5980 Series Universal Testing System
Up to 600 kN Force Capacity
The 5980 Series electromechanical universal testing systems are designed for demanding, high-force testing applications — delivering up to 600 kN capacity for tensile, compression, bend, peel, shear, tear, creep, and cyclic tests on raw materials and finished goods. Engineered for precision and built for long-term durability, these floor model systems are trusted in some of the most demanding testing environments in aerospace, automotive, metals, and composites.
Built for High-Strength Materials
The 5980 Series features a robust, heavy-duty frame specifically designed for testing high-strength metals and alloys, advanced composites, aerospace and automotive structures, bolts, fasteners, and plate steels. Frame stiffness is a key performance advantage for this class of material — a compliant frame stores energy during a test, affecting the accuracy of modulus and strain measurements and the behavior of the system at high forces.
The 5980 Series frame is engineered to minimize this effect through pre-loaded bearings and precision ball screws, a thick crosshead and base beam, and low-stretch drive belts. Together, these design elements produce more accurate modulus and strain values, minimize stored energy during testing, and contribute to the long-term mechanical integrity of the system.
Key Features
- Measurement Accuracy Load measurement accuracy of ±0.5% of reading down to 1/1000 of load cell capacity, with synchronized data acquisition rates of up to 2,500 points per second — ensuring reliable, high-resolution data even during fast or dynamic events.
- Standards Compliance Meets or exceeds the requirements of all major national and international testing standards, including ISO, ASTM, BS, DIN, EN, and AFNOR.
- Accessories Compatible with thousands of grips, fixtures, extensometers, and accessories covering virtually any application or industry — including biomedical, automotive, electronics, plastics, metals, composites, elastomers, aerospace, and textiles.
- Ergonomic Handset An ergonomic handset with a fine position adjustment wheel, two programmable softkeys, and start, stop, return, and variable speed jog functions gives operators precise control at the test frame.
- Global Service Support Backed by Instron's worldwide network of factory-trained Field Service Engineers, delivering calibrations, preventative maintenance, training, and technical support.
Software
The 5980 Series ships with Bluehill® Universal, Instron's latest static testing software, with an optional operator dashboard optimized for touch interface interaction. Bluehill Universal simplifies test setup and reporting while ensuring compliance with the latest revisions of testing standards.
Instron Connect remote support is built directly into Bluehill Universal, enabling Instron Field Service Engineers to diagnose issues, review system data, and provide technical assistance without requiring an on-site visit — reducing downtime and accelerating resolution.
Safety
Operator safety is fundamental to the design of every Instron testing system. The 5980 Series incorporates multiple layers of protection for both operators and equipment:
- E-stop and dual limit switches provide immediate system shutdown capability
- Optional debris shields protect operators from material fragments during high-energy failures
- Pneumatic grip jaw-face shields reduce pinch hazards during specimen loading
- Specimen Protect prevents excessive forces from being applied to the specimen during setup, protecting critical or irreplaceable specimens from damage
- Automatic load cell protection — the 5980 Series frame automatically detects and stops at maximum load cell capacity, preventing damage to the load cell, system, or accessories
Specifications
| Model | 5988 | 5989 |
| Force Capacity | 400 kN | 600 kN |
| Vertical Test Space | 2050 mm | 2000 mm |
| Horizontal Test Space | 762 mm | 762 mm |
| Testing Speed Range Min-Max (Return) | 0.0001-508 (508) mm/min | 0.0001-508 (508) mm/min |
| Height | 3128 mm | 3128 mm |
| Width This is the system footprint width. The Operator Dashboard monitor may add 300 mm (12 in) to the overall width of the frame. | 1594 mm | 1594 mm |
| Depth | 964 mm | 964 mm |
Talk to an Instron Expert
Whether you are specifying a new high-force testing system or looking to replace aging equipment, our team can help you identify the right 5980 Series configuration for your materials, standards, and throughput requirements.
Contact Our Sales Department.
Please complete the form below and we will be happy to contact you with a response. Our typical response time for an online request is within 1-2 business days. For a faster response, please call +1-800-473-7838.
