Selectable units (lb., kg, or daN) Copyright 2022 Wicks Aircraft Supply | All Rights Reserved. You clip the tensiometer on the cable and you measure 10 pounds because you still have a 10-pound weight hanging down. Tensiometers are hand-held devices used to measure cable friction. However, when the tool is calibrated, Essco technicians clamp the tool onto the cable first, then pull the cable until the cable is under a known load (with the cable tensiometer attached). East - Peachtree City, GA After determining that the control system functions properly and is correctly rigged, it should be thoroughly inspected to determine that the system is correctly assembled and operates freely over the specified range of movement. The entire cable is covered with a lead shaft through the extraction process to prevent moisture from entering the cable. Cable Tensiometers are hand-held instruments used to measure the tension of a cable. hb``b``2g`b`| @1 8p6 n&@"-@. ?L0ya4EaJPSyc4#w1? f Well, that might be anyones guess. Parts of an Airplane and their functions. The dial will have specific graduations that indicate the cable tensions for each of the various cable sizes the instrument can measure. endstream endobj startxref The tension for this example is 70 pounds. The tab position indicator must be checked to see that it functions correctly. Indirect reading tensiometers contain larger dials with a scale that reads between 0 and 100. 60 0 obj <>stream Protractors are tools for measuring angles in degrees. Optional features including: Analog Output and Serial Output, All models typically available from stock, Includes easy to use, cable diameter gage to accurately determine correct cable size, Numerous application specific models available, Durable, lightweight carrying case with protective foam inserts, All instruments factory-calibrated and ready for use. 9325 Progress Parkway Suite B Mentor, OH 44060. The plunger will move up and the riser will contact the cable at a right angle to the clamping points on the anvils. Includes carrying case and NIST-traceable calibration certificate, Address Is Tesla CEO Elon Musk planning to open a new privateairport in Texas. First select the cable size from the instruments menu. They are commonly used in the aviation industry during aircraft maintenance by aircraft manufacturers and periodically maintained as cable maintenance Task by aircraft maintenance specialists. First-tier Canadian electronics distributor and calibration lab, providing exceptional communications and test and measurement solutions to the service and maintenance entities within the Avionics, Utility, Public Safety, Infrastructure, Wireless, Government and Military markets. Next separate the instruments outer cable contact guides by rotating the engagement lever open and inserting the instrument onto your tensioned cable. Therefore, the explanations in this chapter are limited to the three general steps listed below: The range of movement of the controls and control surfaces should be checked in both directions from neutral. hbbd``b`Z$ HN |@W$$X\ @BPHp .9 `d Follow the 85 F line upward to where it intersects the curve for 1/8 cable. In many cases, hydraulic rams or pull test machines can be used to apply the varying forces for the calibration, and load cells can be used to accurately measure the force on the cable. Extremely accurate custom calibration procedure employing up to a 10-point multilinearization procedure. When rigging control systems, refer to the applicable maintenance manual for the sequence of steps for adjusting these stops to limit the control surface travel. The center spirit level is used to position the disk when measuring control surface travel. Cable rigging involves the setting of the travel limits and cable tensions of the cables in the aircraft control system. How early before a Flight does the crew come to the Airport? The calibration card is created for each specific tensiometer. In the field, mechanics routinely use cable tensiometers to check tensions on aircraft control cables. For more information on Cable Tensiometer calibration, contact e2b calibration. Jeff Simon is an A&P, IA, pilot, and aircraft owner. Customer Service: 800-861-3192 Set-Point feature allowing user to define high and low point specifications which are then shown on the main display as an active, color changing bar graph. The tensiometer must be calibrated on the same type and size of cables on which the instrument is designed to be used. The trim tab control is set to the neutral (no trim) position, and the surface tab is usually adjusted to streamline with the control surface. Place your cable tensiometer on the cable and you raise the tension of the cable while measuring it, sometimes by a lot. For more