Mecmesin Vortex-dV Manual
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Revision ID
11670
Manual
431-468
1
VectorPro™ and VectorPro™ Lite
VectorPro™ and VectorPro™ Lite are registered trademarks of Mecmesin Ltd.
This document refers to Mecmesin Vortex-dV test stands operating the latest firmware version.
It is essential that you familiarise yourself with the contents of this manual and the separate ‘Guide
Guide
to Safe Use of Mains Powered Test Systems
to Safe Use of Mains Powered Test Systems’ before attempting to operate your Vortex-dV Test
System.
This reference manual covers the operation of Vortex-dV test stands in conjunction with the use of
Mecmesin digital Advanced Force Torque Indicator (AFTI). Operation of the AFTI is covered in a
separate manual.
All interlocked guarding for the Vortex-dV is supplied as a 'PDV' (Product Design
Product Design
Variants
Variants). . This means they will be supplied as a additional item upon special request only
upon special request only. Please
contact your local Mecmesin sales representative or authorised distributor for more details.
The following manuals may aid you in the use of your test stand:
The following manuals may aid you in the use of your test stand:
Guide to Safe Use of Mains Powered Test Systems (431-398)
Guide to Safe Use of Mains Powered Test Systems (431-398)
Covers the initial setup, installation and safety implications for intended use of, any Mecmesin supplied, mains-
powered equipment.
Advanced Force Gauge (AFG Mk4) Operating Manual (431-213)
Advanced Force Gauge (AFG Mk4) Operating Manual (431-213)
Runs through the operation of Advanced Force Gauge in conjunction with
Vortex-dV test stands.
VectorPro™ User Manual - Introduction and Initial Setup (431-955)
VectorPro™ User Manual - Introduction and Initial Setup (431-955)
Covers the initial setup and installation of VectorPro, as well as the basics of the
software functionality and user manuals. Further guidance relating to other aspects of
VectorPro can be accessed through this user manual.
User Manual Icons
Throughout this manual, the icons shown below are used to identify important health and safety information as
well as additional installation/operation guidance. Do not proceed until each individual message is read and
thoroughly understood.
Warning
The warning
warning icon highlights a situation or condition that may lead to possible personal injury or
damage to the associated equipment.
3
caution icon indicates a situation or condition that could cause the equipment to malfunction
leading to possible damage.
Information
The information
information icon indicates additional or supplementary information about the action, activity or
application.
4
Vortex-dV Motorised Torque Test Stand Operating Manual
Introduction
User Manual Icons
Warning
Caution
Information
System Diagram
Identifying the Model of Vortex-dV
Mark 1
Interlock Enabled
Unpacking and Parts Supplied
Inspection and Unpacking
Packaging
Moving the Test Stand
Parts Supplied
Accessories
Initial Setup
License Key
Locating the Stand
Mains Power Supply
Fuse Specification
Attaching the Torque Sensor
Fitting the AFTI Torque Indicator
Connecting the AFTI and the Vortex-dV
AFTI Communication Settings
Connect the Test Stand to a PC (VectorPro Users Only)
Cable Management
Attaching Grips and Fixtures
Test Stand States
Front Panel Controls
Emergency Stop Button
Multi-function Scroll Wheel Control
Scroll Wheel Colours
Jog Mode
Navigational Control
Central Button
Vortex-dV Display Panel
On-Screen Icons
Pre-Test
During a Test
Pause/Stopped
Jog Mode
Settings Menu
Settings
Jog settings
Units
Edit Test
Cycle (by Angular Displacement)
AFTI Control/Torque Control
Data Capture within VectorPro™
5
Vortex-dV Operation Sequence and Move to Start
PIN Code
Languages
Information
Interlock Guarding Overview
Operating a Vortex-dV Test Stand Without a Guard Fitted
Operating a Vortex-dV Test Stand With an Interlocked Guard
Guard Closed
Guard Opened
With a Test Running
Vortex-dV Without PC Control
Vortex-dV With VectorPro Lite Control
Specification
Dimensions
Declaration of Conformity
6
11 Adjustable crosshead
22 AFTI (Advanced Force / Torque Indicator)
33 AFTI Mounting bracket
44 Multi-function scroll wheel
55 Emergency stop button
66 Front panel control
77 Lower fixing plate. (optional) Shown with saddle plate
88 Upper fixing plate (optional)
99 Static torque transducer
10
10 Top load tray (height adjustable)
Identifying the Model of Vortex-dV
The Vortex-dV has been through minimal design changes from it's inception. However, please see the sections
below to assist in clearly identifying the exact model.
