Aerospace Test Article Safety Solutions

The next-generation MTS Active Control & Abort (AC&A) solution integrates an array of distributed smart valves, signal hubs, and an MTS FlexTest controller with AeroPro software to provide comprehensive control over both planned loading and unintended unloading of multi-channel aerospace structural test systems.

• Innovative Smart Valve Technology: Independently calculates and manages differential pressure for precise load control, eliminating the need for a redundant system controller
• Synchronized Load Unloading: Smart valves enable uniform, controlled pressure release across all actuators during interlocks or power failures without the need for system controller intervention.
• Fail-Safe Protection: Automatically ramps actuator loads to zero in emergencies, preventing damage to test articles
• Integrated Health Monitoring: Real-time valve diagnostics and fault detection via signal hub and solid-state relay
• Power Loss Resilience: UPS-supported operation ensures safe unloading even during total power failure
• Compatibility: Designed for MTS 201 and 244 actuators; operates exclusively with MTS FlexTest controllers and AeroPro software
• Flexible Flow Rates: Available in 7, 14, 28, and 40 LPM configurations
• Robust Performance: Rated for up to 3000 psi and tested to 28 million cycles; operates in extreme temperatures (-20°C to +60°C)
• Compact Signal Hub: Powers up to 8 valves and minimizes cabling with localized placement
• Easy Installation: Direct-mount smart valve/manifold design simplifies setup

The MTS Active Load Abort (ALA) solution integrates parallel FlexTest control systems, AeroPro software and a unique hydraulic manifold to provide comprehensive control over both planned loading and unintended unloading of multi-channel aerospace structural test systems.

• Monitors the test system continuously to provide rapid, uniform reduction all actuator loads to a neutral state when needed 
• Establishes load limits for actuator output forces
• Programmable unloading schemes for both rate and unloading load profiles
• Redundant primary and secondary FlexTest control systems
• Advanced active load abort manifolds
• Mechanical fail-safe system
• Complements AeroPro software load limiting 

The MTS Passive Load Abort solution provides a reliable, mechanical means for rapidly removing energy from single- and multi-channel test systems. It combines an MTS Series 297 Overload Protection Module and an MTS Model 289.11 Load Limiter Valve to create a highly stable two-stage valve system capable of responding quickly to unexpected pressure changes.

• Stable, high-response, two-stage load limiter valve
• One-piece, split and remote manifold configurations
• Independently adjustable tension and compression bleed-down rates
• Modular construction
• Hardened steel cartridge valve design
• Complements AeroPro software load limiting

The AeroPro Software safety solution features integrated feedback limits to provide a standard level overload or over-travel protection.

• Establishes limits for test actuator output forces
• Provides tracking error protection for control channels
• Each input can be assigned independent upper/lower and inner/outer limits, which can be triggered by system-level actions

MTS Active Control & Abort (AC&A), Active Load Abort (ALA), and Passive Load Abort manifolds can be mounted directly (locally) to test actuators, or bracketed (remotely) onto free-standing frames, racks, or stanchions to avoid adding mass to the actuators.