information and details check out our latest practical and effective video on it: , Link to download Cable Tensiometer Operation & Service Manual: , https://optimanufacturing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/SOP-TN-001_T5_Manual.pdf. Note that they start at the same point and advance in opposite directions. Data Statistics: Monitor your process by viewing count, average and standard deviation values of your logged data. Correctly rigged control surfaces move through a prescribed arc (surface-throw) and are synchronized with the movement of the flight deck controls. Indirect reading tensiometers contain a larger dial with a scale that reads between 0 and 100. [click image to enlarge]To use the chart, determine the size of the cable that is to be adjusted and the ambient air temperature. Are you sure you want to switch accounts? Ranges 3/32: 70-300lbs, 1/8: 100-500 lbs. There are various tools used for measuring surface travel, including protractors, rigging fixtures, contour templates, and rulers. The individual readings are recorded on the calibration card. The serial number and calibration date are noted on the calibration card for each unit. If the final alignment and adjustment of a system are correct, it should be possible to withdraw the rigging pins easily. Bhavya Velani is the Founder of Aviation A2Z. Adjust the cable tension, maintaining the rudder, elevators, or ailerons in the neutral position. Referring to the chart, also notice that a No. Calibration of Cable Tensiometers is usually performed by hanging accurate dead weights from various cables. Special thanks to the wonderful folks at Essco for opening their doors to my visit during these challenging times. In order for a control system to function properly, it must be correctly adjusted. Tensitron is pleased to announce its 5th generation of digital aircraft cable tension meters, using the latest technology, software, and design improvements providing unsurpassed accuracy and resolution for numerous material sizes and tension ranges. Aircraft Mechanic School Study Supplement for Future Aviation Maintenance Technicians. Analog or serial output (optional) /contenthandler/!ut/p/digest!eMG_dF9W7VSZbxRv9aZp4g/pm/oid:--portletwindowid--@oid:Z6_GHK6HJC0OG6S20Q8HU3K6R0G63, /contenthandler/!ut/p/digest!eMG_dF9W7VSZbxRv9aZp4g/um/secure/currentuser/profile?expandRefs=true. A double 10-part vernier is marked on the ring. Therefore, a pointer lock is built in on the tensiometer. Then rotate the lever closed to engage the instrument onto the cable. The force that the riser contacts the cable is indicated by the pointer on the dial. A jaw with the two anvils is located at the top of the instrument and a plunger with the riser is located between the two anvils. A riser or plunger is pressed against the cable to form the offset. Included with each tensiometer is a conversion chart, which is used to convert the dial reading to pounds. In many cases, a graphical chart will be generated from the calibration data. Or on the other side of a rod, truss member, or similar object with three sides. Compact design allows access to small spaces Cable Tensiometers are typically used on aircraft cables that have 7 x 7 or 7 x 19 stranding in the cables and in diameter sizes of between 1/16 through 3/8 of an inch. When properly maintained, a tensiometer is 98 percent accurate. For Use On Cables: 1/16, 3/32, 1/8, 5/32, Sheet Metal Fasteners & Installation Tools, Diamond Plated Integral Pilot Countersinks, Visu/Composi-Lok, Jo-Bolt, Pneumatic Tools, T5 Cable Tensiometer Instruction Manual PDF, Rebuilt & Calibrated Aircraft Cable Tensiometers. Please check the boxes for the options that you would like to add. 2022 Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Approach Aviation introduces expanded alternator coupling tool kit, Aircraft Maintenance: Reaming, lapping, other valve tasks. 38 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<5AF8AFEF096FAFB1A7D6AD993AF57978>]/Index[23 38]/Info 22 0 R/Length 84/Prev 139937/Root 24 0 R/Size 61/Type/XRef/W[1 2 1]>>stream One set is located at the control surface, either in the snubber cylinders or as structural stops; the other, at the flight deck control. Then, place the cable to be tested under the two anvils and close the trigger (move it up). Each metal spine is covered with a metal sheet held to the ground. The indirect reading tensiometers require the use of several different removable risers that are used to measure different cable sizes. Its products are used in many different industries and companies for a variety of quality control purposes. They know were not getting an accurate reading, but theyre OK with it because theyve already accounted for it. e2b calibration is an ISO/IEC 17025 