Mecmesin MultiTest-x Installation and operation manual

Start-up Manual
MultiTe t-x
testing to perfection
Version 0.4i onwards
Effective August 2007
To be used in conjunction
with the Reference Manual
on the CD provided.

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Contents
Introduction ..........................................................................................................
Hardware ..............................................................................................................
Safe Operation of MultiTest-xSystems
System Set-up and Operation
Connecting up ..........................................................................................
Loadcell ....................................................................................................
Limit Stops ................................................................................................
Control Panel ............................................................................................
Software ................................................................................................................
Booting-up the Software
Commands
i) Direct Command .....................................................................................
ii) Menu Options .......................................................................................
iii) Selecting Option within a Menu ...........................................................
iv) Typing in a Value ..................................................................................
Support ..................................................................................................................
Appendix 1 : Items included
Appendix 2 : A Guide to the Safe Use of Mains Powered Test Frames
Receiving and Unpacking .......................................................................................
Installing the Machine ............................................................................................
Operator Training....................................................................................................
Eye Protection and Protective Clothing ...................................................................
Machine Guarding .................................................................................................
Continued Safe Use ................................................................................................
Avoiding Accidental Damage to Test Frame
MultiTest-xSpecifications
1
2
2
3
3
3
5
6
6
7
7
8
8
8
9
9
11
11
12
12
12
14
14
15
15
16
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Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Introduction
Thank you for choosing this Mecmesin console-controlled MultiTest-xtest system,
which with correct use will give many years of reliable service.
The stand-alone MultiTest-xhas been designed particularly for use in production
areas, which often prove to be unsuitable environments for PC operation. This
flexible, powerful, yet easy-to use system will carry out precise test procedures ‘at
the push of a button’, then automatically display test results and pass/fail analyses.
owever, upon receiving the unit, before attempting to install it and begin testing,
please:
• Check that no obvious physical damage has been sustained by the
packaging material or the test system itself. If any damage is evident,
please notify Mecmesin or an Authorised Agent immediately.
• Before attempting to unpack or move the test system, refer to the safety
advice given in Appendix 2.
• Appendix 1 gives a list of items which should be included with your
system. If any item is missing, please notify Mecmesin or an Authorised
Agent immediately.
It is strongly recommended that all the packaging and fixings be retained for any
future transit requirements. When using the MultiTest-xsystem please ensure that
the ventilation holes situated on the back and bottom* of the unit are not
obstructed. Also attach (hand tight only) the four rubber feet to the MultiTest-x
system with the screws provided. *1-x, 2.5-x and 5-x only
Hardware
MultiTest 1-x, 2.5-xand 5-xare single-column test frames with a precision ballscrew
drive. MultiTest 10-xand MultiTest 25-xare twin-column test frames with dual
precision ballscrew drive.
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Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Safe Operation of MultiTest-xSystems
Appendix 2 gives guidance notes on the safe use of mains-powered test frames; you
should read this before proceeding any further. Within the European Union (EU), a
copy of this Appendix will, if appropriate, be supplied in a language appropriate to
your country by your local Mecmesin Agent.
Note: Although movement of the test stand crosshead can be stopped via software,
in an emergency pushing the [Emergency Stop] button on the left-hand side of the
control panel is the best method!
System Set-up and Operation
Connecting up
Connect the mains power lead to the three-pin power inlet connector at the rear of
the test stand (1), supply of power is controlled by the black rocker switch (2) above
the power inlet connector.
3
(2)
(1)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
The required power supply voltage (110-120V or 220-240V) is indicated by the
marker on the panel (3) within the fuse cartridge housing. Your local Mecmesin
representative will already have checked that the fuse cartridge has been installed
correctly for the supply voltage in your country. It is possible to modify your
MultiTest-xfor operation in a country with a different supply voltage by: turning off
the power, removing the fuse cartridge housing, checking that both fuses are fitted,
rotating the cartridge through 180º, then reassembling and reinstalling. (The marker
will now point to the new voltage rating on the cartridge panel (3).)
Communication with external equipment is via two ports on the back panel.
The nine-pin D-connector (4) is for RS232 communication with external devices
using the serial cable supplied. Choosing the ‘Print Menu’ option from the Main
Menu gives more information about configuring RS232 communication, and
downloading data to other equipment, e.g. PCs and dataloggers. The MultiTest-x
firmware can also be upgraded via this port by your agent.
The fifteen-pin D-connector (5) is for further digital input/output communication,
e.g. with PLC equipment; more information and an appropriate cable can be
obtained from your local Mecmesin distributor.
4