Mark 1
Vortex-dV Mark 1 machines are the original motorised torque stands developed for use with the AFTI digital
force/torque indicator. These are controlled by VectorPro Lite functionality (as well as the stand-alone operation).
These stands were produced up to April 2020 and will have formatted serial numbers up to 20-XXXX-04.
20-XXXX-04.
These are identified by the rear panel shown below:
7
11 AFTI (Advanced Force/Torque Indicator) input
22 USB connection for PC control using VectorPro™ software
33 Mains connection and Inlet Filter (contains voltage selector and fuse holder)
44 System earth point
Interlock Enabled
These are very similar to the Mark 1 model stands, but now incorpoarte the new 'Sensor
Sensor' and 'Interlock
Interlock'
connections. These machines are produced from May 2020 and will have formatted serial numbers from 20-XXXX-
20-XXXX-
05.
05.
These are identified by the rear panel shown below:
11 'Interlock
Interlock' connection (interlock override plug shown fitted)
22 'Sensor
Sensor' connection.
33 USB connection for PC control using VectorPro™ software
44 Mains connection and Inlet Filter (contains voltage selector and fuse holder)
55 System earth point
8
Unpacking and Parts Supplied
Inspection and Unpacking
Before installing or operating the Vortex-dV system ensure that no visible damage has occurred during the
shipping of the device
Important!
Important! If any damage is discovered, do not proceed with the installation and contact your local
supplier immediately who will decide the most appropriate action and rectify the situation as quickly
as possible.
Packaging
We strongly recommend that the packaging is retained, as this can be useful if the machine needs to be returned
for calibration or shipped to another location.
Parts supplied
Parts supplied with the Test Stand, details the parts that should be included with your test stand. Please contact
Mecmesin or your authorised distributor if any items are missing or damaged.
Moving the Test Stand
The unpackaged weights of each test stand are listed in the Specification
Specification tables. Do not try to lift
heavy loads unaided. It is advised to use suitable lifting equipment and follow safe handling
guidelines when moving your Vortex-dV system.
Parts Supplied
Please see the table below for the list of parts supplied with the Vortex-dV system.
Item
Item
Quantity
Quantity
Vortex-dV test stand is supplied with a pre-selected torque transducer (1.5, 3, 6, or 10 N.m)
1
AFTI gauge bracket (for fitting an AFTI torque indicator to the column)
1
Hex key for tightening crosshead to gauge bracket
1
Mains cable
1
Document: A Guide to Safe Use of Mecmesin Mains Powered Test Systems
1
Online Manual Information Guide
1
Accessories
For a full range of digital force gauges and accessories, please go to the Mecmesin website: help.mecmesin.com,
or your local distributor.
For connection of the stand to your computer, a Mecmesin supplied 2m USB-B to USB-A cable
communications cable is required, (part no. 351-093)
part no. 351-093),
For a Mark 1 Vortex-dV - Use communications cable (part no. 351-092
part no. 351-092) to connect the Mecmesin Advanced
Force and Torque Indicator (AFTI) to the Vortex-dV.
For an Interlock enabled Vortex-dV - Use communications cable (part no. 351-103),
part no. 351-103), to connect Mecmesin
Advanced Force and Torque Indicator (AFTI) to the Vortex-dV.
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A VectorPro Lite license key is required to run a Vortex-dV test stand (fitted with an AFTI) and VectorPro software.
Locating the Stand
The test stand should be positioned on a suitable, level, stable work surface.
Mains Power Supply
Vortex-dV test stands can be used on 110–120 or 220–240 Vac 50-60 Hz supplies. The rear fuse carrier is set for
your local requirement but is reversible. Should you replace a fuse, ensure the correct local voltage is selected.
The voltage that is selected is indicated by which the arrow is pointing to the white line located at the bottom of
the device. This is illustrated in the image below, shown within the red circle:
Fuse Specification
A Vortex-dV test stand uses two 2A - Time-delay (T), 5 x 20mm fuses. If replacing a blown fuse only replace the
fuse on the active side of the inlet filter with the fuse specified above, or equivalent.
If you are in doubt, please contact your local Mecmesin support agent for more information.
Attaching the Torque Sensor
The torque cell attaches to the crosshead using the four supplied M6 caphead screws. To fit the torque cell, first,
ensure that the cable exit is towards the side that you plan to fit the AFTI.
Then, align the transducer with the mounting plate and secure using one the M6 bolts, if needed have one person
hold the transducer while the other fits the screws. Make sure the transducer is seated centrally before fulling
tightening all of the screws.
