Mecmesin MultiTest 1 User manual

It is essential that you
familiarise yourself with the
contents of these instructions
before attempting to
operate the MultiTest 1.
MultiTest 1
Motorised Test Frame
Operating Instructions

page 1
Contents
Operating Instructions 2
Force Gauges, Loadcells & Fixturing 4
Communication with External Devices 4
MultiTest 1 Technical Specifications 5
Appendices 6
Packing Instructions 8
Introduction
Thank you for choosing this Mecmesin test frame, with correct use it will give many years of
reliable service. Upon receiving the unit please check that no obvious physical damage has been
sustained by the packaging material or the test frame itself. If any damage is evident, or if any of
the items in Appendix 2 are missing, please notify Mecmesin or their Authorised Agent
immediately.
We strongly recommend that all the packaging and fixings are retained for any future transit
requirements. When using the MultiTest 1 please ensure that the ventilation holes situated on the
back and bottom of the unit are not obstructed. Also attach the four rubber feet to the MultiTest 1
with the screws provided (Do not over-tighten screws)
Before Use
Appendix 1 gives guidance notes on the safe use of mains powered test frames, which should
be read before proceeding any further. Within the European Union (EU), a copy of this Appendix
is supplied in a language appropriate to your country. Failure to adhere to the guidelines for safe
use given in these operating instructions may result in irreparable damage to the unit and personal
injury to the operator.

page 2
INTRODUCTION TO
THE MULTITEST 1
OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Speed setting
Start-up Procedure
Emergency Stop
The MultiTest 1 is a single column ballscrew-driven test frame
with a load rating of up to 1000 newtons (N). It must not be
used with load ratings above 1000N. Complemented by a
Mecmesin loadcell or force gauge (as illustrated in the
photograph on the front cover), together with special fixtures
and accessories, it constitutes a key component in force
measurement systems suitable for accurately reproducing the
testing of a wide range of products.
There is only one standard model of the MultiTest 1. The
dimensions, speed range and capacity have been carefully
optimised to cover the test procedures and specimen sizes most
often needed by quality departments within many sectors of
manufacturing industry.
The MultiTest 1 has been designed and manufactured in a
controlled system to ensure compliance with all relevant
European Community Directives.
The MultiTest 1 has a single variable speed control for both
upward and downward directions. Speed can be set and
controlled by the knob (A, in fig.1) on the front panel. The white
pointer on the speed control knob gives an indication of the
speed setting. Some test Standards place particular
requirements upon speed accuracy/reproducibility, which may
exceed the normal performance of the MultiTest 1. Under such
circumstances calibration of each individual test stand may be
appropriate.
Set the limit switches (B, in fig 1); turn each thumbscrew
anticlockwise, move to approximately 50mm either side of the
moving crosshead (C, in fig.1) and re-tighten.
Check voltage selected is correct.
Connect your MultiTest 1 to an appropriate mains supply, turn
on the power switch (a, in fig 2.) The green power bar should
illuminate.
Pressing the red ‘Emergency Stop’ button will, at any time, stop
the crosshead moving.
To disengage the stop button turn either clockwise or
anticlockwise and then release.
It is advisable to check and become familiar with the operation
of the Emergency Stop once the system is connected to the
appropriate mains supply.

Set the ‘Mode’ rocker switch (F,in fig.1) to ‘Manual Control’
(upper position) and set the speed control knob to a mid-range
position (with pointer close to 12 o’clock). Hold the
‘Start/Stop’ centre-biased toggle switch (G, in fig.1) in either
the ‘Up’ or ‘Down’ position. A red LED (H, in fig 1) will
illuminate showing that the crosshead is moving, and
indicating the direction of travel. Releasing the Start/Stop
switch will stop the crosshead moving.
Set the Mode switch (F, in fig. 1) to ‘Single Cycle’ (lower
position), move the ‘Start/Stop’ switch (G, in fig. 1) to the ‘Up’
or ‘Down’ position and then release. The crosshead will move
and the LED indicating direction of travel will illuminate. When
a limit switch position is reached, the crosshead will begin to
travel in the opposite direction at full speed. When the position
of the other limit switch is reached, the motor will stop and the
crosshead will come to rest. During the cycle, setting the Mode
switch to ‘Manual Control’, or selecting either the ‘Up’ or’
Down’ position will stop the crosshead moving.
Manual operation
Single Cycle Operations
Note: Do not push or pull the
limit switches with your hand to
stop the stand - use the start/stop
switch
page 3
B - Upper limit
switch at rear
C - Crosshead
B - Lower limit
switch at rear
Fig.1
E F A H G
Front control
panel of
MultiTest 1
B
B
C - Crosshead

