Step-by-Step Installation
Required Tools and Components
Mounting the Argon Sensor on MFT-2000
- Install the load cell on the fast-exchange attachment by fastening the 4 captive screws using a 5/32" Allen wrench.
- The narrow side of the fast exchange plate’s should point to the left of the front load cell as this side will fit into the back of the sliding support.
- The front of the load cell is the face showing the Rtec logo and the unit calibration sticker.
(Optional) With Extension block:
(Optional) You can also use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.
- Mount the block extension on the exchange plate with 4 4 x 10-32 x 1.250” long screws using 5/32 Allen wrench.
- Then the adaptor plate mounted on the extension block with 4 x 10-32 x .625” long screws using 5/32 Allen wrench.
- Install the load cell on the fast-exchange attachment by fastening the 4 captive screws using a 5/32" Allen wrench.
- The narrow side of the fast exchange plate’s should point to the left of the front load cell as this side will fit into the back of the sliding support.
- The front of the load cell is the face showing the Rtec logo and the unit calibration sticker.
Ball holder and suspension installation
- Secure the suspension holder with the 4 screws using 5/64” Allen Key.
The labeled force represents the suspension capability, not the nominal operating force.
The suspension must operate within this specified range.
Exceeding this limit will lead to ineffective suspension operation.
Exceeding this limit will lead to ineffective suspension operation.
- Fix the suspension then secure it by tightening the side screw using 7/64” Allen key.
Be careful not to overload the load cell while inserting the suspension.
You can install the suspension into the holder first before installing the holder on the load cell.
Or, as shown, you may insert a thin Allen key into the clamping gap during insertion to allow the part to slide in effortlessly.
- Install or replace the ball from the ball holder, then hand-tighten the nut or using a wrench (optional).
- Secure the ball holder once slide into the suspension by tightening the side screw using 3/32” Allen key.
The ball holder must not touch the suspension base to ensure proper suspension operation.

It is possible to use a ball holder extension to reduce the Z distance to the sample in certain testing configurations.
Please contact Rtec Service for this specific matter.
Installing the Argon (MFT-2000)


- Slide in the load cell into the Z stage rack.
Make sure the 4 screws above the rack are removed.
Slide the load cell with its front facing you and the connector on the right.
Slide the load cell with its front facing you and the connector on the right.
- Fasten the 4 securing screws by hands.
- Connect the ribbon cable. The connector only fit one way.
Hardware Final Notes
- Always confirm all screws are hand-tightened and then secured with the appropriate Allen key.
- Refer to the full user manual for safety precautions and maintenance schedules
Contact & Support
For technical support or further assistance, please contact:
Rtec-Instruments Support
support@rtec-instruments.com
+1 (408) 708-9226
Manual Version | Date | Update Description |
ㅤ | 12/09/2025 | Initial Manual Version |