4
The wedge/platen assemblies are shipped separately. They are held together by a nylon screw and nut. Remove
the nut and then use the nylon screw to attach the wedge/platen assembly to the Stressmeter Body. Orient the
wedge so that the narrow end is facing in the same direction as the cable, (see Figure 2). Tighten the nylon screw
into the threaded hole in the body. Do not over-tighten – the screw is made of nylon so that it can be sheared
more easily. (
Note:
The BX size stressmeter and the NX size stress meter both use the same wedge. However,
there are two holes in the wedge. The one nearest the tip is for the BX size, the one farthest from the tip is for the
NX size).
3.4 Setting the Stressmeter (Recoverable Type)
Mount the stressmeter on the setting tool by pushing the nylon threaded pieces into the matching holes in the
setting tool head. Feed the gage leads through the slot in the setting head. (See figure 2 on page 5).
Connect the first section of ¼” rod to the yoke attached to the thin end of the wedge. Note that the first section of
rod has one end with a ¼-20
Left Hand Thread
on it. This will connect to the left-hand thread in the yoke.
Attach the first section of the ¾” positioning rod to the back of the setting tool head. Push the stressmeter into the
hole using the positioning rod. The buttons on the setting rod connectors indicated the orientation of the wedge/
platen assembly. Thus for making measurements in a vertical direction keep the buttons to the top of the rod, etc.
As the ¾” positioning rod is pushed into the hole, add new sections of both ¾” and ¼” rod until the desired depth
has been reached.
It is advisable to wear gloves during this procedure to protect the thumb while depressing
the buttons on the ¾ inch rods.
Now slide the slide hammer over the last section of ¼” rod and then thread the anvil
block onto the outer end of the ¼” rod. Connect the GK-403 or GK-401 readout box to the lead wires and switch to
position “F” for EX size or “B” for BX and NX size. Take initial readings.
Figure 2. Vibrating Wire Stressmeter installation tool assembly.
Holding the positioning rod firmly at its correct depth and orientation, slide the slide hammer back up the ¼” rod,
then side it quickly back to the anvil striking it a sharp firm blow. This will shear the rivet holding the wedge to