page 4
FORCE GAUGES,
LOADCELLS &
FIXTURING
Note: Loadcells and force gauges
are delicate pieces of equipment
and can easily be damaged
irreparably.
COMMUNICATION
WITH EXTERNAL
DEVICES
Note: The external cable must not
exceed 3 metres in length.
You will need to attach a force measuring device to your
MultiTest 1; this will usually be an Advanced Force Gauge
(AFG), Basic Force Gauge BFG) or an S-beam loadcell. Attach
an AFG or BFG by screwing a dovetail bracket to the back of
the gauge, slide it (with the loadcell stud pointing downwards)
onto the moving crosshead dovetail (C, in fig. 1), and then
tighten with the Allen key provided. Attach an S-beam loadcell
by screwing it into a tensionblock module, then proceed as for
attaching a gauge. If you have purchased special fixturing,
attach this to the gauge/loadcell and/or your MultiTest 1.
One way of causing irreparable damage would be to drive the
test frame downwards until the loadcell (or loadcell stud on
AFG & BFG instruments) hits something ‘solid’. This is a risk
when a user is not yet familiar with operating a new test frame.
Consequently it is essential to set the limit switches (B, in fig. 1),
so that upwards/downward travel of the crosshead is limited
to prevent over travel and drive the gauge into the grips, stand
or apply excessive load to the sample. Adjust the limit switches
(B, in fig. 1) according to your sample dimensions and testing
requirements.
There is an external control port at the rear of the MultiTest 1.
The Display Unit Interface (b,in fig.2) enables the MultiTest 1 to
respond, via the appropriate Mecmesin cable, to signals from
an AFG. For further information please refer to the AFG
Operating Instructions.
Fig.2
a. Power
On/Off switch
b. Display unit
interface
The MultiTest 1 must be
powered off when
attaching or disconnecting
the cable. When the
display unit interface is
not in use please ensure
that it is covered with the
supplied shield at all
times.

page 5
MULTITEST 1 SPECIFICATIONS
Load capacity 1000N/100kgf/220lbf
Power consumption 60 watts (maximum)
Weight (stand only) 20kg (44lb)
CROSSHEAD MOTION
Travel range 500mm (19.68in)
Maximum daylight 630mm (24.80in)
Maximum headroom 510mm (20.08in)
Speed range 2.5 - 1000mm/min
Up and down settings by toggle switch
Stand speed indicated by potentiometer/graduated dial
Direction of travel indicated LED
Limit switch repeatability < 0.5mm (0.020in)
Over-run at top speed < 2mm (0.08in)
Operating modes Manual & single cycle with fast return
Reverse on alarm point Yes, with AFG or AFTI cable
Reverse on sample break Yes, with AFG or AFTI cable
ENVIRONMENTAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
Temperature range 5ºC to 40ºC
Humidity < 92.5%
STANDARD LOAD MEASUREMENT OPTIONS
Force Gauge and dovetail bracket Yes
Anvil plate Yes
S-beam Loadcell, tension
block module & AFTI Yes
SPECIAL OPTIONS
Increased crosshead travel No
Increased crosshead depth Yes, reduced load capacity
Machine guard Yes
Horizontal operation Yes
Simple logging/plotting PC software DataPlot (see document M/501201)
Full computer control MultiTest 1-
i
Internal storage of test programs MultiTest 1- x

page 6
APPENDIX 1 A GUIDE TO THE SAFE USE OF MAINS POWERED TEST FRAMES
MECMESIN TEST FRAMES HAVE BEEN DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN A CONTROLLED SYSTEM
TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH ALL RELEVANT EUROPEAN COMMUNITY DIRECTIVES.
To downlaod a copy of the EC declaration of conformity, please go to www.mecmesin.com in the Literature
& FAQ section, then double-click on Certificates of Conformity.
Receiving and Unpacking
1 Upon receiving the Mecmesin test frame ensure adequate equipment is available to safely lift the test
frame from the packaging. Trying to lift heavy items without adequate assistance or the correct
equipment may lead to accidental personal injury.
2 Once safely removed from the packaging place the test frame on a stable and level work surface. Inspect
the machine for any signs of obvious transit damage.
IF ANY DAMAGE IS DISCOVERED DO NOT GO ANY FURTHER WITH INSTALLATION AND DO NOT
CONNECT TO MAINS SUPPLY UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
Contact your local supplier immediately who will decide the most appropriate action to rectify the situation as
quickly as possible.
Installing the Machine
3 After placing the machine on a stable and level work surface, check that the mains inlet voltage
corresponds to your electrical installation - either 230 Vac or 110 Vac. The machine has a label close
to the mains inlet connector which advises which voltage is set for.
If the machine does not correspond to your supply, inform your local Mecmesin supplier who will rectify
the situation. Connecting a mains powered test frame to the wrong supply will almost certainly cause
extensive damage to the equipment.
The Mecmesin test frames must only ever be connected to a mains power installation that has a fully
installed earthing system.
CONNECTING A MAINS POWERED TEST FRAME TO AN ELECTRICAL POWER OUTLET WITHOUT AN
EARTH CONNECTION IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND COULD LEAD TO A RISK OF ELECTROCUTION.
Mecmesin test frames should only ever be installed in suitable environmental conditions. The
operating temperature should be within the range 5ºC to 40ºC and the relative humidity should not
exceed 92.5%.
After all the above points have been checked and confirmed to be correct you may connect the
machine to the mains outlet only with the supplied mains lead.
When power is applied with the ON/OFF switch in the ‘ON’ position the mains indicator light will illuminate.
This shows power is reaching the machine and it is therefore ready for use.
Check its basic operation with reference to the operating manual.
Operator Training
4 Each person who is to use the machine should be fully trained in the safe use of the motorised testing
machines. The machine has the ability to generate forces large enough to cause permanent damage to
human limbs if placed between the crosshead and the base.