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Loadcell
The XLC (Xtra loadcell) connects to the MultiTest-xvia a 12-way irose connector.
Gently push the connector on the loadcell cable into the port (1) on the test stand
then twist until the connectors engage, secure the connection by twisting the
knurled connector ring clockwise. Note that the position of the port depends upon
the capacity of the MultiTest-xstand. It is: near the top of the right-hand side of the
column shroud for a MultiTest 2.5-x, about half way up the right-hand side of the
column shroud for a MultiTest 1-xand MultiTest 5-x, and for twin-column test
frames about half way up the rear face of the right-hand column.
The XLC (2a/b) measures the load applied to the test specimen and uploads data for
display on the LCD screen of MultiTest-x. XLCs with capacities of 500N or less have
an internal loadcell (2a), but those with capacities of 1kN or greater have an
external loadcell (2b).
Notes:
1. Any loadcell, particularly a low capacity loadcell, is a delicate instrument. Care
should always be taken to avoid excessive load, i.e. any load exceeding 120% of
capacity, being applied to your loadcell. If you believe that excessive load has
been applied, you should contact your local Mecmesin distributor.
2. MultiTest-xstand should be turned off before connecting or disconnecting the
XLC cable from the stand.
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Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Limit Stops
The range of travel of the crosshead can be physically limited by using ‘limit stops’,
each MultiTest-xhas both an upper limit stop and a lower limit stop. Limit stop
adjusters are illustrated above: MultiTest 1-xand MultiTest 2.5-x, use type (1),
MultiTest 5-xuses type (2), while MultiTest 10-xand MultiTest 25-xuse type (3). In
each case slacken off the black adjuster wheel, re-position appropriately, then
retighten.
If a limit stop is reached, a message, prompting the operator to drive the crosshead
in the appropriate direction, will be displayed on the control panel.
Control Panel
The MultiTest-xsoftware communicates with the operator via a four line (twenty
characters per line), LCD within the control panel.
The operator communicates with the MultiTest-xsoftware via the sixteen button
keypad on the control panel.
In an emergency the operator can stop the MultiTest-xcrosshead moving by pushing
the red [Emergency Stop] button on the left-hand side of the control panel. Normal
operation can then be restored after the system has been re-set by twisting the
[Emergency Stop] button about 60º clockwise until it releases.
6

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Software
Booting-up the Software
When the MultiTest-xis switched on, information including the serial number of the
stand, the version number of the stand and the procedures being loaded will be
displayed.
Eventually a screen similar to this,
will be displayed. This ‘tare screen’ has two options, at least one of which will need
to be selected before testing can begin. (The ‘05016312’ is the serial number of the
loadcell, and the ‘2500N’ is the capacity of the loadcell)
• Pressing the [1] key will set the value of both load and displacement to
zero.
• Pressing the [2] key will set the load value to zero
Setting load displayed to zero is particularly useful, this eliminates the weight of the
fixturing attached appearing as a systematic error on the load reading. This is, in the
case of weight, load or force called ‘taring’. Similarly, setting the displacement to
zero will establish a datum point relative to which all other positions will be
measured.
It is possible to return to this screen from the ‘live’ test screen at any time by
pressing the [(-)/Tare] key.
7

