Reciprocating - All Options (MFT-2000 / MFT-2000A / MFT-5000)
Reciprocating - All Options (MFT-2000 / MFT-2000A / MFT-5000)

Reciprocating - All Options (MFT-2000 / MFT-2000A / MFT-5000)


To download the manual for offline reading:
 

Drive Installation

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Your drive


Inline Rotary Drive


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In certain configurations—particularly when there are requirements for speed and/or torque—a module with an integrated motor has been recommended.
The difference, therefore, is that to change modules (from reciprocating to rotary, for example), it is necessary to uninstall the module with it motor from the stage.
  1. Open the upper back door of the MFT-5000.
  1. Insert the motor drive on the stage.
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  1. Secure it with 6 x 8-32 x .375” BM310280-05 9/64
  1. Connect the 2 cables on the slot behind the right frame.
 
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Direct Rotary Drive


Direct Rotary Drive Installation Step


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Please skip this step if your drive is already installed onto the XY stage.
As shown above, the drive is installed on the stage.
Additional animation instructions
Additional animation instructions
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  1. Route the drive cable through the X Y stage.
  1. Position and insert the motor drive through the stage.
  1. Orient the drive so the green sensor port faces the right side.
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Secure the drive with 7 x SHCS 8-32 X .625" long screws  
(310-280-05 / BM310280-09)
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Confirm that the alignment pin is seated correctly.
Confirm that the alignment pin is seated correctly.
Connect the 2 cables on the slot on the right, behind the frame (the Motor Power Chord and the Encoder Chord).
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⚠️
Always power off the instrument before connecting cables or installing any
load cell or accessory.
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Install the Linear Reciprocating Drive


Technical Linear Drive Specification:


 
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Proper alignment of the sample on the reciprocating holder helps maintain its rated life.

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The load factor applied to any reciprocating system is still the main factor determining its rated life.

The reciprocating mechanism can withstand high loads when used within its designed operating conditions. However, the general mechanical principle described below cannot be avoided.
rated life: the total travel distance that 90% of linear guides can reach
Top View Recriprocating Representation
Top View Recriprocating Representation
 
X₀ → Maximum X Differential Position
The maximum offset of the load along the X-axis relative to the center of the drive.
This value accounts for the total stroke displacement.
Y₀ → Maximum Y Differential Position
The maximum offset of the load along the Y-axis relative to the center of the drive.
Load
It depends on the position of the applied force. Refer to the following document for guidance on determining the maximum allowable load per test.
For example, if the X.Position is 0 mm and the stroke is 10 mm, then X₀ = 5 mm.
example of a rated life simulation
example of a rated life simulation

You are welcome to use this sheet to estimate your reciprocating drive’s rated life

Based on the summarized parameters, including the X–Y alignment relative to the reciprocating center. Please refer to the maintenance section at the end of this manual for more information.
⚠️
This information and the maintenance assessment should be taken into consideration during high-load testing procedures.
 
 
  • Adjustable Stroke length: 0.1-30 mm
  • Frequency: 0.1-80 Hz ( 80 Hz @ 1 mm, 60 Hz @ 2 mm, 20 Hz @ 25 mm).
    • ⚠️
      • The maximum allowable frequency is determined by the current stroke length. The respective limits must not be exceeded.
      • Some reciprocating drives are not fully covered by this specification, e.g., SPN04316 – up to 15 Hz. Please refer to your packaging list if unsure or unaware of this information, or contact Rtec Support for assistance.
  • (Option) LVDT Linear Encoder Range: 25.4 mm (+/- 12.7 mm); Resolution: 1 um
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      When using the reciprocating system in combination with the LVDT, the stroke length limitation becomes 25.4 mm. The stroke length cannot be measured beyond this value.
      All Models and SPN
      SPN
      Model Specifications

      SPN04324
      Fast reciprocating drive
      - Adjustable Stroke length: 0.1-30 mm; Frequency:0.1-80 Hz  ( 80Hz @ 1mm,   60hz @ 2mm,40 Hz  @ 13 mm ,20 Hz  @ 25mm ,10Hz+ @ 30mm ) .