ACCREDITED calibration and repair laboratory providing a full scope of NIST TRACEABLE calibration, test, and measurement services for AEROSPACE equipment. The actual tension (see chart) of the cable is 70 lbs. Tensitron instruments are designed to quickly check the tension on aircraft cables from 1/16 in. Durable construction Movement of the trigger pushes up the riser, which pushes the cable at right angles to the two clamping points under the anvils. Fits cable sizes 3/32, 1/8, 5/32. The rigging of the trim tab systems is performed in a similar manner. We attached the tensiometer, then brought the tension up to 15 pounds on the calibration machine. Each riser is of a different height which makes it possible to accurately measure tensions of different cable sizes. Wear to the anvils and risers can change the calibration readings so tensiometers need to be calibrated regularly to maintain their accuracy. So, why arent aircraft falling out of the sky with up to 30-percent error rates in their cable tensions? Low Strength Cables: Low power cables up to 1 kV for paper use oil-coated; varnished cambric and refined bitumen are some of the antibodies used in low-strength cords. 0 A disk-to-ring lock is provided to secure the disk and ring together when the zero on the ring vernier scale and the zero on the disk degree scale align. the limit of their travel when the controls are against their respective stops. Switching accounts in the middle of an order will clear your current cart. An inexpensive yet accurate method of checking cable tension. Get your aircraft off the ground and into the air with maximum performance and safety, minimum cost and time. Typical cable rigging chart. Options are: 1, 2, 5 and 10 seconds. Each riser has a specific identifying number and is easily inserted onto a pin on the plunger of the tensiometer. @`=}c5:jNvx. Any undue tightness of the pins in the rigging holes indicates incorrect tensioning or misalignment of the system. Cables are used in an aircraft to connect the flight controls in the cockpit with the movable parts on the aircrafts wings and stabilizers, such as the ailerons, elevators and rudder. 1 riser is used with 1/16, 3/32, and 1/8 cable. However, when it came time to calibrate my cable tensiometer, the process I witnessed blew my mind. Power supply operates with input voltages from 100 240V and includes several, interchangeable adapters allowing use with European, Australian, US, English and other plug configurations. Direct tensiometer readings will have dial or digital readings found in the tool to give a real indication of durability. They have been set to ensure that there isnt too much slack or tension on the pulleys. Ideal for determining loads on sailboat rigging, guide wires, fences or any application where cable or wires are installed under load. 2 riser to measure the tension of a 5/32 diameter cable, a reading of 30 is obtained. The other stops do not normally contact each other, but are adjusted to a definite clearance when the control surface is at the full extent of its travel. He mounted the tensiometer on a loose cable on the calibration machine, then he tightened the cable until the calibrated machine read the proper tension. One type of tensiometer is illustrated in Figure 2-88. Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association Find it free on the store. Calibration certificate included and all calibration values traceable to National Standards. endstream endobj 24 0 obj <> endobj 25 0 obj <> endobj 26 0 obj <>stream Detailed operating instructions included with each tension gauge. Aviation A2Z provides the Latest News, Exclusive Blogs, Verified Jobs, and More. Large, easy to read backlit, color display with adjustable backlighting. Data Averaging: Use this feature to adjust the stability of your displayed, tension readings. Cable Tensiometers come in two basic types, direct-reading and indirect-reading. Today, the organization has its own website & App, and it is available on multiple platforms. SL and HSL Cables: For SL type cables, each spine is covered separately with a lead spine. Importance and Working of New Tail Rotor in the Helicopter, Interesting & Wow facts about a fire extinguishers, a2zblog.in, IndiGo Technicians Mass Sick leave Continues at Delhi Airport | Exclusive & LIVE update, IndiGo Technicians took mass sick leave at Hyderabad | Exclusive News, Tata Air India is Hiring For Multiple Positions | Know more here | Apply Now, Exclusive: Jet Airways Is Hiring For Many Positions | Apply Now, IndiGo Technicians mass sick leave is now a Nationwide protest, The windshield of the Go First Delhi to Guwahati flight cracks mid-air | Exclusive, Akasa Air Releases New Crew Look Video | Watch Now. A rig pin is a small metallic pin or clip. hWmoF+UK/ pGuEg;)qwfmv!1xf#HJ83D2"%HID*&RFL a&KTHG6$s$S>[i"\qXDP sEw0Dh",+$K1Np\"*)dhfsF4CTTF+%hoIzSK}fhO_/aJ>M&h/~-__Q!,G4!