This beam is adjusted by means of a poise running on a screw.

In operation the beam is kept floating by means of another poise moved back and forth by a screw which is operated by a hand wheel or automatically.

The larger units of stress are read from the graduations along the side of the beam, while the intermediate smaller weights are observed on the dial on the rear end of the beam.
The machine is driven by power from a shaft or a motor and is so geared that various speeds are obtainable.

One man can operate it.
In making tests the operation of the straining screws is always downward so as to bring pressure to bear upon the weighing platform.

For tests in tension and cleavage the specimen is placed between the top of the stationary cage and the movable head and subjected to a pull.