Mecmesin Orbis User manual

Published on Mecmesin Support (https://help.mecmesin.com)
Home > Orbis Closure Torque Tester Operating Manual
Support / Product / Orbis
Revision ID
126
Manual 431-262-05-L00
1

1
2
3
4
4.1
4.1.1
4.2
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.3
4.3.1
4.3.2
4.3.3
4.3.4
4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
4.3.8
4.3.9
4.3.10
4.3.11
4.3.12
4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4
4.4.5
4.4.6
4.4.7
4.5
4.6
4.6.1
4.6.2
4.6.3
4.6.4
4.6.5
4.6.6
4.6.7
4.6.8
4.7
4.7.1
4.7.2
4.8
4.8.1
4.8.2
4.8.3
4.8.4
4.8.5
4.9
Introduction
Before Use
Operation
Maintenance
Assembly of the Orbis
Fitting Instructions for the Orbis Top Plate
Powering the Orbis
Replacing rechargeable batteries
Low battery warning
Mains operation
Using the Orbis
Fitting accessories
Powering up
Clockwise and Counter-clockwise Values
Zeroing the Orbis
Changing the unit of measurement
Max (peak) readings
‘Max’ mode
Dual Max
Max Clockwise Torque
Max Counter-clockwise Torque
'Normal’ mode
Data Output
Optional Settings - ‘Hot Keys’
Backlit Display
Auto-off
Invert Display
Locking and unlocking ‘Max’ mode
Locking and unlocking the unit of measurement
Removal of minus sign for counter-clockwise (release torque) measurements
Torque Sensor Diagnostic test
RS232 Commands Table: Configuration
RS232 Command Responses: Information
Command: M
Command: U
Command: C
Command: @
TXD-SIGN 1 options explained below:
BACKLIGHT 1 options explained below:
AUTO-OFF 1 options explained below:
INVERT 1 options explained below:
Dimensions
Side View
Top View
Orbis Specifications
Range & Units Of Measurement
Accuracy
Output
Adaptor/Charger Unit
Water Resistance
Communications Cables
2

1Introduction
Thank you for choosing Mecmesin’s Orbis Digital Torque Tester. With correct use and regular re-calibration it will
give many years of accurate and reliable service.
The Orbis has been specifically designed as a high-accuracy, portable instrument for measuring clockwise and
counter-clockwise torques. Using the latest integrated circuit technology and intuitive programming, the Orbis is
easy to use by all operators.
3

2Before Use
Upon receiving the unit please check that no physical damage has occurred to the packaging material, plastic case
or the instrument itself. If any damage is evident please notify Mecmesin immediately.
4

3Operation
The most commonly used features such as displaying torque, peak hold, zero and changing of displayed units can
all be done by pressing single dedicated keys on the front panel.
For less frequently used features a number of ‘hot keys’ are provided, whereby the operator simply presses and
holds an appropriate key upon startup to enable a gauge option.
5

4
4.1
4.1.1
Maintenance
When cleaning the keypad care must be taken to avoid liquids, especially alcohols, seeping around the edge of
the membrane. Therefore, we recommend the use of a lightly dampened cloth to avoid liquid spillage onto the
membrane.
Assembly of the Orbis
Unscrew the top plate handle so that the peg holders move towards the outside edge of the plate. Align the top
plate with the torque drive so that the handle is on the left-hand side of the top plate. Using the 2.5mm Allen key
(provided), tighten the four-socket countersunk screws hand tight.
When the Orbis is in transit, the top plate is removed to avoid damage to the torque sensor.When the Orbis is in transit, the top plate is removed to avoid damage to the torque sensor.
Fitting Instructions for the Orbis Top Plate
Step 1: Orbis with torque drive shown.
Step 2: Align top plate with torque drive. The handle is positioned to the left.
6

Step 3: Tighten screws hand-tight only.
Step 4: For use of Orbis with handle at front, repeat steps 1 to 3 but position top plate accordingly during step 2.
7

