ACM-200 Web Operating Instructions
ACM-200 Web Operating Instructions
ACM-200
Aircraft Cable Tension Meter
The ACM-200 is shipped calibrated and ready to use on 1/16", 3/32", 1/8", 5/32", 3/16”, and 1/4” diameter aircraft cables.
• Verify that the serial number on the instrument and the calibration chart match, as readings may vary among instruments.
• The pointer must be resting at 0 on the dial. If the pointer is not resting at 0, the calibration should be checked.
• Check that the calibration and certification are current.
OPERATION
1. Use the memory lock to make a tension reading where the dial cannot be seen. Insert the ACM in the hidden area.
Open meter and clip flanges over cable. Close meter securely. Push the memory lock button UP as far as
possible, exposing the red flag. Remove the ACM from the cable and note the reading. To clear the reading and
return the pointer to zero, push the memory lock button on top of the instrument fully down.
2. If the memory lock button is pushed up when meter is not in use, you may see the needle move from 1/2 to 1 1/2
dial increment lines. If the memory lock feature is used correctly very little of this motion is transferred to the
actual readings taken. The full-scale accuracy will still be well within 4%.
3. Tension on aircraft cables may vary substantially with differences in temperature, stretching or manufacture. For
greater accuracy it is recommended that several readings be taken at different locations on the cable and these
readings averaged, to compensate for varying cable thicknesses.
When to recalibrate:
RECALIBRATION
Tensitron provides immediate turnaround service(s) for its instruments needing repair and/or re-certification.
All values tested are traceable to national standards and serviced instruments meet or exceed all civilian and
military specifications. A certification form listing all calibration data and values is included with each
instrument.
1. Photocopy the blank calibration chart, Figure 2, in preparation for gathering new values.
2. If pointer is not resting at the 0 position on the dial, unscrew the socket plug located on the bottom left of
the instrument body. Using a small screwdriver, gently adjust the zero adjust screw until the pointer
indicates 0. After adjustment apply torque-seal or paint to lock the screw head.
3. To simulate tension loads on cables, suspend a 5’ length of aircraft cable from overhead. Next, apply
known weights to the bottom of your cable in the increments you wish to test. This type of calibration
procedure is called a Dead Weight Calibration. Note: Tension on a cable can be defined as the exact
value of a suspended weight from the cable. For example, a 100 lb weight hanging freely from a cable will
tension the cable to exactly 100 lbs. Torque (in Newtons,
inch lbs or foot lbs) refers to the rotational forces
required to lift a known weight a predetermined
distance. While torque values can be converted into
tension values, only the dead weight calibration system
should be used.
4. Determine the correct riser for the cable diameter to be
tested by referring to the calibration chart. Rotate the
riser so that the correct number or letter faces you and
clicks into place. This automatically aligns the back of
the riser with the two flanged reference pivots.
5. Insert the instrument onto the tensioned cable making
certain that all three contact points (the two outer
flanged reference pivots and the center riser) contact the
cable. Figure 2
6. Note where the pointer is on the dial and enter the new value onto your calibration work sheet. We
suggest taking several readings at different locations along your cable and averaging the results before
entering the new value.
7. Repeat this process for each cable diameter and tension values, making certain that your new
calibration chart has been signed, dated and attached to the instrument.
8. If tension value is considered “critical”, remove the cable from the aircraft and perform a dead weight
calibration.
Note: If calibration results differ greatly from the original calibration, or if minimum or maximum values
cannot be indicated on the instrument dial, return to Tensitron for service.
TENSITRON, INC.
733 S. Bowen Street
Longmont, CO 80501
USA
Phone: 303-702-1980
Fax: 303-702-1982
Email: tensionmeters@tensitron.com
Web Site: www.tensitron.com