Controlled Load Abort Manifold (CLAM)  

 

The CLAM is a self-contained safety unit for servo hydraulic structural testing providing a controlled load abort function. It includes an adjustable load limiting function to provide over-load protection during test rig operation.

 

Control of the load abort process is based on a genuine decrement of load and not a bleed flow principle that has proved difficult to set up and unreliable for different load values. With a CLAM on each loading channel, the actuators release their applied loads in unison over the same time period, ensuring that the load distribution across the specimen is maintained

 

Features

• Actuator mounted like a normal abort manifold.
• Reduces the applied load over a common time period maintaining the load balance.
• Maintains a uniform linear ramp to zero load (fade-out) irrespective of the different actuator flow requirements.
• Operates on either tensile or compressive forces and provides a maximum load limit in each direction.
• Detecting over load and under load conditions by monitoring pressures in the actuator chambers.
• Unequal area actuator capability.