Brookfield CT3 Texture Analyzer - Manual (Page 13)

Brookfield Engineering Labs., Inc. Page 13 Manual No. M08-372-C0113
III. OPERATION
III.1 Principle
The Brookfield CT3 Texture Analyzer can be operated in either compression or tension modes.
In compression mode a probe moves down slowly at pretest speed until a threshold value (the
trigger) is reached. The probe then moves a set distance at a set speed into the sample material that
is placed (or fixed) on the base table. The load is continuously monitored as a function of both time
and distance until the probe again returns to its starting position.
In tension mode the sample is typically held between a pair of grips. The test starts when the trigger
load is reached as the grips move apart. The load resistance as the sample is stretched or pulled
apart is recorded as a function of both time and distance.
III.2 Emergency Stop
The CT3 Texture Analyzer can operate with up to 50,000g (50kg) of force dependent on load
cell. Be sure to place only the sample for test under the probe.
Keep body parts and clothing away from the probe during the test.
The CT3 Texture Analyzer uses controlled forces to evaluate a material. The user must take care
not to place any body part or clothing in the testing zone while the machine is moving. The CT3
Texture Analyzer is provided with an Emergency Stop Button (see Figure I.2) for use in case of
an operational problem.
Pressing the Emergency Stop Button will cause different immediate actions depending upon the
type of test in use.
Compression:
Pressing Emergency Stop Button during a compression test will:
1) Stop the test in progress and display emergency stop screen.
EMERGENCY STOP
RESET EMERGENCY STOP
Figure III.1
2) The probe immediately returns to the home position.
3) The Emergency Stop condition can be canceled by rotating the Emergency Stop Button
clockwise. This will reset the CT3 firmware to the power up condition.
Tension:
Pressing Emergency Stop Button during a tension test will: