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Function Summary
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Any toggle heading with this tag - will render the flat content -
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Ex: I only want to show this content for the Voicoil module [vcoil]-
ℹ️
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For now, I recommend using the toggle heading condition—it's less risky for content debugging unless you're checking the rendering directly online.
Sending this local html to the customer
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[none]
Introduction -
Introduction and Overview
Instrument -
Tester Picture [mft2]-
The versatile and modular MFT series tribometers provide precise friction, wear, and mechanical property testing on a single platform. With integrated 3D profilometry, they deliver reliable results across academic, industrial, and government applications.
Tester Picture [mft5]-
The versatile and modular MFT series tribometers provide precise friction, wear, and mechanical property testing on a single platform. With integrated 3D profilometry, they deliver reliable results across academic, industrial, and government applications.
4Ball Introduction [4ball]
High Load Fz Load Cell 5kN to 10kN Avalaible
Upper Drive 10Nm to 50Nm Avalaible
Upperdrive Spindle Ratio 2.4 (2500 rpm) Torque sensor connector
This type of Load Cell is composed of a singular part, which makes it easier to use. Inside this Load Cell are two piezo sensors, one measuring Fz and the other measuring Fx.
In this example of standard assembly, you can see on the front side of the 200N load cell a sticker which is the calibration unit of each axis force, fz and fx, necessary to read correct value based on those reference value.
The 100N suspension assembled on it is used to limit the vibration induced by the sample during testing. There are several variations of suspensions depending on the maximum load it can be effective on.
This type of load cell can be used to perform several types of testing:
This type of Load Cell is composed of 2 different parts, each one responsible for one axis of force.
One arm with a piezo sensor will measure the friction force along Fx, while Fz will be applied and recorded by another component.
Electrified Testing Component Overview [ev]
Load Cell EV Ready
Electrical kit setup: AM005060-01
{{if ml}}
Electrical kit setup: AM005060-01
{{if ll}}
Brass Slit sleeve MM000141-02
It is recommended to use the brass slit sleeve as it will transfer lateral forces better than the PEEK version.
DELRIN Insulator disk MM000668-03
{{if block}}
You must use a DELRIN insulator disk to insulate the load cell from the electrified ball holder.
Electrified Module
SPN04330-474
{{if rota}}
Inline Rotary Module with electrified output (using a slip-ring).
Max Speed: 2500RPM Max Torque: 9.2Nm.
{{if bor}}
{{if stat}}
Brass collar for Universal ball holder MM001451-00
2x Banana connector to fork/ring terminal cables
2x Banana to banana cables
(Optional) Quick connection hub AM005060-01
Nylon Standoffs BM460521
These need to replace the original metallic standoffs of the load cell to insulate the load cell from the electrified ball holder.
{{if ll}}
PEEK Slit Sleeve MM000141-04
{{if ball}}
You must use the PEEK slit sleeve (and not the brass version) to insulate the load cell from the electrified ball holder.
Installating the EV kit
Connect the ring/fork terminal to the brass collar using
BHSCS 6-32 X .250” screws and a 7/64" allen key.
{{if ml}}
BHSCS 4-40 X .125" screws and a 7/64" Allen key
{{if ll}}
Connect the banana cable to the banana plug of the instrument:
Electrical Resistance Measurement (Keithley):
2-Wire measurement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector.
4-Wire measruement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector and one cable to “Sense HI”.
Place the collet on the ball holder and strongly tighten the 2 set screws on the side to secure the collet onto the ball holder.
Tribo-Corrosion Testing Component Overview [corr]
Low Load Ball Holder (<10N)
Ball holder
For Balls ∅ 1.6 mm - SPN030026
For Balls ∅ 4 mm - SPN030029
For Balls ∅ 6-6.35 mm - SPN030027
0.125” (3mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
Aluminium
AM000177-01
Stainless Steel
AM000177-02
PEEK
AM000177-03
0.156” (4mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
Aluminium
AM000178-01
Stainless Steel
AM000178-02
PEEK
AM000178-03
0.25” (6mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
Aluminium
AM000091-01
Stainless Steel
AM000091-02
PEEK
AM000091-03
3/8” (10mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
Aluminium
AM000092-01
Stainless Steel
AM000092-02
Brass Slit sleeve
It is recommended to use the brass slit sleeve as it will transfer lateral forces better than the PEEK version.
Rtec Part number: MM000141-02.
Phillips screwdriver
You must use a non-metallic ball holder to avoid influencing the corrosion measurement.
0.125” (3mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
PEEK
AM000177-03
0.156” (4mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
PEEK
AM000178-03
0.25” (6mm) balls:
Holder Material
Rtec Part Number:
PEEK
AM000091-03
Rotary Room Test Overview [rota]
SRV Introduction [srv]
The SRV module consists of the lower reciprocating drive and the upper sample holder. The setup below includes the heating and cooling chamber which is mounted to the reciprocating drive
The SRV bridge sensor has two 500N piezo sensors for Fx and a 2000N 1D sensor for Fz. It is possible to run an ASTM test D5706/D5707 for verification with existing greases for test verification. The bridge for SRV module mounts on the reciprocating linear drive.
The SRV module installed on the MFT-5000 tester
Facility Requirements & Safety
Facility Requirements
Safety Information
Standard -
Standards for this Test
SRV [srv]-
SRV Test Standards Overview
Standard Reference: All SRV tests follow the general requirements outlined in ISO 19291 for linear oscillation.
Test Principle: A normal force is applied while the corresponding friction force during oscillation is continuously measured.
Disk specifications: 24-mm diameter, 7.8-mm height, 100Cr6 Steel (equivalent SAE E 52100), 710–820 HV
Oil test lubricant: Approximately 0.3 ml of lubricating oil
Grease test lubricant: Approximately 1 mm in height of grease on the lower test specimen
Coefficient of Friction Calculation
Standard formula: f = Ff / Fn
Rtec-Instruments designation:
Fz = normal force
Fx = friction force
Software equation: COF = FX / FZ
Sample Requirements
For SRV tests, balls and disks must be certified for ASTM and ISO standards. Samples must be purchased from recognized suppliers.
Standard General High Frequency Linear
ISO 19291 Scope
This standard covers high-frequency, linear-oscillation test machines to determine tribological characteristics like friction, wear, load carrying capacity and extreme pressure behavior of oils and greases in the ball-on-disk contact geometry.
Equivalent Standards
Oils: technically equivalent to DIN 51834–2 / ASTM D6425 and ASTM D7421
Greases: technically equivalent to ASTM D5706 and ASTM D5707
ISO 19291 Full Title
ISO 19291 Lubricants — Determination of tribological quantities for oils and greases — Tribological test in the translatory oscillation apparatus.
Harmonized National Test Methods
This test method, ISO 19291, harmonizes the following national test methods using the ball-on-disk contact geometry:
DIN 51834-2 (oil, coefficient of friction and wear)
ASTM D6425 (oil, coefficient of friction and wear)
ASTM D7421 (oil, pass load/O.K. load)
ASTM D5706 (grease, pass load/O.K. load)
ASTM D5707 (grease, coefficient of friction and wear)
SH/T 0721 (grease, coefficient of friction and wear)
SH/T 0784 (grease, pass load/O.K. load)
NB SH/T 0847 (oil, coefficient of friction and wear)
NB/SH/T 0882 (oil, pass load/O.K. load)
For Oils:
ASTM D6425 - Measuring Friction and Wear Properties of Extreme Pressure (EP) Lubricating Oils Using SRV Test MachineMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 1 mm, T = 50°C / 80°C / 120°C, Load = 300 N, t = 2 hours
ASTM D7421 - Determining Extreme Pressure Properties of Lubricating Oils Using High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) Test MachineMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 2 mm, T = 50°C / 80°C / 120°C, Load = from 100 N to 1'200 N or failure, t = 2 hours
DIN 51834-2 Part 2 - Determination of friction and wear data for lubricating oilsMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 1 mm, T = 50°C, Load = 300 N, t = 2 hours
ASTM D7755 - Standard Practice for Determining the Wear Volume on Standard Test Pieces Used by High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) Test Machine
For Greases:
ASTM D5707 - Measuring Friction and Wear Properties of Lubricating Grease Using a High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) TestMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 1 mm, T = 50°C / 80°C, Load = 200 N, t = 2 hours
ASTM D5706 - Determining Extreme Pressure Properties of Lubricating Greases Using a High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) Test MachineMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 1 mm, T to be defined, Load = from 100 N to 1'200 N or failure
ASTM D7594 - Determining Fretting Wear Resistance of Lubricating Greases Under High Hertzian Contact Pressures Using a High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) Test MachineMain parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 0.3 mm, T = 50°C, Load = 100 N, t = 2 hours
Others:
ASTM D7217 - Standard Test Method for Determining Extreme Pressure Properties of Solid Bonded Films Using a High Frequency Linear Oscillation SRV Test Machine
ASTM D7420 - Standard Test Method for Determining Tribomechanical Properties of Grease Lubricated Plastic Socket Suspension Joints Using a High-Frequency, Linear-Oscillation (SRV) Test Machine
DIN 51834 - Tribological test in the translatory oscillation apparatus
DIN 51834-1 Part 1: General working principles
DIN 51834-2 Part 2: Determination of friction and wear data for lubricating oils
Main parameters: f = 50 Hz, amplitude = 1 mm, T = 50°C, Load = 300 N, t = 2 hours
DIN 51834-3 Part 3: Determination of tribological behavior of materials in cooperation with lubricants
DIN 51834-4 Part 4: Determination of friction and wear data for lubricating oils with the cylindrical roller-disk geometry
VoiceCoil,HFRR [vcoil]-
Please consult these HFFR standards, not only for the parameters of testing, but also for 2 important aspects of the test procedure:
Cleaning procedure of the test samples: ball and disk
Cleaning procedure of the liquid container and the upper ball holder
Please find the important parameters of the Tester. It represents the summary of the standards: ASTM D6079 and ISO 12156.
Parameter
ISO 12156-1 HFRR
ASTM D6079 HFRR
Measured Parameter
Wear scar on ball
Wear scar on ball
Fluid Temperature
60°C
25°C or 60°C (60°C preferred unless volatility or degradation is a problem)
Fluid Volume
2 ml
2 ml
Air Humidity
-
> 30% RH
Load
200 g
200 g
Duration
75 min
75 min
Ball
Reciprocating, 50 Hz / 1 mm stroke
Reciprocating, 50 Hz / 1 mm stroke
Diameter
6 mm
6 mm
Material
AISI E-52100 chromium alloy steel
AISI E-52100 chromium alloy steel
Finish
Ra < 0.05 µm
Ra < 0.05 µm
Hardness
Rockwell C 58-66
Rockwell C 58-66
Disk
Stationary
Stationary
Material
AISI E-52100 chromium alloy steel, annealed, turned, lapped and polished
AISI E-52100 chromium alloy steel, annealed, turned, lapped and polished
Finish
Ra < 0.02 µm
Ra < 0.02 µm
Hardness
Vickers HV 30: 190-210
Vickers HV 30: 190-210
Velocity
0.1 m/s average, reciprocating
0.1 m/s average, reciprocating
Contact
Contact surface is submerged
Contact surface is submerged
Standard Protocols
The tests are conducted according to the 2 most important required standards:
ASTM D6079 Standard Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
ISO 121561 Diesel fuel - Assessment of lubricity
Other standards involved are the following:
ASTM D7688 Standard Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
JPI-5S-50-98 Gas Oil – Testing Method for Lubricity.
BS EN 590 Automotive Fuels – Diesel – Requirements and Test Methods.
SH/T 0765 Diesel fuel - Assessment of lubricity
The HFRR/FFTM test is a normalized test with a specific program already included in the software (ASTM D6079). The test requires 75 minutes of runtime, plus 20-30 minutes for initial heating and stabilization.
Testing is conducted at 60°C (or alternative temperatures per specific standards). Ensure the enclosure door is closed during the test to maintain proper stabilization.
The initialization step verifies all instrument setups but does not need to be run at each software start. Once parameters are verified, you can proceed directly to running measurements with the corresponding program (see next section).
• 4 x 6-32 x .250” screws • 4 x 10-32 x .438” screws • 4x BN610 M4 x 8 screws
nxy
Heating BOR
• 500°C Chamber • Thermocouple and Power Cables (for chamber)
bor&heat
Liquid BOR
• Shaft and Liquid Container
bor&liq
Block-On-Ring
• Block-on-Ring Drive • XY Stage with Direct Drive Motor • Shaft Support • Block Holder • Electrical Connectors
• (4x) 8-32 screws, 0.75” long • (3x) 10-32 screws, 0.625” long • (1x) 5/16-18 screw with clip washer • Allen wrenches: 9/64", 1/4", 1.25" • ER-32 collet wrenches (provided)
bor
Reciprocating Tribocorrosion
• Corrosion Container With Electrodes ◦ SPN06078 • Potentiostat - DC Tests (Tribocorrosion) ◦ SPN09023
reci&(elecev)
Load Cell Montage [1d1d,2d,mtm]-
Load Cell Montage
2D Montage [2d]-
Mounting it with Extension
ℹ️
You can use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.
2" (left) and 4" extensions (right)
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.
ℹ️
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.
[mft2&dry]
Without Extension
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.
[mft2&!dry]
Mounting it with Extension
ℹ️
(Optional) You can also use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.
2" (left) and 4" extensions (right)
Without extension block (left) and with extension block (right)
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.
[mft5&dry]
Without Extension
ℹ️
In most cases, the Argon adapter plate will already be installed. However, if installation is required, follow these steps:
Mount the adaptor plate plate directly to the Quick Exchange base using the provided 4 x 10-32 x 1.250” 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.
Align the sensor so that the ribbon cable port is on the right-hand side when viewed from the front.
This ensures correct orientation in relation to the rear alignment features of the Quick Exchange.
[mft5&!dry]
Mounting the Fz Load Cell [1d1d,mtm]
Quick-exchange attachement
Sliding plate
Block extension
Fz load cell
Ensure that the quick-exchange plate is properly mounted on top of the load cell:
Mount the fz load cell on the fast exchange plate and tighten the 4 captive screws. (4 x 10-32 x 1.250” long using 5/32 Allen wrench).
Incorrect
ℹ️
The fast exchange plate’s notch should be pointing on the opposite side of the front load cell as this notch 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 blocks:
ℹ️
You can also use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.
2" (left) and 4" extensions (right)
Mount the block extension on the exchange plate with 4 4 x 10-32 x 1.250” long screws using 5/32 Allen wrench.
Install the load cell mounted on the extension block with the 4 captives screws. (4 x 10-32 x 1.250” long using 5/32 Allen wrench).
ℹ️
The fast exchange plate’s notch should be pointing on the opposite side of the front load cell as this notch will fit into the back of the sliding support.
The component at the top of the picture is the fast exchange adapter.
The front of the load cell is the face showing the Rtec logo and the unit calibration sticker.
Incorrect
Fx Arm Montage (if dismounted) [if 1d1d,mtm]
ℹ️
The Fx sensor should come pre-built. However, if you need to build it, follow the following steps:
Firstly, attach the horizontal arm to the vertical arm. Screw the shoulder screw from the bottom hole with FHSHS 6-32 x .750” BM310271-08
ℹ️
There are 2 types of horizontal arms. The longer version is mostly used with environmental chambers. You need to select the arm depending on how long you want the ball holder to be.
Fix the capacitive sensor to the vertical arm with 2 x 8-32 x .875” BM310290-11.
ℹ️
The sensor face with the threaded insert.
Attach the friction arm to the pivot base with 8-32 x .375” BM310280-05 with a 9/64 » allen key.
⚠️
Please refer to the 3 threads of the base which must point downward to ensure proper angular movement of the pivot base.
Upper Module/Holder/Sample Montage -
Holder and suspension Installation
[2d]-
Mounting the suspension[2d&(ml,hl)]
ℹ️
You can either mount the ball holder directly to the load cell or to a suspension which is used to limit the vibration induced by the sample during testing.