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Note: Take care when handling lower capacity torque transducers, as damage can occur from
mishandling.
It is also essential to ensure that the attached grips and fixtures cannot cause excess leverage on the
torque transducer or exhibit excessive axial load on the transducer.
Fitting the AFTI Torque Indicator
The AFTI can be fitted to either the left or right-hand of the test stand, but it is important to ensure that the cable
coming from the transducer points to the side that the gauge is mounted, as this prevents any unnecessary
kinking.
The fixing bracket can be easily fitted, adjusted or removed and transferred to the opposite column using a 4 mm
Hex key to loosen the retention screws.
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To fit the AFTI to the bracket use the two supplied screws. These pass through the bracket into the back of the
gauge and are secured using a 4mm Hex key. The angle the AFTI sits at can be adjusted by loosening the screw
located on the side of the bracket.
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Connecting the AFTI and the Vortex-dV
First, connect the transducer to the side port of the AFTI, using the cable from the transducer.
Connect the top port of the AFTI to:
For a Mk1 Vortex-
For a Mk1 Vortex-dV
dV - the RJ11 port marked ‘Gauge’ on the back of the Vortex-dV, using the supplied cable,
(part no. 351-092
part no. 351-092).
For an Interlock enabled Vortex-
For an Interlock enabled Vortex-dV
dV - the 15 way 'Sensor' connection on the back of the Vortex-dV, using the
supplied cable (part no. 351-103
part no. 351-103).
See "Identifying the model of Voretx-
Identifying the model of Voretx-dV
dV"section for further connection details and images.
Note:
Note: The gauge can also be run from the power supply provided, rather than the internal batteries.
AFTI Communication Settings
To achieve communication between your Vortex–dV test system and your AFTI gauge you need to apply the
correct settings within the AFTI’s communication menu (BAUD rate must be 115200). Use the following steps to
configure the AFTI:
Step 1
Hold 'UNITS/MENU
UNITS/MENU' the AFTI until the main menu is displayed
Step 2
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AFG ButtonButton Name
Button Name
UNITS/MENU
ZERO/DOWN
RESET/ENTER
MAX/ESC
Press 'UNITS/MENU
UNITS/MENU' once to continue to menu page 2, as shown in the image above.
Step 3
Scroll down using the 'ZERO/DOWN
ZERO/DOWN' button, then press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to select the 'COMMS
COMMS' menu.
Step 4
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Now press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' on 'PORT
PORT'.
Step 5
Set 'TX UNITS
TX UNITS' to 'ON
ON', press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to continue.
Step 6
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Set 'TX SIGN
TX SIGN' units to 'ON
ON', press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to continue.
Step 7
Set the baud rate to '115200
115200', press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to continue.
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Set 'CR LF
CR LF', press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to continue
Step 9
Ensure the line delay is set to '00', press 'REST/ENTER
REST/ENTER' to continue.
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Ensure the TX threshold is set to '00', press 'REST/ENTER
REST/ENTER' to continue.
Step 11
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RS232', press 'RESET/ENTER
RESET/ENTER' to continue.
Step 12
Press 'MAX/ESC
MAX/ESC' twice to return to the measurement screen.
Please Note:
Please Note: If using the stand in conjunction with VectorPro, please ensure that the units selected
on the gauge match the unit selected within the software.
Connect the Test Stand to a PC (VectorPro Users Only)
If you are using VectorPro software, connect the USB B port, located on the test stand, to a PC using an
appropriate cable (part no. 351-093
part no. 351-093).
Important!
Important! Please install VectorPro software on the assigned PC before
connecting the test stand to that computer. Once the software is installed
and the stand is connected, the stand will show as connected. This is shown
in the image to the right.
Cable Management
It is essential that no cables interfere with the controls or any moving parts. Failure to do so could lead to injury or
damage to the equipment.
Attaching Grips and Fixtures
The most commonly-used upper fixture used is the 100 mm upper fixing plate with a diameter capacity of 10 mm
to 78 mm. This is fixed to the adaptor on the torque transducer using a 2.5 mm Hex key to secure the four
countersunk screws supplied.
The fixture can also be quickly removed using the two grub screws in the adapter, accessed through
slots in the sides of the fixing plate, as shown below.
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The most commonly-used lower fixture is the 188 mm diameter lower fixing plate with a diameter capacity of
10 mm to 190 mm. This is fixed to the Vortex-dV spindle using a 2.5 mm Hex key to secure the four countersunk
screws supplied.
