Chapter 3: Operation
58 M47-17027-EN
7. Determine if it is necessary to make any adjustments to the frame configuration to attain the
required test opening that was determined in step 6:
a. For tension tests: Raise or lower the tension crosshead as necessary - see “Adjust the position
of the tension crosshead” on page 38. Also, raise or lower the adjustable crosshead as
necessary using the adjustable crosshead control switch.
b. For compression tests: Raise or lower the adjustable crosshead as necessary using the
adjustable crosshead control switch.
8. Install the desired specimen fixtures into the test space using adapters and alignment couplings as
necessary. If using the grip assemblies to perform a tension test, install the grip jaws - see “Operate
grip assemblies - G1-style and G7-style crossheads” on page 42.
9. Balance the load, if necessary.
10. Install the specimen into the fixtures as specified by your test method.
11. Install extensometry, strain gauges, etc. (if applicable).
12. Reset the zero extension point, if necessary.
13. Start the test.
14. As the test is running, the controlling software dynamically displays the data that is being collected or
calculated for graphing and results. Also, the user may be prompted to perform some operation,
such as remove an extensometer. When the operation has been performed, click the appropriate
button to continue the test.
15. When the test is complete, the system will automatically stop the test as determined by the test
procedure.
16. Remove the specimen and prepare the system for another test (as applicable).
The test can be stopped at any time by using either the STOP TEST button on the user control panel or
the END TEST button in the controlling software. This does not shut down the HPS unless the end test
action in the software is set up to perform that task.
If it is necessary at any time to shut down the HPS, press the DISABLE FRAME button in the controlling
software.
If the frame will sit idle between tests, press the DISABLE FRAME button in the controlling software to
shut down the HPS. For added precaution, engage the Emergency Stop button to ensure that the
HPS can not be inadvertently started. Release the Emergency Stop button when ready to run the
next test. Once the HPS is running, immediately check the position of the piston within the hydraulic
cylinder; the piston should be positioned so that it is neither fully retracted nor fully extended. Use the
jog controls to move the piston if necessary - typically a separation of 6 mm (0.25 in) is sufficient.
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