MTS Systems Corp

My personal preference in a materials testing system (equipment, load cells, and software) is a MTS system.
The software (if you purchase the higher end i believe developers package) is the most robust of all the materials testing systems packages. I have been able to put together much more sophisticated test methods with this software and ability to control and request the types of output data. The learning curve is a definitely more steep than other software packages, but once figured out, it is worth it for the engineer that demands a bit more sophistication to their test methods that can be pieced together in minutes (unless you resort to a Labview based or custom program such as C++, etc to gain ultimate control over your methods).

Strengths: Excellent test equipment, very robust software

Needs to improve: System is a bit pricier, but the quality is there

the main issue i have with mts is not the equipment or software, but the hassle when it comes to scheduling annual maintenance. i e-mailed twice and had to call three times before i spoke to anyone. afterwards, it took another three e-mails before anything was scheduled, and then i only had a one day notice, which didn’t work. the equipment ended up being two days overdue before the technician could come to calibrate it.

Strengths: well-versed in inner workings of MTS equipment

Needs to improve: difficult to schedule annual services

MTS is basically your no thrills, get the job done load frames.

I haven't used MTS for a few years but last time I used them, I found them to be solid machines that are capable of getting the job done. The user interface wasn't as easy as the Instron machines. The PID settings were a bit tricky for setting up but once set up, no problems. Just make sure to test it on something you don't mind wrecking before using your actual test samples.

Strengths: Long history of making testing equipment
Lots of in house knowledge
Huge company backing the products

Needs to improve: Machines can be a bit touchy when trying to set up fatigue testing Not the cheapest option out there Software interface is a bit wanting in terms of ease of use

We use some of MTS systems mechanical testers as force gauges for testing in our lab. We have been happy with their mechanical testers so far in the field but have had issues with scheduling an appointment to have the testers recalibrated and serviced. We like to recalibrate on a biannual basis and sometimes we miss our targets because their schedule is very busy and they don't have a lot of man power. Overall great product and great company however make sure you plan well in advanced to make sure all your equipment is calibrated on time especially if it is equipment that you use in any form of production line.

Strengths: mechanical testers

Needs to improve: difficult to schedule appointment

We've used the MTS Tensile tester for many years. The tester is fairly easy to use but some software packages can have a steep learning curve. MTS's are competitively priced.

There is some room for improvement in their customer service. They have been unresponsive to my inquiries about servicing the equipment. It has taken several call backs to schedule an appointment. Servie could be better.

Strengths: Robust testing software, competitively priced, plenty of accessories

Needs to improve: Customer service is not very responsive, top of the line software has a steep learning curve

We have used an MTS tensile tester and software for a couple years now. The machine has been reliable, and can easily accept custom fixutres for our specific test methods. We have a variety of load cells, and switching between cells is fairly straightforward. The software is easy to set up for simple tensile/compression tests, and can be used to program much more complicated test mehods with reasonable effort.

Strengths: Easy to use

Needs to improve: none

Most of the interaction has been with their calibration team after buying the equipment. It was difficult to get a hold of them to schedule a service date. I had to contact them 4 times before getting a response and then had to follow-up numerous times before getting a second response.

Strengths: Mechanical tester/accessories, Calibration for systems

Needs to improve: Costly

We procure a variety of testing and measurement components from MTS and have been pleased to date. The quality is great and they yield accurate data. Customer service is helpful and their knowledgeable management team always does their best to offer incentives. Accurate quotes, quick turnaround and client care keeps us coming back. Great vendor.

Strengths: product quality, accuracy, reliability, customer service, selection

Needs to improve: intricacy

i personally like using the MTS over the instron and other ones such as chatillon, testometrics, etc.
the quality of the test stands are excellent, load cells are excellent with good safety factors in place in the event of a potential overload, and the software is very customizable and more so than other test systems.

Strengths: quality test stands, software, customer service

Needs to improve: none

This is my preferred tensile tester. We have an Instron too but the MTS is my favorite. It is user friendly and the software makes it easy to create and use test programs. The load cells are durable and the stand is very easy to use. Solid tester!

Strengths: Robust software testing software package; reliable tensile tester, easy to use interface

Needs to improve: None

Reliable quality product - Pricing is competitive - Delivery was on time - Accurate quotes

Strengths: Our Quality and R&D department use their system for inspection, measuring and testing purposes. So far we have not had any issues with the instrument. Their technical assistance support is very good and responsive. Their quality is very good. Quotes are accurate. Their pricing is competitive.

Needs to improve: None

Used MTS in two R&D and one production lab. Less expensive than Instron and much less expensive to keep up to date with latest software. Systems seem stable and many load cell options are available.

Strengths: Great tensile testing equipment for a better price than competitors.

Needs to improve: Installation and service can take time due to travel of service representatives.

in terms of equipment, mts provides solid mechanical testers that are on par with others, like instron. the software can have a steep learning curve, but is much more powerful than the blue line that accompanies instron.

Strengths: tensile and compression test equipment (force gauges, stands, accessories)

Needs to improve: software is more difficult than the instron to customize

MTS' mechanical testers are just as great as its competitors. However, they are a little bit harder to use that most. So it will take some time and effort to use but the results will be satisfying.

Strengths: great compression test equipment

Needs to improve: software is hard to use.

I have used them for small load testers. They all work as they should. Their support for problems and calibration is not top notch.

Strengths: Easy to use equipment. They keep things simple

Needs to improve: Can be hard to get a hold of. Customer Service is not a strength

I find the MTS tester to be approximately equivalent to the Instron systems. Each has their own idiosyncrasies, but to me, this is a commodity item. Go with whichever company can provide the best price and delivery.

Strengths: Tension/Compression Test Machines

Needs to improve: None

We use MTS strictly for callibrating services within our labs and mfg floor equipment requiring callibration to stay within the regulated guidlines of mfg products with the equipment

Strengths: Excellent technical expertise
good customer service

Needs to improve: none

MTS systems well constructed and high quality. never have had any issues using the MTS. software is a bit harder to use, but it can do a lot

Strengths: good quality test equipment

Needs to improve: none

The Software is much better than their competitors. Easier to use with more capability. Test systems give more options per dollar.

Strengths: Great Software, Good Test equipment, Better Load Cell Costs over competitors.

Needs to improve: None

Very nice, mostly intuitive test equipment and software. Fairly easy to switch out load cells, very easy to switch clamps/jaws and to design custom fixtures.

Strengths: Reliable testers and software

Needs to improve: none