A test without suspension will be more noisy but will have a direct transfer of the forces to the load cell.
Without a suspension
Place the DELRIN disk {{! block&elec}}
Use four 1/4” button head screws to secure the assembly to the load cell and tighten using a 5/32” Allen wrench.
Slide the collet through the clamp {{if ball}}
[! block]
Insert the slit sleeve into the mounting clamp.
PEEK or Brass slit sleeve, as mentioned in Required tools and components.
Place the ball holder into the slip sleeve.
[block]
Align the block holder key with the mounting clamp hole.
Place the block holder into the mounting clamp.
⚠️
It is recommended to install the holder as far as possible into the suspension while making sure that it does not hit the load cell when the suspension is fully compressed.
Tighten the mounting clamp using a 9/64” Allen wrench.
Montage with suspension
Montage without suspension
Y Radius Holder [mft2&nxy]
Remove the current adapter and holder if present
Every accessories must be removed along with the graphite plate.
The graphite plate will be mounted back in the next part.
Install the adapter plate
Position the rectangular plate along the Y axis of the load cell to support the module.
ℹ️
6-32 x .250” long using 7/64” Allen wrench
Install the Y axis module
Firstly, lose the tightening screw on the right to free the upper plate and have access to each screws.
Move the upper plate to 40mm and re tighten the side screw.
Secure the upper module with 4 x M4 x 8 screws using a 3mm metric Allen key.
Move back the plate to thighten the 2 last screws.
Install the graphite plate and the holder
Fix the adapter with four M4 x 12 screws using a 4mm metric Allen key.
Secure the graphite plate with four 6-32 x .250” screws long using 7/64” Allen wrench.
Tighten the two captive screws from the suspension using 9/64” Allen key.
Without suspension
Mount the graphite plate
Fix the holder with 4 x 10-32 x .438” using 5/32” Allen wrench
Center the holder to 0
50mm of total stroke length, considering 25mm is the center point.
⚠️
The side screws must be loosen first.
Adjust the micrometer screw to increase or decrease the Y offset manually.
Tighten the side screw.
LL Argon Holder Suspension [ll]-
Secure the suspension holder with the 4 screws using 5/64” Allen Key.
ℹ️
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.
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.
ℹ️
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.
Upper Component Installation
[none] (pour ne pas afficher ce callout customer side)
Argon [2d]-
Installing the Load Cell
Sliding It into the Tester [mft2]
Slide in the load cell into the Z stage rack.
ℹ️
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.
Fasten the 4 securing screws by hands.
Connect the ribbon cable. The connector only fit one way.
Sliding It into the Tester [mft5]
Lower the Z-Axis all the way down using the jogbox.
To create clearance, move the Y-stage.
Before installing the load cell
Lower the Z-Axis all the way down using the jogbox, to have access to the attachement.
Ensure the Y-stage is moved sufficiently backward to avoid obstruction. Although unlikely to cause damage, improper placement may interfere with installation.
Animated instructions
Slide the sensor assembly with the Quick Exchange into the MFT-5000 Quick Exchange Dock
ℹ️
Ensure first that the locking wings are forward.
The front of the load cell (Rtec logo and sticker) is facing you.
Lift the Argon Assembly up while tightening the Quick Exchange locks outward
ℹ️
Always hold the sensor by its sides to avoid applying force on the sensors.
Make sure the assembly is firmly wedged up with no vertical play.
Connect the ribbon cable to the Argon Load Sensor.
ℹ️
The connector only fit one way.
Manually adjust the Y Radius [mft2&nxy]
To adjust the y radius you need to manually turn the knob to the desired radius.
The center of the Y radius setup being the 25mm mark, you can adjust the radius to +-25mm.
Installing the Fz Load Cell [mtm,1d1d]
Lower the Z-Axis all the way down using the jogbox Z-axis control.
Slide the FZ-1D arm into the quick-exchange mount.
Secure the arm by locking it in place.
⚠️
Always power off the instrument before connecting or installing any load cell or accessory.
1D Arm [1d1d,mtm]-
Fx-1D Load Cell
Mount the Fx-1D Arm
Remove the right panel of the MFT to access to the fixation hole and sticker
Position yourself at the right frame of the MFT and place the back of the arm (the pivot base)against the frame, making sure the base of the arm is pressed against it.
ℹ️
Refer to the alignment guide on the side of the instrument to determine the correct mounting holes.
The level of the friction arm depends on the configuration.
ex: For the block-on-ring configuration without heating chamber, use positions 5 and 7.
Attach the friction arm to the instrument using the 1.125-inch screws and washers to secure the arm. (1/4-20 x 1.000” BM310340-09). Hand-tighten initially; fully tighten with the 3/16” Allen Key after final adjustments.
Mount the Spring Assembly
Use a 5/64" Allen wrench to mount the springs to the front and back of the Fx-1D arm.
Ensure proper tension and secure the spring assembly.
Attach the Load Cell Cables
Connect the Sensor Cable
Connect the Fx Arm Cable to the Fz Load Cell
Raise the Fz-1D Load Cel
Installing the montage into the arm
Unscrew the thumb screw/knob present on the front of the arm You can now open the securing block and insert the holder.
Insert the holer onto the arm and align the slot on the sleeve with the alignment pin on the arm.
ℹ️
The flange of the insulator sleeve must be positioned towards the top of the block holder For the block holder: Make sure that the notch matches the extrusion of the block holder
Slide the sleeve into position and loosely secure it.
Installing the 1D+Torque Sensor [fztq]-
Installing The UpperRotary Drive [4ball,urota]-
Upper Component Installation
Remove the fast-exchange plate
Lower the Z axis all to the minimum.
Remove the fast exchange attachment from the Z-Axis by loosening the 4 screws holding it.
ℹ️
The upper drive will be directly fixed to the Z stage without the fast exchange attachment.
Install the Fz load cell
Specification
SPN Number
Range (kN)
Application Test
AM000467-00
5
ㅤ
AM000467-01
8
4Ball
AM000467-02
10
ㅤ
Upper Rotary Drive with integrated 20 Nm Torque sensors
Part no.
Speed 0.1 to 5,000 rpm; Max Torque 5.3 Nm 5.1Nm @500rpm, 4 Nm @3000rpm, 2.9Nm @5000rpm, Integrated Torque Sensor Range 20 Nm, Additional torque sensor range upon request
SPN04004-2-5000-20
Standard Config Speed 0.1 to 2,500 rpm; Max Torque 11.2 Nm 10.4Nm @500rpm, 9.5Nm @1000rpm, 6 Nm @2500rpm Integrated Torque Sensor Range 20 Nm, additional torque sensor range upon request
SPN04004-2-2500-20
TappingTorque
ㅤ
Speed 0.1 to 5,000 rpm; Max Torque 5.3 Nm 5.1Nm @500rpm, 4 Nm @3000rpm, 2.9Nm @5000rpm, Integrated Torque Sensor Range 20 Nm, Additional torque sensor range upon request. Lower liquid collecting pan 10"x7"
SPN04005
Position the load cell in contact with the Z Stage direct support.
While holding it in place, fasten the 4 captive screws as shown below.
⚠️
The 4-pin holder of the Fz load cell must face downwards.
The slot connector of the load cell must be pointing to the right.
Slide in the upper drive
Technical Specification
AM000848: Load + Sensor
Slide the upper drive into the load cell pins.
⚠️
Please pay attention to the notch, circled in orange, which must point towards the back.
ℹ️
After sliding it in, the upper rotary drive is now supported by the 4-pins.
To secure the upper drive, tighten the 3 captives screws using a 5/32" Allen key.
ℹ️
There is only one captive screw on the right.
Connect the cables
Fz load cell cable
Connect the load cell cable then lock it in position by pulling on the two-sided levers.
Power drive and Torque sensor cable
From the back of the MFT-5000, you’ll find the 2 slots located on the left, behind the frame.
The torque sensor connector is on the left of the upper drive.
Connect the Electrified testing cables {{if ev}}
Upper Electric EV rotary drive with 8000N quad force sensor and integrated torque sensor - SPN04332
Upper Sample Preparation
[! mtm,vcoil]
Pin/Ball holder Preparation [! block]
Universal Ball holder Overview
Rtec balls catalog
Available Ball materials
E52100 Alloy Steel / HRC60
304 SSt / HRC25
440C SSt / HRC58
WC Tungsten Carbide / HRC75
SiN Silicon Nitride
Nonporous Alumina Ceramic balls
PTFE
Available Ball size
1.6mm
3.9mm
6.3mm
9.5mm
12.7mm
Rtec pins catalog
Available Pin materials
416 SSt
316 SSt
Titanium
Brass
PTFE
Peek
6061 Aluminum
Available Ball size
6.3mm
1. Test Ball or Pin
Provided for standard test: Ball, .250" (1/4") (6.350mm) Dia E52100 100Cr6 grade 25 Alloy Steel.
2. Nut
3. ER11 Collet
General metric range avalaible: from 1 mm to 7 mm (0.5 mm increments)
Each collet has a clamping range of 0.5 mm ex: an ER11-3 mm collet can also clamp pins/balls with a 2.5-3.5 mm diameter.
4. Adjusting pin
This pin enables ball position adjustment within the collet.
5. Ball Holder
Holder Specification
Rtec Part Number: AM000013-01
Collet Series
ER11
Shank Diameter
0.625 in / 15.875 mm
Minimum Collet Capacity
0.0190 in / 0.4826 mm
Maximum Collet Capacity
0.2760 in / 7.0104 mm
Overall Length
3.5 in / 76.2 mm
6. Extension
Left-Hand (reverse) threaded extension.
ℹ️
For additional information or to place an order, please contact Rtec Support (contact information provided at the end of this manual).
Loosen the nut to free the ball.
Remove the adjusting pin from the holder
{{! corr}}
Insert the adjusting pin into the holder, then the ball. Provided for standard test: Ball, .250" (1/4") (6.350mm) Dia E52100 100Cr6 grade 25 Alloy Steel.
Hold the holder vertically, so the ball is resting on the pin. Using a 1/8" Allen key, fasten the screw inside the holder to slightly push the ball.
Once the ball is retracted enough, fasten the nut to secure it.
{{if elec}}
Connect the ring/fork terminal to the brass collar using BHSCS 6-32 X .250” screws and a 7/64" allen key.
Connect the banana cable to the banana plug of the instrument:
Electrical Resistance Measurement (Keithley):
2-Wire measurement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector.
4-Wire measruement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector and one cable to “Sense HI”.
Place the collar on the ball holder and strongly tighten the 2 set screws on the side to secure the collet onto the ball holder.
{{If corr}}
Slide the ball holder shaft into the universal ball holder clamp and tighten the nut of the universal ball holder.
ℹ️
For preliminary testing: The ball may be reused by rotating it to expose a unworn contact surface. For final measurements: It is replace the ball between each test.
{{! dry&corr}}
Install the extension on the holder by rotating it counter-clockwise.
ℹ️
Increasing the ball holder length can negatively affect test results (longer force momentum), especially in reciprocating tests. It should only be used when using a chamber
Firstly ,loosen the 2 tightening screws using /16” Allen key.
Slide in the block sample into the block support
Level the block sufficiently into the holder.
Tighten the securing screws on each side.
ℹ️
The self-leveling block holder will ensure proper contact during the test.
Block sample Quotation
Rtec Test Block Size: 0.620 x 0.250 x 0.4
L x l x h in inches
Reference : MM000128-XX
Dimension in inches
1D1D Final Step [1d1d]-
Ball holder Spring Setup
Sleeve, insulator cap and the adaptor are placed on the top of the holder.
in order to be used with the suspensions.
For more information
A suspension is used to limit the vibration induced by the sample during testing. There are several variations of suspensions depending on the maximum load it can be effective on. .
It is recommended to select a suspension system with the closest higher load rating to the expected load. For example, if you realize a test at 150N, you would need to use the 200N suspension. By doing so, you will mitigate the vibrations the most.
Block holder Spring Setup
Sleeve, insulator cap and the adaptor are placed on the top of the holder.
in order to be used with the suspensions.
Slide in the block holder adapter sleeve.
Add the first cap to the top of the ball holder.
Place the spring onto the cap.
Add the top cap on top of the spring.
The pictures below show the actual montage step directly on the arm.
Follow the next step to continue
Level the arm
ℹ️
Use the built-in level on the 1D arm to ensure the arm is mounted horizontally.
Manually press the arm so the ball holder contacts the sample, as the level must be evaluated when the pin/ball is in contact with the surface.
Slightly loosen the tightening screw/knob.
Adjust the arm position up or down until the level indicator shows proper alignment.
Once the 1D arm and block holder aligned and level, tighten the sleeve securely.
⚠️
The collets must be fully inserted into the arm
The ball holder and arm can remain suspended
Confirm the assembly is secure and aligned
⚠️
Please verify this important aspect of the setup, as they can be easily forgotten or ignored, possibly affecting the quality of the testing and result.
Ensure that :
the lower module and the universal sample holder (rotary/reciprocating..) are secured, chamber cables are connected if used.
Fz and Fz cables are connected.
Ball or Block are tightened on the holder.
Arm is leveled and the collet fully inserted and aligned.
Adequate suspension is used.
⚠️
Important Note for a Chamber Setup
Please dont remove the lids (top cover of your chamber) at this point, until the homing have been done, to avoid any collision during the displacement.
Make sure to match the collet ball’s notch with the dowel pin’s holder.
To dismount the upper holder
Insert a Allen key at the back to fully dismount the assembly.
Using a 1/8” Allen key to push out both the collet and the ball
Using a 3/32” Allen key to push out the ball from the collet
Removing the ball’s insert
If the ball is welded in the collet
To remove a welded ball, insert a dowel pin (Part No. BM280103-10) into the upper access opening and thread an 8-32 screw (BM310280-08) into the dowel pin.
Gradually tighten the screw with an Allen Wrench to drive the dowel pin against the ball until the ball is released and ejected.
Attach the upper ball holder
Insert the ER-32 collet into the ring, then place it into the upper drive.
Slide the ball holder into the UpperDrive’s collet.
While holding the drive in place using the included 36 mm wrench, use the ER-32 wrench (provided in the kit) to tighten the collet securely.
Tightening using the two wrenches prevents applying direct torque on the upper drive.
Raise the Z-axis using the jogbox, once the drive is properly installed to facilitate next steps.
Assemble and attach the EV Upper Ball Holder [ev,elec]
Lower Drive/Module Installation-
Drive installation -
Drive Installation
{{if rota,reci,mtm}}
Direct Drive Should be installed [rota,reci]
ℹ️
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
Route the drive cable through the X Y stage.
Position and insert the motor drive through the stage.
Orient the drive so the green sensor port faces the right side.
Secure the drive with 7 x SHCS 8-32 X .625" long screws (310-280-05 / BM310280-09)
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).
⚠️
Always power off the instrument before connecting cables or installing any load cell or accessory.
For Inline Rotary Drive [mft5&(rota,reci)]
ℹ️
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.
Open the upper back door of the MFT-5000.
Insert the motor drive on the stage.
Secure it with 6 x 8-32 x .375” screws using a 9/64" Allen wrench. BM310280-05
Connect the 2 cables on the slot behind the right frame.
MTM [mtm]-
Module Installation-
VoiceCoil [vcoil]-
Rotary Drive [rota]-
Rotary Drive installation
Align the rotary drive with the mounting holes.
⚠️
Ensure that the black connector underneath the module is facing left so it properly aligns and connects with the green connector on the base.
Secure using 6 x 8-32 screws (Part No. BM310280-5) with 9/64" Allen key.
Maintenance {{if none}}
Linear Reciprocating Drive [reci,srv]-
Linear Reciprocating Drive Installation
Position the reciprocating drive on the base.
⚠️
Ensure that the black connector below the module is properly aligned and connects with the green connector on the base.
Use two 8-32 screws (BM310280-12) to secure the reciprocating drive.
Technical Linear Drive Specification
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
ℹ️
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.
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
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.
On the MFT Software , disable the drive by clicking on the ON button.
ℹ️
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.