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Commands
There are four basic types of software instructions which can be entered via the
control panel:
i. A direct command
ii. Choosing a menu option
iii. Selecting an option from within a menu
iv. Typing in a value
i) Direct Command
A direct command is one to which the MultiTest-xsystem will attempt to respond
without delay. The direct commands are:
• Pressing [Jog Up] to move the crosshead up
• Pressing [Jog Dn] to move the crosshead down
• Pressing [Start/ENT] to run the current test procedure
• Pressing [Tare] to Tare load and/or displacement
• Pressing [Touch] to set the absolute zero position
• Pressing [Home] to move crosshead back to the home position
• Pressing [Batch] to enter batch/operator details
Direct commands can only be executed from the ‘live test’ screen.
ii) Menu Options
This is an example of a screen from which one of five
menu options can be chosen.
8

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Note that, as the maximum number of options which can be displayed concurrently is
four, a ‘v’ in the lower right-hand corner indicates that there is at least one more menu
option which can be displayed by pressing the [Jog Dn] key. The keys [1], [2], [3], [4]
and [5] have, in effect, been programmed to act as ‘soft keys’. (PC programs often use
the keys [F1], [F2], …[F12], like this. Also many cellphones use the top left-hand and
top right-hand keys in a similar manner)
iii) Selecting Options within a Menu
Pressing such a ‘soft key’ will not necessarily display a ‘sub menu’, it may allow the
operator to scroll through a range of available options by repeated presses of that key.
iv) Typing in a Value
Use the keypad to enter numeric values. Use the [Stop/BK SP] key to:
• erase the current value
• delete the last character of the value being entered
(Note that the system may accept entry of a value with a certain number of
characters, but fewer characters will be retained by the system. For example it may
be possible to key in a ‘Local Overload’ of 50.678N, but the system will only
‘remember’ 50.7N.)
Some screens can only be accessed by typing in a password. Information for
accessing, and operating within, these restricted screens appears in the main
operating manual.
9

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Most of the menu options and all option values entered can only be altered when
the system is in ‘supervisor mode’. It is possible for all operators to see the settings
when not on supervisor mode, however any attempt by an operator who does not
have supervisor status, to:
• toggle an option which has been selected, or
• scroll to a new option, or
• type in a new value
will not be accepted by the keypad. Under such circumstances an operator will
have no choice other than to accept the option already specified by an operator
who does have supervisor status. Titles of sections dealing with such menu options
appears within the main operating manual.
10

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Support
The operating manual will resolve the majority of the questions which are likely to arise
regarding the normal operation of your MultiTest-xsystem.
owever, in the case of a question arising which is not dealt with by this manual, your
next source of information is the Mecmesin website, click on [Literature & FAQs], then
select the [FAQs] option. Type your question into the ‘Search for question’ box and click
on the [Search] button. If the answer to your question is not displayed, you can either:
• Contact your local Mecmesin agent/distributor; this information can be found by
visiting the Mecmesin website www.mecmesin.com, clicking on the [Down arrow]
beneath ‘Find my nearest distributor’ (in the top right-hand corner of the screen) and
selecting the appropriate country from the list which is displayed.
• If your local agent is not able to answer a particular question, this question can be
emailed to [email protected].
In the unlikely event of a fault developing with your MultiTest-xsystem, or if you need
to arrange routine calibration or servicing, you should either:
• contact your local Mecmesin agent/distributor, or contact the Mecmesin calibration,
service and repair department by visiting the Mecmesin website and clicking on
[Calibration & Repair].
Appendix 1: Items included
• MultiTest-xtest frame
• XLC(s), your invoice will indicate how many
• Allen key for fixing XLC to crosshead (10-x and 25-x only)
• Four rubber feet and attachment screws (1-x, 2.5-x, and 5-x only)
• Appropriate power lead
• RS232 communication cable + USB converter
• Calibration certificate for XLC(s)
• Start-up manual (Part No. 431-369)
• Reference manual (Part No. 431-200) on CD
11

