MTS Advantage Pneumatic Grips - Manual (Page 49)

Changing Wedges
Advantage™ Pneumatic Grips Operation 49
Procedure Perform the following procedure to replace one wedge with a different wedge.
Note Each wedge is labeled with the wedge part number and manufacturing
date code. Ensure that replacement wedges are a matched set before
attempting to install the wedges into the grip.
1. Remove any specimen installed in the grips. Leave the grip controls in the
release position.
• Position the load frame as necessary for convenient access to the grip
wedges.
• Remove the grip air supply pressure.
• For servohydraulic systems remove the hydraulic pressure from the
load unit.
2. Using the utility packing hook, disconnect both springs from the spring
posts on the corresponding wedge. It is not necessary to remove the springs
from the spring anchors.
3. Inspect the springs and replace them, if necessary.
4. Remove the wedge by sliding it towards the center of the grip and then
lifting it out of the grip.
5. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the remaining wedges.
6. Apply a thin coat of Magnalube lubricant to the edges of the wedge which
contact the chamber and piston.
7. Place the wedge into the center of the grip and then slide it towards the
chamber.
8. Using the utility packing hook, connect the springs from the spring anchor
on the grip piston to the spring post on the corresponding wedge.
9. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 for the remaining wedges.