A range of other torque testing fixtures is available, including saddle plates that help support samples in the fixing
plates, longer grip fingers, mandrels, and chucks.
Important!
Important! Take care not to apply excess torque on the transducer when securing the fixtures.
Test Stand States
The test stand can be in one of five states:
1.
1. Test readiness
Test readiness - ready to start, or complete,
2.
2. Testing
Testing – test operation sequence is running,
3.
3. Stopped
Stopped - test interrupted or emergency stop pressed,
4.
4. Jog mode
Jog mode - for jogging or positioning the crosshead manually,
5.
5. Settings menu
Settings menu – for adjusting your test stands settings,
In each state, the selector buttons have functions described by the on-screen icons.
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Front Panel Controls
11 Status messages and information
22 Button function icons
33 Multi-function selection buttons
44 Multi-function scroll wheel
55 Scroll wheel button (used in function menus)
66 LED dial status ring
77 Colour display
88 Emergency Stop button
Emergency Stop Button
Push to stop the crosshead movement. Rotate the button to release it and resume crosshead control. If pressed
during a test, do
not restart a test, ensure you remove any residual force using the test stand’s jog controls.
Multi-function Scroll Wheel Control
Scroll Wheel Colours
The lights surrounding the wheel illuminate in three colours, indicating the status of the test stand:
Colour
Colour
Status
Status
Indication
Indication
Green
Green
Pulsating
Ready to start a test
Green
Green
Rotating
Scrolling through menus
Green
Green
Flashing
Test completed
Amber
Amber
Static
In jog mode menu
Amber
Amber
Rotating
Lower spindle moving
Red
Red
Static
Test aborted/limit triggered
Jog Mode
When in jog mode the wheel drives the Vortex-dV clockwise or anticlockwise, matching the direction the wheel is
21
turned. This method offers more variable control when compared to the two fixed-speed jog control buttons
(circled in red below).
11 Enter Jog Mode
22 Jog keys 'Clockwise' and 'Anti-clockwise'
The scroll wheel can also be used as a speed controller. The jog buttons move the spindle at the set speeds
(configured in the ‘Jog Settings’ menu picture below). Rotating the wheel clockwise while holding a jog button
increases the speed and rotating the wheel anticlockwise while holding a jog button decreases the speed
Vortex-dV test stands also feature a precision jog mode, rotating the scroll wheel while holding the central scroll
wheel button moves the test stand at its minimum speed; this is useful when fitting specimens into grips for
example.
Navigational Control
The scroll wheel can also be used to navigate the menus. When in a selection menu, the scroll wheel cycles
through the selections and their values. This is an alternate navigational option to using the up and down arrow
buttons.
Central Button
The central button is used to confirm a menu selection. It is equivalent to the tick button function.
Vortex-dV Display Panel
The display indicates the stand’s status, displays live values and is used to configure the test stands settings.
The purpose of the four multi-function button is indicated on screen by an adjacent icon. Below is an image
showing a typical example of the on-screen icons in relation to the physical buttons.
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1 The top icon is ''Confirm'
Confirm'
2 The mid-upper icon is 'Up'
'Up'
3 'Menu selection'
'Menu selection' buttons
4 The mid-lower icon is 'Down'
'Down'
5 The bottom icon is 'Back/Exit'
'Back/Exit'
On-Screen Icons
On-screen icons vary depending on the current state of the test stand. What functions the physical buttons
perform at that point, depends upon which menu is currently displayed. Below are reference tables to help
explain the icon definitions, in relation to the test stand state.
Pre-Test
Icon
Icon
Action
Action
No AFTI connected.
No AFTI connected.
Start a test sequence
Start a test sequence
Enable jog mode
Enable jog mode
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Go to settings
Go to settings
Move to the home position
Move to the home position (Set within VectorPro or test start position)
During a Test
Icon
Icon
Action
Action
Pause test
Pause test - This stops the lower spindle movement, leaving the stand in a state of test
readiness. The status message is ‘Interrupted: User’
‘Interrupted: User’ and the 'Play
Play' and 'Stop
Stop' buttons
will be displayed.
Stop test
Stop test - This will abort the current test running (including the VectorPro software).
The status message is 'Test aborted'
'Test aborted' and the 'Home
Home' and 'Exit
Exit' buttons will be
displayed.
Emergency stop button pushed: Message:
Emergency stop button pushed: Message: ‘Emergency Stop!!!
Emergency Stop!!!’. Release the emergency
stop to regain control and remedy the situation before resuming testing. Note there is
no on-screen icon for the emergency stop.
