-enabled load cells, synchronized with high-resolution displacement feedback from preloaded ball screws and optical encoders—ensuring accurate force, position, and strain control in accordance with ISO 7500-1 (Class 0.5), ASTM E4, and EN 10002-2 verification protocols. Designed for integration into quality control laboratories, R&D centers, and production environments, the E45 meets the operational rigor required for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing facilities and supports full auditability under GLP and GMP frameworks.

Key Features

• High-rigidity, floor-standing dual-column frame with optimized load path geometry for minimal deflection and superior axial alignment
• High-speed, low-vibration AC servo motor drive system with integrated planetary gearbox—capable of full-speed operation at maximum rated load
• Maintenance-free servo motor and drive amplifier compliant with IEC 61800-3 electromagnetic compatibility standards
• Precision preloaded recirculating ball screw assembly with anti-backlash design and hardened ground surfaces
• Non-clutch, continuous-drive architecture enabling seamless transition between force, displacement, and strain control modes
• Digital closed-loop controller embedded directly within the load frame—reducing signal latency and enhancing real-time responsiveness
• Ergonomic handheld console with intuitive navigation for rapid test setup, jog control, and emergency stop functionality
• TEDS (Transducer Electronic Data Sheet)-enabled load cells for automatic sensor recognition, calibration data import, and traceable metrology
• Dual-space configuration option (available on E44/E45 models) to accommodate simultaneous upper/lower test zones—minimizing changeover time between specimen types
• Integrated safety system including crosshead travel limits, overload cutoff (±110% of rated capacity), thermal protection for motor and drive, and overvoltage monitoring

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MTS Exceed E45 accommodates specimens ranging from thin polymer films and metallic foils to structural composites, fasteners, and machined metallic components. Its 600 mm test width and 1050 mm unloaded crosshead travel support standardized test geometries per ASTM D638 (tensile plastics), ASTM D3039 (composite tension), ISO 6892-1 (metallic materials), ASTM D7264 (flexural properties), and ISO 14130 (short-beam shear). Optional environmental chambers (−70 °C to +300 °C), hydraulic wedge grips, pneumatic side-action clamps, and video extensometry systems extend its applicability to dynamic, temperature-dependent, and non-contact strain measurement requirements. All configurations comply with CE Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, RoHS 2011/65/EU, and are compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic records when used with validated TestSuite TW software modules.

Software & Data Management

TestSuite TW is a modular, Windows-based testing software platform supporting multi-user role-based access control, electronic signatures, and configurable audit trails. It includes over 200 pre-validated test methods aligned with ASTM, ISO, DIN, EN, and BS standards—with automatic updates via MTS Software Subscription Service. The software enables real-time data acquisition at up to 10 kHz sampling rate, customizable report generation (PDF, Excel, XML), and seamless export to LIMS or ERP systems via ODBC and RESTful API interfaces. All test data—including raw channel streams, calibration history, operator ID, timestamped events, and instrument configuration snapshots—are stored in an encrypted SQL Server database, ensuring full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.5.2 and 21 CFR Part 11 Subpart B requirements for data integrity and long-term retention.

Applications

The MTS Exceed E45 serves as a primary mechanical test platform in diverse sectors: aerospace component validation (e.g., bolted joints, honeycomb cores); automotive material qualification (elastomeric bushings, composite leaf springs); medical device testing (sutures, stent crimping, orthopedic implant fixation); packaging integrity assessment (peel strength of laminates, seal burst pressure); and renewable energy R&D (wind blade spar cap tensile performance, photovoltaic module adhesion testing). Its dual-space capability further supports comparative evaluation of raw materials versus finished assemblies—enabling accelerated development cycles while maintaining full regulatory traceability.

FAQ

What force capacities are available for the MTS Exceed E45 series?
The E45 series offers standard force ratings of 50 kN, 100 kN, and 300 kN, with each variant certified to ISO 7500-1 Class 0.5 accuracy.
Is the system compatible with third-party extensometers or environmental chambers?
Yes—the E45 supports analog and digital inputs from all major OEM extensometers (e.g., MTS 632, Instron 2630) and integrates seamlessly with environmental chambers from MTS, ESPEC, and Weisstechnik via IEEE-488 or Ethernet/IP protocols.
Does TestSuite TW support automated pass/fail decision logic per specification limits?
Yes—users can define custom acceptance criteria (e.g., yield strength ≥ 250 MPa, elongation at break ≥ 12%) with conditional branching, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and automatic nonconformance flagging.
Can the system be validated for regulated pharmaceutical or biocompatibility testing?
Yes—when deployed with IQ/OQ/PQ documentation packages, 21 CFR Part 11 add-ons, and calibrated reference standards, the E45 meets FDA, EMA, and PMDA expectations for mechanical testing of drug delivery devices and combination products.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the ball screw and drive system?
The preloaded ball screw requires no scheduled lubrication over its service life; the AC servo motor and drive operate maintenance-free for ≥10,000 hours under normal laboratory conditions per IEC 60034-18-41 insulation class.