Drive disabled, turn the central shaft until the stroke adjusting assembly appears through the front opening of the module.
Animation example
Using a 5/64” Allen wrench, loosen the brake screws on both sides
Animation example
Insert a 9/64” Allen wrench into the center adjustment screw to adjust the stroke length.
ℹ️
Turn clockwise (right) to decrease stroke length. Turn counterclockwise (left) to increase stroke length.
Measure the amplitude with the LVDT if available in your configuration, a ruler or a dial gauge while the drive motion is on.
ℹ️
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.
After adjusting, re-tighten the brakes with the 5/64” Allen wrench.
Connecting the LVDT {{if lvdt,reci,srv}}
ℹ️
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.
BOR Drive [bor]-
BOR Instalation
Mounting the Block-on-Ring Drive [bor]
Technical BOR Drive Specification
Speed and Torque: Belt Drive Motor #2 @ 220v With Driver #B
Single Motor #2
Single Motor #2
SPN04043-402 SPN04042-26
SPN04043-402 SPN04042-26
SPN04042-27 SPN04043-468
SPN04042-27 SPN04043-468
1.25
(45:36)
0.667
(30:45)
Speed, rpm
Torque, Nm
Speed, rpm
Torque, Nm
Speed, rpm
Torque, Nm
0
8.67
0
10.84
0
5.78
200
8.56
160
10.70
300
5.71
500
8.39
400
10.49
750
5.59
1000
8.11
800
10.14
1500
5.41
1200
8
960
10.00
1800
5.33
1500
7.83
1200
9.79
2250
5.22
2000
7.56
1600
9.45
3000
5.04
2500
7.2
2000
9.00
3750
4.80
3000
6.85
2400
8.56
4500
4.57
3500
6.37
2800
7.96
5250
4.25
3800
6.08
3040
7.60
5700
4.05
4000
5.89
3200
7.36
6000
3.93
SPN
Motor/Driver
Description
Specifications
SPN04042-27
Motor #2 Driver #B
Standard BOR Drive Motor #2
Speed max 3000 rpm @ 220V; Max Torque 10.5 Nm
SPN04042-26
Motor #2 Driver #B
Standard BOR Drive Motor #2
Speed max 5000 rpm @ 220V; Max Torque 6.9 Nm
SPN04043-468
Motor #2 Driver #B
BOR Drive Motor #2 With Inline Torque Sensor
Speed max 3000 rpm @ 220V; Max Torque 10.5 Nm
SPN04043-402
Motor #2 Driver #B
BOR Drive Motor #2 With Inline Torque Sensor
Speed max 5000 rpm @ 220V; Max Torque 6.9 Nm
SPN04003-5-1
High Power Motor
Ultra-High Torque BOR Drive. Requires 3-phase 480V or 380V AC. Additional high power controller needed. Not all chambers fit. Please contact for compatibility.
Speed 0.1 to 5,000 rpm; Max Torque 30 Nm
SPN04003-5-2
High Power Motor
Ultra-High Torque BOR Drive. Requires 3-phase 480V or 380V AC. Additional high power controller needed. Not all chambers fit. Please contact for compatibility.
Speed 0.1 to 3,000 rpm; Max Torque 50 Nm
Slide the drive onto the XY stage, aligning it to the front right corner while pressing down to avoid tilting.
Secure the drive with two 8-32 screws (0.75” long) using a 9/64” Allen wrench.
Do not fully tighten until alignment is verified.
Once aligned, fully tighten all screws.
Connecting the Block-on-Ring [bor]
⚠️
Ensure the tester is powered off before making motor or electrical connections.
At the back of the system:
Connect the two motor connectors.
Connect the 24V fan power cable.
The visual may differs depending on options
Rtec Module Application-
Rotary [rota]-
Rotary Application
Mounting the Sample Holder [dry&room]
ℹ️
You can mount the sample disk directly onto the rotary table if this option was not purchased or if your sample has been properly prepared for this purpose.
Direct Sample Disk Mounting
ℹ️
Ensure the thread adapter and the centering pin are mounted onto the rotary table disk. Dowel pins are in the tool hardware kit. Pin: 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin - BM280103-04. Thread adapter - BM430001.
The Sample Disk should be aligned with the dowel pin to avoid any disk wobbling during test.
Disk mounted on rotary table by aligning with Dowel Pin and tightening the center 6/32 sample disk screw with the 5/32" Allen key.
Mount the Universal Sample holder onto the rotary table.
Secure it with the 6, 4-40 X .188" using a 3/32" Allen key. Sample holder screw provided in the toolbox. 4-40 X .250" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST SHCS screws
Place the sample in the middle of the holder. Use the centering lines to grossly center
ℹ️
This universal rotary holder can accommodate any rotary sample of radius within this range without the need for a centered insert on the sample.
Range of [12.7 , 50.8] mm / [0.5 , 2]”
Securing the sample disk
Loosen the 3 gripper's screws
Place the fine securing screw in the “Free Position”:
Slide the 3 grippers in contact with the sample.
Once the sample is positioned, tighten the 3 gripper's screws.
Finally, tighten the fine screw until it is pushing the sample, preventing any rotation during the test.
Coarse securing gripper’s screws
Fine securing screw
Animation Help
Liquid Ambient Test [liq&room]-
Remove the Rotary Table
Using a 9/64" Allen key, remove the existing sample holder disk to prepare for the chamber installation.
Remove the thread adapter with a flat screwdriver. Turn it counterclockwise like a screw to remove it.
Remove also the pin from the rotary table disk. From the other side of the disk, push the pin out using a 0.050" Allen key.
ℹ️
The pin is a 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin, part number BM280103-04. The thread adapter is part number BM430001.
Install the Chamber Housing
Position the chamber housing onto the rotary drive with the two dowel pins positioned along the Y-Axis.
Secure the housing using six 4-40 X .250” screws using a 3/32" Allen key. SHCS 4-40 X .250" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST SHCSBM310240-03
Re-Mount the Rotary Table
Insert a long 1⁄4-20 bolt in the center of the rotary table to help lower and position the table into the liquid container housing.
Once seated, remove the temporary screw and re-screw the three rotary table screws with the 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the Liquid Chamber
Place the liquid chamber onto the housing.
Secure it by tightening the six captive screws with the 3/32" Allen key.
Sample Mounting
Align the sample with the pin and place it in the liquid chamber.
Use the BM312-241-04 screw and 3/32" Allen key to secure the sample in position.
ℹ️
The Universal sample holder which can accommodate any circular sample is not compatible with the liquid container.
Chamber Cover Installation
Install the brass cover with the opening along the Y-axis. The two slots in the brass lid will align with the two dowl pins on the housing. Align the cover with the two dowel pins on the liquid chamber.
Screw in the six Liquid Chamber Cover Screws - BM310-220-04 to secure the lid to the housing.
Troubleshooting
Maintenance
Humidity Test[mft5&hum]
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Cooled Test [mft5&cool]-
Chamber Installation
-120° Cryogenic Rotary
Liquid Nitrogen Dewar Installation
The Norhof Dewar is used to store and dispense cryogenic liquid for Rtec -120°C Cryo chambers.
Click here to access the manual specific to the Norhof Dewar.
Remove the Rotary Table
Using a 9/64" Allen key, remove the existing sample holder disk to prepare for the chamber installation.
Remove the thread adapter with a flat screwdriver. Turn it counterclockwise like a screw to remove it.
Remove also the pin from the rotary table disk. From the other side of the disk, push the pin out using a 0.050" Allen key.
ℹ️
The pin is a 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin, part number BM280103-04. The thread adapter is part number BM430001.
Mount the Lower Extension
Align the lower extension with its mounting position.
Secure it using three 8-32 screws (BM310280-4) and a 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the -120°C Chamber
Place the chamber over the extension shaft.
Use a 3/16" Allen key to tighten the screw at the bottom to prevent rotation.
Install the Rotary Plate
Place the Rotary plate into the chamber.
Secure using 8-32 screws (BM310280-4) and 9/64” Allen Key.
Mount the liquid nitrogen Chamber
The liquid nitrogen chamber comes with pre-installed screws.
Use a 3/32" Allen key to tighten the BM310-240-3 screws.
Mount the Sample
Place the sample in the designated holder.
Tighten using the sample screw and 5/64" Allen key.
Install the Top Cover
Place the top cover over the chamber assembly.
Hand-tighten the four top cover screws.
Additional Connections
Liquid Nitrogen Inlet: Connect the LN2 tube to the port marked for liquid nitrogen.
RTD Port: Connect the low temperature RTD (Resistance temperature detectors) to the designated input.
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Electrified Test[mft5&(elec,ev)]-
Electrical Contact Resistance (ECR)
Required Tools and Components
Electrified Rotary Module
Max Speed: 2500RPM
Max Torque: 9.2Nm.
Inline Rotary Module with electrified output (using a slip-ring).
Sales Number: SPN04330-474
Electrified Rotary (HiperECR)
Required Tools and Components
Electrified Rotary Module
Max Speed: 2500RPM
Max Torque: 9.2Nm.
Inline Rotary Module with electrified output (using a slip-ring).
Sales Number: SPN04330-474
Heated Test[heat]-
Chamber Installation
500° Heating Rotary [heat]-
Dry Test [heat&dry]-
Remove the Rotary Table
Using a 9/64" Allen key, remove the existing sample holder disk to prepare for the chamber installation.
Remove the thread adapter with a flat screwdriver. Turn it counterclockwise like a screw to remove it.
Remove also the pin from the rotary table disk. From the other side of the disk, push the pin out using a 0.050" Allen key.
ℹ️
The pin is a 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin, part number BM280103-04. The thread adapter is part number BM430001.
Mount the Lower Extension
Align the lower extension with its mounting position.
Secure it using three 8-32 screws (BM310280-4) and a 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the 500°C Chamber
Position the chamber on the extension. The fans facing towards the front.
Insert two 4-40 screws (BM310240-3) into the front and back holes. SHCS 4-40 X .250" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST SHCS
Tighten using a 3/32" Allen key.
Re-Mount the Rotary Table
Insert a long ¼-20 bolt in the center of the rotary table to help lower and position the table into the chamber.
Place the rotary table inside the chamber.
Once seated, remove the temporary screw and re-screw the three rotary table screws with the 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the Universal Sample holder
Direct Sample Disk Mounting
ℹ️
Ensure the thread adapter and the centering pin are mounted onto the rotary table disk. Dowel pins are in the tool hardware kit. Pin: 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin - BM280103-04. Thread adapter - BM430001.
The Sample Disk should be aligned with the dowel pin to avoid any disk wobbling during test.
Disk mounted on rotary table by aligning with Dowel Pin and tightening the center 6/32 sample disk screw with the 5/32" Allen key.
Place the sample disk on the holder.
Fasten with one 4-40 screw using a 5/32" Allen key.
ℹ️
You can mount the sample disk directly onto the rotary table if this option was not purchased or if your sample has been properly prepared for this purpose.
ℹ️
This universal rotary holder can accommodate any rotary sample of radius within this range without the need for a centered insert on the sample.
Range of [12.7 , 50.8] mm / [0.5 , 2]”
Mount the Universal Sample holder onto the rotary table.
Secure it with the 6, 4-40 X .188" using a 3/32" Allen key. Sample holder screw provided in the toolbox. 4-40 X .250" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST SHCS screws
Place the sample in the middle of the holder. Use the centering lines to grossly center it
Securing the sample disk
Loosen the 3 gripper's screws
Place the fine securing screw in the “Free Position”:
Slide the 3 grippers in contact with the sample.
Once the sample is positioned, tighten the 3 gripper's screws.
Finally, tighten the fine screw until it is pushing the sample, preventing any rotation during the test.
Animation Help
Coarse securing gripper’s screws
Fine securing screw
Secure the Top Cover
Place the cover on the chamber.
Tighten the cap using the four built-in thumb screws.
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.
Secure the Top Cover
Place both covers on the chamber.
Secure them using the two built-in thumb screws.
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.
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Liquid Test [heat&liq]-
Remove the Rotary Table
Using a 9/64" Allen key, remove the existing sample holder disk to prepare for the chamber installation.
Remove the thread adapter with a flat screwdriver. Turn it counterclockwise like a screw to remove it.
Remove also the pin from the rotary table disk. From the other side of the disk, push the pin out using a 0.050" Allen key.
ℹ️
The pin is a 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin, part number BM280103-04. The thread adapter is part number BM430001.
Mount the Lower Extension
Align the lower extension with its mounting position.
Secure it using three 8-32 screws (BM310280-4) and a 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the 500°C Chamber
Position the chamber on the extension. The fans facing towards the front.
Insert two 4-40 screws (BM310240-3) into the front and back holes. SHCS 4-40 X .250" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST SHCS
Tighten using a 3/32" Allen key.
Re-Mount the Rotary Table
Insert a long ¼-20 bolt in the center of the rotary table to help lower and position the table into the chamber.
Place the rotary table inside the chamber.
Once seated, remove the temporary screw and re-screw the three rotary table screws with the 9/64" Allen key.
Mount the Liquid Chamber
If available, place the liquid chamber onto the housing.
Secure it by tightening the six captive screws with the 3/32" Allen key.
Align the cover with the two dowel pins on the heating chamber.
Install the brass cover with the opening along the Y-axis. The two slots in the brass lid will align with the two dowl pins on the housing
ℹ️
In this case, the brass cover is positioned with no screws.
Sample Mounting
ℹ️
Ensure the thread adapter and the centering pin are mounted onto the rotary table disk. Dowel pins are in the tool hardware kit. Pin: 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin - BM280103-04. Thread adapter - BM430001.
The Sample Disk should be aligned with the dowel pin to avoid any disk wobbling during test.
Disk mounted on rotary table by aligning with Dowel Pin and tightening the center 6/32 sample disk screw with the 5/32" Allen key.
Place the sample disk on the holder.
Fasten with one 4-40 screw using a 5/32" Allen key.
Secure the Top Cover
Place the cover on the chamber.
Tighten the cap using the four built-in thumb screws.
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.
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
1000° Heating Rotary [mft5&heat]
Remove the Rotary Table
Using a 9/64" Allen key, remove the existing sample holder disk to prepare for the chamber installation.
Remove the thread adapter with a flat screwdriver. Turn it counterclockwise like a screw to remove it.
Remove also the pin from the rotary table disk. From the other side of the disk, push the pin out using a 0.050" Allen key.
ℹ️
The pin is a 0.094” x 0.375” dowel pin, part number BM280103-04. The thread adapter is part number BM430001.
Mount the Shrink Fin
Position the shrink fin in place.
Secure with two BM310220-8 screws and a 5/64" Allen key.
Install Rotary Extension Blocks
Position the lower extension block and secure using BM310280-4 screws and a 9/64" Allen key.
Install the lower part of the chamber
Position the chamber, the fans facing the front.
Use the two thumbscrews on both sides to tighten and secure the chamber.
Install the upper extension block on top of the chamber using BM310280-4 screws and a 9/64" Allen key.
Install Sample Holder Assembly
Position the sample holder in place by aligning the two pin mounts.
⚠️
Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the contact surfaces between the sample holder and the lower table.
Place the sample disc in the sample holder.
Secure the disc using BM310282-7 screws and a 3/32” Allen Key.
⚠️
Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to each screws prior to mount to prevent sticking at high temperatures.
Close and Lock the Lid
Close the chamber lid.
Engage the two locking clamps located on both sides of the chamber.
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.
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Linear Reciprocating [reci,srv]-
Linear Reciprocating Application
Dry Reciprocating [dry&reci]-
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.
Insert the sample
Position the sample into the universal holder.
ℹ️
Max sample width: 1.61” (4.089cm).
Other than the width, the rectangular sample has no specific size requirements.
(Optional) You can also loosen the two nuts first to fit the sample size before.
Secure the sample in place using an 8/32" Allen key
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Liquid Room Test [liq&room]
Troubleshooting {{if none}}
Maintenance {{if none}}
Heating -
Chamber Installation
500° Heating Chamber [heat]
Install the Chamber Stands
Position the two support stands, one at the front and one at the back of the drive.