Pause/Stopped
Icon
Icon
Action
Action
Continue test sequence
Continue test sequence.
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Stop test - Shown when the Pause button is pressed. This ends the test at this point.
Move to the home position (start position from the beginning of the previous test)
Move to the home position (start position from the beginning of the previous test) -
This icon is only visible after pressing the 'Stop
Stop' button.
Exit to the test ready screen, leaving the crosshead in its current position
Exit to the test ready screen, leaving the crosshead in its current position - This icon is
only visible after pressing the 'Stop
Stop' button.
Jog Mode
Icon
Icon
Action
Action
Zero (tare) all system values.
Zero (tare) all system values.
Move the lower spindle in a clockwise direction at the set jog speed.
Move the lower spindle in a clockwise direction at the set jog speed.
Move the lower spindle in a anti-clockwise direction at the set jog speed.
Move the lower spindle in a anti-clockwise direction at the set jog speed.
Go back to the previous screen.
Go back to the previous screen.
Settings Menu
Icon
Icon
Action
Action
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Confirm selection (or press the centre scroll wheel button).
Confirm selection (or press the centre scroll wheel button).
Navigate up a menu selection or value (or turn the wheel clockwise).
Navigate up a menu selection or value (or turn the wheel clockwise).
Navigate down a menu selection or value (or turn the wheel anticlockwise).
Navigate down a menu selection or value (or turn the wheel anticlockwise).
Go back to the previous screen.
Go back to the previous screen.
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Within the jog settings menu, you can configure the jog speed limits while in jog mode. Below is a detailed
breakdown of each setting and the options available for each setting.
Setting
Setting
Action
Action
Range
Range
Clockwise
Speed
Configure the jog speed in a clockwise direction
0.1 to
30
rev/min
Anticlockwise
Speed
Configure the jog speed in an anticlockwise direction
0.1 to
30
rev/min
Jog Timeout
Period
Set the timeout (in minutes) that the machine will keep the motor drive engaged, before
the motor drive is disabled. The load applied to the torque cell, must reach at least 25 %
of the cell's capacity before the timeout activation is applied. At the end of the timeout
period, the 'Jog Active' menu screen is automatically switched back to the 'Ready to Test'
menu screen.
(Example:
Example: Vortex-dV stand fitted with a 6 N.m torque cell, must reach 1.5 N.m in either
direction, before the timeout activation is applied. Forces below the 25 % limit will not
activate the timeout and the stand will actively hold the load applied
1 to 59
minutes
Clockwise
Torque Limit Configure the clockwise torque limit while in jog mode
0 to
125%
torque
cell
capacity
Anticlockwise
Torque Limit Configure the anticlockwise torque limit while in jog mode
0 to
125%
torque
cell
capacity
Tare AFTI
Configure whether or not the AFTI is tared when pressing the tare button in jog mode.
Yes or
No
Units
Within the units menu, you can configure the test stands units for displacement and speed. Torque settings are
configured using the AFTI.
Setting
Setting Units Available
Units Available
Angle
rev, deg
Speed rev/min, rev/sec, deg/min, deg/sec
Torque N.m, N.cm, mN.m, gf.cm, kgf.cm, kgf.m, lbf.ft, lbf.in,
ozf.in
Edit Test
Important!
Important! For more information relating to ‘Start Direction’ and ‘Move to Start’, please see Vortex
Vortex--
dV
dV Operation Sequence and Move to Start.
Operation Sequence and Move to Start.
Cycle (by Angular Displacement)
In a cyclic test, the spindle moves between two reference angles that are relative to tared zero.
Setting
Setting
Options
Options
Cycle Count
0-9999
Clockwise Speed
0-30 rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
Anticlockwise
Speed
0-30 rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
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A positive value is clockwise from tared zero and a negative value is below
Anticlockwise Angle A positive value is clockwise from tared zero and a negative value is
below
Start Direction
Choose whether the test direction is clockwise or anticlockwise
Move to Start
Select if the test moves to the start position first
Setting
Setting
Options
Options
Example
Example
1. Clockwise Angle:
Clockwise Angle: +1000
2. Anticlockwise Angle
Anticlockwise Angle -30
3. Initial stroke:
nitial stroke: Clockwise
4. Move to Start:
Move to Start: Yes
Unless already at -30 the spindle will first travel to that point. The stand will then move to +1000 from tared zero,
followed by a final movement back to -30 .
