Sure Torque ST-LAB Operation And Maintenance Manual
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Sure Torque ST-LAB Operation And Maintenance Manual

Electronic torque tester
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Read This First!
TO UNPACK AND SET UP YOUR SURE TORQUE BENCHTOP TORQUE TESTER, PLEASE PERFORM THE
FOLLOWING STEPS:
Tools needed: Screwdriver, Allen wrench set.
1. Carefully remove the crating box cover to expose the machine, which is mounted on the crate's base. Then using an
Allen wrench set, unscrew four screws in the machine's base.
2. Next, unscrew the screws holding the machine tight in the crating box then identify the other components and
assembly hardware.
3. Connect the main air supply to the rear air plug (refer to section 2.5.1 in the manual for specifications).
4. Attach the provided CE marked power supply to the rear of the system.
5. Run unit in manual cycle first to check component operation and alignment before running automatic cycle.
1-1
rev. 08.15.2006.

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Summary of Contents for Sure Torque ST-LAB

  • Page 1 Read This First! TO UNPACK AND SET UP YOUR SURE TORQUE BENCHTOP TORQUE TESTER, PLEASE PERFORM THE FOLLOWING STEPS: Tools needed: Screwdriver, Allen wrench set. 1. Carefully remove the crating box cover to expose the machine, which is mounted on the crate’s base. Then using an Allen wrench set, unscrew four screws in the machine’s base.
  • Page 2 Corporate Overview Sure Torque (ST) began the development of the first electronic torque tester in 1985 in response to the needs of manufacturing and quality control engineering departments for precision torque testing instrumentation, capable of accurate, NIST certifiable torque measurement. Our equipment line offers rigorous testing of closure integrity, and is a necessary requirement to meet today’s stringent specifications for quality control and data collection.

  • Page 3: Preface

    Preface Thank you for the confidence you have shown in Sure Torque, as demonstrated by your purchase of our equipment. Although many machine concepts and subsystem operations may be common to several different Sure Torque machine models, this Operation and Maintenance Manual (O&M) applies to your specific packaging system.
  • Page 4 rev. 08.15.2006.

  • Page 5: Safety Comes First With St

    9. Permit ONLY qualified personnel to open the electrical enclosure. 10. Ensure that All personnel are clear of the machine BEFORE starting. REMEMBER! ADHERE TO ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS LISTED ABOVE AND THROUGHOUT THIS MANUAL SURE TORQUE Worldwide Torque Testing Equipment Specialists! rev. 08.15.2006.

  • Page 6: Electronic Torque Tester: Model St-Lab

    Sure Torque Acceptance and use of this manual constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Read This First! ............................... 1-1 Preface ................................1-3 Safety Comes First With ST..........................1-5 Electronic Torque Tester: Model ST-LAB ..................... 1-6 General Information ..........................1-10 1.1. System Overview .......................... 1-10 1.1.1. Control Interface........................1-10 1.1.2. Mechanical Assembly ......................1-10 1.1.2.1.
  • Page 8 4.3.2. Air Filter ..........................4-40 4.3.3. Solenoid Valves........................4-40 Troubleshooting Guide.......................... 5-41 Sure Torque Warranty, Limitation of Liability and Service Information ..........6-43 Sure Torque Options List ........................7-44 7.1. Software Mode List ........................7-44 7.1.1. Release Mode ........................7-44 7.1.2.
  • Page 9 Password Protection Feature ....................7-47 7.2.8. Time Decay Feature ......................7-47 7.2.9. Historical Data Option......................7-47 Glossary..............................8-48 Data Acquisition Program for the ST-LAB Bench Top Torque Tester ..........9-51 9.1. General ............................9-51 9.2. System Requirements ........................9-51 9.3.

  • Page 10: General Information

    ST offers an optional 360° degree test mechanism (refer to section 7.2.1 in this manual) for our ST-LAB unit. This option measures the largest release torque sensed during a full 360° degree turn of a closure.
  • Page 11 ST-LAB MECHANICAL COMPONENTS Figure 1-1, ST-LAB Torque Tester General Arrangement. Figure 1-2, ST-LAB Torque Tester Mechanical Components (Chuck Assembly). 1-11 rev. 08.15.2006.