      SPN04325
      Fast reciprocating drive
      - Adjustable Stroke length: 0.1-30 mm; Frequency:0.1-80 Hz  ( 80Hz @ 1mm,   60hz @ 2mm,40 Hz  @ 13 mm ,20 Hz  @ 25mm ,10Hz+ @ 30mm,  ) With LVDT Linear Encoder Range: 25.4 mm
      (+/- 12.7 mm); Resolution: 1 um
  1. Position the reciprocating drive on the base.
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      Ensure that the black connector below the module is properly aligned and connects with the green connector on the base.
  1. Use two 8-32 screws (BM310280-12) to secure the reciprocating drive.
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Adjusting the Stroke Length


⚠️
Please remember that the maximum frequency varies according to the stroke length. ( 80 Hz @ 1 mm, 60 Hz @ 2 mm, 20 Hz @ 25 mm).
When using the reciprocating system in combination with the LVDT, the stroke length limitation becomes 25.4 mm. The stroke length cannot be accurately measured or guaranteed beyond this value.
  1. On the MFT Software , disable the drive by clicking on the ON button.
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      Click on “ON” to switch off the motion. The module must be “OFF”.
      The drive must be disabled in order to freely move the reciprocating and get access to the adjustment screws.
  1. Drive disabled, turn the central shaft until the stroke adjusting assembly appears through the front opening of the module.
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      Animation example
      Animation example
  1. Using a 5/64” Allen wrench, loosen the brake screws on both sides
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      Animation example
      Animation example
  1. Insert a 9/64” Allen wrench into the center adjustment screw to adjust the stroke length.
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      Turn clockwise (right) to decrease stroke length.
      Turn counterclockwise (left) to increase stroke length.
  1. Measure the amplitude with the LVDT if available in your configuration, a ruler or a dial gauge while the drive motion is on.
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      Manual measurements of the reciprocating amplitude may differ slightly from the drive motion amplitude. For accurate stroke length, measure with a dial gauge while the drive is running, or use the LVDT sensor if available.
  1. After adjusting, re-tighten the brakes with the 5/64” Allen wrench.
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Connecting the LVDT


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This feature is optional and included only in systems purchased with the LVDT attachment for displacement measurement (SPN04325)
Connect the LVDT cable to the port located at the back of the drive.
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Reciprocating applications type

Dry Ambient Test


 

Attach the Universal Sample Holder


  • Place the universal sample holder on top of the reciprocating drive
  • Tighten the captive screws using a 7/64" Allen key.
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Insert the sample


  1. Position the sample into the universal holder.
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      Max sample width: 1.61” (4.089cm).

      Other than the width, the rectangular sample has no specific size requirements.
  1. (Optional) You can also loosen the two nuts first to fit the sample size before.
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  1. Secure the sample in place using an 8/32" Allen key
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Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Liquid Ambient Test

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Heated Test


 

500° Heating Chamber


 

Install the Chamber Stands


  1. Position the two support stands, one at the front and one at the back of the drive.
  1. Secure each stand using two 10-32 screws (BM310320-12) and a 5/32" Allen key.
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Mount the 500°C Chamber


  • Position the chamber on top of the installed extension block, fans facing the ???
  • Tighten the four 8-32 captive screws using a 9/64" Allen key to secure the chamber.
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Secure the Internal Sample Holder


  • Locate the chamber reciprocating plate in the chamber.
  • Tighten the four 8-32 captive screws using a 9/64" Allen key.
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Attach the Universal Sample Holder


  • Place the universal sample holder on top of the chamber reciprocating plate.
  • Tighten the captive screws using a 7/64" Allen key.
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Insert the Sample


  • Place the sample into the universal holder.
  • Secure the sample in place using an 8/32" Allen key.
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Install the Chamber Cover


  • Place the cover on top of the chamber.
  • Hand-tighten the four thumb screws to complete installation.
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Connect the Temperature Cable


  • Plug in the temperature cable and thermocouple to the chamber.
  • Plug in the other side of the temperature cable and thermocouple to the tester.
    • A blue and black drawing of a machine AI-generated content may be incorrect.
 

