Hardware Step-by-Step
Load Cell Installation
Low Load Argon
Required Tools and Components
Ball holder and suspension installation
- Secure the suspension holder with the 4 screws using 5/64” Allen Key.
The labeled force represents the suspension capability, not the nominal operating force.
The suspension must operate within this specified range.
Exceeding this limit will lead to ineffective suspension operation.
Exceeding this limit will lead to ineffective suspension operation.
- Fix the suspension then secure it by tightening the side screw using 7/64” Allen key.
Be careful not to overload the load cell while inserting the suspension.
You can install the suspension into the holder first before installing the holder on the load cell.
Or, as shown, you may insert a thin Allen key into the clamping gap during insertion to allow the part to slide in effortlessly.
- Install or replace the ball from the ball holder, then hand-tighten the nut or using a wrench (optional).
- Secure the ball holder once slide into the suspension by tightening the side screw using 3/32” Allen key.
The ball holder must not touch the suspension base to ensure proper suspension operation.

It is possible to use a ball holder extension to reduce the Z distance to the sample in certain testing configurations.
Please contact Rtec Service for this specific matter.
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:
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.
- 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.
(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.
- 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.
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.
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
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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
SPN13136-145
HRC 27-33 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2714, D3704
HRC 58-62 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2509
SPN13136-146
SPN13136-146
- Level the block sufficiently into the holder.
- Tighten the securing screws on each side.
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)
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- 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
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.
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 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.
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.
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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.
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.
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The pictures below show the actual montage step directly on the arm.
Follow the next step to continue
Self-Adjusting Block holder preparation
.gif)
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
SPN13136-145
HRC 27-33 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2714, D3704
HRC 58-62 Roughness 20-30 Uinch → D2509
SPN13136-146
SPN13136-146
- Level the block sufficiently into the holder.
- Tighten the securing screws on each side.
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
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.
Module Installation
Required Tools and Components
Direct Rotary Drive Installation Step
Please skip this step if your drive is already installed onto the XY stage.
As shown above, the drive is installed on the stage.
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- 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)
(310-280-05 / BM310280-09)
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.
load cell or accessory.
Option(s)
Hardware Final Notes
- Always confirm all screws are hand-tightened and then secured with the appropriate Allen key.
- Refer to the full user manual for safety precautions and maintenance schedules
Contact & Support
For technical support or further assistance, please contact:
Rtec-Instruments Support
support@rtec-instruments.com
+1 (408) 708-9226
Manual Version | Date | Update Description |
ㅤ | ㅤ | Initial Manual Version |