  • Page 12: Stand Assembly

    The manifold air supply is also monitored by a pressure switch that will warn the Sure Torque operator if incoming air supply falls below a preset value. The air pressure is sent directly to the Platform, Clamp, and Chuck air valves, which control the air cylinders that activate these components.
  • Page 13 By default we configure the testers with 0 lbfin zero offset, but in many cases it is adviseable to evaluate the best starting rate for the specific torque application. Figure 1-3, Standard ST-LAB Torque Tester Pneumatic Diagram. 1-13...

  • Page 14: Electronic Assembly

    (eg: data collection and reporting, statistical analysis, graphic printout, automated capper torque control, etc.). The factory default operational test mode of the ST-LAB is the release mode, but it may be programmed to some of the other available operational mode screens as well in the Miscellaneous Setup screen.

  • Page 15: Installation Instructions

    2.1.1. Inspecting Sure Torque urges you to give your machine a complete inspection as soon as it is received. Any machine damage and/or missing parts should be reported to Sure Torque immediately.

  • Page 16: Positioning The Unit

    2.2. Positioning the Unit Simply place the Sure Torque unit on a large table or flat platform allowing plenty of side room to perform proper torque testing in an uncluttered area. Only qualified personnel should move or install this equipment. Failure to comply may cause equipment damage and/or personal injury.

  • Page 17: Precautions

    The Tuning Sheet is a valuable tool for all those operating the ST-LAB Sure Torque Unit. It is recommended that this tuning sheet be reviewed by All personnel involved in machine operation and change-over procedures, before initiating machine start-up.

  • Page 18: Operating Instructions

    3.1. Controls and Indicators The ST-LAB Torque Tester Control Unit has operator controls and indicators necessary for torque testing functions. Refer to Figure 3-1, ST-LAB Controls and Indicators, for a drawing of all operator’s controls and indicators, listing their types and functions.

  • Page 19: Machine Setup

    As well, a proper “Set-up” procedure is necessary to assure the accuracy, and optimum trouble-free operation of your ST-LAB Torque Tester. IMPORTANT Refer to Section 2, Installation Instructions, Section 2.3, Pre-run, Sure Torque Check-out Before attempting to start or operate your ST-LAB Sure Torque System. 3.2.1. Mechanical Setup Follow these procedures to assure proper ST-LAB Sure Torque set-up, and operation.

  • Page 20: Electronic Setup

    (static) conforming to the parameters described in your Sure Torque ST-LAB tuning sheet. Next, feel the upward travel allowed in release mode by pulling up the head when only the low pressure valve is active.

  • Page 21: Timer Configuration

    entry attempt. When the password protection feature is not purchased, the setup, calibration, manual and parameter change screens will be automatically enabled without password protection. Whenever your password is accepted you will see a splash screen for a few seconds (this delay may be changed in the setup) and you will be redirected to the Setup submenus.

  • Page 22: Speed Settings

    after applying the torque, but to wait for a certain amount of time. By setting this timer you can program the unit how many seconds to wait before conducting the next test in the cycled modes, or releasing the cap at the end of a single test.

  • Page 23: Miscellaneous

    Unlocking this feature requires a 1-4 digit code, which may be obtained from Sure Torque Entering this code will automatically enable the dynamic torque control feature. In the dynamic control mode, the torque tester will apply the torque in two phases. In the first phase it will change the torque fast, and in the second phase, where the error between the setpoint and the current torque value is below a predefined limit, it changes the torque application slower but more accurate.

  • Page 24: Load/Save Presets

    Navigation is possible with the ENTER, ESC and ARROW buttons. ENTER is used to get in the parameter change screen, then it is used to accept the modified values. The numeric buttons may be used for editing the various values and the ARROW buttons may be used to navigate between the values on a screen. The ESC button is used to jump from one screen to the next.

  • Page 25: Serial Communication, Data Table Setup

    3.2.2.5. Serial communication, Data table setup The fifth submenu may be used to define historical settings and check the communication parameters. Navigation is possible with the ENTER, ESC and ARROW buttons. ENTER is used to get in the parameter change screen, then it is used to accept the modified values. The numeric buttons may be used for editing the various values and the ARROW buttons may be used to navigate between the values on a screen.