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

1000° Heating Chamber


 

Install the Chamber Stands


  1. Position the two support stands, one at the front and one at the back of the drive.
  1. Secure each stand using two 10-32 screws (BM310320-12) and a 5/32" Allen key.
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Mount the 1000°C Chamber


  • Place the chamber on top of the mounted stands, the fans facing towards the right.
  • Tighten four 8-32 Captive Screws using a 9/64" Allen key to secure the chamber to the drive.
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Tighten the Sample Holder to the Drive


  • Tighten four 8-32 Captive Screws using a 9/64" Allen key to secure the holder to the reciprocating drive .
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Insert the Sample


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Sample size: 1.25”x0.63”x0.16” (31x16x4 mm)
Max space inside the chamber 50x50 mm
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  1. Remove the two Sample Holder Screws using an adjustable wrench
      • Clean screw threads thoroughly using solvent or a wire brush to remove old grease, debris, or oxidation.
      ⚠️
      Apply Thin, Even Film of Anti-Seize provided.
      • Brush or wipe a small amount of anti-seize onto the threads only.
      • Cover threads completely but avoid excess, as too much compound can reduce effectiveness.
      • Then apply a thin layer onto the screw head and flange in contact with the sample holder arms.
  1. Tighten to Reduced Torque
      • Tighten fasteners to 30–40 % less torque than dry specifications.
  1. Wipe Off Excess
      • Remove any squeeze-out or residue around the joint surfaces after assembly.
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Attach the Top Cover


  • Align the top cover and push it down into place.
  • Lock both sides securely to complete the installation.
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Connect the Temperature Cable


  • Plug in the temperature cable and thermocouple to the chamber.
  • Plug in the other side of the temperature cable and thermocouple to the tester.
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Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Cooled Test

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Troubleshooting

Maintenance

Specific reciprocating applications type

Humidity Test

Humidifier HMD-5000 Installation

Safety

Electrical Safety

  • Ensure that the humidifier is plugged into a grounded electrical outlet.
  • Avoid using extension cords or adapters, as they can increase the risk of electrical hazards.
  • Check the power cord regularly for any signs of damage, and refrain from using the humidifier if the cord is frayed or damaged.
  • ELCB provided to prevent electric shock and fire hazards caused by ground faults or leakage currents.
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Water Safety

  • Only use clean, distilled water or demineralized water in the humidifier to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits and the growth of bacteria or mold.
  • Refrain from using essential oils or additives unless specified by the manufacturer, as they may damage the humidifier or pose health risks.

Child Safety

  • Keep the humidifier out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or tampering.
  • Educate children about the potential dangers associated with the humidifier, such as hot steam or electrical hazards.

Overheating Prevention

  • Avoid running the humidifier continuously for extended periods without proper breaks to prevent overheating.
  • Use the humidifier in accordance with the manufacturers recommended usage guidelines to avoid damage or malfunction.

Placement

  • Place the humidifier on a flat, stable surface away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and electronic devices.
  • Ensure that there is sufficient airflow around the humidifier to prevent overheating.

Warnings

⚠️
  • DO NOT OPERATE HUMIDIFIER WITH OUT WATER INSIDE THE GLASS JAR
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  • Familiarize yourself with the warning signs and symbols on the humidifier and its packaging, and adhere to them strictly.
  • Do not attempt to modify or repair the humidifier yourself; always seek professional assistance if repairs are needed.
  • When not in use, store the humidifier in a cool, dry place away from dust and debris.
  • Empty the water tank and clean the humidifier thoroughly before storing it for an extended period.

