Advanced Testing Systems for Concrete and Cement
Test laboratories that examine the mechanical properties of building materials require advanced Test Systems. They also require user friendly equipment, rapid setup and execution, automation and flexibility. Controls has recently improved this important line of testing apparatus by the new AUTOMAX E-Modulus, MCC8 and ADVANTEST9 control consoles. Each system can be connected to compression/flexural testing frames for concrete or cement.
  1. Features
  2. Specification

ADVANTEST 9, Servo-hydraulic control console

THE ADVANCED SYSTEM FOR RESEARCH LABORATORIES OF BUILDING MATERIALS


MAIN FEATURES

Performance: user defined test procedures which can be easily performed under load, specific load, displacement and strain control.

Flexibility: possibility to connect up to 4 different frames from 15 to 5000 kN load capacity, easily selectable by the user friendly software.

Accuracy and reliability: long life system due, essentially, to the advanced electronic, efficiency of closed loop system, P.I.D. control adapted to the test and very high resolution.
 
Interactive software: To perform:
- Remote control of the system
- Monitoring and display of all test data and parameter either in graphic or numerical format
- File management by building materials, tests, specifications, clients etc.
- Print of standard or customised test certificate
- Real time variation of the setting including the control method (load, displacement or strain)
- User-friendly interface.
 
Extra channels: in addition to the four channels used for the connection of up to four separate test frames, an extra four channels are provided for connection to the displacement transducers, pressure transducers, load cells, strain gauges or similar sensors, which can be configured by the user conforming to the test requirement on a case by case basis.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Servo-hydraulic system for static and low frequency dynamic tests on building materials under control of Load/Stress, Displacement Strain.
Ideal both for traditional tests, such as compression and flexure on concrete, cement, mortar, blocks etc. and cyclic tests for the determination of secant elastic modulus (E) according to all relevant internation stardars, and also for measuring, for example, the ductility and fracture energy of concrete reinforced with fibres (FRC) and lined with polymers (FRP), or the toughness of sprayed concrete slabs (shotcrete) under concentrated load tests. The console is connectable to up to four test  frames.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Hydraulic group

  • Max. working pressure: 700 bar
  • Max. oil delivery: 2 lpm at low pressure, 0,7 lpm at high pressure
  • Hydraulic ports for connection of test frames: 4
  • Oil flow control via servo-controlled proportional valve
  • Oil cooling system with forced ventilation
  • 4 ON/OFF valves with electronic control

Hardware and on board firmware

  • Maximum resolution: 1/524,000 divisions
  • 8 input channels:
    - 4 for load sensors (load cells or pressure transducers),
    - 4 for displacement transducers (potentiometric, LVDT amplified or analogical) and deformation transducers (clip gange, strain ganges)
    - The configuration can be altered by the user to specific needs except the 4 load sensors

  • Electrical characteristics of the channel conditioners:
    - Feed from 0,5 to 10 V dc calibrated by firmware
    - Single/dual ended input with automatic recognition
    - Input signal from -2.5 to +2.5 V dc
    - Zero and gain adjustable via software .                                                                                               
  • Data acquisition synchronized on all channels
  • 8 analogical outputs corresponding to each channel for possible use of external data acquisition system
  • Test execution with control of:
    - Load/specific load
    - Displacement
    - Strain
  • The test can be controlled by each one of the 8 channels
  • Diagnostic system to detect possible malfunction of the system including low oil level and dirty oil filter.
  • 320x240 pixel display
  • Storage of multiple calibration curves for immediate connection of various sensors.
  • Low frequency Dynamic tests: execution of user set  tests with max. frequency 0.1 Hz. (depending on the wave amplitude) sample


PC  and software

  • PC and printer of latest generation
  • Software modules:
    - Performs the remote control of the system. Manages the graphical and numerical display of the data including the overlay of various curves on the same axis (e.g. 3 different deformation curves with respect to a single time axis)
    - Free unlimited programmable load/stress on displacement/strain cycles, sequences of romps, test procedures
    - Print out of test reports
    - Real time variation of all test parameters during the test, including the change of the  channels and/or control variable
    - Language selection: English, French, Spanish, Italian, plus another language which can be input by the user by overwriting messages of the desired language.