Secure each stand using two 10-32 screws (BM310320-12) and a 5/32" Allen key.
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.
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.
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.
Insert the Sample
Place the sample into the universal holder.
Secure the sample in place using an 8/32" Allen key.
Install the Chamber Cover
Place the cover on top of the chamber.
Hand-tighten the four thumb screws to complete installation.
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.
1000° Heating Chamber [mft5&heat]
Install the Chamber Stands
Position the two support stands, one at the front and one at the back of the drive.
Secure each stand using two 10-32 screws (BM310320-12) and a 5/32" Allen key.
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.
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 .
Insert the Sample
ℹ️
Sample size: 1.25”x0.63”x0.16” (31x16x4 mm) Max space inside the chamber 50x50 mm
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 in contact.
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.
Tighten to Reduced Torque
Tighten fasteners to 30–40 % less torque than dry specifications.
Wipe Off Excess
Remove any squeeze-out or residue around the joint surfaces after assembly.
Apply anti seize at most metallic contacts to prevent galling:
Below the screw head
At the clamp / sample interface
Attach the Top Cover
Align the top cover and push it down into place.
Lock both sides securely to complete the installation.
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.
Insulate the chamber hole
After installing the load cell, reciprocating module and the heating chamber, home the system.
Insert the upper sample into the chamber, close to the lower sample.
Insulate the chamber hole using some ceramic fiber or any other insulating material.
This will reduce the measurement drift due to a temperature increase on the sensor.
Cooled Test [mft5&cool]-
Troubleshooting [none]
Maintenance [none]
Humidity Test[mft5&hum]
Module Installation
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.
Turn off and unplug the humidifier
You'll need the replacement desiccant recommended by the manufacturer, along with any tools required for accessing the desiccant compartment.
Locate the desiccant compartment; here remove the back cover to replace the desiccant as shown below.
Rotate the desiccant vessel clock ways for open and fill the desiccant.
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.
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.
Corrosion Test[mft5&corr]
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
SRV Test[srv]-
Install the Bridge Sensor over the Drive
⚠️
Always handle the bridge sensor by its sides (where the labels are located). Never pick it up by the center/middle arm where the ball holder fits, as this area is supported by two piezo sensors that will break if subjected to stress.
Install the black support piece onto the reciprocating drive.
The sensor wires should be routed out towards the front of the tester.
Install the Sample onto the temperature container
Secure the sample in the holder by tightening the two Phillips head screws.
Screw in two bolts into the sample holder and lower the holder into the heater/cooler. These two bolts are used to make installation and removal of the sample holder easier.
Insert and tighten four bolts in the corners of the sample holder.
Install the temperature container onto the Drive
Lower the heater/chiller onto the reciprocating drive.
Tighten the four captive screws on the corners of the heater/chiller into the reciprocating drive.
Align the heater/chiller lid onto the holder assembly. Once aligned, tighten the four screws.
Install the Ball Holder
Insert the upper sample holder into the hole on the support bracket.
Install the desired spring onto the upper sample holder. Once the spring is installed, the Z table can be lowered to hold everything in place.
Stationnary [stat]-
4Ball Module [4ball]-
4Ball Cleaning procedure
"Before each test, thoroughly clean all four balls with petroleum ether, rinse with acetone, and dry with a lint-free cloth or filtered compressed air."*
This procedure applies to all 4-Ball configurations regardless of load or test duration, as specimen contamination mechanisms remain identical.
ASTM D4172-21 § 8.2
Hard-copy references
*From ASTM D4172-21 § 8.2, ASTM D5183-20 § 8.2, and IP 239-22 § 8.2 (harmonized wording) Procedure validated by ASTM ILS reports and IP collaborative studies.
ASTM D4172-21, clause 8.2.
ASTM D5183-20, clause 8.2.
IP 239-22, clause 8.2.
ASTM RR:D02-1045 (4-Ball precision statement).
Solvents
Petroleum ether (ligroin) 35-60 °C boiling range (CAS 8032-32-4) – first wash, removes lubricants and hydrocarbons.
Drive shaft bearing – light mineral oil ISO VG 32 (no synthetic oils).
Thermometer well – replace thermal fluid every 100 tests (ASTM D4172 § 9.3).
4Ball Module Assembly
Mount the self-adjusting heating platform
Position the bottom self-centering platform onto the base, the connectors facing towards the front.
Secure the four captive screws with a 9/64" Allen key.
Connect the power cables
Mount the cooled self-adjusting platform [cool]
Mount the self-adjusting platform [none]
Assembling the 4ball oil container [liq]
Empty the container and pull out the thermocouple probe.
ℹ️
Cleaning procedure before test
Immerse container components and balls in Stoddard solvent, swirl or ultrasonically clean for 5 minutes.
Transfer to fresh Stoddard solvent, swirl or ultrasonically clean for 1 minute.
Rinse in n-heptane, swirl or ultrasonically clean 1–2 minutes.
Air-dry 10 minutes in fume hood or warm air stream.
Assemble immediately into the test cup using clean tweezers.
Insert the three balls into the empty container, without forgetting the positioning pin. The thermocouple probe must be pushed close to the balls.
Put the clamping rings. Make sure the clamping ring with the 3 notches faces towards the ball (opposite from the picture). Then the chuck insert above.
Finally, put the nut.
For Oil Preparation
Pour the oil to be evaluated into the test-oil cup to a level around 3 mm above the top of the balls. Ensure that this oil level still exists after the test-oil fills all of the voids in the test-oil cup assembly.
Assembling the 4ball EV oil container [liq&(ev,elec]
For Oil Preparation
Pour the oil to be evaluated into the test-oil cup to a level around 3 mm above the top of the balls. Ensure that this oil level still exists after the test-oil fills all of the voids in the test-oil cup assembly.
Assembling the 4ball grease container [room]
Empty the container and pull out the thermocouple probe.
ℹ️
Cleaning procedure before test
Immerse balls in Stoddard solvent, ultrasonically clean for 5 min.
Transfer to fresh Stoddard solvent, swirl for 1 min.
Rinse in n-heptane, swirl or ultrasonically clean 1–2 min.
Air-dry 10 min in fume hood or warm air stream.
Assemble immediately into the test cup using clean tweezers.
Insert the grease container and the positioning pin. Insert back the thermocouple probe.
This pin prevents the ball from slipping during testing.
Put the circular insert ,then place the 3 testing balls.
ℹ️
Make sure that the thermocouple probe is pushed very close to the balls.
Put the clamping ring in place, then insert the chuck.
Assembling the 4ball EV grease container [liq&(ev,elec)]
Tighten the 4ball container to 50 ft-lbf (67.8 N.m)
ℹ️
The attachment table must be fixed on a table for this operation. Tapping Inserts for Softwood are provided with the table.
Take the provided torque wrench and adjust it to 50 ft-lbs (67.8 N.m). Place the 6 Point Impact Socket 2-1/4” on the torque wrench.
Place the 4ball container on the attachment table by respecting the correct orientation (different pin diameters).
Tighten the 4ball container on the attachment table using the torque wrench.
ℹ️
The torque tightening is carried out according to ASTM standards, and has a direct impact on the friction outcome, including the welding process.
After use, the torque wrench should be stored at its minimal torque value (10 ft.lbf / 13.6N.m)
Install the 4ball container on the platform
Align the two guide pins on the self-centering platform with the corresponding holes on the bottom of the sample holder.
ℹ️
The two keyed pins are of different diameters, ensuring correct orientation.
Block-On-Ring [bor]-
Block-On-Ring Application
Mounting the Block-On-Ring sample
The Inner Raceway can accomodate other roller bearing sample by referering to the Timken inner surface drawing.
First slide in the roller bearing sample.
Rtec Catalog
TIMKEN Tapered-Roller Bearing
35mm OD Tapered-Roller Bearing Outer Ring, 1-3/8" (35mm) OD, 11/32" W SPN13129-143
49mm OD Tapered-Roller Bearing Outer Ring, 1-15/15" (49mm) OD, 9/16" W SPN13129-144
Then the washer identifiable by it notch. the notch fit into the keyed pin’s shaft.
Last, the locknut, identifiable by it wrench flat.
Tighten the locknut using a wrench to secure the whole.
Mounting a bearing wheels sample
The Shaft assembly AM000188-00 (different from the previous Tapered-Roller Bearing shaft) is needed to mount the bearing wheel.
Rtec Catalog
FAG Open Ball BearingOpen Ball Bearing 30mm x 62mm x 16mm
First slide in the bearing wheels sample.
Then the washer identifiable by it notch. the notch fit into the keyed pin’s shaft.
Last, the locknut, identifiable by it wrench flat.
Tighten the locknut using 2 wrenches on opposite sides of the bearing to secure the assembly.
Dry Ambient Test [dry]-
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive.
Begin with the rear collet (1.5” taper) and tighten using the provided wrenches.
Then tighten the front collet (36 mm taper).
⚠️
If the shaft is not correctly tightened, it will rotate freely within the drive instead of transferring torque to the shaft.
Attaching the Shaft Support
Slide into position the front shaft support using the built-in alignment pins.
Secure the shaft by pulling tightening the two levers.
Liquid Ambient Test [liq&room]-
Liquid Container mounted on the support bracket
Liquid Container: Components and Tools
Components
Liquid Container Assembly
Top Cover
Gasket
Block-on-Ring Shaft o Detachable Front Door (with two alignment pins)
Screws and Hardware
(4x) 6-32 x 0.375 in screws (for securing door)
(4x) 4-40 x 0.25 in screws (for securing cover)
7/64" Allen Wrench (for door screws)
3/32" Allen Wrench (for top cover screws)
Position the Shaft onto the Container
The locknut side of the shaft (with the wrench flat and no screws) slides into the main frame of the liquid container.
Locknut side shaft
Close the Front Door
Position the detachable door so that the alignment pins insert into their corresponding holes.
Ensure the side of the shaft with screws is aligned with the side of the container that has tubing.
Secure the Door
Tighten four (4) 6-32 x 0.375 inch screws using a 7/64" Allen key. Do not overtighten.
Mount the Gasket and Top Cover
Align the gasket properly on top of the liquid container.
Place the cover on top of the gasket, ensuring full alignment.
Secure the Top Cover
Insert four (4) 4-40 x 0.25 inch screws through the top cover.
Tighten them using a 3/32" Allen wrench.
Install the Block-on-Ring support bracket
The side with the mounting hole should face the front.
Secure with 10-32 screws (0.625” long) using a 5/32" Allen key.
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive
Ensure the tubing end is at the back.
Align the liquid container with the two alignment pins on the support.
Attaching the Shaft Support
Slide into position the front shaft support using the built-in alignment pins.
Secure the shaft by pulling tightening the two levers.
Heating Test [heat]-
Chamber Installation
500° Dry Heating BOR [heat&dry]-
Installing the 500°C Chamber Base
Mount the chamber base using three 10-32 screws (0.625” long) and a 5/32” Allen key.
Use the provided holes on the XY plate.
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive.
Begin with the rear collet (1.5” taper) and tighten using the provided wrenches.
Then tighten the front collet (36 mm taper).
⚠️
If the shaft is not correctly tightened, it will rotate freely within the drive instead of transferring torque to the shaft.
Installing the 500°C BOR Chamber
Install both sides of the chamber into position and tighten the clamps.
Connect the power cable and thermocouple cable to the instrument.
Attaching the Shaft Support
Slide into position the front shaft support using the built-in alignment pins.
Secure the shaft by pulling tightening the two levers.
500° Liquid & Heating BOR [liq&heat]-
Installing the 500°C Chamber Base
Mount the chamber base using three 10-32 screws (0.625” long) and a 5/32” Allen key.
Use the provided holes on the XY plate.
Liquid Container: Components and Tools
Components
Liquid Container Assembly
Top Cover
Gasket
Block-on-Ring Shaft o Detachable Front Door (with two alignment pins)
Screws and Hardware
(4x) 6-32 x 0.375 in screws (for securing door)
(4x) 4-40 x 0.25 in screws (for securing cover)
7/64" Allen Wrench (for door screws)
3/32" Allen Wrench (for top cover screws)
Position the Shaft onto the Container
The locknut side of the shaft (with the wrench flat and no screws) slides into the main frame of the liquid container.
Locknut side shaft
Close the Front Door
Position the detachable door so that the alignment pins insert into their corresponding holes.
Ensure the side of the shaft with screws is aligned with the side of the container that has tubing.
Secure the Door
Tighten four (4) 6-32 x 0.375 inch screws using a 7/64" Allen key. Do not overtighten.
Mount the Gasket and Top Cover
Align the gasket properly on top of the liquid container.
Place the cover on top of the gasket, ensuring full alignment.
Secure the Top Cover
Insert four (4) 4-40 x 0.25 inch screws through the top cover.
Tighten them using a 3/32" Allen wrench.
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive
Slide the shaft through the BOR Drive.
Begin with the rear collet (1.5” taper) and tighten using the provided wrenches.
Then tighten the front collet (36 mm taper).
⚠️
If the shaft is not correctly tightened, it will rotate freely within the drive instead of transferring torque to the shaft.
Installing the 500°C BOR Chamber
Install both sides of the chamber into position and tighten the clamps.
Connect the power cable and thermocouple cable to the instrument.
Attaching the Shaft Support
Slide into position the front shaft support using the built-in alignment pins.
Secure the shaft by pulling tightening the two levers.
Cooled Test [cool]-
Voicoil [vcoil]-
Vcoil cleaning procedure
"Before each test clean the ball and the disk with toluene, rinse with acetone, dry with filtered compressed air or high-purity nitrogen."*
This procedure applies to all HFRR configurations regardless of load (200-1000 g) or frequency (50-100 Hz), as specimen contamination mechanisms remain identical.
ISO 12156-1 § 7.3
Hard-copy references
*From ISO 12156-1:2018 § 7.3 and ASTM D6079-20 § 7.2 (identical wording) Procedure validated by the CEC T-06-06 and ASTM RR-D02-1582 round-robins.
You must use a DELRIN insulator disk to insulate the load cell from the electrified ball holder.
Rtec Part number: MM000668-03
Round mounting clamp
Rtec Part number: MM002514-00
Optional: Quick connection hub (visible in the image above)
Rtec Part number: AM005060-01
Installation
Connect the ring/fork terminal to the brass collar using BHSCS 6-32 X .250” screws and a 7/64" allen key.
Connect the banana cable to the banana plug of the instrument:
Electrical Resistance Measurement (Keithley):
2-Wire measurement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector.
4-Wire measruement
Connect one cable from the collar to the “Force HI” connector and one cable to “Sense HI”.
Place the collet on the ball holder and strongly tighten the 2 set screws on the side to secure the collet onto the ball holder.
Indentation [indent]-
External Module
Software Step-
Software Initalization
ℹ️
Ensure the proper Configuration for this setup is loaded.
[4ball,mtm,srv,vcoil,bor,corr,ev]
Start the software
Initialization window
Initialization window
When launching Rtec MFT software, the status window automatically opens. This window shows the initialization of all the machine components.
Status Window successfully initialized (Left), unsuccessful (Right)
If any issue appeared during initialization, it will appear as a red line. On the image, the red line shows that the initialization of the scratch module was not successful.
Initialization should be successful for the software to work properly. If it’s not, please restart the computer. If the error persists, contact customer service.
Software Key Features
Key Features
Open software for high flexibility and multiple choices of testing Parameters can be adjusted (force, speed, …) can be monitored and changed during testing
Programming step-per-step Multiple choices of parameters in one single programEasy duplication of multiple steps: parameters of one step of programming can be copied and paste
Programmable servo-control of lower motion stages, including speed, direction, acceleration/deceleration rate, distance, angular position.
Multiple recipes savedPrograms for each user can be saved
Positioning controlPosition for the testing (X,Y,Z) can be programmed in the software
No time limit for the test acquisition
Real time data display.