4.2
4.2.1
4.2.2
Powering the Orbis
The Orbis is supplied with a set of 5 Nickel Metal Hydride AAA rechargeable batteries, which are supplied fully
charged to allow use straight from the box. Do not use any other battery charger other than that supplied with
the torque tester.
Replacing rechargeable batteries
Under normal circumstances these rechargeable batteries will not need to be replaced. However, if required, to
replace the rechargeable batteries you must first remove the base plate on the base of the torque tester by
removing the 6 retaining screws. This will reveal a retaining plate.
Remove this by releasing the 2 screws on the retaining plate. Remove the fitted rechargeable batteries and fit the
5 new rechargeable batteries in the battery holder, ensuring that you observe polarity and the batteries are
placed on top of the ‘release tag’ and they will be freed from the spring-loaded contacts.
Refit the retaining plate and tighten the 2 screws. Refit the base plate and tighten the 6 retaining screws.
Connect the mains adaptor/charger to the Orbis charger socket located at the right hand side of the torque tester
next to the display and charge the new set of rechargeable batteries for 14 - 16 hours. Only use the
adaptor/charger supplied. A fully charged battery pack will provide approximately 20 hours constant use between
charges.
Low battery warning
A low battery symbol will appear in the display approximately 2 minutes before the torque tester powers down
automatically. See Fig. 1, below.
8

4.2.3
4.3
4.3.1
4.3.2
Mains operation
The Orbis may also be powered directly from the mains. Simply maintain the mains adaptor/charger connection to
your mains supply as above. Only use the adaptor/charger supplied.
Using the Orbis
The Orbis is supplied with 4 pegs which grip the sample during testing.
Fitting accessories
Screw the pegs into the runners on the top fixture equally spaced to ensure the sample is securely gripped when
the runners are brought together using the star handle on the end of the lead screws.
Ensure that the pillars are finger tight and the sample securely clamped, otherwise rotation in the fixture will occur
during testing.
Powering up
As shown in Fig. 1, the control panel has 6 keys:
9

To power up the Orbis press the red
key. A short self test runs during which the display will show the capacity in ‘N.m’ (newton metres).
10

4.3.3
After the self test, providing no torque has been applied to the instrument, the display will show all zeros. This is
because the Orbis re-zeros itself during the self test routine.
If a torque is applied rotationally via the fixture, the reading on the display will register the applied torque.
* * Do not overload Do not overload the torque sensor, as this could cause irreparable damage.
Loads greater than 120% of full-scale will produce an audible beep until load is released and an OL symbol will
appear on the display for 30 seconds.for 30 seconds.
Loads greater than 150% of full-scale will produce an audible beep until load is released and an OL symbol will
appear permanently permanently on the display. Consult your supplier to arrange repair.
To power down the Orbis press the red
key.
Clockwise and Counter-clockwise Values
Clockwise torque is displayed on the Orbis and recognised by the symbol shown in Fig. 2.
11

4.3.4
4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
4.3.8
Counter-clockwise torque is displayed on the Orbis and recognised by the symbol shown in Fig. 3c.
A torque indicator bar alerts the operator to how much load has been applied to the torque sensor. As the load
approaches the maximum rating of the torque sensor, the indicator bar changes appearance when above
approximately 80% of the rated capacity. This warns the operator that steps should be taken to prevent excessive
torque being applied.
When applying clockwise torque, the indicator bar begins solid in appearance, then becomes striped when the
capacity is approached. When applying counter-clockwise torque, the indicator bar begins striped, then becomes
solid - see Fig. 3b & 3c.
If the Orbis has suffered a serious overload condition, the torque indicator bar will be partially displayed evenIf the Orbis has suffered a serious overload condition, the torque indicator bar will be partially displayed even
when no torque is present. This is a warning that the torque sensor is damaged and you should immediatelywhen no torque is present. This is a warning that the torque sensor is damaged and you should immediately
contact your supplier to arrange repair.contact your supplier to arrange repair.
Zeroing the Orbis
During operation of the Orbis, it is sometimes necessary to zero the display - e.g. when you wish to tare out a
displayed torque applied by the sample, so it does not become part of the measured reading. Press and release
the ZERO ZERO key. The display will freeze whilst the key is pressed.
Changing the unit of measurement
You can choose from the following units of measurement: N.m, N.cm, mN.m, gf.cm, kgf.cm, kgf.m, lbf.ft, lbf.in,
ozf. in.
To change the displayed units, press and release the UNITS UNITS key. Each successive key press will select the next
available units until the Orbis returns to its original setting. The Orbis automatically converts readings as new units
of measurement are selected.
Max (peak) readings
The Orbis detects and stores maximum (peak) torque in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.
‘Max’ mode
Press the MAX MAX key. The display will show the word MAX MAX together with the highest counter-clockwise torque and
the highest clockwise torque detected during the test. The current load being applied to the torque sensor is also
displayed - see Fig. 3a
Dual Max
12

