Block On Ring Drive - All Options OLD

Hardware Step-by-Step

Load Cell Installation

Medium Load Argon

Introduction

This manual applies to the following tester

MFT-5000

MFT-2000

MFT-2000 A

SMT-5000

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.

Exemple of holder into their suspensions:

Required Tools and Components

Components:

Argon Load Cell

Argon Adapter Plate

Argon Quick Exchange

Slip Sleeve

Ball Holder Plate MM002059-00

Ball Holder

Optional Components:
o Extension Block
o Suspension Plate

Screws and Hardware:

(4x) 10-32 Screws - BM310612

(4x) 10-32 Screws - BM310320-5
SHCS 10-32 X .375" LG PLAIN 18-8 SST

(4x) ¼ inch button head screws

(4x) 8-32 Screws

Allen wrenches: 5/32", 9/64”

Mounting the Argon Sensor on MFT-5000

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.

(Optional) Using the extension Block

(Optional) You can also use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.

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.

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.

Mounting the suspension

Choosing the right suspension purchased

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.

Example

For a test at 30N, you would need to use the 50N suspension.
By doing so, you will mitigate the vibrations the most.

If you work at 48N it would be better to use a 100N suspension as the 50N suspension would not work for vibrations above 2N.

Medium to High Suspension List

Low Range Suspensions

Range and Components	SPN Number
0.5N suspension L shape	SPN14015-508
1N suspension L shape	SPN14015-509
5N suspension L shape	SPN14015-510
10N suspension L shape	SPN14015-511
Low load sensor clamp Aluminum	SPN14039-512
Low load sensor clamp Steel	SPN14039-513

The labeled force represents the suspension capability, not the nominal operating force.
The suspension must be used within this specified range and exceeding this limit will lead to ineffective suspension operation.

Mount the suspension between the Argon Sensor and the Ball Holder
Plate by tightening the 2 captive screws using 9/64” Allen key.

The label of the suspension should face the same direction as the load cell sticker.

Self-Adjusting Block holder preparation

The self-leveling block holder will ensure proper contact during the test.

Firstly ,loosen the 2 tightening screws using /16” Allen key.

Slide in the block sample into the block support

ASTM Rtec Block Catalog

HRC 58-62 Roughness 4-8 Uinch → D3704, G77, G176
SPN13136-145

HRC 27-33 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2714, D3704

HRC 58-62 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2509
SPN13136-146

Level the block sufficiently into the holder.

Tighten the securing screws on each side.

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

Installing the Ball Holder

Use four 1/4” button head screws to secure the assembly to the load cell
and tighten using a 5/32” Allen wrench.
Then Insert the slip sleeve into the sensor mount.

Place the ball holder into the slip sleeve.

Mount the Ball Holder onto the suspension in the same manner as onto
the load cell using a 9/64” Allen wrench.

⚠️

It is recommended to install the ball 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.

Installing the Argon (MFT-5000)

Lower the Z-Axis all the way down using the jogbox.

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.

Slide the sensor assembly with the Quick Exchange into the MFT-5000
Quick Exchange Dock

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

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.

The connector only fit one way.

1D+1D

Required Tools and Components

Components:

Fz-1D Load Cell

Fx-1D Arm: horizontal arm, vertical arm, pivot base, springs

1D+1D Arm kit : suspensions, insulator sleeve, slit sleeve, top cap, adaptor, insulator cap, mounting screw

Universal holder

Screws and Hardware:

(4x) 1.125 in Screws and Washers

Allen wrenches: 5/64", 3/16”

Introduction

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.

Arm montage (if dismounted)

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

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.

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.

Mounting the Fz Load Cell

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

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:

You can also use an extension block to reduce the distance between the load cell and the lower setup.

Mount the block extension on the exchange plate with 4 4 x 10-32 x 1.250” long screws using 5/32 Allen wrench.

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).

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

Install the Fz load Cell

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.

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.

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

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

Self-Adjusting Block holder preparation

The self-leveling block holder will ensure proper contact during the test.

Firstly ,loosen the 2 tightening screws using /16” Allen key.

Slide in the block sample into the block support

ASTM Rtec Block Catalog

HRC 58-62 Roughness 4-8 Uinch → D3704, G77, G176
SPN13136-145

HRC 27-33 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2714, D3704

HRC 58-62 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2509
SPN13136-146

Level the block sufficiently into the holder.

Tighten the securing screws on each side.

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

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.

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.

Level the arm

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.

Block-On-Ring (BOR) Installation

Required Tools and Components

Components

Block-on-Ring Drive

XY Stage with Direct Drive Motor

500°C Chamber (optional)

Shaft and Liquid Container

Shaft Support

Block Holder

Electrical Connectors

Thermocouple and Power Cables (for chamber)

Screws and Hardware

(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)

Mounting the Block-on-Ring Drive

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

⚠️

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

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 Bearing Open 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.

Continue further depending on the option choosen

Using the Liquid Container

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.

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.

500° Heating BOR

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.

500° Heating and Liquid Container

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.

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.

(please skip this step for a dry heating test)

Installing the 500°C BOR Chamber

Install both sides of the chamber into position and tighten the clamps.

A close-up of a machine AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A white machine with black dots AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Connect the power cable and thermocouple cable to the instrument.

A blue wire connected to a machine AI-generated content may be incorrect.

(Otherwise skip the encadred step)

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.

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.

Contact & Support

For technical support or further assistance, please contact:

Rtec-Instruments Support

support@rtec-instruments.com

+1 (408) 708-9226

www.rtec-instruments.com