Facility Requirements and Accessories

Facility Requirements

Given the encumbrance of the humidifier should be installed in a place where the following conditions, power and compressed air:
  • Ambient temperature 23-25 °C
  • Supply power 230 VAC, 5A, 50Hz
  • Compressed air supplies Min. 6 bar Pressure
Sufficient space for the Operator, in accordance with local laws and safety norms.
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Accessories

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Device Presentation

Components Presentation

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Connections details

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Initiation Process

Read the Manual

Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations provided in the user manual. Pay attention to specific guidelines related to setup, operation, maintenance, and safety precautions.

Inspect the Humidifier

Before use, inspect the humidifier for any visible damage, cracks, or signs of wear. Check the power cord, water tank, and any other components for integrity.

Choose the Right Location

Select an appropriate location for the humidifier. It should be placed below the humidity chamber on a flat, stable surface away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and electronic devices. Ensure that there is sufficient space around the humidifier for proper airflow.

Prepare Clean Water

Use only clean, distilled water or demineralized water in the humidifier. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain minerals and impurities that can lead to mineral buildup or bacterial growth. Fill the water tank with the water to the appropriate level as shown below. Always fill the water in OFF condition of the humidifier.
Pour the water slowly and carefully till the white line mark on the glass jar if not water may spill out
Pour the water slowly and carefully till the white line mark on the glass jar if not water may spill out

Connect to Power

Plug the humidifier into a grounded electrical outlet. Avoid using extension cords or adapters whenever possible, as they may increase the risk of electrical hazards. Ensure that the power cord is not damaged or frayed.

Monitor Operation

Regularly check the humidifier during operation to ensure that it is working as expected. Pay attention to the humidity level in the room and adjust the settings accordingly.

Remove the water inside the filter

Before start the humidifier check the water presence in the filter as shown below:
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Install the Chamber

Please refer to the Installation manual of your specific humidity chamber.

Connect the sensor cable and air cable

Connect the humidity sensor cable and both air tubes to the humidity chamber by following the Installation manual of your specific humidity chamber.
Example of both dry and humid air tubes and humidity sensor connected
Example of both dry and humid air tubes and humidity sensor connected

Set humidity

Set Room Humidity

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Press the knob for 2Sec - “Set Room Humidity” -Press the knob - Rotate the knob to set room %RH value
Press the knob - “Done”

Set required humidity

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Press the knob for 2Sec - “Set Humidity set point”- Press the knob - Rotate the knob to set required %RH value - Press the knob -“Done”
 
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Running screen shows “Current Humidity” and Set Point of humidity “SP”
ℹ️
Our System facilitates data transfer from our humidity generators to software, ensuring efficient monitoring and management of environmental conditions. Through our integrated system, real-time data collected by the humidity generator is securely transmitted to our proprietary software platform.

Module Installation

 

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Maintenance

Humidifer HMD-5000

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Regularly clean and disinfect the humidifier according to the manufacturer's
    instructions.
  • Empty and refill the water tank if required to prevent the growth of bacteria and
    mold.
  • Replace the desiccants as recommended by the manufacturer to maintain
    optimal performance and air quality.

Replacement of desiccant in humidifier

Replacing the desiccant in a humidifier is a maintenance task that helps ensure the
efficient operation of the device. Here molecular sieve is used as desiccant. Here's a
general guide on how to replace the desiccant.
  1. Turn off and unplug the humidifier
  1. You'll need the replacement desiccant recommended by the manufacturer, along with any tools required for accessing the desiccant compartment.
  1. Locate the desiccant compartment; here remove the back cover to replace the desiccant as shown below.
  1. Rotate the desiccant vessel clock ways for open and fill the desiccant.
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Water replacement

Provided Siphon manual pump to remove water from Glass jar whenever needed as shown
below, keep the humidifier always above the water collecting bottle as shown.
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Desiccants regeneration

The desiccant molecular sieves regenerated by heating them inside an oven to a temperature of 175 0C for duration of 2 to 3 hrs. Allow them to cool down inside the oven without exposing to room humidity. This drives off the absorbed moisture, leaving the desiccant material ready for reuse.
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Corrosion Test

Required Tools and Components


Components:

  • Corrosion Container With Electrodes
    • SPN06078
  • Potentiostat - DC Tests (Tribocorrosion)
    • SPN09023

Screws and Hardware:

  • Allen key:

Metallic Sample Preparation

For repeatable measurements results, identical surface preparation of samples before conducting tribocorrosion tests can be essential to ensure reliable results.

