Jack Testing Presses Frequently Asked Questions
Find practical answers about jack-testing press configurations, testing methods, bespoke design, installation, safety and maintenance.
What types of jack testing press are available?
Short answer: Integrated-load-cell and hydraulic-cylinder configurations.
The integrated-load-cell configuration measures the force generated by the jack as it is pumped upward into the load cell. The hydraulic-cylinder configuration uses the machine’s own hydraulic cylinder to apply a controlled downward load onto the jack under test, with system pressure monitored in bar.
Are bespoke sizes and test capacities available?
Short answer: Yes. The displayed machines are base configurations.
Final frame dimensions, test capacity, head arrangement and equipment can be specified to suit the customer’s jack range, test procedure and operational requirements.
Does the test head move?
Short answer: It can be specified to suit the jack and test arrangement.
The standard configurations use an adjustable head to accommodate different jack heights. On the load-cell tester, the head can be raised and lowered by winch and the load-cell head can be positioned laterally for alignment. The final head arrangement depends on the customer specification.
Are jack testing presses manual or motorised?
Short answer: The displayed configurations are manual; motorised versions are available.
The displayed machines are manually operated test configurations. Where the test frequency, required control method or operating procedure warrants it, a motorised hydraulic arrangement can be specified.
Are these presses only for testing aircraft jacks?
Short answer: No. Aircraft jacks are one application.
The same engineering approach can be used for other lifting, load-testing and specialist test applications. We have also supplied special presses for other sectors, including UKAEA projects. The machine is configured around the component, force range and test procedure.
How does an integrated-load-cell jack tester work?
Short answer: The jack pushes upward into the load cell and the force is displayed in tonnes.
The jack is positioned beneath the adjustable test head and pumped upward. The load cell measures the force generated by the jack and displays the measured value digitally in tonnes. This configuration does not use the machine to apply hydraulic force to the jack.
How does a hydraulic-cylinder jack tester work?
Short answer: The machine applies a downward hydraulic load onto the jack.
The hydraulic cylinder applies force to the jack under test. System pressure is monitored in bar while the jack is loaded, allowing lifting and holding performance to be checked. The standard displayed configuration has a 30-tonne test force and 300 mm cylinder stroke.
Do I need to secure the machine to the floor?
Short answer: Yes. The installation should be anchored to a suitable floor.
The machine should be installed on a flat, hard floor where secure fixing is possible. Floor anchoring is important for stability and safe operation and should be considered as part of the customer’s PUWER assessment, installation plan and site risk assessment.
Are the machines CE and UKCA compliant?
Short answer: Yes. Machines are supplied with the applicable conformity documentation.
Each machine is supplied CE and UKCA compliant, as applicable to its supply and specification, together with the relevant declaration of conformity and operating documentation.
Can the tester be adapted to different jack heads?
Short answer: Yes. The interface can be matched to the jack under test.
The load-cell configuration uses an adapter to centre the jack beneath the load cell. Where the jack mounting differs, an alternative adapter or application-specific interface can be specified as part of the final design.
How is force measurement maintained on the load-cell tester?
Short answer: The load cell and display are calibrated as a matched measurement system.
The load cell and its display amplifier form a calibrated set. The required recalibration interval should be determined by the customer’s quality plan, test procedure and traceability requirements.
What should I consider before ordering a jack testing press?
Short answer: Jack dimensions, required test force, test method, site conditions and safety requirements.
We will need the jack type, dimensions, maximum working load, required test force, available floor space, preferred test method and any customer-specific safety, data-recording or conformity requirements. This allows the tester to be specified correctly from the outset.
What maintenance is required?
Short answer: Routine inspection, cleaning and periodic checking of the hydraulic and measuring systems.
Routine maintenance includes checking the frame, fasteners, hydraulic hoses, winch mechanism, cables and adapters for condition or damage. The force-measuring system should also be checked periodically and recalibrated where required by the applicable quality plan.