4.3.9
4.3.10
4.3.11
Max Clockwise Torque
Press the MAX MAX key again, and the display will show the maximum clockwise torque identified by its symbol.
Max Counter-clockwise Torque
Press the MAX MAX key again, and the display will show the maximum counter-clockwise torque identified by its
symbol.
'Normal’ mode
Press the MAX MAX key again, and the word MAX MAX has now disappeared from the display. The display will now indicate
torque of either direction, as it is applied, maintaining a ‘running’ display.
Press the RESET RESET key to clear both maximum registers and prepare for detecting the next maximum readings.
13

4.3.12
4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
Data Output
The Orbis has RS232, Digimatic and analogue output signals. It is possible to transmit the displayed reading to
peripheral devices (e.g. PC, printer) by pressing and releasing the TXD TXD key.
Displayed readings can also be requested individually from a PC via the RS232 interface by sending a “?”
character. See page 13. When using the Orbis for creating a graphical presentation of data, ensure that the
normal mode, and not a max mode, is selected.
For sending a continuous data stream to a PC, press and hold the TXD TXD key for 2 seconds. TX will now appear in
the display to indicate that data is being sent. To stop sending data, simply press and release the TXD TXD key, at
which point TX will disappear from the display.
Please note that the continuous data stream only starts when approximately 2% of the rated capacity of the Orbis
is reached.
Orbis uses 9600 Baud 8 data bits, 1 start bit 1 stop bit and no parity.Orbis uses 9600 Baud 8 data bits, 1 start bit 1 stop bit and no parity.
A full range of data cables are available to connect the Orbis to peripheral devices. Please contact yourA full range of data cables are available to connect the Orbis to peripheral devices. Please contact your
supplier for further information.supplier for further information.
Optional Settings - ‘Hot Keys’
Backlit Display
It is possible to activate a back-light on the Orbis display. Press and hold RESET RESET whilst powering up the Orbis with
the
key. The back-light is now operating.
Please note that battery consumption is doubled when using the back-light.
Auto-off
To conserve battery power, it is possible to activate an Auto-off function. This causes the Orbis to power down
automatically 5 minutes after the last key press, or 5 minutes after the last application of a torque greater than 2%
of full capacity.
Press and hold ZERO ZERO whilst powering up the Orbis with the
14

4.4.3
4.4.4
key. The symbol ‘Ao’ will appear in the display to indicate Auto-off is active.
Invert Display
It may be desirable to invert the display, so that it may be easily read upside down. By pressing and holding MAXMAX
whilst powering up the Orbis with the
key, the display is inverted.
Locking and unlocking ‘Max’ mode
Once the desired Max display mode has been selected, it is possible to lock the mode, so that further pressing
the MAX MAX key results in no change.
Press and hold RESET RESET and MAX MAX keys simultaneously whilst powering up the Orbis with the
15

4.4.5
key. ‘MAX KEY LOCKED’ will appear on the display until the ‘Hot Keys’ are released. The Max display mode is
now locked.
To unlock the Max display mode, repeat as above. ‘MAX KEY UNLOCKED’ will appear on the display until the
‘Hot Keys’ are released.
Locking and unlocking the unit of measurement
Once the desired unit of measurement has been selected, it is possible to lock the units, so that further pressing
the UNITS UNITS key results in no change.
Press and hold RESET RESET and UNITS UNITS keys simultaneously whilst powering up the Orbis with the
key. ‘UNITS KEY LOCKED’ will appear on the display until the ‘Hot Keys’ are released. The units are now locked.
To unlock the units, repeat as above. ‘UNITS KEY UNLOCKED’ will appear on the display until the ‘Hot Keys’ are
16

4.4.6
4.4.7
released.
Removal of minus sign for counter-clockwise (release torque) measurements
To differentiate between clockwise and counter-clockwise measurements when transmitted to peripheral devices,
counter-clockwise results may be prefixed with a minus sign. Press and hold the TXD TXD key whilst powering up the
Orbis with the
key. The display will show TX SIGN OFF and ON. This will transmit a negative sign for counter-clockwise readings
if set to ON. Use the TXD TXD key to position the arrow cursor against the desired selection and press the RESET RESET key.
The display will continue to the main menu.
Torque Sensor Diagnostic test
If you suspect that your torque sensor has sustained an overload, it is possible to check the status of the torque
sensor immediately.
Symptoms of overload may be (a) OL in display (b) buzzer sound (c) torque indicator bar present even under zero
load.
Place the Orbis horizontally on a flat, level surface. Press and hold the UNITS UNITS key whilst powering up the Orbis
with the
17

