Hydraulic Catching Mechanism

Hydraulic catching systems offer a timely and cost effective alternative to the gravel catching system.  The University of South Florida 4 MN hydraulic catch mechanism is the largest such device in the world.  This device can perform over twenty tests per day on up to ten separate foundations.  Presently, hydraulic catch mechanisms are restricted to relatively smaller tests (up to 500 tons).

Assembly Procedure

assemble01b.jpg (84840 bytes) Step 1: Setup and level catch mechanism over foundation.
assemble03.jpg (130843 bytes) Step 2: Secure piston assembly to foundation.
assemble06.jpg (99155 bytes) Step 3: Install silencer (cylinder).  Note: fuel basket can be installed after device is fully assembled.
assemble10.jpg (132427 bytes) Step 4: The desired reaction mass can be obtained from gravel, water, or some combination.
assemble09.jpg (97098 bytes) Step 5: Install reaction masses.
assemble10b.jpg (168006 bytes) (Gravel-filled reaction mass installed in mechanism)
wpe1A.jpg (54432 bytes) Step 6: Install lock-ring to secure reaction masses to the silencer.
completed.jpg (89182 bytes) Step 7: After device is fully assembled, the user is free to lift and lower the full reaction mass assembly using the hydraulic rams in each of the legs.   This allows access to the fuel charge, which may now be easily installed.
ignite02.jpg (51761 bytes) Step 8: Test is performed.

Last Updated December 15, 2006
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