`NdO%8vo 5/32: 140-800 lbs. With that mystery solved, I can sleep well at night knowing that my aircrafts bolts are tight, its linkages are within spec, and its cables are under the exact tension that the designers wantedwhatever that might truly be. Fax: 800-329-3020, West - Corona, CA Cable Tensiometers work by measuring the amount of force required to make the cable move between two hardened steel anvils set a specific distance apart. [Figure 2-89]Figure 2-89. Data storage and statistics This feature allows the user to select the duration the instrument takes tension readings over and posting that average to the display. %PDF-1.5 % However, on some aircraft, the specifications may require that the trim tabs be offset a degree or two from streamline when in the neutral position. The chart makes it easier for the maintenance technicians to determine the correct reading between the calibration points. Rigging any control system requires that the aircraft manufacturers instructions be followed as outlined in their maintenance manual. To determine the amount of tension on a cable, a tensiometer is used. We used Esscos calibration machine to place a cable in a fixed position at a fixed tension (15 pounds), then we attached my tensiometer. Adjust the control stops to limit the control surface travel to the dimensions given for the aircraft being rigged. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There are various types of Polyethylene, polyurethane, polyester elastomer, cellular fluoro polymer fluoroelastomer, Mylicon poly Cables for different purposes. When checking the range of movement of the control surface, the controls must be operated from the flight deck and not by moving the control surfaces. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. However, in single spinal cords the loss of spinal cord is greater. They are often used in the aviation industry during cable rigging in aircraft by aircraft manufacturers and for periodic cable maintenance by aircraft maintenance technicians. Midwest - West Chicago, IL Then we held the cable in place and removed the tool. to in., CWT cable sizes from 5 to 25, and metric cables from 2.0mm to 4.0mm. Definition :- the axial force transmitted by a rope, cable, chain, or similar continuous object in a single orbit. The process is simple: Clamp the tensiometer on the cable, take a reading, compare it to the calibration chart with the tool (referencing cable size), and you get the resulting tension. To compensate for temperature variations, cable rigging charts are used when establishing cable tensions in flight control, landing gear, and other cable-operated systems. Click here to request a FREE quote from one of our experts. Tensiometers should be calibrated at a minimum of one year or sooner depending on how often the tensiometer is used. Up to 10 additional custom calibrations may be programmed into the instrument. Your cable will drop automatically into place and readings will appear on the display once the lever is engaged. He did this dozens of times for various tensions and cable sizes until he could properly fill out the new calibration chart for my tensiometer. e2b calibration has full capabilities to calibrate all types and models of Cable Tensiometers. The calibration machine now read 20 pounds. This eliminates band separation from the electrostatic field effect. Pins, usually called rig pins, are sometimes used to simplify the setting of pulleys, levers, bellcranks, etc., in their neutral positions. Disagreements can also be defined as the forces of reaction acting on each of these claims. Tension meter are designed for a variety of systems including measuring tension of young man cables, wire cord, tower output, overhead lines and more. One-handed operation To measure the tension on a cable, the cable to be tested is placed between the two anvils and the tensiometer handle or trigger is closed. 6375 Dixie Road, Unit 7 In addition, most control cables are not used anywhere near their load limits. We are recognized as the leading provider of superior precision tension meters and tension measuring instrumentation used world-wide in manufacturing and test facilities. See the first look in Jetstars new Airbus A321neo cabin, Air India plans mega fleet expansion, Pilots to fly till 65 years of age, Southwest pilots become the 1st mother and daughter duo to fly together. Adjustable LCD refresh rates allowing for stable, digital readouts, Automatic shutoff after several minutes of non-use, Instruments may be operated continuously while connected to power supply. The dial reading is converted to pounds of