Physical specifications

  • Power rating 750 W
  • Voltage: 230V, 50 Hz, 1 ph (Model 50-C9842), 230 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph (Model 50-C9843) and 110 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph (Model 50-C9844)
  • Dimensions (lxwxh): 470x410x1000 mm
  • Weight approx.: 120 kg, excluding PC and printer

ORDERING INFORMATION

 

50-C9842

Advantest 9, Servo-hydraulic unit for controlling up to four test frames for compression, flexure and indirect tensile tests with load, displacement and deformation control.Complete with PC, printer and software. 230 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph.

50-C9843
Advantest 9, Servo-hydraulic unit for controlling up to four test frames for compression, flexure and indirect tensile tests with load, displacement and deformation control.Complete with PC, printer and software. 230 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph.

50-C9844 
Advantest 9, Servo-hydraulic unit for controlling up to four test frames for compression, flexure and indirect tensile tests with load, displacement and deformation control.Complete with PC, printer and software. 110 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph.

ACCESSORIES

COMPRESSION FRAMES
ASTM C39, AASHTO T22 Compression frames
EN 12390-4, EN 772-1 Compression frames
General utility compression frames
Compression-flexure cement testing frames

 

FLEXURAL FRAMES
Flexural frame for std beams, 100 kN cap.
Universal flexural frame, 100-150 kN cap.
Universal flexural frames 150 kN cap., with adjustable vertical clearance
Universal, open structure flexural frame, 300 kN cap.

Compressometer-Extensometer for Elastic Modulus determination
Strain gauges
Measurement of beam deflection and thougness
Displacement transducer for measurement of crack opening
Energy absorption test on slabs

PC Cabinet

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FLEXURE TEST ON FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE (FRC) AND SHOTCRETE. See Testing Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Shotcrete accessories. 

ROCK TESTING: mechanical behavior under uniaxial and triaxial conditions. See Automatic unixial and triaxial Test system.


MCC, multifunctional control console



MAIN FEATURES

  • Completely automatic execution of Compression, Flexure and Indirect tensile tests as well as test cycles to determine the ELASTIC MODULUS
  • MCC Multitest version also suitable for tests under displacement and strain control.
  • Can control up to 2 test frames extendable to 4 with the suitable upgrade
  • Dual control system through PC and keyboard display
  • Multi-language software with facility to introduce user defined text (Latin alphabet only)

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Automatic hydraulic systems for static and low frequency dynamic tests on building materials under control of Load/Stress, Displacement, Strain.

Ideal both for traditional tests, such as compression and flexure on concrete, cement, mortar, blocks etc. and cyclic tests for the determination of secant elastic modulus (E) (MCC Classic), and also for measuring, for example, the ductility and fracture energy of concrete reinforced with fibres (FRC) and lined with polymers (FRP), or the toughness of sprayed concrete slabs (shotcrete) under concentrated load tests (MCC Multitest). The console is connectable to up to four test  frames.

Two versions available:

MCC Classic 50-C8422/C for the automatic execution of compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and determination of Elastic Modulus and

MCC Multitest 50-C8422/M for the same performances of MCC Classic plus tests under Displacement and Strain control.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Hydraulic group
Dual stage pump, 700 bar max. pressure, 2 hydraulic outputs extendable to 4 with the accessories 50-C7022/UP1 and /UP2 (See Upgrading Options), Servo-control system for load control with proportional valve.

  • Hardware and on board firmware
  • Resolution 132000 divisions, Closed loop control with high frequency PID.
  • 4 channels for deformation sensors used in  Elastic Modulus determination (normally strain gauges or digital compressometers).
  • Diagnostic menu to identify possible problems
  • Saving of calibration curves of the different sensors
  • Digital linearity of calibration curves with automatic selection of coefficients

User interface
The system is controlled via the PC. An alphanumerical keyboard and an icon driven display are also provided for factory settings and use of unit in local mode.

Graphical display 320x240 pixel

Software
Designed for the remote control of the machine all over the test conforming to the reference Standards. Allows selection of the active frame.

The MCC Classic version permits the execution, using the appropriate testing frame and accessories, of the following tests and relevant Standards:

  • Compression test: EN 12390-3, EN 196, ASTM C39, ASTM C109, ASTM C349, AASHTO T22
  • Flexural test: EN 1339, EN 1340, EN 12390-5, ASTM C78, ASTM C293, AASHTO T97
  • Splitting tensile test: EN 1338, EN 12390-6, ASTM C496
  • Elastic Modulus of concrete: ASTM C469, ISO 6784, DIN 1048, BS 1881:121, UNI 6556, EN 12390-xx, EN 13412, EN 13286:43

The Datamanager software features:
Automatic execution of compression, flexural and splitting tensile tests on concrete and building materials. See Data manager PC software.