AFTI Control/Torque Control
The AFTI control test operation consists of two main functions:
AFTI Control -
AFTI Control - Control of the test stand using the AFTI’s limit or break settings,
Torque Control -
Torque Control - Control of the test stand using the front panel to program limit, break or cycle settings,
Within AFTI Control/Torque Control there are four subtests:
Sub-Test
Description
AFTI
Control
Move in a set direction until a torque limit or break condition is hit and then stop. Configured using
the AFTI.
Torque
Limit
Move in the configured direction until a torque limit is hit and then stop. Configured using the front
panel.
Torque
Cycle
Cycle between a limit torque and a return torque. Configured using the front panel.
Break
Move in the configured direction until a break condition is detected. Configured using the front
panel.
AFTI Control Test
With an additional cable (351-092 or 351-103), a Mecmesin AFTI gauge can be used to set torque limits to control
stand movement.
Torque setpoint, action (reverse/stop) are all set on the gauge under the ‘STAND’ menu. Here you can select the
action when the limit is reached; ‘REVERSE’ or ‘STOP’ and the type of control limit ‘BREAK’ or ‘LIMIT’.
Please note for cyclic tests the front panel torque control must be used. AFTI cycling is not compatible with
Vortex-dV test stands
7.3.2.1.1 Example Test Setup
Example Test Setup
1.
1. On the test stand’s front panel under ‘Edit Test’ select the test type ‘AFTI Control’ and sub-type ‘AFTI Control’,
2.
2. Configure the speed and direction settings located within the ‘Edit Test’ menu,
3.
3. On the AFTI gauge hold
4.
4. On page one of the AFTI menus select ‘STAND’ using the button,
5.
5. Next select the action when the limit is hit, either ‘REVERSE’ or ‘STOP’. For reverse you need to select the
reverse direction either ‘UP’ or ‘DOWN’,
6.
6. Once the action has been selected configure the limit control. This limit can be either a ‘BREAK’ condition or
torque ‘LIMIT’. For ‘BREAK’ set the break threshold, for ‘LIMIT’ select the limit torque,
Torque Control Test – Torque Limit, Torque Cycle and Move to Break
Torque control tests can be used to set torque limits or a break condition to control stand movement. Within the
three sub-tests (Torque Limit, Torque Cycle and Move to Break) the following settings are available, please note
some of the settings are specific to the test type:
Setting
Setting
Options
Options
Up Speed
0-30 rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
Down
Speed
0-30 rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
Start
Direction
Choose whether the test direction is clockwise or anticlockwise.
°
°
°
°
°
28
Select the test sub-type (Options are listed above).
Limit
Torque
Limit and Cyclic Tests Only -
Limit and Cyclic Tests Only - Enter the target torque for the test.
Return
Torque
Cyclic Tests Only -
Cyclic Tests Only - Enter the start torque for the test
Cycle Count Cyclic Tests Only -
Cyclic Tests Only - Enter the number of cycles to be completed
Break
Threshold
Move to Break Test Only –
Move to Break Test Only – Enter the percentage drop from current maximum load recorded, to
activate the break detection.
Example:
Example: Current load maximum reading is 3 N.m, with 20 % setting the torque load drop must
reach 2.4 N.m before break detection activates.
Min Break
Min Break
Threshold
Threshold
Move to Break Test Only -
Move to Break Test Only - Enter the minimum break threshold. Value of torque load that the test
load reading must rise above for a break condition to be detected.
AFTI must be connected and ON to set this parameter
AFTI must be connected and ON to set this parameter
1 % of torque cell capacity is the lowest setting.
1 % of torque cell capacity is the lowest setting.
Setting
Setting
Options
Options
Examples
Examples
Torque Limit
Torque Limit
Speed:
Speed: 5 rev/min
Start Direction:
Start Direction: Anticlockwise
Test Sub-Type:
Test Sub-Type: Torque Limit
Limit Torque:
Limit Torque: 5 N.m
The stand moves anticlockwise at 5 rev/min until the applied torque is 5 N.m from tared zero, once the limit
torque is reached the test stops.
Torque Cycle
Torque Cycle
Clockwise Speed:
Clockwise Speed: 10 rev/min
Anticlockwise Speed:
Anticlockwise Speed: 20 rev/min
Start Direction:
Start Direction: Clockwise
Test Sub-Type:
Test Sub-Type: Torque Cycle
Limit Torque:
Limit Torque: 2 N.m
Return Torque:
Return Torque: 0.5 N.m
Cycle Count:
Cycle Count: 10
The stand moves clockwise at 10 rev/min until the applied torque is 2 N.m from tared zero. Once the limit torque
is reached the stand moves anticlockwise at 20 rev/min until a torque of 0.5 N.m is reached, this cycle repeats 10
times at which point the test stops.