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Appendix 2 : 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 Union Directives. Visit the
Mecmesin website www.mecmesin.com to download the appropriate European
Union documentation.
Receiving and Unpacking
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. Note in particular that attempting to lift the MultiTest 5-xwithout at least two
suitable people should be avoided under all circumstances. Similarly, attempting to
lift either the MultiTest 10-xor MultiTest 25-xwithout special lifting equipment
should be avoided. Once safely removed from the packaging, the test frame should
be placed on a stable work surface; then it should be inspected for any signs of
obvious transit damage.
IF AN DAMAGE IS DISCOVERED DO NOT GO AN FURTHER WITH
INSTALLATION AND DO NOT CONNECT TO MAINS SUPPL UNDER AN
CIRCUMSTANCES
Contact your local supplier immediately who will decide the most appropriate
action to rectify the situation as quickly as possible.
Installing the Machine
After placing the machine on a stable and level work surface and in the case of the
MultiTest 5-x, bolting it down, 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 it 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.
12

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
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 EXTREMEL 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 specified on
page 18.
After the above points have been checked and confirmed to be correct, the machine
may be connected to the mains outlet using only with the mains lead supplied.
Ensure that access to the [Emergency Stop] button on the MultiTest-xcontrol panel
is never obstructed. Check its basic operation with reference to the operating
manual. Note that for test frames with a height of greater than 1 metre, customers in
Europe are required to ensure that a force of 20% of machine weight or 250newtons
(whichever is lesser) applied to the top of the machine shall not be capable of
toppling the machine, or machine and bench together. Consequently, to assist
customers who need to meet this requirement two ‘locating eyes’ are fitted to the
base casting of the MultiTest 5-x. Customers should seek advice from their local
health & safety representative when installing a MultiTest 5-x, 10-xor 25-x.
13

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Operator Training
Each person who is to use the machine should be fully trained in the safe use of
motorised testing machines. Training can be arranged by contacting Mecmesin
Limited or an Authorised Agent.
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. Fingers, hands and other parts of the body should be kept away
from the moving crosshead and shroud opening. Note that, in the case of the
MultiTest 5-x, and twin-column test frames, the concertina dust covers conceal a
potential mechanical hazard and should not be tampered with, especially when the
machine is running.
An operating test stand should never be left unattended.
Always disconnect the machine from the mains power supply when not in use to
avoid inadvertent actuation of the machine by untrained personnel.
Eye Protection and Protective Clothing
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.
14

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Machine Guarding
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 offering the required level of protection.
Continued Safe Use
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. To ensure optimal safe performance, your MultiTest-xmust be regularly
serviced, and the XLC calibrated by Mecmesin Limited or an Authorised
Agent.
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.
Note: It may occasionally become necessary to clean the outside of your test stand.
This can be done by disconnecting it from the mains electricity supply, removing
loose debris with a soft brush, then wiping with a damp cloth. Under no
circumstances should organic solvents or any other cleaning fluid be used.
15

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
Avoiding Accidental Damage to Test Frame
The MultiTest-xmust be powered down when attaching/removing the cables.
Note: no cable should exceed 3 metres in length.
When installing/moving/re-installing the test frame, note that care must be taken to:
• turn off power before removing or attaching communication/XLC cable(s)
• observe lifting precautions given in section on ‘Receiving and Unpacking’
in Appendix 2
• provide support at the base, as well as at the back of the shroud(s)
• avoid applying pressure to the adjustable limit stops or LCD display cover
• ensure that connectors which are not in use are covered at all times with
the shields provided
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY: Please refer to the ‘Literature & FAQs’ section of
the Mecmesin website for a copy of the EC Declaration of Conformity relevant to
your machine.
IF IN DOUBT CONSULT OUR LOCAL SUPPLIER TO ENSURE CONTINUED
SAFE USE
16

