
Dillon Model CT Manual Test Stand User’s Guide
Thank you for purchasing the Dillon Model CT Manual Test Stand. A test stand
ensures that a specimen under review is pulled or pushed in axis with the measuring
device (typically a force gauge). The handwheel allows easy application of force.
Product samples are tested in a very controlled manner for best testing reproducibility.
This benchtop frame may be used with a variety of force gauges, including all digital
models offered by Dillon.
Features:
※ 500 N / 50 kg / 110 lb force capacity
※ Tension and compression
※ Smooth screw drive
※ Many attachment points on the base plate
Basic Assembly
Handwheel - Remove acorn nut atop stand. Finger tighten the brass nut and then
back off 1/8 turn. Check that the shaft can turn easily yet does not move when
pushing/pulling up and down. Place handwheel onto shaft aligning keyway with the notch.
Place acorn nut on exposed shaft threads and tighten with a wrench.
Feet - Screw four feet into corners of base plate. Adjust individually for stability
and to level position.
Affixing to Benchtop
Screws may be used in lieu of the feet to rigidly affix to a bench for improved
stability. Use screw with same threading as feet. Make a template by piercing a sheet
of paper with a pencil at four threaded corner holes on the bottom side of the stand. Use
template to mark locations on bench, and drill holes in bench. Insert screws of suitable
length from bottom side of the bench.
Register
Register your Dillon products at www.dillonforce.com.
Force Gauge Attachment
Determine if your gauge has mounting holes that align with the patterns on the
mounting plate. (If not, purchase a Dillon force gauge or drill holes directly in the
mounting plate). Use the appropriate screws to loosely attach the gauge. Check that
gauge is centered and plumb with the stand column. Secure screws.
The mounting plate may be flipped on the stand if this better suits your equipment
and application. Simply remove the two Allen screws, rotate 180 degrees and reinstall
the screws.
Attachment to base plate for tension tests
Attach a stem to the force gauge for visual reference. Turn the handwheel until the
stem nearly contacts the base plate. If it aligns with the threaded hole, this may be used

for attaching an inline tension grip. If it does not, alignment may be achieved with a
tension plate accessory or by using shims (not included) between the force gauge and
mounting plate. All five holes are M6 x 1.0mm. Dillon offers flexible coupler/adapters
if thread conversion is required.
Operation
Turn handle clockwise to raise the crosshead and counterclockwise to lower it.
The CT Test Stand is capable of overloading force gauges or itself. Keep a watchful
eye on the force gauge to insure forces remain within limits of the gauge and stand.
CAUTION: Test stand or gauge damage from overloads is not warranty covered.
Do not run the crosshead arm or mounting plate into the top or bottom of the stand.
Applying torque once contact occurs may result in overload damage to the stand.
Overloads to the test stand may result in non-smooth operation, particularly in specific
crosshead locations and/or handle positions. Overload of this type calls for stand
replacement.
Safety
WARNING: Pinching hazards exist with moving parts. Keep hands clear of all
moving parts other than the handwheel. Some samples release a large amount of energy
when they fail or separate. When working with such samples, insure some protection
exists for the operator such as a safety shield or part restraint.
Maintenance
Remove particle build up by rubbing the guide rods and acme threads with a
disposable cloth. The bushings are oil impregnated for long use. The guide rods and
acme threads may be coated with light general purpose oil if desired.
If the stand becomes difficult to turn under no load, loosen screws at the top and
bottom of the guide rods. Move crosshead to its bottommost position and tighten the lower
screws. Move the crosshead to its topmost position and tighten the upper screws.
Check for smoothness through the travel range. If still binding, stand may have been
overloaded. Seek replacement.
an A very W eigh-Tronix Brand
www.dillonforce.com
USA office
1000 Armstrong Drive
Fairmont, Minnesota 56031 USA
Sales +01 (507) 238-8796
Service +01 (507) 238-4461
UK office
P. O. Box 9533
Smethwick
West Midlands B66 2TE U.K.
Sales +44 870 444 6132
Service +44 870 901 4116
11/06