The E-Module software features:
Automatic execution of tests for the determination of the Elastic Modulus. Fully customizable program, permits the configuration of load cycles conforming to the various Standards with high accuracy of measurements.

The MCC Multitest version, further to the above , permits the execution , using the appropriate testing frame and accessories, of the following tests and relevant Standards:

  • Toughness of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC): ASTM C1550
  • Energy absorption of sprayed concrete: EN 14488-5, UNI 10834
  • Flexural strength of Shotcrete: EN 14488-3
  • Flexural strength of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC): EN 14641, ASTM C1609, C1018

The Multitest software features:
Automatic execution of fully customized tests under load/stress, displacement strain rate control which are for materials  such as fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) , Shotcrete, concrete elements lined with polymeric membranes, structural reinforcement elements. It is also possible to program sequence of steps with different feed- back parameters. All test parameters can be easily modified to meet the Standards requirements.

ORDERING INFORMATION

50-C8422/C
MCC8 CLASSIC, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. PC and printer not included. 230 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph

50-C8423/C
MCC8 CLASSIC, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. PC and printer not included. 220 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph

50-C8424/C
MCC8 CLASSIC, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. PC and printer not included. 110 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph

50-C8422/M
MCC8 MULTITEST, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. Allows load, displacement and strain control. PC and printer not included. 230 V, 50 Hz, 1 ph

50-C8423/M
MCC8 MULTITEST, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. Allows load, displacement and strain control. PC and printer not included. 220 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph

50-C8424/M
MCC8 MULTITEST, stand alone closed loop control console for up to 2 test frames expandable to 4. Software included for compression, flexure, indirect tensile tests and Elastic Modulus determination. Allows load, displacement and strain control. PC and printer not included. 110 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph

ACCESSORIES

COMPRESSION FRAMES
ASTM C39, AASHTO T22 Compression frames
EN 12390-4, EN 772-1 Compression frames
General utility compression frames
Compression-flexure cement testing frames

FLEXURAL FRAMES
Flexural frame for std beams, 100 kN cap.
Universal flexural frame, 100-150 kN cap.
Universal flexural frames 150 kN cap., with adjustable vertical clearance
Universal, open structure flexural frame, 300 kN cap.

Compressometer-Extensometer for Elastic Modulus determination
Strain gauges

PC Cabinet
                       
ACCESSORIES ONLY FOR MCC MULTITEST
Measurement of beam deflection and thougness
Displacement transducer for measurement of crack opening
Energy absorption test on slabs

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Physical specifications
Power rating: 750 W
Dimensions (lxwxh): 470x410x1000 mm
Weight approx.: 120 kg

UPGRADING

MCC Upgrading options: Connection to 3rd or 4th  frame

50-C7022/UP1 
Upgrading of the MCC Classic and Multitest control consoles for the connection of a third frame.

50-C7022/UP2 
Upgrading of the MCC Classic and Multitest control consoles for the connection of a third and fourth  frame.


AUTOMAX E-Modulus console for Elastic Modulus and Poisson ratio determination

 

ISO 6784 | ASTM C469 | DIN 1048 | UNI 6556 | EN 13412 | EN 13286-43 | EN 12390-13 | BS 1888: 121

MAIN FEATURES

  • E-MODULE software for automatic determination of Modulus of Elasticity and Poisson's ratio
  • DATAMANAGER software for automatic execution of compression, flexure and indirect tensile tests
  • E MODULE software allows user defined test cycles and automatic verification of sample centering
  • Test cycle with closed loop digital feedbacks automatically performed by pressing the start button via PC
  • Soft platen-to-specimen contact and smooth load rate control from th every beginning of the ramp
  • Double frame control, expandable to four, with active frame selection via software
  • Double stage hydraulic pump with rapid approach and precise oil flow control allowing high throughput of accurate test (up to 40/hour)
  • Flow-sharing technology for the execution of loading and unloading cylces
  • Adopts the latest ES (Energy Saving) technology for reduction of power consumption and silent operation
  • Connects to laboratory network via LAN port/Software
  • Automatic software calibration procedure
  • Internet remote technical assistance and diagnostic