Test protocols per several ASTM/DIN/ISO standards for automated execution.ASTM G77, G99, G119, G132, G133, G174, G176, D5183, DIN 50324, DIN 51834, …
Software application for post-test data analysis and report generation
Programmable test procedures, including test time, load, speed, frequency, distance, number of cycles, etc.
Automatic stribeck curve generation and data analysis.
Programmable test interruption upon meeting pre-set criteria (Friction, COF, distance, wear, AE, temperature, etc.),
Sample stage automated repositioning for surface inspection, test continuation .
Programmable control of environmental chambers.
Additional sensors (position, distance, temperature, resistance, etc.) data recording and display.Up to 16 additional channels
3 set of adjustable PID (for load, temperature, speed, …)
Same software for Tribology, Scratch, Indentation, Microscopy, … to allow combine testing.
Loop/delay functionality
For 3D imaging, 3D, profile and roughness, wear volume analysis included in MFT
All our file are save text with “.csv” or .”bin” extension. (Easy compatibility with Excel or Origin)
Start the computer.
On the Dekstop, Click On the Rtec MFT Software.
Wait for the softwares to initialize.
For proper initialization of the machine, it is recommended to turn on the machine first, wait 30 seconds and then turn on the software.
Ensure that the tester’s switchs are On
Switching On the MFT-5000
The two AC Switches on the back of the machine, and the front ARU Button is disengaged.
Switching On the MFT-2000
The two 220VAC Switches on the MFT-2000 controller and the 24VDC Switch on the pillar are on.
Checking or Updating the configuration
ℹ️
Follow this step only when switching the load cell or setting up a specific module:
this step configuration step is optional If you only have one load cell and various lower drives (e.g., rotary, reciprocating automatically detected.
When you have several load cells, the new load cell range must be selected in the configuration, as shown in the step below.
Suspensions and accessories do not need to be detected or updated.
{{if mft2&!ev,corr}}
Open the Software Configuration Box.
Unroll and Scroll through the sensors section first.
Select each of the modules installed on the instrument by following the module list below.
Type
LowerDrive
{{if vcoil}}
Fz
Fx
Fx-RMS
{{if vcoil}}
Ts
{{if bor}}
Tz
{{if 4ball}}
RTC
{{if heat,cool,vcoil}}
COF
{{! rota,reci,vcoil}}
LVDT
{{if lvdt,vcoil}
LVDT Stroke
{{if vcoil}}
Options to select
VoiceCoil
{{if vcoil}}
Your Sensor Range
Your Sensor Range
{{! bor,4ball}}
Your Sensor Range
{{if vcoil}}
Select any range (even though there is no Fx, it is required). seewhy
{{if bor,4ball,vcoil}}
Your Torque Range
{{if bor,4ball}}
Your heating chamber
{{if heat,cool,vcoil}}
Select COF-Ts: COF Calculation using the Torques Sensors
Or Select COF: COF Calculation using the Fx Load Cell Sensors
{{if bor}}
Select COF-Torque
{{if 4ball}}
Select COF-Piezo
{{if srv}}
Select COF-Fretting
{{if vcoil}}
Select LVDT
When this option have been purchased.
{{if lvdt}}
Select LVDT-Position
When this option have been purchased.
{{if vcoil}}
Select LVDT-Stroke
When this option have been purchased.
{{if vcoil}}
animation example, please refer to the list table.
For more information
Whenever you update the configuration of your machine by adding or removing a component, you must also update the configuration in the MFT software.
You only need to do this if any components have been replaced since the last update.
Suspensions are not components that require configuration updates.
ℹ️
The load range of your cell should be written on the latest sensor calibration certificate or directly on the load cell.
If a label is missing, the unit calibration values will be non-round but close to the specified unit range.
ex: Fx: 214,56N → Unit range is 200N.
Ts: 24.56 Nm → Unit range is 24 Nm.
Saving and Loading preset configurations
ℹ️
The current configuration can be saved as a preset and reloaded in the future, avoiding the need to manually select each component when changing setup.
Saving Configuration
Click SAVE AS
Save the configuration file following this rule: Addins+(Name)
The custom configuration is saved and can be loaded in the future.
Loading Configuration
Press Load Configuration
Select an Addin name file matching the module installed.
The software will restart with the new configuration loaded.
“Backup/Restore”: Creates or load a backup of the software files.
⚠️
When using an existing configuration, verify that the selected configuration corresponds to the installed components to avoid any software conflicts.
Press SAVE CONFIGURATION
(The software is restarting with the new configuration saved)
Recipe From Scratch
Create a New Recipe
Expert Mode Home
Select recipe window
When starting the software, the Select recipe window should appear. We can divide it into 4 separated parts.
Click EXPERT MODE.
Click NEW.
Name and save the file into a directory.
Click SAVE.
The new recipe is associated with the detected module type.
Click SELECT to continue to the next window.
Specific Step before Standard Step -
Keithley [ev]-
Add a Keithley Measurement [ev]-
Add a Voltage Control on the Potentiostat [ev]
Add a Traction Step [mtm]
Ce titre ne doit pas masquer le callout car heading diff de plain text {{if none}}
Add a Homing Step [vcoil]
⚠️
This Step is important
In the same Standard Step, click on DRIVE.
Click on Constant to unroll the list.
Select Undefined.
Then ,click on Idle to unroll the list.
The first homing step is set
Add a Frequency Mode Step [vcoil]
⚠️
Homing steps has to be inserted before each individual Scan Step defined.
Following the step route as the Homing step, but this time to define the mode.
Define a duration of 3s in the DURATION Section.
In the same Standard Step, click on DRIVE.
Click on Constant to unroll the list.
Select Undefined.
Then ,click on Idle to unroll the list.
Select Set Mode.
In the line that appears, enter the Mode into Value. ex: Type LF for low frequency
The first homing step is set
R-Set Mode means that the mode of voice coil is activated.
Mode (LF/MF/HF): LF = Low Frequency, MF = Middle Frequency, HF = High Frequency
LF : below 10 Hz
MF: from 5-10 Hz to 50 Hz
HF: from 50 Hz and above
ℹ️
There is not a strict limit between the frequencies of Low Frequency (LF), Middle Frequency (MF), and High Frequency (HF). It is recommended as such in general rules but limits can be modified.
Add a Rotary Radius [rota]
My tester doesn't have XY motorization
Manually adjust the Upper holder Y Radius and ignore this step
To adjust the y radius you need to manually turn the knob to the desired radius.
The center of the Y radius setup being the 25mm mark, you can adjust the radius to +-25mm.
Click the drop-down menu and select Reposition.
Click ADD a new step.
Click ADD a new item.
Click 3 times on Z.Velocity to get the dropdown menu
Click on Y.Position.
Press ENTER.
Enter the radius desired in Value. ex: 5 mm
For more information
⚠️
Most Rtec-Instruments load cells are designed to measure friction along the X-axis (Fx).
Because of this, it’s important to always set Y to a nominal value and X = 0. This ensures that all friction forces appear only along the X-axis, where the sensor can detect them.
If you adjust the radius along X, the friction force will shift to the Y direction (Fy). In that case, the load cell will not be able to measure it correctly, and it could even cause damage to the sensor.
Add Two Scan Step [vcoil]
First Scan Step : To sperate the transition period
In the same Standard Step, click on DRIVE.
Click on Idle to unroll the list.
Select Scan.
Amplitude: Select the maximum amplitude.
Ex: 0.01mm
Insert your velocity depending on the frequency mode set in the previous step. Ex: 8OHz in HF mode
You can uncheck the loggin box.
The amplitude is not starting at full amplitude and will start from a small amplitude to a large amplitude: it is not required to save this data, as it is a transition period (here 15 seconds).
{{if vcoil}}
Voice Coil Operation
The voice coil must be activated in the air before starting the fretting test. Therefore, it is common to start the first step with the activation of the lateral movement (HF starts an oscillation in the air).
It is important to initiate the motion of the voice coil at the beginning of the program. The voice coil is activated in air (force: undefined = no contact with surface) for a short period of time (3-5 seconds are sufficient).
{{if vcoil}}
Add a Standard Step
For more information
Principle of the STANDARD Step:
A standard step can combine multiple axis and module activations, such as applying a force (Z stage), enabling motion (Drive function), and heating the sample (Temperature function for chambers).
During this combinated step, the force is first applied and stabilized. Then, if a heating chamber is used, the defined temperature is reached. Finally, the drive type of motion drive is activated and the duration starts.(unless the engage parameters are modified).
Standard Individual step modification window
Part 1: Duration
Duration window
Duration of the step
In this window you can control the duration of the step.
The highlighted button allows the user to automatically calculate the duration of the step if the parameters selected offers to do so with a defined duration of a single repetition and certain number of repetitions (Slide for example)
By default, the logging and time duration start after the force is reached. (see Waiting for force/temperature to settle further)
Part 2: Reset
Reset window
In this window you can reset the value of Fx at the beginning of the step. If it is unchecked, the Fx value will not be subjected to any reset.
This option is necessary to be pressed only when there is an offset of the Fx value at the beginning of the test (1D+1D arm), it will create issues in most cases when using a 2D Load Cell.
Part 3: Data Logging
Data logging window
Checking “Log during this step” will record the test data during the step. If it remains unchecked, no data will be logged for this step.
In case the user wants to divide the data logging into smaller periods, he can modify the values of “Log Period” and “Log Interval”.
Log period (seconds): The duration of the log period.
Log Interval (seconds): The duration of the interval between 2 log periods.
Part 4: Force
Force window
Force options:
Constant: The step is run at a constant value of force. For example: 10N.
Linear: The step is run in linearly increasing or decreasing force for the entire step duration. For example: 5N to 20N. So, the slope's steepness will depend on the duration of the time period.
Undefined: No force control and regulation. Z drive shall remain at the same position throughout the step, this is the equivalent of the Idle state. Use this options if you only use the drive or the temperature during this step for example.
⚠️
The Z-Axis will reach out for a contact when applying a constant force of 0 N as opposed to the undefined option.
Each force are defined for each step, this aspect must be taken in consideration, meaning that the same force must be defined each step to keep applying the desired force throughout the run-test.
Tracking : Adjusting the reaction time
Tracking options:
Low: Reduces the Fz reaction time and adjustment intensity. Only to be used if the standard option is adjusting too strongly to a slow Fz evolution (Tests with fast and high Z displacement).
Standard: To be used in most cases.
High: Increases the Fz reaction time and adjustment intensity. Only to be used if the standard option is adjusting too slowly to a rapid Fz evolution (Tests with fast and high Z displacement).
We highly recommend to use the Standard tracking. However, if the tracking of the force is not satisfactory, you can try other possibilities or contact Rtec customer service if you cannot obtain a satisfactory tracking of the force
Click the drop-down menu and select Standard.
Click ADD a new step.
Define the duration of the step in the DURATION Section.
Define a constant or linear force within the range of the sensors and suspension.
Press ENTER.
⚠️
Remember to define values below the limits of your load cell and suspension.
(Refer to the load cell manual, suspension section for help)
Drive/Stage Activation Step -
Activate the X Axis [stat]
In the same Step, click on X AXIS.
Click on Idle to unroll the list.
Select Slide.
Insert the Distance (Displacement amplitude). Ex: 5 mm
Insert the Velocity, press Enter. Ex: 10 mm/s
Leave Acceleration defaut value.
ℹ️
Default Motorized Table specifications (subject to customization):
Default MFT-2000 Motorized Table specifications:
X Max travel: 150 mm / Up to 50 mm/s
Y Max travel: 200 mm / Up to 50 mm/s
Default MFT-5000 Motorized Table specifications:
X Max travel: 130 mm / 0.001-6 mm/s
Y Max travel: 270 mm / 0.001-50 mm/s
Default SMT-5000 Motorized Table specifications:
X Max travel: 150 mm / 0.001-50 mm/s
Y Max travel: 150 mm / 0.001-50 mm/s
For more information
X axis motion
In this parameter, the user can command an action of the X axis for the step.
Idle: X axis does not move the during the step.
Cycle: Triangular motion along the X axis for the entered distance and number of cycles.
Distance: Amplitude of the X-axis displacement.
Velocity (rpm): Final velocity of displacement after the acceleration phase.
Acceleration (s): Acceleration phase duration.
ℹ️
The previous position of the X table is used as the origin. The distance setting will thus be the distance from the previous X position.
For example, if the X position is 0 and the Amplitude is set to -2mm, the axis will create a triangular movement between X=[0;-2mm]
Slide: Moves the X axis for the entered distance relative to the previous position (positive and negative as shown on the X, Y platform).
Activate the Drive
For more information
Drive motion
The action type might change based on the drive selected.
Idle: If this action is selected, the drive doesn’t move during this step.
Cycle:Oscillates the drive in counter and clockwise directions.
Revolution: Number of revolutions before it changes direction.
ℹ️
If the number of revolutions entered is below 1, the rotary drive will realize a reciprocating-like rotary movement.
Velocity (rpm): Final velocity of displacement after the acceleration phase.
Acceleration (s): Acceleration phase duration.
Slide: Moves the drive for a fixed number of revolutions.
Revolution: Number of revolutions to be realized.
Velocity (rpm/Hz): Final velocity of displacement after the acceleration phase.
Acceleration (s): Acceleration phase duration.
Continuous: Moves the drive at constant velocity in counter or clockwise direction.
Direction: CW for clockwise, CCW for counterclockwise direction.
Velocity (rpm/Hz): Final velocity of displacement after the acceleration phase.
Acceleration (s): Acceleration phase duration.
Move to Angle: Moves the drive to a nominal angle of the shaft
In the same Standard Step, click on DRIVE.
Click on Idle to unroll the list.
Select Continous.
Insert the Velocity. Ex: 500 Rpm or 10hz
Insert Acceleration and Deceleration time (or leave default). Ex: 5s
Step After D/S Actication -
Enter the Effective Radius [bor,urota,4ball]
The value inserted in this animation is an example.
In the same Standard step, click on the free area next to Effective Radius(mm).
Enter 34.93 for the default ring.(Refer to the Help section for other samples).
{{if bor}}
Enter 4.49 (mm). {{if 4ball}}
Help
BOR Effective Radius Calculations
For Block On Ring test, the Friction Coefficient (COF-Torque) is calculated using the effective radius entered in the “Radius” field of the previous window.
The effective radius of the block on ring depends on the amount of contact areas where the friction occurs:
Ring test: Only one single contact point at the radius of the ring.
“Radius” = Radius of the ring (mm).
Bearing test: Two contact points: One between the balls and the inner ring and a second one between the balls and the outer ring.
“Radius” = Effective radius of the 2 contact areas (mm).
The effective radius can be estimated as follows:
Ff,i being the friction force at a specific contact radius.
{{if bor}}
{{if 4ball}}
4Ball Effective Radius Calculations
Four 12.7mm (0.5”) balls are used in the 4Ball test. The following calculation explains why an effective radius of 4.49 needs to be selected in the software for this specific test method:
The radius selected will be defined for the whole recipe and registered in the sample information section.
Activate the Temperature Chamber [heat,cool]
In the same Standard step, click on TEMPERATURE.
Click on Idle
Select Lower Chamber.
Enter the C° temperature to reach for.
Press ENTER.
This temperature will be reach at the start of the step.
Click NEXT to go to the next Window.
When Only Idle appear → The Temperature module is not properly selected → see Update the Components.
ℹ️
Idle: No temperature chamber action is done during the step.
Upper Heater: Sets the desired temperature of the upper heater (if available)
Lower Chamber: Sets the desired temperature of the lower chamber (if available)
Lower &Upper: Sets the temperature of the upper and lower chambers (if available)
Stop: Remove a previous defined temperature setpoint during the test.
Specific Module Step -
Add an Indentation Step [indent]-
Add a Stribeck Step [stbk]-
Additional Recipe Steps and Parameters
Additional Steps for Your Specific Needs
These steps are specific or optional and can be skipped if not relevant to your needs.
They are optional, and a first basic test is ready to be performed with the steps followed before this part.
Automatically bias the sensors before test start
ℹ️
This automatic biasing operation is recommended and generally used.
Click ADD.
Select type : REPOSITION.
Click ADD ITEM on the top left.
