The system has been designed to be as simple to operate as possible, so that it can be used by relatively unskilled personnel whilst still producing repeatable results.
System Start-up
The first step in using the MTM is to switch on the PC and monitor. Once the pc has been logged on, then the MTM2 can be switched on. Switch the system on by switching the green button on the left hand side of the rig so that it becomes illuminated. The LED’s on the front of the MTM will illuminate to show that the machine is initialised. Open the MTM2 software, then the system will perform a self test and the main test window will appear.
Cleaning
System
The lubricant reservoir must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before starting a new test, to remove any old oil that may be present from a preceding test. Any oil remaining in the pot from a preceding test should be drained into a waste beaker, by opening the drain tap. It is recommended that a two stage cleaning procedure is then used:
A degreasing solvent should first be used to remove the oil samples used in a preceding test. The second stage is to add a more volatile organic solvent to the pot using a wash bottle. This is used to remove the first solvent.
- First stage: Toluene, White Spirit, Vasol, FastClean
- Second stage: Propanol, iso-octane
Specimens
The test specimens are supplied with anti-corrosion coatings which must be completely removed before use. Unwrap the lower specimen (the disc) and remove the excess coating with soft tissue. Place the lower specimen and upper specimen (ball/crowned roller/pin) in SEPARATE beakers and fill with iso-octane. Clean in an ultrasonic cleaner for 2 minutes. Replace the iso-octane with fresh solvent and clean for 10 minutes. Repeat and clean for a further 10 minutes. Remove and dry the specimens using a CLEAN, DRY air line or a nitrogen line.
Test Operation
After cleaning and assembly of the specimens and test cell, introduce the fluid to be tested into the lubricant reservoir. The level of fluid should be just above the test surface of the lower specimen. After this operation, wait for the ball to lower into the test chamber. When movement of ball drive has stopped, replace inner and outer cover of lubricant reservoir and swing locking arm round and locate over the covers.
There is no further user interaction with the mechanical unit until after the test is completed.
