This 1500kN capacity machine marks the completion of an investment program in 2012 costing close to £1million and has extended the companies testing capability to include testing of 50mm reinforcing bar to BS 4449.

The machine has two test spaces; one for tension and one for compression. Samples up to 1.3m in length can be accommodated. The machine features hydraulic wedge grips. The equipment comes with the latest Instron controller and Bluehill 3 software.

This machine will complement the 400kN fatigue machine installed in May to allow for static and dynamic testing of all forms of rebar, couplers and pre-stressing steel used in the UK market.