30Te Horizontal Tensile Test Machine Refurbishment
At AJT Equipment, we are proud of our engineering heritage. We also like to give new life to existing machines.
Many AJT Equipment test machines are still in operation after decades of use and continue to deliver reliable results for our customers. In fact, our engineers regularly calibrate machines of this vintage and older.
From time to time we are asked to refurbish an AJT Equipment test machine, often when ownership changes or when equipment has been in storage for a long period.
This case study highlights the refurbishment of a 30Te Horizontal Tensile Test Machine originally manufactured in 1990.
Initial Assessment
At the request of the new owner our engineer visited the machine to check the status of the tensile test machine. The machine was not operational at the time, having been moved into storage.
Once the project was approved the 30 Tonne capacity horizontal tensile test machine was transported to our workshop in the West Midlands for a complete overhaul.
Mechanical Refurbishment and Upgrade
The customer requested a new colour scheme and modern safety guarding so the machine was completely stripped down.
Key refurbishment steps included:
- Shot blasting and repainting of the machine frame
- Design and manufacture of new safety guards
- Installation of a replacement hydraulic cylinder and a new load cell
- Replacement of missing and worn mechanical components
- Fabrication of a new control panel fascia
Software Installation and Machine Calibration
To complete the refurbishment, Automatec Loadlog software is now installed and runs on the customer’s laptop. This automatically records data during tests and then generates a test certificate.
Our engineers then carried out a full calibration of the tensile testing machine to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Cost-Effective and Sustainable Testing Equipment
Refurbishing this horizontal tensile test machine provided a cost-effective solution for the new owner.
Benefits included:
- Extended service life of existing engineering equipment
- Reduced environmental impact by avoiding scrapping machinery
End Use: Safety Strap Testing
The machine now has a new life carrying out proof load and break test of safety straps. The new owner can provide test certificates with every batch of straps delivered, demonstrating their commitment to product quality and safety.
More information on test machine upgrades can be found here