MTS Advantage Wedge Action Grips User Manual
Page 15
Manual Name
Introduction
15
MTS Advantage Wedge Action Grip Functional Description
The MTS Advantage Wedge Action Grips are designed for static tension testing.
The grips are mounted in a load frame (also called a load unit) by attaching the
male mounting pin to a female mounting adapter and securing them with a
mounting dowel. A specimen can be installed either from the side of the grip or
from the top of the grip.
The grip handles are turned to apply an initial gripping force. The design of the
grips holds the wedges stationary while the specimen is being clamped. Once the
specimen is secured into both grips, a tensile load is applied to the specimen by
the test system. The tensile load pulls the specimen and wedges tighter into the
angled grip body, which increases the gripping force to prevent specimen
slippage during testing.
Two types of wedges are available for use with these grips: flat wedges for use
with flat specimens and vee-notched wedges for use with round specimens. Both
flat and vee-notched wedges are finished with a serrated texture to increase
gripping force.
Retaining
Guides
Specimen
Guide
Grip
Body
Wedges
Retaining
Guide
Screws
Wedge
Springs
Grip
Handle
Locking
Collar
Mounting
Pin
Hole for
Mounting
Dowel