  • Page 26: Unlocking Operation Modes, Optional Features

    When the customer decides to buy an operational mode or a built-in, but locked feature Sure Torque will provide the code to unlock that mode/feature. These codes may be entered on the following screens shown above.

  • Page 27: Alarm Settings

    Description of the values in the alarm submenu: Alarm Unlock Code: If the customer purchased this option, Sure Torque will provide a 1-4 digit code, may be used to unlock the alarm option in the torque tester. Enter that code here, then press the ENTER button. The alarm option is 3-27 rev.

  • Page 28: Calibration

    In the calibration mode the signal of the transducer is directly connected to the display for continuous observation and calibration of the ST-LAB instrument. The actual certified system calibration with accurate weights is done in this mode. If you have purchased the optional verification kit (strongly recommended), follow these steps to verify the unit’s calibration:...
  • Page 29 in the middle of the pulley. Pull the pin on the pulley then. Wrap the wire around pulley at least 180 degrees and hang it over the appropriate roller; now put the pin back in. If you hang the wire over the right hand side roller, you test the machine for release;...

  • Page 30: Displayed Messages, Options And Instructions

    Take the weight off and make sure there is no torque applied to the chuck, then Press “CAL”. The display will read: “Hang The Weight On the (right side of the) Pulley” “Then hit the CAL button” Install the largest pulley from your calibration kit into the chuck. Hang all the weights (or the weight that will have a comparable torque on the head (with the pulley) to the expected maximum of the release/application torque on the end of the wire on the right side of the pulley.

  • Page 31: The Mode Screens

    3.3.3. The Mode Screens 3.3.3.1. Manual Mode Select the Manual Mode using the arrow buttons on the main navigation screen, then hit ENTER. Before entering the authentication screen appears (when the password protection feature is enabled). Type in the password (default password is 1114). Entering the correct password’s last digit will automatically redirect to the main manual screen.
  • Page 32 ENTER. In this screen and on the other manual screens as well, there are special functions associated with the different keys. These are: Esc: This key is used to leave a screen and reset the tester and stop any motions. Left Arrow: Press or hold down this key to decrease the torque applied by the rotary actuator.

  • Page 33: Applied Mode

    2. Type in the Password if the password protection feature is enabled (default password is 1112), then modify the required values using the numeric keypad 3. Hit “ENTER” after you changed a variable. 4. Hit “ESC” if all the changes are made on the current screen, this will redirect to the next screen. Change any values you wish and check the effect of that parameter change by running a test.

  • Page 34: Release Mode

    Optional Modes The base ST-Lab comes with the standard application and release modes. All other measurement methods are optional, some of them may be unlocked after purchasing the unlock code, others need hardware modifications as well. Optional hardware modules may be required for example the 8000 cpr rotation encoder or the topload transducer for topload measurement and torque-angle monitoring/controlling.

  • Page 35: Applied Then Release Mode

    3.3.3.5. Applied then Release Mode This method may be used for fatigue testing. After applying the torque, the unit will automatically measure the release torque value. This method may be particularly useful when someone runs studies on how does a thread/material wears out in the function time/cycles.

  • Page 36: Sealed Closure Torque Testing Methods

    We can upgrade the ST-Lab with the topload option, and let you run torque measurements where the topload force is kept on the same level, providing accurate topload independent readouts. We can also sell you measurement methods, checking the thread friction torque at different topload force levels.

  • Page 37: Serial Communication

    WARNING If your Sure Torque ST-LAB Electronic Torque Tester is not running smoothly, or there is any doubt as to its operational proficiency or proper production cycle, contact ST Customer Service at once: 3.3.5.2. Customisation of the communication string Data string customisation and communication protocol setup is only available at Sure Torque Please make sure that the data communication string and the serial port configuration is compatible with your system requirements.

  • Page 38: Maintenance

    4. Maintenance Proper and regular, routine maintenance schedules should be followed at all times with the SURE TORQUE instrument. This instrument is designed to give many years of trouble-free operation, so long as machine cleaning and maintenance are performed regularly. SURE TORQUE suggests you train all machine operators and maintenance personnel with a comprehensive program and maintenance schedule.

