2. Gleeble Thermal-Mechanical Simulation Systems¶

2.1. Gleeble Thermal-Mechanical Simulation Systems ¶

A Gleeble system incorporates interrelated subsystems that vary based on customer needs and facility parameters. Dynamic Systems Engineers work closely with customers to integrate a Gleeble into new or existing facility requirements. The integration and installation process of a Gleeble into various constraints imposed by existing building design or layout do not affect the performance of the Gleeble. World class Gleeble performance is maintained in all system installations maintaining world-class performance.

2.2. Gleeble 3000 Series Systems ¶

An Unstoppable Work Horse

The Gleeble 3000 series includes the Gleeble 3180-GTC, Gleeble 3500-GTC, and Gleeble 3800-GTC systems. The Gleeble 3000 series is designed to serve as a platform through which thermal-mechanical testing and simulation requirements of researchers around the world can be met. By selecting from multiple designs and optional equipment, Gleeble systems can be customized to address specific testing and simulation needs. Driven by a powerful heating transformer and a robust hydraulic system, the Gleeble 3000 series provides researchers with an unparalleled combination of thermal and mechanical capability

2.3. Gleeble 500 Series Systems ¶

Small Gleeble…Big Impact!

While quite powerful and flexible, Gleeble 3000 systems have a large footprint and require a significant initial investment that may be unrealistic for smaller facilities or organizations with limited budgets. In 2015, DSI introduced the Gleeble 500 Series, which is designed to provide maximum value by delivering world-class performance in a smaller, more affordable package. The Gleeble 500 series includes the Gleeble 525, Gleeble 540, and Gleeble 563 systems.

Each of the systems in the 500 Series offers industry-leading heating capabilities and responsive, dynamic controls, including the new touchscreen-based user interface.

2.4. Gleeble Subsystems ¶

2.4.1. Load Unit ¶

The Gleeble load unit contains the majority of the thermal, hydraulic, and pneumatic components. Depending on the Gleeble model, it may also include the vacuum tank, also know as the specimen testing chamber. The Gleeble 3500-GTC Pedestal, 3180-GTC, and 500 series models include an integrated vacuum tank. Gleeble 3500C-GTC and 3800-GTC models can accept Mobile Conversion Units (MCUs) each of which contain a vacuum tank. See Mobile Conversion Units for more information.

2.4.2. Control Console - Human-Machine Interface (HMI)¶

Gleeble systems provide immediate user feedback through a Human-Machine Interface (HMI). The HMI is integrated into the freestanding control console of legacy 3000 series or current Gleeble Touch Control enabled systems. The Gleeble HMI is the control hub of the Gleeble system. It contains an embedded computer, signal conditioner modules, instrument modules, and a touch screen display of system variables. The Gleeble HMI also allows for manual control of the Gleeble.

500 series systems utilize a re-imagined control console. No longer an independent piece of equipment, the control console is now seamlessly fused with the Gleeble 500 series test frame. The core components, the embedded computer, instrument modules, and other control hardware are now housed within the test frame. The 500 series’ HMI is now located on an articulating arm, providing the operator greater flexibility when viewing live test data. By integrating the control console into the test frame, the smaller footprint of a Gleeble 500 series enables customization of the Gleeble lab space.

2.4.3. Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU)¶

To meet the mechanical requirements of the various processes being simulated, each Gleeble system is supplied with a hydraulic power unit. The size and capabilities of the HPU vary by Gleeble model. Some hydraulic pumps are standalone units, while others are integrated into the main Gleeble unit. An appropriate HPU is supplied with a Gleeble system as required.

Fig. 2.1 Typical Design of a Gleeble Lab.

2.4.4. Thermocouple Welder ¶

Thermocouples are used extensively with most Gleeble applications and tests. Therefore thermocouple welders are included in the scope of all Gleeble systems. See Thermocouple Welder and Wire for more information.

2.4.5. Mobile Conversion Unit (MCU)¶

For Gleeble models designed to accept Mobile Conversion Units, Gleeble 3500C-GTC and 3800-GTC, an MCU must be connected to the Gleeble load unit in order for the system to function properly. The 3500C-GTC and 3800-GTC can accept Mobile Conversion Units. The General-Purpose MCU, (often referred to as a “Pocket Jaw”) is typically included in base 3500C or 3800 installations. Specialty application MCUs include the Hydrawedge II, MAXStrain II, Hot Torsion, Large-Sample Strip Annealing, and High-Temperature, systems. See Mobile Conversion Units for more information on the MCUs available from DSI.

Gleeble stand alone models (525, 540, 563, 3180-GTC and 3500-GTC Pedestal) have many of the same capabilities and can perform the many functions offered by other Gleeble systems, but they do not require an MCU.

2.4.6. Vacuum System ¶

The vacuum system is used to evacuate air from the vacuum tank, allowing the user to control the environment around the specimen. The vacuum system includes a roughing pump and may include an optional diffusion pump. Additionally, specific vacuum system models can accommodate the backfill of inert gas into the vacuum tank. See Vacuum Pumping Systems for more information.

2.4.7. Process Fluid Chillers ¶

Chilled process fluid must be available to all Gleeble systems to cool critical components. DSI offers a variety of process fluid chillers, also know as water chillers, to provide a chilled process fluid supply at a closely controlled temperature for the Gleeble system and its equipment. DSI recommends an isolated, closed-loop circuit to provide chilled process fluid to the Gleeble and its components. See Gleeble Chillers for more information.

2.4.8. Air Compressors ¶

Compressed air is required to operate many Gleeble systems’ features. It is also required for many options including the quench and vacuum systems. Compressed air can be provided from a compressor sold by Dynamic Systems or by an existing compressed air system in the Gleeble lab. See Air Compressors for more information.