Double-click on the new command line inserted.
Select Sensor.Reset Fz.
Same manner, add the second Sensor.Reset Fx.
Please Leave the reset value number 1 default (not affecting the command).
ℹ️
This Reposition Step must be inserted or moved to the FIRST Position if created for this purpose.
At the start of the recipe, the selected sensors will be biased.
Sensors to bias
Fz, Fx, Fx-piezo, Tz, TS, 6D
⚠️ Sensors not to bias
IRT, IndenterDepth, CAP, AE, LVDT, ECR, Analog Input
Starting on a specific aera automatically {{if reci&!heat,cool}}
Go to the first reposition Step previously if existing.
Or if not present, insert a new position step at first position.
Click the drop-down menu and select Reposition.
Click ADD a new step.
Click ADD a new item.
Click 3 times on Z.Velocity to get the dropdown menu
Click on Y.Position.
Press ENTER.
Enter the radius desired in Value.
Realize similar operations (steps 3 to 7) for X,Y,Z.Position or X,Y,Z.Velocity.
⚠️
Mechanical system damage can occur if the custom step is incorrect. Please Read all the information below before operating:
As all the motions are executed in order: Velocity must be placed before an offset or position (X,Y,Z.Offset or X,Y,Z.Position) to operate with the defined speed. (otherwise, the default velocity will be applied to the displacement).
If the starting position is lower than the previous position of the reposition, the reposition step will still go down to the original recipe position.
For additional reposition step placed during the recipe, please unmark “disengage Z before reposition”.
ℹ️
The reposition step allows for the movement and control of different components without any testing. This step is typically used to position samples, move to a new location, reset sensors…
For more information
Reposition step window
Activating the Y Axis to create a spiral pattern motion {{if rota}}
Setting up a specific reciprocating stop-motion {{if rota,reci}}
Repeating step(s) or Setting incremental Force Step by using Loop
The Loop step allows for the repetition of certain steps in the recipe.
⚠️
Mechanical system damage can occur if the custom step is incorrect. Please Read all the information below before operating.
From Step: Step beginning the loop.
Loop For: Number of repetitions of the loop. For example: Loop for 2 = 2 iterations of the loop (initial step plus another one).
Delay: Delay between 2 repetitions of the loop (in seconds).
Enable disengage Z*: If checked, the Z drive will automatically move to the Z starting position (it can be higher or lower than final position) before starting the other loop. If it is unchecked, the Z drive will stay at the final position when the test ends.
Ending the Test When a Sensor Reaches a Specific Value
Press Recipe Parameters Window
Exemple: Aborting the recipe if the COF is too high
Press Advanced.
Select the desired step on the step column.
Unroll the Action list to select Abort_Recipe.
Select the DAQ.COF Component.
Function, ABS for absolute value.
Select > or ≥
Enter the maxium value Ex: When COF Value = 0.6
Leave AND.
Press ADD in the right column. The Condition appear on the very right column.
(Optional) Press Apply to all steps to apply this condition to every step
For more information
Exemple of conditions
Aborting the step when the Zdepth is reached
Aborting the loop when the temperature reached
Aborting the recipe when the COF is reaching a certain value during an incremental loop.
ℹ️
To modify an existing condition:
Select the created condition on the right column
Modify the condition parameters.
Press UPDATE.
(Optional) Press Apply to all steps to apply this condition to every step
Stop conditions functions
Abort_Recipe: Applying this action to a recipe step will abort the recipe, show ing end of the test alert.
Abort_Step: Applying this action to a recipe step will abort the step.
Abort_Loop: Applying this action to a recipe step will abort the loop.
Component: This section allows a user to select a test parameter, such as COF, FZ, FX, Temperature, Z depth, etc. Based on the selected test parameter, a user can either opt to abort a step, loop, or recipe.
Function:It allows a user to select/apply the absolute function (“ABS”).
Operator: This section allows a user to apply Boolean operators to an abort step.
Value: The user can enter the desired stop value for the selected test parameter to an abort step condition.
Join: Several logical parameters from the conditions summary window can be used alone or with “AND/OR” conditions.
ℹ️
If you plan to embed automatic image acquisition during the test, this will be introduced later, after the initial software familiarization.
Additionally, you can refer to the specific imaging head manual provided separately.
{{if lambda,sigma}}
Additional Parameters
ℹ️
Default approach and retract settings that you can adjust. The standard step duration and start enable after the force is reached. The Z Stage goes back to its initial position (before pressing start)
Tracking : Adjusting the reaction time
Any Standard Step → Tracking options
The tracking options are individuals for each standart steps defined.
Low: Reduces the Fz reaction time and adjustment intensity. Only to be used if the standard option is adjusting too strongly to a slow Fz evolution (Tests with fast and high Z displacement).
Standard: To be used in most cases.
ℹ️
We highly recommend to use the Standard tracking. However, if the tracking of the force is not satisfactory, you can try other possibilities or contact Rtec customer service if you cannot obtain a satisfactory tracking of the force
High: Increases the Fz reaction time and adjustment intensity. Only to be used if the standard option is adjusting too slowly to a rapid Fz evolution (Tests with fast and high Z displacement).
Engage Parameters
Disengage at test end
the Z drive automatically move back to the Z starting position
It can be higher or lower than final position)
Unchecked, the Z drive will stay at the final position when the test ends.
ℹ️
It is recommended to adapt the engage velocity to every situation and to always perform an initial coarse approach using the jogbox.
Engage Velocity
This option allows the user to set the approaching speed of the Z drive towards the lower sample.
Low: Recommended for very low force and sensitive application. The touch force will not reach high values.
Medium: Recommended for most cases, the velocity will be faster than Low engage velocity but the touch force will still be relatively low.
High: High engage speed to find the touch point rapidly. Brings higher touch force. for relative high load application (>500N), this engage speed is useful to quickly reach the sample and desired force. However it is not recommended for lower load application because of the significant overshoot provoked.
Wait for the force to settle
The defined force is reached before the duration time start and the drive activation.
The approaching stage will not be saved into the data logging if checked. If the engaging period is a requiered data log, please uncheck this box.
⚠️
If unchecked
You must then take into consideration the approach duration into the step plus the time to fully apply the force on the sample.
A too short duration for the force to be properly applied will lead to an incomplete steps application and unexpected result of the final test.
Wait for the temp,env to settle
Wait for the temperature to settle: If checked, the step duration time will start when the desired temperature is reached. Otherwise, the load and drive will reach their defined value immediately.
Maintain environment:If checked, the desired temperature in a step shall be maintained throughout the recipe steps. This temperature matches the last one defined in the recipe.
{{if heat,cool}}
Filling the Sample Information
Sample Info window
The sample information allows a user to save some information on the test conditions in the saved file.
ℹ️
Most of this information will not enter into the test conditions but will simply offer the user a better tracking of the test conditions.
To get access to it:
Open the .csv file using a spreadsheet software.
In the second row you will see all the information selected in the “Sample Info” window.
“Radius” is used for the specific COF calculations (COF-Torque and COF-Tz where radius is the effective radius of the contact plan)
Setting a new X Y Position as Home
For rotary {{if rota}}-o
You don't need to change the homing position after ball or sample replacement. However, if you previously installed the drive or the load cell, you must manually center the ball holder to the center of the sample holder and save this new homing position.
The tools with the specific collet are provided in the toolkit box.
Install it into the ball holder then tighten the nut.
Do a homing, and perform a coarse approach towards the target.
Ensure that the upper holder is properly aligned with the lower holder.
Please Follow → Setting a new X Y Position as Home Step below.
The homing must have been done. The ball holder is manually aligned to the lower drive’s center.
Go to the ConfigurationWindow.
Press CONFIG in the XYZ section.
Then press SAVE TO FILE and SAVE CONFIGURATION.
After the software has restarted, do the homing again.
Logging File and Sample Rate
Introduce the components
Press DATA LOGGING window
(skipping optional window)
Save the destination file
Tipically, for this module
{{if rota,bor,upper-rotary,4ball,tapping}}
Sampling rate (Hz) = max. Rpm/2
Averaging = 5
Your velocity value defined in the standard step for the test Ex: 1 Khz for a drive velocity of 2000RPM
{{if reci,vcoil,srv}}
Sampling rate (Hz) = max. Freq (Hz)*30
Min: 20Hz
Averaging = 1,2 or 3
Your frequency value defined in the standard step for the test. Ex: 0.3 Khz for a drive frequency of 10 Hz.
{{if scratch}}
Sampling rate (Hz) = 1-10Khz
Averaging = 1-5
In the Data logging Window
Click OPEN LOG FILE.
Name and save the data file into a folder.
Leave the sampling rate by Default, or please refer to the recommendations.
If you cannot introduce the installed sensors or one is missing, refer to the previous Check or Updating the configuration
Select the components
Fz
Fx
{{! bor,4ball}}
FxF
{{if vcoil}}
FxF RMS
{{if vcoil}}
Fx-Piezo RMS
{{if srv}}
Fx-Piezo Peak
{{if srv}}
Ts or Fx
{{if bor}}
Tz
{{if 4ball}}
COF
Z Position
Velocity
{{! vcoil}}
{{if heat,cool,vcoil}}
Temperature
LVDT
{{if vcoil,lvdt}}
RMS-Lvdt
{{if vcoil&lvdt,srv}}
For each component listed:
Left column: Click on the component.
Click ADD.
Feel free to also loggin additional components that may be relevant for this familiarization test.
Please refer to this animation as an example only.
Positionning and Homing Operation
Do the Homing
Press RUN window
(skipping optional window)
⚠️
Before homing, ensure that the X, Y, and Z stages are free of physical obstructions and that all disconnected cables are properly placed in their holders.
Chamber: Remove the chamber lids before homing as the upper shaft may collide with the lids.
Do the homing by clicking on the HOME.
Once done, Homing indicator bar turns green.
The current position is now set as the homing (0) position for all axes.
ℹ️
Z moves to the top before XY homing
When Homed: The upper component is positioned and centered relative to the XY stage. The Z drive is retracted to the top.
Homing position is retained after software restart. (“Last homed with:” appear on the left indicator bar.)
Homing is lost after machine restart or emergency stop, when you close Rtec Controller (it can be in the hidden icons).
If the tester is not homed and you try to run the recipe, a warning message will pop up.
If a reposition step is used in the recipe, you cannot run the test until the tester is homed.
Sample Positioning
ℹ️
Perform a manual coarse approach to minimize the recipe engage time while ensuring that the upper holder is positionned over the testing aera.
Machine manual control
Machine manual control allows the user to manually control the displacement of the X, Y, Z stage and the module installed.
ℹ️
The last button (“Distance”) allows the user to move the axis by a specific distance (mm) in a positive or negative direction.
By dragging the slider on the right of the window, you can uncover other parameters.
Vel: It is the displacement value (in mm/s) of the X, Y platform when moving the X, Y platform using the machine manual control upper window.
Move Abs XY: This part will be available if the tester is homed. It allows the user to move to a specific absolute position of the X, Y platform (based on the home position). The button on the left refreshes the current XY position. You can enter the X and Y absolute position in the free space and then press ”XY Move” to move to this absolute position.
⚠️
In the current version, the move Abs XY may have some problems.
it is recommended to use the “Distance” of manual control explained previously.
Verify Drive Operation
ℹ️
It is recommended to manually check the drive proper working to ensure the drive is not obstructed.
Ex: To ensure the upper shaft stay within the working sample area during the reciprocating motion.
Please refer to this animation as an example only.
Select a low Velocity value (ex: 30RPM / 0.5Hz).
Press the Clockwise arrow to start the drive motion.
Press the Red square to stop the motion.
Help
ℹ️
You must press the stop button after adjusting the velocity to apply a new one.
The velocity defined in this section does not affect the configured recipe or the test execution.
The 2 Rulers button on the far right allows you to set a number of rotations / cycles
Lower the Z-Axis all the way down.
{{if mft5}}
Lower the Z-Stage using the jogbox
Move the X-Y axis to choose the working area on the sample.
{{! nxy,vcoil,break,zonly}}
ℹ️
When the Z-motorized stage is traveling in the lower direction, it is possible to see at first the deflection of the lateral springs (on the fretting module) and then the contact of the upper specimen with the lower specimen. When the Z-motorized stage is on the top position, the upper specimen should not touch the surface yet (for avoiding an initial force applied).
{{if vcoil}}
⚠️
You must ensure that the upper holder is perfectly aligned with the module.
{{if rota,upper-rotary,4ball}}
{{if upper-rotary,4ball}}
Do a coarse approach manually using the jogbox.
While doing it, you can visually ensure that the upper holder reach the ball without colding with the inner ring of the nut.
ℹ️
You can move the 4-ball container by hand to observe the degree of X–Y movement allowed by the self-centering platform.
The self-adjusting platform will guarantee the fine alignment on the initial approach and during the test.
⚠️
If the ball holder reaches or contacts the inner edge of the nut, even within the self-displacement range of the plaftorm, the homing position is misaligned. In this case, please proceed to the homing correction step.
Start the Test
Starting the Test
Press the Start icon.
An information message will appear if the sensor values are not zero
If you previously requested automatic sensor biasing at start, as shown in this figure below, you can ignore this message by pressing NO- (i don’t want to abort the recipe)
Otherwise, Press Yes (i want to abort the recipe) then follow the step above before starting the test.
Wait for the test finished dialog to appear.
To bias all the sensors manually
⚠️
Ensure that the sensors return coherent values within their measurement range.
Please refer to this animation as an example only.
On the right colum: CHANNEL DATA ,press the Red Bias Button next to each force/torque sensors.
Bias the Fz sensor.
Confirm the biasing operation. (Yes)
Bias the Fx sensor.
Bias the Torque Sensor.
{{if 4ball,bor}}
Bias the Piezo Sensor.
{{if piezo}}
Particular case of :Exceeding the limit offset error message
ℹ️
It may happen that you have exceeded the defined limit after biasing the sensors at a specific moment, which prevents you from biasing them again afterward.
In this case, if you are certain that the issue results from such an operation, you should temporarily increase the offset to allow the sensors to be biased by clearing this error.
Please go to the configurator window.
Naviguate to the sensors triggering this message.
Next to the Options selection, Press Advanced.
Please note the Unit Offset Value for the final step.
Increase this Limit offset over the value currently read so that you can bias the sensor.
Press SAVE.
Repeat the Bias Operation.
Enter the intial offset that was defined, for a proper sensor usage.
⚠️
After a successful bias operation, you must reset the limit offset to its initial default value to avoid operating outside the proper range.
The sensors signal seems incoherent → Confirm the adequate sensor range (see Update the configuration step for help) Contact Rtec Support if persistent.
The graph appear black → You must have exceeded the limit of 6 Charts in the data logging window.
Unable to Bias : Exceding the limit offset message
Please go to the configurator window (see Update the configuration step for help)
Naviguate to the sensors triggering this message.
Next to the Options selection, Press Advanced.
Increase the Limit offset so that you can bias the sensor.
Please Repeat the Bias Operation.
Wrong Display of Sensor Signals
The window with the display of all sensor channels may be wrongly displayed. (“Subset” is shown or not).
Please go to the window “Data logging,”
Click on “Verify,”
Go back to the display window for all sensor channels. The signal sensors must be correctly displayed.
The run screen is frozen
Close the MFT software and the controller running in background → reconnect the USB cable from the motion box (see index software) → turn on the MFT software again.
Temperature sensor is not detected and indicate -999°C → Verify the connection in the hardware installation + Follow the selecting the components step
For more information
All load cells are factory-calibrated. For further assistance, please contact your provided or Rtec support.
The sensors can be biased automatically, but this can be considered an advanced step for initial familiarization. More advanced procedures can be found in the Additional Optional Step section at the end of the manual.
Test reviewing, Recipe Tuning and Imaging Operation
Opening the Result
Minimize the Rtec Software to return to the Desktop.
Double-Click on the Rtec Viewer Icon.
Navigate to the explorer to import the .CSV result file now exported.
Click Files.
Click All Steps.
Press Refresh.