tension as follows. Both types are designed to measure various types of cable, cable sizes and cable tensions. In many instances, the aircraft manufacturer gives the travel of a particular control surface in degrees and inches. Indicate values in Lbs, daN or KG in flexible cables with diameters from 1/16 up to 1/4, CWT cable sizes from 5 to 25 and metric cables from 2.0mm to 4.0mm. The position of the tensiometer does not affect the readings so it does not matter whether the calibration cables are placed in a horizontal or vertical position. We are Indias leading aviation organization dedicated towards supporting and helping aviation professionals. Tensiometers have two basic types, direct reading and indirect reading. A cloud-based document and ASSET MANAGEMENT PORTAL provides customers with instant access to certificates of calibration, asset information, and reports. Approximately 12 hours of continuous use depending upon backlighting intensity. As mentioned earlier, when we use a cable tensiometer in the field, we clamp it onto a cable already under tension and read off the resulting number. EHV cables: These cables are usually single-core type because they are easy to carry and install. Tension ranges from .5 lb. (The center spirit level is used to position the frame vertically when measuring propeller blade angle.) Services are provided in a climate-controlled, state-of-the-art laboratory with ON-SITE SERVICES, and local pick-up and delivery available on request. After observing the reading, pull the lock out and the pointer returns to zero. Alaska - Wasilla, AK Rugged units require no oiling & require a minimum of care. See your browser's documentation for specific instructions. Home What is the cable Tension with Tensiometer types ? For the most part, aircraft control cables are closed systems with both ends of the cable fixed, placing the cable under a designed tension. DGCA has begun 2 month special audit of airlines, due to rising tech snags, NASA Boeing 747 damaged in New Zealand Due to Severe Weather, Air France aircraft back to Paris after Technical issues | Exclusive, Exclusive: Aviation Minister inaugurates Spicejets Jabalpur-Kolkata flight, Airlines cant charge extra for a boarding pass at check-in desks in airports: Civil Aviation, DGCA releases Air Traffic Data for June Month, 237% monthly Growth | Exclusive, Jet Airways lenders threaten to go bankrupt, Regarding rental revenue | Exclusive, Exclusive: Pilot Kamal Kumar surprises his family by flying them home | watch what the Pilot did, Indian startup ePlane Company to launch a flying taxi by 2023 | Exclusive. Cable tension is determined by measuring the amount of force needed to make an offset in the cable between two hardened steel blocks called anvils. To prove the point, I asked the technicians to run a test. I contacted the engineering team at a large general aviation manufacturer for the answer (they didnt want to go on record with the companys name). Either of these may serve as the actual limit stop. The force that is required to do this is indicated by the dial pointer. Typically, at least five readings are taken on each different cable to cover the full measurement range of the cable. This page requires Javascript. 3 riser column of the chart. What is the cable Tension with Tensiometer types ? For example, assume that the cable size is 1/8 diameter, which is a 7-19 cable and the ambient air temperature is 85 F. Display shows tension, description of cable selected, dynamic color bar graph indicating changing tensions (Amber = tension too low, Green = correct tension range and red= over range), the previous 5 tension readings along with their average and the battery charge level, Select tension values to display in Lbs., daN or KG, Depress the Store button to record and average your previous five readings along with their average. This is a rolling average, meaning that only the readings taken in the last 1, 2, 5 or 10 seconds (your choice) will be averaged and displayed. A calibration card or graph is supplied with these units that shows a conversion from the dial reading to the pounds of tension for the different cable sizes to be measured. Calibrations for 7/32 and other cable sizes can be added to the cable selection menu upon request. Founded in 2018, Aviation A2Z has grown rapidly with 1 Million visitors per year. Extend a horizontal line from the point of intersection to the right edge of the chart. Adjustable and nonadjustable stops (whichever the case requires) are used to limit the throw-range or travel movement of the ailerons, elevator, and rudder. Protect your instrument in this handy fitted case. An additional anti-aging metal garment is provided if the condition requires. Large, easy to read graphic display