Break
Break
Torque Cell Fitted:
Torque Cell Fitted: 3 N.m
Clockwise Speed:
Clockwise Speed: 2 rev/min
Anticlockwise Speed:
Anticlockwise Speed: 30 rev/min
Start Direction:
Start Direction: Clockwise
Test Sub-Type:
Test Sub-Type: Break
Break Threshold:
Break Threshold: 10 %
Min Break Threshold:
Min Break Threshold: 0.6 N.m
The stand moves clockwise at 2 rev/min until a break condition is detected. The drop in torque load must be at
least 0.3 N.m (10 % of 3 N.m) and occur above 0.6 N.m (20 % of 3 N.m), for the break detection to activate.
Data Capture within VectorPro™
To use AFTI Control/Torque Control tests in conjunction with VectorPro first program the test settings using the
stand’s front panel and/or AFTI and then create a VectorPro test using the AFTI/Torque control operation,
ensuring the speed and test orientation match your configuration.
Please note the speed and test direction use the settings configured within VectorPro, while other test settings
are loaded from the front panel. For more information please refer to the VectorPro user manual, (part no. 431-
part no. 431-
955
955).
At the end of a test, or in a stopped condition, you may need to move the crosshead to clear a sample, or the
drive spindle to remove a torque.
Never restart a test from a stopped condition with a residual torque, and always Reset the gauge before a
subsequent test.
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If the AFTI is switched off or loses power during an active test in AFTI Control mode, the drive spindle will stop.
A half-cycle test is to an angular displacement relative to tared zero. A cycle starts when the crosshead is at the
first displacement position and ends back at the second position.
Setting
Setting
Options
Options
Cycle Count
0-8000
Clockwise Speed
0-30rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
Anticlockwise
Speed
0-30rev/min (0 to 180 deg/s)
Clockwise Angle
A positive value is clockwise from tared zero and a negative value is
below
Anticlockwise Angle A positive value is clockwise from tared zero and a negative value is
below
Start Direction
Choose whether the test direction is clockwise or anticlockwise
Move to Start
Select if the test moves to the start position first
Example
Example
Clockwise Angle:
Clockwise Angle: +180
Anticlockwise Angle
Anticlockwise Angle -90
Initial stroke:
Initial stroke: Clockwise
Move to Start:
Move to Start: Yes
Unless already at -90 from tared zero, the spindle will travel to that point and then move to +180from tared
zero, and stop.
Vortex-dV Operation Sequence and Move to Start
Vortex-dV operations, such as the half cycle consist of two datum points, a clockwise angle and anticlockwise
angle.
For operations with the primary movement being clockwise, the following is true:
· The ‘Anticlockwise Angle’ is the start position for the test and the ‘Clockwise Angle’ is the finishing
position.
For operations with the primary movement being anticlockwise, the following is true:
The ‘Clockwise Angle’ is the start position for the test and the ‘Anticlockwise Angle’ is the finishing position.
Within the ‘Edit Test’ display on your test stands front panel there is an option called ‘Move to Start’, setting this
feature to ‘Yes’ means that the stand always moves to the start position.
In some instances, this means the first direction of movement is opposite to the primary test movement. Jog
settings
PIN Code
Within the PIN code menu, it is possible to set a four-digit number that can be used to lock the menu feature of
your Vortex-dV. Please note once this has been set you cannot access the menu without the PIN, so it is crucial
that you keep a record of this safe.
If the PIN code has been set and then lost or is unknown, please contact your local agent or
Mecmesin Technical Support
Languages
°
°
°
°
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Select your desired language. Upon confirmation, you are returned to the settings menu in the language chosen.
Information
This screen is used to display vital information relating to your Vortex-dV and connected devices. Here you can
see hardware and firmware properties.
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Interlock Guarding Overview
Mecmesin test stands have the ability to generate forces large enough to cause permanent injury to
human limbs when placed between the crosshead and the base. Fingers, hands and other parts of
the body, or clothing, should be kept away from the moving crosshead and shroud opening.
Appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn and full local risk assessments should
have been completed before use. Please refer to the supplementary documentation supplied with
the Interlock guarding for fullfor full details of safety and operation.
Interlocked machine guards should be considered in all test methods as they provide additional
ingress protection to the end-user. This helps to reduce the risk of injuries occurring due to contact
between the test stand and the operator.
