MTS 318 Load Unit - Manual (Page 70)

318 Load Unit 70 Operation
6. Fully install the dummy specimen in the lower grip.
7. Cycle the lower grip control between the clamp and unclamp positions to
clamp and unclamp the specimen.
A. Watch the speed at which the lower grip clamps and unclamps the
specimen.
B. Adjust the Rate control counterclockwise for the desired speed.
318 Load Unit: Adjust the Grips’ Clamp Force
The Pressure control adjusts the hydraulic pressure applied to the grips. The
Rate control adjusts the grips’ clamping speed. They must be adjusted before the
grips can be used.
The amount of hydraulic pressure applied depends on the type of grips you are
using and what you are gripping. Use your grip manual to determine the correct
hydraulic pressure before adjusting the force. Experiment with a dummy
specimen to find the best setting.
Note The Pressure control can adjust the grip pressure up to the maximum
output pressure setting (which is initially set by MTS Systems
Corporation).
1. Ensure that both the upper grip control and lower grip control are in the
unclamp position.
2. Turn on the electrical power at the test controller.
3. Turn on low or high hydraulic pressure.
4. If needed, move the crosshead or actuator so that the dummy specimen can
be easily installed in the lower grip.
Grips are designed to operate within a range of hydraulic pressure.
Too much pressure can damage both the grips and the specimen.
Do not adjust grip pressure higher than the grip rating. See your grip manual to
determine the correct hydraulic pressure to apply to your grips before adjusting
the Pressure control.
Clamp Unclamp
CAUTION