clearly shows selected cable size, tension & battery charge level. These ruggedly constructed, durable instruments are accurate and reliable. This is how our tools are calibrated. If you didnt catch on yet to why my mind was blown while witnessing this process, let me explain. The value at this point indicates the tension (rigging load in pounds) to establish on the cable. Calibrations for other cable sizes are available upon request. When rig pins are not provided, the neutral positions can be established by means of alignment marks, by special templates, or by taking linear measurements. Next, we did the process in reverse (the way that they calibrate). The specific riser needed for the appropriate cable size is listed on the calibration card for each tensiometer. Required fields are marked *. Dialing will have some graduation that shows the cable incompatibility with each cable size the instrument can measure. Several manufacturers make a variety of tensiometers, each type designed for different kinds of cable, cable sizes, and cable tensions. Leave all boxes unchecked for unit only. He now shares his expertise through his articles on the Aviation A2Z Website. One protractor that can be used to measureaileron, elevator, or wing flap travel is the universal propeller protractor shown in Figure 2-90. In some cases when measuring aircraft cables, the position of the tensiometer may make it difficult to view the tensiometer dial. The correct riser must be used for the cable size being measured or incorrect readings will occur and damage to the tensiometer may result. After a system has been adjusted, the full and synchronized movement of the controls should be checked. Trim tabs and other tabs should be checked in a manner similar to the main control surfaces. Another variable that must be taken into account when adjusting cable tension is the ambient temperature of cable and the aircraft. %%EOF During the checking of control surface travel, ensure that chains, cables, etc., have not reached. The answer is simple: They know that the numbers our gauges are reading arent accurate in an absolute sense. They design cable tensions so our gauges will read 15 pounds when they actually want the cable to be under 10 pounds of tension. Most In Stock Items ordered before Noon CST ship same day. Are you sure you want to switch accounts? A pointer lock is built into the tensiometer to view the cable tension measurement when the dial is facing away from the operator. If the travel in inches is provided, a ruler can be used to measure surface travel in inches. However, the weight actually moved up a little bit to account for the deflection that the tool placed on the cable. These tools are used when rigging flight control systems to ensure that the aircraft is properly rigged and the manufacturers specifications have been complied with. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Filed Under: Aerodynamics, Aircraft Assembly, and Rigging. ACX-1 meters are the fastest, easiest way to verify accurate cable tension. The Model ACX-1 series of Aircraft Cable Tension Meters are designed to precisely measure static tensions in aircraft cables. Tensitron is a KTC Instruments Company, founded in 1935, which designs, manufactures, sells, and services digital, mechanical and electronic tension measuring instrumentation. Javascript is disabled in this browser. The ring-to-frame lock prevents the ring from moving when the disk is moved. 23 0 obj <> endobj As the sample chart beneath the illustration shows, different numbered risers are used with different size cables. Data Logging Feature: Record tension values to the instruments memory. Direct reading tensiometers will have a dial or digital readout located on the instrument to give the actual tension indication. Central - Fort Worth, TX After the tab and tab control are in the neutral position, adjust the control cable tension. Push it in to lock the pointer, then remove the tensiometer from the cable and observe the reading. Contact Us | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy Easy Campfire Recipes | Recipe Workbook, Aerodynamics, Aircraft Assembly, and Rigging. Each riser has an identifying number and is easily inserted into the tensiometer. COVID-19 Corona Virus South African Resource Portal. Since the tensiometer is not designed for use in measuring 7/32 or 1/4 cable, no values are shown in the No. High-strength cables: Cables used at 11 kV fall into this category. When it has been determined that the aircraft is symmetrical and structural alignment is within specifications, the cable tension and control surface travel can be checked. These work as override stops to prevent stretching of cables and damage to the control system during violent maneuvers.