From May 2020, all Vortex-dV test stands will be supplied at an 'Interlock enabled' level. This means
they are electrically and mechanically ready to use with a Mecmesin supplied guarding system. All
interlocked guarding for the Vortex-dV is supplied as a 'PDV' (Product Design Variants
Product Design Variants). . This means
they will be supplied as a additional item upon special request only
upon special request only. Please contact your local
Mecmesin sales representative or authorised distributor for more details. Please refer to the
supplementary documentation supplied with the Interlock guarding for full installation instructions.
Operating a Vortex-dV Test Stand Without a Guard Fitted
Voretx-dV test stands supplied (from May 2020), can be operated 'normally' without a supplied guard, for
applications that do not warrant a guard to be used.
The stands have an 'Override
Override' feature that allows an interlock override plug (part no. 351-102
part no. 351-102), supplied as an
accessory to be fitted, that enables the use of the stand without a guard fitted. This plug will be supplied in the
accessories and must be fitted to use the stand in normal operation.
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Operating a Vortex-dV Test Stand With an Interlocked Guard
Mecmesin interlocked guarding is fitted with a cable and plug from the guard, that must be fitted to the rear of
the stand panel 'Interlock
Interlock' connection, in place of the removed override plug.
When a guard is fitted and connected to the Vortex-dV, there is no need for any menu updates or user
interaction to make it functional. The stand will have certain operations and user status warnings when the
guard is opened and closed.
Guard Closed
With the guard door closed, normal menu displays and operations will be seen:
Guard Opened
With a Test Running
The guard door should never be opened whilst a test is running. Extremely high forces and energy can be present
in the machine, grips or sample under test and personal injury or damage can occur.
Allow the machine to complete the test sequence or stop the machine manually and safely remove any residual
loading before attempting to open the guard and access the machine, grips or sample under test.
Vortex-dV Without PC Control
When running a Vortex-dV standalone without VectorPro Lite software control, opening the guard will result in a
test being aborted and the 'Interlock Active !
Interlock Active !' status message on the front panel display:
Vortex-dV With VectorPro Lite Control
When controlling the Vortex-dV test stand with VectorPro Lite software functionality, the test stand front panel
will behave with same actions as above.
The software will be aborted and the current test will not be recorded or stored. The software screen will briefly
show the message shown below to indicate the guard had been opened during a test:
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0.2 ° per 36,000 °
Positional
Resolution
0.1 ° (0.001 rev)
Speed
Speed
Speed
Range
rev/min
0.1 to 30
Speed
Accuracy
At Steady
State
±1% of indicated speed
Speed Resolution
0.001 rev/min
Maximum Number
of Cycles Per Test
8000
Dimensions
Dimensions
Height
781 mm (30.7 ")
Width
390 mm (13.4 ")
Maximum travel of
adjustable
transducer
carriage
182 mm (7.2 ")
Maximum
Headroom
505mm (19.9") [448 mm (17.6")] **
**
Weight
19.5 kg (48 lb)
Electrical Supply
Electrical Supply
Voltage
230 V AC 50 Hz or 110 V AC 60 Hz
Maximum Power
Requirement
100W
Torque Measurement
Torque Measurement
Torque Accuracy
0.5% of full-scale
Torque Units
mN.m, N.m, kgf.cm, lbf.in, ozf.in (as per AFTI units)
Environment Specification
Environment Specification
Operating
Temperature
10°C – 35°C (50°F – 95°F)
Operating Relative
Humidity
Normal Industry and laboratory conditions. (30% to 80% non-condensing)
Display & Data Output
Display & Data Output
Front Panel
Display Indication
Load / Displacement / Speed
Output
of Test
Results
Stand
Via USB (VectorPro™ Software - PDF, XLXS, CSV, TXT, Email and Images)
AFG/AFTI
Via Cable (contact: [email protected])
**
** With upper and lower mounting tables fitted
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Source URL (modified on 21/04/2021 - 14:49):
Source URL (modified on 21/04/2021 - 14:49):https://help.mecmesin.com/docs/vortex-dv-motorised-torque-test-stand-operating-manual
11 Declaration of Conformity
For the declaration of conformity for the Vortex-dV, click here.
here.
Original instructions published in English language.
Mecmesin Ltd © 2019.
Patrick Collins
Technical Director, Mecmesin
Contact us
+44 (0)1403 799979
[email protected]
Newton House
Spring Copse Business Park
Slinfold, West Sussex
RH13 0SZ
United Kingdom
Mecmesin Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales, company number 01302639.
A PPT Holdings Company
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