4.5
key.
The torque sensor diagnostic test screen will appear on the display, as shown in Fig. 4.
The offset value provides an indication of the condition of the torque sensor, and is defined as the % difference
between the critical zero and the current reading.
If the offset is between 5 - 10 %, please contact your supplier to arrange a re-calibration of your Orbis.
If the offset is greater than 10 %, please contact your supplier to arrange for a torque sensor replacement.
These values are given as an indicator only - the need for calibration/repair may vary according to the individual
characteristics of the torque sensor.
In addition to the offset, the number of overloads (OL) experienced by the torque sensor in both clockwise and
counter-clockwise directions are displayed. An overload is registered when a torque exceeding 150% of the rated
capacity of the torque sensor is applied in either direction. To exit the torque sensor diagnostic test screen, press
MAXMAX.
RS232 Commands Table: Configuration
It is possible to remotely configure the setting of your Orbis by sending the following RS232 command characters:
Character in ASCIICharacter in ASCII DecimalDecimal HexadecimalHexadecimal FunctionFunction
18

4.6
4.6.1
4.6.2
4.6.3
M 77 0x4D Current mode
U 85 0x55 Current units
C 67 0x43 Torque sensor capacity
@ 64 0x40 Configuration status
request
* 42 0x2A Continuous transmit
r 114 0x72 Normal Screen
s 115 0x73 Dual Max
t 116 0x74 Max Clockwise
u 117 0x75 Max Counter-clockwise
a 97 0x61 N.m
b 98 0x62 N.cm
c 99 0x63 mN.m
d 100 0x64 gf.cm
e 101 0x65 kgf.cm
f 102 0x66 kgf.m
g 103 0x67 ozf.in
h 104 0x68 lbf.ft
i 105 0x69 lbf.in
? 63 0x3F Transmit the current
reading
CTRL a 1 0x01 TXD TXD key
CTRL b 2 0x02 UNITS UNITS key
CTRL c 3 0x03 MAX MAX key
CTRL d 4 0x04 RESET RESET key
CTRL e 5 0x05 ZERO ZERO key
RS232 Command Responses: Information
It is possible to remotely interrogate your Orbis by sending the following RS232 commands. This will inform you
which settings are currently configured.
Command: M
ResponseResponse Orbis Display ModeOrbis Display Mode
Normal Normal Mode
MaxC Max Counter-clockwise
MaxT Max Clockwise
MaxDual Dual Max Screen
Command: U
Response for TorqueResponse for Torque
SensorSensor
N.m
N.cm
mN.m
gf.cm
kgf.cm
kgf.m
lbf.ft
lbf.in
ozf.in
Command: C
The torque sensor size, in the current selected units.
Note: Note: ‘xxxx’ will be transmitted if the torque sensor is not calibrated or has a serious fault. Contact Mecmesin or
your supplier.
19

4.6.4
4.6.5
4.6.6
4.6.7
4.6.8
4.7
Command: @
When all options are OFF, and the Orbis is set at defaults, you will receive the following information listing:
ResponseResponse Explanation of ResponseExplanation of Response
ORBIS Gauge type
6N.m Torque sensor size in N.m as per
transmitting ‘C’
V01 Version number
Normal Mode of operation as per transmitting ‘M’
FunctionFunction Default SettingDefault Setting
TXD -SIGN OFF
BACKLIGHT OFF
AUTO-OFF OFF
INVERT OFF
TXD-SIGN 1 options explained below:
TXD-SIGN 1TXD-SIGN 1
1 Transmit minus sign, ON or OFF
BACKLIGHT 1 options explained below:
BACKLIGHT 1BACKLIGHT 1
1 Backlight enabled, ON or OFF
AUTO-OFF 1 options explained below:
AUTO-OFF 1AUTO-OFF 1
1 Auto-off time, OFF or 5 mins
INVERT 1 options explained below:
INVERT 1INVERT 1
1 Display inverted, ON or OFF
Dimensions
20