Select the components to review Ex: Fz, COF
Right-Click on the Graph and Set Scale to Defaut.
Please select “Filter” and change the value of 1 to 0. It is important to enter the value of “Cutoff Frequency” = 0 (+Enter) in order to see the real data acquisition of fretting. Otherwise, the data are filtered and averaged.
{{if vcoil}}
ℹ️
You can press CTRL to review multiple components on the graph.
Following a Rotary Recipe (ASTM or Specific){{if rota}}-o
Preparation
Clean and Mount upper and lower samples.
for ASTM G99 standard: select appropriate samples according to.
Home the system and place the upper sample above the lower sample.
Create a new recipe, then follow the desired recipe steps below.
Simple rotary test
In the new recipe, Add the first Reposition Step
Sensor.Reset Fz: 1
Sensor.Reset Fx: 1
Y.Position: Your test radius value
X.Position: 0
⚠️
X axis Position must be at 0 for rotary tests
Most Rtec-Instruments load cells are designed to measure friction along the X-axis (Fx).
Because of this, it’s important to always set Y to a nominal value and X = 0. This ensures that all friction forces appear only along the X-axis, where the sensor can detect them.
If you adjust the radius along X, the friction force will shift to the Y direction (Fy). In that case, the load cell will not be able to measure it correctly, and it could even cause damage to the sensor.
Disengage Z: ✅
(Optional) rename it : Reset Sensor & Position
Add a Standard Rotary Step along with the followings drive motion.
Add a Standard Rotary Step
Duration: Your value
Force: Your value
Logging: ✅
Activate one of the following drive motion.
Continuous Rotary
Drive: Continuous
Parameters to be determined.
Reciprocating-like Rotary
Drive: Cycle
Revolutions: 0 to 1
Other parameters to be determined.
Spiral Rotary
Drive: Continuous
Parameters to be determined.
Y Axis: Slide
Distance: Smaller than the sample radius and larger than track diameter (to avoid passing twice on the same area)
(Optional) Add an Imaging Step.
Add a Loop/Delay Step from the Reposition Step 1.
Go to Data Logging
Sampling rate (Hz): max. RPM/2
Averaging: 5
Record: Fz & Fz, COF, Rotary Angle/Velocity Y position
Brake Pad : Rotary decelerating test
Reset Sensor & Position
Add a Reposition step
Sensor.Reset Fz: 1
Sensor.Reset Fx: 1
Y.Position: Your value
X.Position: 0
Disengage Z: ✅
Apply Desired Force
Add a Standard Step
Duration: 5 seconds
Force:Desired braking force.
Logging: No
Lift Up
Add a Reposition Step
Z.Velocity: 4mm/s
Z.Offset: 5mm
Disengage Z: ❌
Increase if the upper holder still touches the sample after this step.
Set Initial Velocity
Add a Custom Step
Using a custom step instead of a standard step is necessary to avoid that the motor stops during the following reposition step.
Continuous
Velocity: To be determined Initial breaking velocity.
Touch Down
Add a Reposition Step
Z.Velocity: 4mm/s
Z.Offset: -5mm (Or the Value entered previously)
Disengage Z: ❌
Breaking Duration
Add a Standard Step
Duration: Your Braking duration
Force: Your Braking force
Drive: Continuous
Velocity: Final Braking Velocity
Deceleration: Deceleration time between Initial speed (in Custom step) and final speed (in this standard step).
Optional: Temperature Verification
Add a Standard Step
Duration: 2 hours
Force: Undefined
Go to Recipe Parameters → Advanced
Abort_STEP
Temperature.IRT
<
Your temperature threshold to resume testing
Add a Loop/Delay Step from Step 1 with Disengage Z.
If you are simply interested in controlling the rotary decelerating time, you can use the same recipe and remove steps 3 and 5.
Go to Data Logging
Parameters
Sampling rate (Hz): max. RPM/2
Averaging: 5
Record:
Fz & Fx (or Tz)
COF
Rotary Angle/Velocity
Y position
Rtec Instruments ASTM G99 Test Protocol
⚠️
This procedure is based on the ASTM G99 Standard Test Method for Wear Testing with a Pin-on-Disk Apparatus. The full standard is available from ASTM International (www.astm.org). This document is not a substitute for the official ASTM G99 standard.
Summary of Standard
This test method covers a laboratory procedure for determining the wear of materials during sliding using a pin-on-disk apparatus. Materials are tested in pairs under nominally non-abrasive conditions. For the pin-on-disk wear test, two specimens are required. One, a pin or ball that is positioned perpendicular to the other, usually a flat circular disk. The tester causes stationary pin/ball to press against the rotating disk at a known force and speed. During the test COF, friction, wear etc. parameters are measured and reported.
Pin On Disk Setup
This standard is applicable to metallic samples, non metallic, polymers, ceramics, composite materials etc.
Procedure
Check the hardware installation
After having followed the basic step-by-step software:
The upper load cell and lower rotary modules are properly installed following their respective steps.
The additional thermocouple must be connected in place at a location close to the wearing contact as indicated in ASTM G99. It is recommended to attach it to close to the ball as it is stationary during the test.
The software configuration have been followed, therefore, the temperature component is selected.
Right Click on the .rx file attached above, click on Save Link As and save the file to any location on the PC.
Start MFT, click on “Expert Mode” and press Add the recipe
Select saving directory and select the recipe downloaded.
Adjust the recipe parameters
Only Modify explicitely stated steps
Sensors Reset & Sample Positioning
Modify Reposition Step
Y.Position: Enter Test radius. G99 Guide: 16mm (32mm diameter)
Initial Force Application
Modify Standard Step
Force: Enter Test Force G99 Guide: 10N
ASTM G99 Test
Modify Standard Step
Duration: change to 100hrs
Force: Enter Test Force (Same as Step 2) G99 Guide: 10N
Drive: Continuous Linear Velocity (or Constant Linear Velocity when no XY table)
Linear Velocity (mm/s): Enter desired linear velocity
G99 Guide: 100 mm/s (0.1m/s)
Direction: To be determined
Modify the limit condition
Go to Recipe Parameters → Advanced
Click on Step 3
Click on the limit condition on the right
Change the limit value to the amount of revolutions you desire
G99 Guide: 10000 revs (1000m at 0.1m/s)
Go to Sample Info.
Parameters
Upper & Lower Sample information
Material Type
Form
Processing Treatments
Surface Finish
Specimen preparation procedures
Environment information
Temperature
Relative Humidity
Interfacial Media
Go to Data Logging
Logging Parameters
Sampling rate (Hz): Modify to max RPM/2
Data Collected:
Keep following items, add or remove if necessary:
Fz, Fx, COF, Y Position, Radius value , Rotary Position
,Accumulated Revolutions ,Rotary Linear Velocity (Sliding speed between surfaces), Temp-2
Temperature of one specimen close to the contact (using additional thermocouple)
Run the Recipe
Home the system and start the test in the Run tab.
After test completion, clean both upper and lower samples to remove any debris.
Measure the wear volume on the sample and pin.
Please refer to the Performing an Image Acquisition step for more
Rtec-Instruments Lambda Imaging Head provides accurate data for full wear analysis (stitching) or cross section wear area (single image).
Calculate Measurement uncertainty and perform other analysis by following ASTM G99 documentation.
Rtec Instruments Data Results
Universal ball Holder
440-C Stainless Steel Ball, Dia. 9mm
Stainless Steel Disk (2 inch)
Comparative test at 3 separate laboratories on G99 procedure.
Following a Reciprocating Recipe (ASTM or Specific){{if reci}}-o
Clean and Mount upper and lower samples.
Home the system and place the upper sample above the lower sample.
Physically adjust the stroke.
Create a new recipe
Reciprocating module test
Add a Reposition step:
Sensor.Reset Fz: 1
Sensor.Reset Fx: 1
Disengage Z: ✅
Add a Standard step:
Duration: To be determined
Force: To be determined
Drive: Continuous
Parameters to be determined.
Logging: ✅
Optional with Imaging Head:
Add a Reposition step: Shaft goes to a specific angle, image always at the same part of the sample.
Move.Angle: 0
Add an Inline imaging step:
Inline Calibration to be performed
Image parameters to be selected (Top / Bottom / Objective used…)
Image type and parameters to be selected
Add a Reposition Step
Y.Offset: 3mm Moves the sample outside the existing track.
⚠️
When performing an Offset, make sure that it will not reach out of the sample during the whole recipe loops.
Add a Loop/Delay:
From: Reposition step
For: To be determined Number of iterations (including first one)
In Data Logging:
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2
Record:
Fz & Fz
COF
Rotary Angle/Velocity
Y position
X-axis Reciprocating test
Add a Reposition step:
Sensor.Reset Fz: 1
Sensor.Reset Fx: 1
Disengage Z: ✅
Add a Standard step:
Duration: To be determined
Force: To be determined
Drive: X axis
⚠️
Only X-axis tests can be performed on most load cells.
Most Rtec-Instruments load cells are designed to measure friction along the X-axis (Fx).
Because of this, it’s important to always realize a X-axis reciprocating motion. This ensures that all friction forces appear only along the X-axis, where the sensor can detect them.
If you active the Y motion, the friction force will shift to the Y direction (Fy). In that case, the load cell will not be able to measure it correctly, and it could even cause damage to the sensor.
Parameters to be determined.
Logging: ✅
Optional with Imaging Head:
Add a Reposition step: Shaft goes to a specific angle, image always at the same part of the sample.
Move.Angle: 0
Add an Inline imaging step:
Inline Calibration to be performed
Image parameters to be selected (Top / Bottom / Objective used…)
Image type and parameters to be selected
Add a Reposition Step
Y.Offset: 3mm Moves the sample outside the existing track.
⚠️
When performing an Offset, make sure that it will not reach out of the sample during the whole recipe loops.
Add a Loop/Delay:
From: Reposition step
For: To be determined Number of iterations (including first one)
In Data Logging:
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2
Record:
Fz & Fz
COF
Rotary Angle/Velocity
Y position
Rtec Instruments ASTM G133 Test Protocole
Not available - recipe created
Following a Tribo-Corrosion Test{{if corr}}-o
Tribocorrosion evaluates how mechanical wear and electrochemical corrosion interact when a material is exposed to both sliding contact and a corrosive medium.
It simulates real service conditions to assess film stability, material loss, and wear–corrosion synergy.
Test Types:
Standard Tribocorrosion Test (OCP): No applied potential — measures natural potential (E(t)) to study film breakdown and repassivation.
Anodic Tribocorrosion Test: Constant applied potential — monitors current (I(t)) to assess wear–corrosion under controlled anodic protection conditions.
Standard Tribocorrosion Test
OCP test
This recipe evaluates natural corrosion and film repassivation behavior under sliding.
Polish a new sample, clean sequentially with acetone, isopropanol, and deionized water, dry with compressed air, then mount it in the tribo-corrosion cell and fill with fresh electrolyte.
Create a new recipe.
Add a Standard step (OCP Stabilization)
Duration: 15-30 mins (or until potential drift < 1–2 mV/min)
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive ON)
Duration: To be determined
Force: To be determined
Drive: Reciprocating Parameters to be determined
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive OFF)
Duration: To be determined
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a loop
From:Drive ON Step
For: To be determined
Logging: No
In Data Logging
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2.
Record: “weVoltage”, “Current” and other tribological parameters.
Open Rtec Insight and compare the weVoltage [E(t)] between the sliding and idle steps to determine:
Potential Drop between no contact and sliding.
Recovery kinetics of repassivation. (see Help)
Retrieve OCP value for recipe 2.
Take a profilometer image of the wear mark to determine T:
T = Total material volume lost under mechanical and corrosion influence
Help
Determine Steps duration:
Focus on kinetics (how quickly the surface film breaks down and repassivates):
Drive ON: 60–120 s
Drive OFF: 180–300 s.
Focus on steady wear (long-term equilibrium behavior under sustained mechanical action):
Drive ON: 180–300 s
Drive OFF: 90–120 s.
Determine Reciprocating Parameters:
Define the reciprocating motion parameters (stroke length, frequency) that provide consistent mechanical contact and realistic wear conditions for your specific tribo-corrosion testing.
Parameter
Symbol
Typical Range
Stroke length
L
1–5 mm
Frequency
f
0.5–5 Hz
Normal load
Fₙ
Material-dependent
Repassivation kinetics (τ) — how to compute:
Extract the repassivation time constant τ by fitting the weVoltage curve using:
E(t)=E∞−(E∞−Emin)∗exp(−t/τ)
E(t): Potential at time t after sliding stops. Emin: The lowest potential right when sliding stops (most active state).
E∞: The final potential after full recovery (steady passive state).
t: Time after sliding stops.
τ: Time constant (s); after t=τ, recovery ≈63% complete
Cathodic Protection test
This recipe evaluates mechanical wear under suppressed corrosion to isolate W0.
Reuse the same sample on a new wear track (positioning the upper holder in a new location), clean it sequentially with acetone, isopropanol, and deionized water, dry with compressed air, then mount it in the tribo-corrosion cell and fill with fresh electrolyte.
Create a new recipe.
Add a Standard step (OCP Stabilization)
Duration: 15-30 mins (or until drift < 1–2 mV/min)
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Conditioning)
Duration: 10-15 mins
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Recipe 1
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive ON)
Duration:Same as Drive ON in OCP test.
Force:Same as Drive ON in OCP test.
Drive: Reciprocating Same parameters as Drive ON in OCP test.
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Recipe 1
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive OFF)
Duration:Same as Drive OFF in OCP test.
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Recipe 1
Logging: Yes
Add a loop
From:Drive ON Step
For:Same as OCP test
Logging: No
In Data Logging
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2.
Record: “weVoltage”, “Current” and other tribological parameters.
Open Rtec Insight and compare the weVoltage [E(t)] between the sliding and idle steps to determine:
Stability of cathodic protection during sliding (verify current remains constant and small).
Absence of hydrogen evolution: confirm no large current spikes or oscillations.
If current fluctuates strongly or hydrogen bubbles appear, reduce the applied cathodic offset (use OCP − 300 mV or OCP − 250 mV).
Take a profilometer image of the wear mark to determine W0. W0: Total material volume lost without corrosion influence.
Tafel Plot
Open “Squidstat User Interface.exe”.
If prompted to update firmware → click “Postpone”
⚠️
Do not update Admiral Firmware if asked to. MFT software communication would be permanently lost by doing so.
Click on Linear Sweep Voltammetry
Change the Parameters to:
Select the Admiral Potentiostat.
Run the test
Plot:
log(I)=f(E)
Obtain E_corr and I_corr
Determine C0 by using the following formula:
C0=(Icorr∗t∗M)/(n∗F∗ρ)
Where:
t: Time of exposure (s): Total sliding duration (Drive ON periods) for the tribo-corrosion (Recipe 1 & 2) tests.
n: Valence number: Number of electrons exchanged per atom during oxidation.
F: Faraday constant (96485 C.mol-1)
ρ: Density of the material (g.cm-3)
Synergy Calculation
The total material loss (T) from the tribocorrosion test, the pure mechanical wear (W0) from dry or inert testing, and the pure corrosion loss (C0) from Tafel analysis are used to calculate the synergy term (S), which quantifies the interaction between wear and corrosion.
S=T−W0−C0
S represents the synergistic material loss arising from the interaction between mechanical wear and corrosion processes.
The result is specific to the OCP tribocorrosion test.
Anodic Tribocorrosion Test
⚠️
This test only applies to samples which have an anodic protection area (passive materials).
Help
How to Check if a Material Has an Anodic Protection Area:
Use a short potentiodynamic polarization scan of the sample in the intended electrolyte:
Start: at OCP, sweep anodically (e.g., OCP – 0.1 V → OCP + 1.0 V vs. reference).
Look for three regions:
Active region: current increases with potential.
Passive region: current drops sharply to a low, steady value ipass over a broad potential range.
Transpassive/pitting region: current rises again at Epit.
If a stable passive plateau exists between the active and transpassive regions, the material has an anodic protection (passive) zone.