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The AUTOMAX E-Modulus is specifically designed for the determination of Elastic Modulus and Poisson's Ratio. It is also used for automatic execution of compression, flexure and splitting tests on concrete and cement when connected to a suitable testing frames. The console consists of an ergonomic cabinet which houses the hydraulic system, the power,  the electronics and the PC. 
PC and software ensure the remote control of the complete system (frame and console) for automatic E-Modulus test execution: rapid platen approach, zeroing, application of user-defined cycles of load/unload ramps, identification of failure load, verification of conformity to the selected Standard, calculation of results, graphical and numerical management of results.
The console is supplied also with DATAMANAGER software for compression, flexure and splitting tests execution to EN and ASTM.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Hydraulics:

  • Dual stage pump: centrifugal low pressure for fast approach and automatic switching to radial multi-piston high pressure for loading
  • DC motor. 720 W, 50-60 Hz
  • Maximum working pressure 650 bar
  • Third and fourth frame option, active frame selection by software
  • Flow-sharing technology to perform loading and unloading cycles
  • ES Energy Saving technology to reduce power consumption and silent operation

Hardware:

  • 131.000 points effective resolution
  • Closed-loop P.I.D. control
  • 4 channels for load sensors (pressure transducers and load cells)
  • 6 channels to measure strain values with transducers (LVDT, magnetostrictive, potentiometetric)
  • 4 channels for strain measurement with strain gauges
  • Memorization of the calibration curve enables sensors to be connected and used immediately
  • Digital linearization of the calibration curve (multi-coefficient)

User-interface:

  • Fully PC controlled
  • E-MODULE and DATAMANAGER softwares included
  • The PC allows remote control of the whole system and the automatic execution of test including: fast approaching, zeroing, application of load/stress ramps and cycles defined by the user, automatic test interruption after specimen failure, verification of compliance to Standard, numerical and graphical management of test results, etc.
  • DATAMANAGER software dedicated to compression, indirect tensile, 3 point and 4 point flexural tests on different types of specimens
  • E-MODULE software dedicated to Elastic modulus and Poisson ratio determination allowing:
  • Free unlimited programmable load/stress cycles to fulfill any kind of test procedure
  • Real time monitoring of test data, stress/time, stress/axial strain, stress/lateral strain graphs
  • Automatic verification of sample centering and sensors functionality, as per standards requirements
  • Real time and deferred management of tests data and results, either in numeric and in graphic format
  • Active frame selection via software
  • Printing and saving of customized test reports both for single and batch tests in Excel format
  • Multi-language software, customizable with a further local language (only latin characters)
  • Diagnostic system to highlight system malfunctions allowing remote service via Internet (if available)
  • The PC may be connected to the digital readout unit mod. 82-P0801/E and the suitable load cells in order to perform automatic load measurement verification procedure including data acquisition and printing of traceable calibration certificates.

ORDERING INFORMATION

50-C20E82
Automax E-Modulus stand alone power and control console for the control of up to 2 (expandable to 4) testing frames. PC included. 230 V, 50-60 Hz, 1 ph.

50-C20E84
Automax E-Modulus stand alone power and control console for the control of up to 2 (expandable to 4) testing frames. PC included. 110 V, 60 Hz, 1 ph.

ACCESSORIES

COMPRESSION FRAMES
ASTM C39, AASHTO T22 Compression frames
EN 12390-4, EN 772-1 Compression frames
General utility compression frames
Compression-flexure cement testing frames

FLEXURAL FRAMES
Flexural frame for std beams, 100 kN cap.
Universal flexural frame, 100-150 kN cap.
Universal flexural frames 150 kN cap., with adjustable vertical clearance
Universal, open structure flexural frame, 300 kN cap.

ACCESSORIES FOR ELASTIC MODULUS
Compressometer-Extensometer for Elastic Modulus determination
Strain gauges

UPGRADING

The AUTOMAX E-Modulus which can control two frames, can be upgraded for controlling, not simultaneously, a third and fourth frame adding, respectively one or two vallves. This integration shall be fitted in factory or by Controls authorized engineers.

Third frame facility
50-C10D/3F
Upgrading the Automax System for a third frame connection and control. Frame selection via PC       

Fourth frame facility
50-C20E/4F
Upgrading the Automax E Modulus consol for a fourth frame connection and control. Frame selection via PC.