Know System Limits; Do Not Disturb Sensors; Ensure Secure Cables; Stay Alert - MTS Systems Landmark 370 Series Product Information

Safety

Know system limits

Never rely on system limits such as mechanical limits or software limits to protect you or any personnel.
System limits are designed to minimize the chance of accidental damage to test specimens or to
equipment. Test all limits for proper operation immediately before a test. Always use these limits and
adjust them properly.

Do not disturb sensors

Do not bump, wiggle, adjust, disconnect, or otherwise disturb a sensor (such as an accelerometer or
extensometer) or its connecting cable when hydraulic pressure is applied.

Ensure secure cables

Ensure that all cable connections (electrical supply, control, feedback, sensor, communications, and so
forth) are either locking type, or are secured, to ensure that they cannot be disconnected by a simple
act. Do not change any cable connections when electrical power or hydraulic pressure is applied. If you
attempt to change a cable connection while the system is in operation, an open control loop condition
can result. An open control loop condition can cause a rapid, unexpected system response which can
result in severe personal injury, death, or damage to equipment. Also, ensure that all cables are
connected after you make any changes in the system configuration.

Stay alert

Avoid long periods of work without adequate rest. In addition, avoid long periods of repetitious,
unvarying, or monotonous work because these conditions can contribute to accidents and hazardous
situations. If you are too familiar with the work environment, it is easy to overlook potential hazards that
exist in that environment.

Contain small leaks

Do not use your fingers or hands to stop small leaks in hydraulic or pneumatic hoses. Substantial
pressures can build up, especially if the hole is small. These high pressures may cause the oil or gas to
penetrate your skin, causing painful and dangerously infected wounds. Turn off the hydraulic supply
and allow the hydraulic pressure to dissipate before you remove and replace the hose or any
pressurized component.

Stay clear of moving equipment/avoid crush points

Stay clear of mechanical linkages, connecting cables, and hoses that move because you may get
pinched, crushed, tangled, or dragged along with the equipment. High forces generated by the system
can pinch, cut, or crush anything in the path of the equipment and cause serious injury. Stay clear of
any potential crush points. Most test systems can produce sudden, high-force motion. Never assume
that your reactions are fast enough to allow you to escape injury when a system fails.

Know the causes of unexpected actuator motions

The high force and velocity capabilities of MTS actuators can be destructive and dangerous (especially
if actuator motion is unexpected). The most likely causes of unexpected actuator response are
operator error and equipment failure due to damage or abuse (such as broken, cut, or crushed cables
MTS Landmark™ Tabletop Load Units - Product Information 23