Coupon size

Coupons must have a defined size for being able to be fixed on the sample holder. Square and rectangular samples are easier for sample fixation. It is possible to cut metallic alloys into several coupons, larger than 1.5 × 2 cm2 in dimensions. The objective is to have a space available of 1 x 1 cm2. For corrosion rate, the exposed area must be known. An area of 1x1 cm2
is fine.

Recommended Procedure for Sample Surface Preparation prior to Tribocorrosion Testing

Mechanical Grinding

  • Grind one side of the sample surface using sandpaper with progressively finer grit sizes (#180, #240, #400, #600, and #1200).
  • Begin with #180 sandpaper, grinding for 30 seconds along an arbitrary direction.
  • Rotate the sample 90° and grind with #240 sandpaper until all scratch lines from the previous step are fully removed.
  • Verify the surface using an optical microscope to ensure complete elimination of
    scratches.
  • Repeat the rotation and grinding sequence with the remaining grit papers, cleaning the sample between each step using a soft brush under running water to prevent contamination.

Polishing

  • Polish the ground surface sequentially using high-viscosity alumina suspensions with particle sizes of 1 μm, 0.3 μm, and 0.05 μm, applied on separate microfiber cloth pads.
  • For each polishing stage, pour approximately 1 oz of alumina suspension (composition: 10–30% alumina, 0.6–1% silica glass, 70–90% water) onto a clean pad.
  • Polish the surface in a single direction or in a “figure-eight” motion (avoid circular “0” motions) until scratches from the previous step are no longer visible.
  • Continue through finer suspensions until achieving a mirror-like finish.

Cleaning

  • Place the polished specimen in a beaker containing 40 mL of deionized (DI) water and sonicate for 1–2 minutes to remove residual surface particles.
  • Dry the surface completely using compressed gas.

Electrical Connection

  • Cut a 5 cm length of electrical wire (~1–2 mm diameter) and strip approximately 1 cm of insulation from both ends to expose the copper core.
  • Attach one end of the wire to the unpolished back side of the sample using conductive tape or conductive epoxy. If epoxy is used, follow the manufacturer’s curing instructions.

Masking

  • Apply electrochemical stop-off lacquer to define a 1 × 1 cm2 exposed window on the polished side of the sample and to cover the entire back side, including the area with the attached wire.
  • Allow the lacquer to dry completely in a well-ventilated fume hood for at least 24 hours before conducting the experiments.

Module Installation

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Humidity Test

Hardware Steps Completed → Software Steps

 
You are ready to perform the test under the specific conditions.

Maintenance

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Part
Amount
Type of Maintenance
Frequency (depends on usage)
Double Linear Guide
4
Lubrication (Lithium soap based grease)
Low Usage: 6 months
High Usage: 3 months
Double Linear Guide
4
Replacement
After rated life is reached
Single Linear Guide
1
Lubrication (Lithium soap based grease)
Low Usage: 6 months
High Usage: 3 months
Single Linear Guide
1
Replacement
After rated life is reached
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Rated life: It is the total travel distance that 90% of linear guides can reach. Refer to the following document for guidance on determining the rated life of the guide.
 

Contact & Support


For technical support or further assistance, please contact:
Rtec-Instruments Support
support@rtec-instruments.com
+1 (408) 708-9226

Manual Versions


Manual Version
Date
Update Description
Initial Manual Version