page 7
APPENDIX 1 A GUIDE TO THE SAFE USE OF MAINS POWERED TEST FRAMES
Always disconnect the machine from the mains power supply when not in use to avoid inadvertent actuation
of the machine by untrained personnel.
Protective Clothing
5 Eye protection should always be used in the form of an approved pair of safety spectacles.
They should be replaced if they are scratched or damaged in any way. They should be kept clean and
clear to give maximum visibility to the user.
Extra bodily protection may be necessary if destructive testing or volatile failure of a test piece is likely. A risk
assessment should be carried out prior to using the test frame to ensure that all necessary safety measures have
been considered and carried out.
Machine Guarding
6 If, after the assessment, it is considered that machine guarding is needed, then contact your local
supplier who, through Mecmesin, can arrange the supply of a suitable guard for the required level
of protection.
Continued Safe Use
7 Once the machine is installed it should provide a reliable long term resource for universal testing. If
however the machine fails, or appears to behave in an unusual manner, contact your local supplier for
support. Do not continue to use the machine until it has been checked, and if necessary, repaired and
returned to a safe working condition.
8 If the machine is damaged in use, advise your local supplier and have the machine repaired to a safe
working condition. Do not use the machine until it is repaired.
9. The MultiTest 1 has not been designed for long duration tests at high speed and/or maximum load. A
higher capacity stand (MultiTest 2.5) would be recommended for this type of application.
IF IN DOUBT CONSULT YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIER TO ENSURE CONTINUED SAFE USE
CAUTION: Hands must be kept clear of the crosshead and shroud opening at all times during
machine operation.
LIFTING INSTRUCTIONS: Before attempting to lift the MultiTest 1 turn off the power switch and unplug from
the mains. When lifting the MultiTest 1, support must be provided at the base, as well as at the back of the
shroud, with care being taken to avoid pressing against the adjustable limit switches.

PACKING INSTRUCTIONS FOR MULTITEST 1 AND MULTITEST 2.5 MOTORISED TEST FRAMES
WHEN RETURNING TO MECMESIN LIMITED
1. Set the Crosshead to approximately the centre of the test frame. Remove the four rubber feet from
the base.
2. Place the plastic foam collar over the column ensuring that the collar does not hang over the
base casting.
3. Lay the test frame into the smaller box with the control panel facing upwards and with the base
facing the end with the four holes.
4. Position the wooden back plate on to the box and retain the plate through the box to the base
casting using four M6x35 socket-head screws fitted with large M6 plain washers.
5. Place all accessories listed to be despatched with the stand in the box with the test frame,
including the feet. Ensure that the accessories and operators manual/handbook are suitably
wrapped for protection in transit.
6. Place two of the four plastic foam spacers into the outside box so that they will support the
ends of the inner box (longest sides uppermost).
7. Carefully place inner box into outer box, ensuring that inner box rests evenly on foam spacers.
8. Close and then seal the inner box with a suitable adhesive tape.
9. Place the remaining two foam spacers over the ends of the inner box, so they will support the
ends as per the bottom two spacers.
10. Close and then seal the outer box with a suitable adhesive tape.
11. Attach despatch wallet with relevant paperwork for end destination.
page 8

APPENDIX 2 YOUR MULTITEST 1 SHOULD BE SUPPLIED WITH THE FOLLOWING ACCESSORIES
• These operating instructions.
• Translation of Appendix 1 (does not apply to English speaking countries, or
countries outside the European Union (EU).
• Dovetail bracket (fitted to the crosshead).
• Appropriate mains cable.
• Allen key for crosshead dovetail.
• Four rubber feet, four attachment screws and Allen key if necessary.
If you have any feedback regarding Mecmesin, its products and services, which you
would like to share with us, please contact us at
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page 9

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Force and Torque Test Solutions
DEALER STAMP
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S.I. Instruments
256 South Rd. Hilton
South Australia 5033
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