The potentiostatic setpoint for the anodic test must lie inside that passive plateau, typically OCP + 100–300 mV, and below Epit.
Why active samples cannot be used:
Only materials with a stable passive film can sustain controlled anodic polarization without undergoing continuous dissolution.
If the sample is active (no passive window), applying OCP + mV will drive aggressive corrosion instead of stable tribocorrosion.
Example of active and passive materials:
Category
Typical Passive
Typically Active
Steels
Stainless steels (≥10.5 % Cr)
Carbon steels, low-alloy steels
Ni / Co Alloys
Ni-Cr alloys, Co-Cr-Mo, Inconel
Pure Ni (in Cl⁻) if film unstable
Light Metals
Al, Ti, Zr, Ta, Nb (strong oxide formers)
Mg, Zn, their alloys
Others
Passivated Cu, bronzes (mildly), Cr
Cast irons, active Cu in chloride media
Tafel Plot - Anodic Area determination
Open “Squidstat User Interface.exe”.
If prompted to update firmware → click “Postpone”
⚠️
Do not update Admiral Firmware if asked to. MFT software communication would be permanently lost by doing so.
Click on Linear Sweep Voltammetry
Change the Parameters to:
Select the Admiral Potentiostat.
Run the test
Plot:
log(I)=f(E)
Based on that curve, find a suitable point within the passive region (Oxidation) (OCP+ΔE where ΔE=[100;300]mV). It will be used for the anodic protection recipe.
OCP + 150mV typically works well for passive regime determination.
Cathodic Protection test
This recipe evaluates mechanical wear under suppressed corrosion to isolate W0.
Polish a new sample, clean sequentially with acetone, isopropanol, and deionized water, dry with compressed air, then mount it in the tribo-corrosion cell and fill with fresh electrolyte.
Create a new recipe.
Add a Standard step (OCP Stabilization)
Duration: 15-30 mins (or until drift < 1–2 mV/min)
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Conditioning)
Duration: 10-15 mins
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Recipe 1
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive ON)
Duration: To be determined
Force: To be determined
Drive: Reciprocating Parameters to be determined
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Tafel Plot
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive OFF)
Duration: To be determined
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: OCP - 350mV OCP Value from Tafel Plot
Logging: Yes
Add a Loop/Delay
From:Drive ON Step
For: To be determined
Logging: No
In Data Logging
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2.
Record: “weVoltage”, “Current” and other tribological parameters.
Open Rtec Insight and compare the weVoltage [E(t)] between the sliding and idle steps to determine:
Stability of cathodic protection during sliding (verify current remains constant and small).
Absence of hydrogen evolution: confirm no large current spikes or oscillations.
If current fluctuates strongly or hydrogen bubbles appear, reduce the applied cathodic offset (use OCP − 300 mV or OCP − 250 mV).
Take a profilometer image of the wear mark to determine W0. W0: Total material volume lost without corrosion influence.
Help
Determine Steps duration:
Focus on kinetics (how quickly the surface film breaks down and repassivates):
Drive ON 60–120 s, Drive OFF 180–300 s.
Focus on steady wear (long-term equilibrium behavior under sustained mechanical action):
Drive ON 180–300 s, Drive OFF 90–120 s.
Anodic Tribocorrosion test
Evaluates tribocorrosion behavior under controlled anodic polarization within the passive region.
Polish a new sample, clean sequentially with acetone, isopropanol, and deionized water, dry with compressed air, then mount it in the tribo-corrosion cell and fill with fresh electrolyte.
Create a new recipe.
Add a Standard step (OCP Stabilization)
Duration: 15-30 mins(or until potential drift < 1–2 mV/min)
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: None
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive ON)
Duration:Same as Drive ON in Cathodic Protection test.
Force:Same as Drive ON in Cathodic Protection test.
Drive: Reciprocating Same parameters as Drive ON in Cathodic Protection test.
E-Test: OCP + ΔE ΔE determined previously with the Tafel plot.
Logging: Yes
Add a Standard step (Drive OFF)
Duration:Same as Drive OFF in Cathodic Protection test.
Force: Undefined
Drive: None
E-Test: OCP + ΔE ΔE determined previously with the Tafel plot.
Logging: Yes
Add a loop
From:Drive ON Step
For:Same as Cathodic Protection test.
Logging: No
In Data Logging
Sampling rate (Hz): max. Freq (Hz)*30
Averaging: 2.
Record: “weVoltage”, “Current” and other tribological parameters.
Open Rtec Insight and compare the weVoltage [E(t)] between the sliding and idle steps to determine:
Potential Drop between no contact and sliding.
Recovery kinetics of repassivation. (see Help)
Take a profilometer image of the wear mark to determine T:
T = Total material volume (or mass) lost.
Help
Repassivation kinetics (τ) — how to compute:
Extract the repassivation time constant τ by fitting the weVoltage curve using:
E(t)=E∞−(E∞−Emin)∗exp(−t/τ)
E(t): Potential at time t after sliding stops. Emin: The lowest potential right when sliding stops (most active state).
E∞: The final potential after full recovery (steady passive state).
t: Time after sliding stops.
τ: Time constant (s); after t=τ, recovery ≈63% complete
Tafel Plot - W0 Calculation
Using the log(I)=f(E) plot obtained previously, you can determine C0 by using the following formula:
W0=(Icorr∗t∗M)/(n∗F∗ρ)
Where:
t: Time of exposure (s): Total sliding duration (Drive ON periods) for the tribo-corrosion (Recipe 1 & 2) tests.
n: Valence number: Number of electrons exchanged per atom during oxidation.
F: Faraday constant (96485 C.mol-1)
ρ: Density of the material (g.cm-3)
Synergy Calculation
The total material loss (T) from the tribocorrosion test, the pure mechanical wear (W0) from dry or inert testing, and the pure corrosion loss (C0) from Tafel analysis are used to calculate the synergy term (S), which quantifies the interaction between wear and corrosion.
S=T−W0−C0
S represents the synergistic material loss arising from the interaction between mechanical wear and corrosion processes.
The result is specific to the anodic tribocorrosion test.
Performing an Image Acquisition {{if none}}
When a microscope or profilometer is available in your configuration, you can setup an automatic image acquisition after or during the test.
Start the Imaging Software
The Lambda Head must be connected
Installing the lambda head on SMT-5000/MFT-2000
Hold the lambda head above the Z2 axis.
Fasten the screw to secure it.
{{if lambda}}
Plug the 2 USB micro B cables (they are interchangeable.)
Next to the ethernet port, plug-in the D-Sub connector.
When the green led is on, the lambda head is powered and connected
{{if sigma}}
On the Dekstop, Click On the Lambda Software.
Wait for the softwares to initialize.
Press Bright Field (BF) on the software.
For more information
Each camera are assigned to their respective ID
Status Bar
The status bar shows the status of the machine and more information during the scan.
Connecting to Devices..: When Lambda has not yet detected the devices
Connected: Lambda has detected the devices and is ready to perform an acquisition.
Scanning…: The acquisition has been started by the user.
Done.: The scan is completed, and the resulting image can be seen in the Viewerpanel (top right of the screen)
Help
Lambda head detected in the drive manager, but not detected in the software → Verify and confirm the 2 USB cable from the Imaging Head are properly connected to USB 3.0 slot on the Rtec Computer.
Inline Imaging not accurate
In the case where the inline imaging is not showing an accurate image of the test position (test not centered on the image), the user should realize a new calibration of the inline test to image position.
To perform this calibration, make an indent by moving the Z-stage (using Z distance in 2.1.4.2 will increase the load in small increments) and applying a force on the sample with the tip or ball in position. It is also possible to realize more than one indent or a cross (After applying the force, use X and Y distance adjustment to follow the pattern X=+1mm; X=-0.5mm; Y=-0.5mm; Y=+1mm; Y=-0.5mm) to find the indent location more easily.
Please observe the load in the run tab of the software. This load should not get near the limits of the load cell. The required load to have an observable indent will depend on the material used for the test. It is recommended to use a soft but rigid sample material (copper, aluminum…).
After the indent is made, click on “Reset” in the machine manual control.
Then click on “Test → Image” and click on “Profilometry” on the top of the MFT software. The sample moves to the microscope position. Using the lowest objective magnification, center the indent on the image using the jogbox or the blue arrow on the center of the screen.
Use the highest magnification available and fine tune the center of the indent. When the indent is centered in the field-of-view, click on “Save” in the machine manual control: 2.1.4.2.
Now, the distance (in XY position) between indenter and microscope is calibrated.
It is recommended to redo the calibration after the force sensor is removed or when the tip is changed. Without redoing the distance calibration, a small offset may be observed.
Checking of Signals on the Rtec Controller and COM Port
It is possible that the COM Port of the 3D Profilometer or other option on the instrument is not correctly detected.
Verification of the Com Ports on the instrument
Verification of the installed setup
Verification of the motorized stage
No Automatic MountainsMap Report creation in Rtec Lambda
The “Open” button of the “Report” window in Rtec Lambda is greyed out:
Make sure that you have purchased and installed MountainsMap and that the USB dongle is inserted in the PC. If the button still cannot be pressed, please contact Rtec-Instruments customer service.
Start the manual acquisition
Everything is set up:
Current objective have been selected.
Light intensity have been adjusted automatically or manually.
Focus plane position have been determined and saved, along with the top and bottom position.
Press the start button.
Analyzing the quick acquisition
3D View
Use the virtual ruler to measure depth variation
Using MountainView
Manual image acquisition has been completed. An automatic image acquisition can be added after the wear or indent mark test.
Performing Tests as an End User {{if none}}
⚠️
Before operating the tester with the Basic software in low-level mode, the following conditions must be met:
End users must understand the basic principles of sensor operation and their limitations.
A predefined component configuration has been created and verified prior to loading.
The recipe must be validated by trained user to ensure that risks of collision or overload are addressed and minimized during execution.
Load the Configuration
Open the configuration box in your software (Icon on the top right corner of the screen).
Select the Recipe
Click on “Run A Recipe”
The following window appears:
Select the desired recipe and click on “Select”.
Window explanation
Select a recipe to run
All the recipes that have been authorized in the Expert Mode will be displayed here.
Machine manual control
Machine manual control window.
Machine manual control upper left window.
Machine manual control allows the user to manually control the displacement of the X, Y, Z stage and the module installed.
For X, Y and Z, the 2 first buttons move the axis in the direction of the button whenever pressed. The last button (“Distance”) allows the user to move the axis by a specific distance in a positive or negative direction.
Machine manual controller lower left window
By dragging the slider on the right of the window, you can uncover other parameters.
Vel: It is the displacement value (in mm/s) of the X, Y platform when moving the X, Y platform using the machine manual control upper window.
Move Abs XY: This part will be available if the tester is homed. It allows the user to move to a specific absolute position of the X, Y platform. This position is defined based on the home position. The button on the left refreshes the current XY position. You can enter the X and Y absolute position in the free space and then press ”XY Move” to move to this absolute position.
In the current version, the move Abs XY may have some problems, it is recommended to use the “Distance” of manual control explained previously.
Teach Offset: This parameter is used to teach the offset between the testing and imaging position of the tester. This is the part where you can do the inline imaging calibration. It will be introduced further in Part 2.2.2.4.1.
Move Offset: This parameter is used to automatically move between the testing and imaging position.
TEST => IMG: The platform goes from the test position (where the sample is located below the load cell) to the imaging position (where the sample is located below the imaging head)
IMG => TEST: The platform goes from the imaging position (where the sample is located below the imaging head) to the test position (where the sample is located below the load cell).
Make sure that you are using the right move offset type. If you are in the test position and use “IMG => TEST”, the platform will go in the wrong direction. It will be stopped and the initial position will be lost.
The “Move Offset” needs to be calibrated in order to efficiently move between the testing and imaging positions. The calibration will be introduced further in Part 2.2.2.4.1.
Machine manual control right window
On the right side of the manual control window should be the manual module control. This window allows the user to manually use the module installed.
By clicking on the “ON” button, you can turn the motor off.
Next to it should be possible to modify an intrinsic parameter of the module: frequency (Hz), speed (RPM) etc…
The two buttons at the right start (Left one) and stop (Right one) the manual movement of the module.
The “Distance” button on the far right allows you to set a number of rotations / cycles.
Navigate to the home window
After selecting the recipe, it will appear as follows:
Firstly, click on “Change File” in the Part 2. This allows you to select the location at which the final file will be saved.
Then, fill the sample information in the Part 3 if necessary.
The data within the drop-down menu can be modified by clicking on the pink gear or in the expert mode.
Fill the information of the Environment and additional information in Part 4 if necessary.
Click on “Run View” in Part3.
Window Explanation
Recipe Steps Overview
It shows the summary of the steps in the recipe created in the Expert Mode.
Recipe Selection
The name of the selected recipe appears at the top. Clicking on “Load Recipe” brings you back to the previous recipe selection window. “Change File” needs to be clicked to modify the saving location. When pressing it, go to the desired location on the PC and click on “Open”.
Sample Information
Sample Info window
This window allows a user to save some information on the test conditions in the saved file.
To get access to it, open the .csv file using a spreadsheet software. In the second row you will see all the information selected in the “Sample Info” window.
Information recorded in the "Sample Info" window and retrieved using a spreadsheet
Most of this information will not enter into the test conditions but will simply offer the user a better tracking of the test conditions.
However, “Radius” is used for the specific COF calculations (COF-Torque and COF-Tz where radius is the effective radius of the contact plan)
Status
Help and Troubleshooting -
Help and Troubleshooting
Help During
Software initialization
Sorted Customer Q/A
Table
Question / Issue Encountered 1
Answer / Solution
_
I get DAQ polling error
This error typically occurs when communication to the DAQ box is interrupted or lost. To resolve it, restart the software or reconnect the USB cable from the DAQ box.
Hardward and soft environnement chamber {{if heat,cool,humid}}
Temperature sensor is not detected and indicate -999°C
Verify the connection in the hardware installation. Then, Follow the Update the configuration Step.
The Heating Chamber is not instantly activating
The force first is reached, then the temperature is increasing. See Optionals Step at the end of the manual
The Chamber struggle to reach the defined temperature
When defining a medium or low temperature ,make sure to select the Temperature Option the closest to the specified value.(Due to a unappropriate PID regulation) ex: 180° Option instead of the hightest option related to your chamber.
The temperature is still not activating and increasing
Check the temperature cable (refer to the hardware manual for help) Addionaly, ensure that the temperature box switch is on, the green led must be on when the recipe is started and a temperature is defined into the step.
Recipe Creation
Cannot define a force within the sensor range → verify the selected sensors range in selecting the components.
Only Idle appear → The module is not properly selected → refer to select the components.
Sample positionning
Sorted Customer Q/A
Table
Question / Issue Encountered 1
Answer / Solution
_
The software say that homing is required after severals homing operation.
There is no X-Y motorized table, the component table must be updated. 1. Go to the configurator 2. in the XYZ section 3. Select Z Stage Only
Unable to Bias : Exceding the limit offset message
1. Please go to the configurator window(see Update the configuration step for help) 2. Naviguate to the sensors triggering this message. 3. Next to the Options selection, Press Advanced. 4. Increase the Limit offset so that you can bias the sensor. 5. Please Repeat the Bias Operation.
The window with the display of all sensor channels may be wrongly displayed. (“Subset” is shown or not). 1. Please go to the window “Data logging,” 2. Click on “Verify,” 3. Go back to the display window for all sensor channels. The signal sensors must be correctly displayed.
Close the MFT software and the controller running in background → reconnect the USB cable from the motion box (see index software) → turn on the MFT software again.
The Chamber struggle to reach the defined temperature
When defining a medium or low temperature ,make sure to select the Temperature Option the closest to the specified value.(Due to a unappropriate PID regulation) ex: 180° Option instead of the hightest option related to your chamber.
The temperature is still not activating and increasing
Check the temperature cable (refer to the hardware manual for help) Addionaly, ensure that the temperature box switch is on, the green led must be on when the recipe is started and a temperature is defined into the step.
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