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
17
MultiTest 1- x 2.5- x 5- x 10- x 25- x
Rated capacity N 1000 2500 5000 10,000 25,000
kgf 100 250 500 1,000 2,500
lbf 225 550 1,100 2,200 5,500
Number of ballscrews 11122
Column spacing mm ---400 400
in ---15.7 15.7
Speed range mm/min 0.1 - 500
in/min 0.004 - 20
Throat depth* mm 67 67 95 --
in 2.6 2.6 3.7 --
Vertical daylight** mm 590 410 675 1180 1140
in 23.2 16.1 26.6 46.5 44.9
eight mm 940 750 1082 1500 1500
in 37 29.5 42.6 59.1 59.1
Width mm 290 290 328 826 826
in 11.4 11.4 12.9 32.5 32.5
Depth mm 414 414 526 512 542
in 16.3 16.3 20.7 20.2 21.3
Weight kg 19 18 38 110 140
lbs 42 40 84 243 309
Maximum power requirement watts 60 125 150 400 450
Voltage 230V AC 50 z
110V AC 60 z
MultiTest-xSpecifications
* Measured to centre line of loadcell
** Measured without loadcells or grips
(See technical datasheet 431-352 for dimension drawings)

Mecmesin MultiTest-xManual
18
MultiTest 1- x 2.5- x 5- x
Load Measurement
Available loadcell ranges N 2 - 1000 (9 models) 2 - 2500 (10 models) 2 - 5000 (11 models)
kgf 0.2 - 100 ” 0.2 - 250 ” 0.2 - 500 ”
lbf 0.45 - 225 ” 0.45 - 563 ” 0.45 - 1125 ”
MultiTest 10- x 25- x
Load Measurement
Available loadcell ranges N 50 - 10,000 (8 models) 50 - 25,000 (9 models)
kgf 0.5 - 1000 ” 0.5 - 2500 ”
lbf 11.25 - 2250 ” 11.25 - 5625 ”
Common Specifications
Crosshead speed accuracy
Load measurement resolution
Operating temperature
Position control resolution
umidity range
Compensation for system movement
Loadholding
Graphical representation
Output of test results to PC/Printer/Datalogger
Communication with PLC/Digital
Control Interface
Mecmesin reserves the right to alter equipment specifications without prior notice. E&OE
Options
Alternative speed ranges
Column gaiter
Extended columns
Extended throat depth
available upon re uest
±1% of indicated speed
1:5000 or better
10-35 degrees Centigrade
±0.01mm (±0.0004“)
Normal industry and laboratory conditions
Yes
Yes
External software
Yes, via RS232 serial port
Yes, via programmable digital ports
4 Inputs + 6 Outputs
Displacement
Crosshead travel** mm 500 330 675
in 19.7 13 26.6
Positional accuracy mm ±0.105/500 ±0.070/300 ±0.120/600
in ±0.0041/20 ±0.0028/11.8 ±0.0047/23.6
Displacement
Crosshead travel** mm 960 950
in 37.8 37.4
Positional accuracy mm ±0.050/800 ±0.050/800
in ±0.0020/31.2 ±0.0020/31.2
% of full scale(fs) N
±0.1% fs 2 - 2500N
±0.2% fs 5000 - 25000N

testing to perfection
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ver 30 years experience in force & torque technology
Formed in 1977, Mecmesin Ltd is today widely regarded as a leader in force and
torque technology for quality control testing in design and production. The Mecmesin
brand stands for excellent levels of performance and reliability, guaranteeing high quality
results. Quality control managers, designers and engineers working on production lines
and in research laboratories worldwide rely upon Mecmesin force & torque measurement
systems for a range of quality control testing applications, which is almost limitless.
Vi it u on the web at
wwwwww..mmeeccmmeeiinn..ccoomm
431-369
S.I. Instruments
256 South Rd. Hilton
South Australia 5033
Ph [phone]
[email protected]
www.si-instruments.com