  • Page 39: Pneumatic Maintenance

    The Pneumatic System actuates all the mechanical systems and components, and their relative test functions. A clean, steady supply of compressed air is essential for proper Sure Torque operation. As well, the proper adjustment of these pneumatic components is also essential to accurate torque testing data.

  • Page 40: Air Filter

    The Solenoid valves are air direction components that open or close in response to electrical impulse, and emit their air flow to air operated components. The Solenoid Air Valves are an extremely important part of the ST-LAB Electronic Torque Tester System. These valves should always be included in the regular, preventative maintenance program of the overall unit.

  • Page 41: Troubleshooting Guide

    Refer to the Machine Tuning Sheet in the Appendix-A, when making any adjustments to the machine. This is a general troubleshooting guide; therefore, some malfunction conditions and/or corrective applications may not apply to your particular ST-LAB Electronic Torque Tester. WARNING 1.
  • Page 42 Excessive moisture in system a. Check filtering system Components b. Air supply dirty b. Check filtering system Malfunctioning: c. Leak in component or c. Locate leak and correct hose connections SURE TORQUE World-Wide Torque Testing Equipment Specialists! 5-42 rev. 08.15.2006.

  • Page 43: Sure Torque Warranty, Limitation Of Liability And Service Information

    Any action by Buyer for any alleged breach of the warranty set forth herein shall be brought to the attention of Sure Torque, by Buyer within the warranty period, but not later than thirty (30) days after the alleged breach.

  • Page 44: Sure Torque Options List

    This mode confirms that the release torque of a previously applied closure, at least equals a predetermined value. In this way the Sure Torque ST-LAB acts to pass or fails quality control test, insuring that all containers tested reach the selected release value. If the test proves successful, this mode allows safe transfer of samples back into circulation, saving the cost of discarding product.

  • Page 45: Non-Destructive Release And Re-Apply Mode

    7.1.15. Precision Applied and Release tests Special tests have been developed by Sure Torque to test or precisely apply torque on syringes, vials and these tests may be used in other low torque range applications, as well. The precision release test may be also used on CR caps, too.

  • Page 46: Topload Measurements

    We can upgrade the ST-Lab with the topload option, and let you run torque measurements where the topload force is kept on the same level, providing accurate topload independent readouts. We can also sell you measurement methods, checking the thread friction torque at different topload force levels.

  • Page 47: Verification Kits

    7.2.6. STDA Software The Sure Torque STDA software package, downloaded to customer’s (hard drive/USB Pin drive, local or network storage devices) automatically collects and displays torque test data from the ST-LAB Electronic Torque Tester in both release and applied torque modes, eliminating the task of manual data collection and the possibility of human error in reading or recording results.

  • Page 48: Glossary

    8. Glossary This list of terms and machine nomenclature is used throughout this publication. Understanding meanings and applications will be helpful in using the publication. applied torque: The torque required to apply closures accurately and consistently to a sample of containers, including multiple and repetitive extensions of applied torque requirements, measured in units of inch-pounds (avoirdupois) or Newton-Meters.
  • Page 49 neck ring: The formed ring (transfer bead) around the neck to secure Pilfer proof or tamper evident band. Newton Meters: A metric unit (Nm) measurement comparable to converted US Inch-pound units. NIST: National Institute of Standards and Testing. non-destructive: The act of maintaining the integrity of the product unharmed and unspoiled. OD: Measurement of outside diameter.
  • Page 50 Closure thread with lug design. vent: Openings in side wall of closure to aid in rapid evacuation of headspace gases. vent slots: The vertical interruptions of bottle threads. ware: Glass bottle containers. SURE TORQUE Worldwide Torque Testing Equipment Specialists! 8-50 rev. 08.15.2006.

  • Page 51: Data Acquisition Program For The St-Lab Bench Top Torque Tester

    9.3. Installation 9.3.1. Hardware Installation Locate the Interface cable (supplied with ST-LAB instrument). This is a 6 ft. long cable with a 9 pin “D” type FEMALE connector on the PC end and RJ11 Type connector on the machine end.
  • Page 52 The second method does not need a dedicated PC but does not have the ability to monitor the real-time torque either. The ST-LAB itself is able to hold at least 4000 measurement records in its memory providing an alternative way for data collection.

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