Rock Pressure/Volume Control
GCTS offers two solutions for pressure control in triaxial rock tests and soil testing.
Soil testing pressure control.
The ePVC Series Standalone Pressure/Volume Controllers independently manage hydraulic pressure or flow for various applications. These electromechanical controllers require only standard 100‐240 VAC power—no hydraulic power is needed. GCTS provides controllers rated for ultra-high pressure up to 1 GPa (150,000 psi).
They enable closed-loop servo-control of pressure or volume, with large capacity and precise volume measurement, avoiding errors from gear backlash. The ePVC includes programs for PC or mobile devices (iOS, Android, Windows) to remotely set pressures or flow rates. Multiple units can be linked via our CATS software for simultaneous control in triaxial, hydro-fracturing, creep, and other tests. Models can be upgraded for continuous flow without pressure spikes.
The HPVC Hydraulic Pressure/Volume Controllers are ideal for controlling confining pressure in triaxial tests, head pressure in permeability tests, and fluid pressure in hydro-fracture tests. These units, when paired with a GCTS digital servo controller, enable advanced tests like stress/strain path control. They include a large reservoir, indicators, gauges, and valves, all within a mobile metal cabinet. Dual piston intensifier models are available for continuous flow tests.
ePVC
HIGHLIGHTS
- Standalone Pressure / Volume Intensifier with Controller
- Controlled by on-board keypad, computer, or mobile device
- 1 to 210 MPa standard pressure range models
- Ultra high pressure 1 GPa (150,000 psi) model available
- As low as 0.05 kPa resolution
- Up to 823 cc volume stroke
- As low as 0.0002 cc resolution
- Up to 1,236 cc/min. flow rate @ 5% rated pressure
- Closed-loop digital servo control of pressure or flow (volume) with “bumpless” transfer
- TCP/IP Communications
- Optional models available for corrosive fluids
- Continuous flow models with no recharge pauses available
- Power: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz @ 1 KVA
HPVC
HIGHLIGHTS
- 70, 140, or 210 MPa (10, 20, or 30 ksi) standard pressure ranges
- Ultra high pressure 1 GPa (150,000 psi) model available
- 0.01 MPa resolution
- Up to 560 cc volume stroke
- 0.01 cc resolution
- 4,000 cc fluid reservoir with pressure/vacuum/vent port for easy filling and draining triaxial cell
- Closed-loop digital servo control of pressure or flow with “bumpless” transfer
- Can be used as a volume change measurement device for triaxial and permeability testing
- Metal cabinet mounted on casters to house the confining pressure/volume servo controlled intensifier, fluid reservoir, and panel
- Separate models available for confining or pore fluid control (for use with oil or water)
- Dual-piston models available for continuous, non-pulsating flow
- Note: Requires 21 MPa (3,000 psi) hydraulic pressure input
Continuous Flow
HIGHLIGHTS
- Pressure Range Options: Available in 3.5 to 140 MPa variants.
- Fluid Compatibility: Options for water, oil, and corrosive fluids, with wetted parts made of stainless steel, aluminum, or other metal alloys.
- Programmability: Easily programmable via Windows computers and mobile devices, with manual operation via built-in keypad.
- Flow Rate: Max. flow rates ranging from 20 cc/min to 150 cc/min depending on the pressure range and fluid type.
- Integrated Control: Each unit includes an integrated data acquisition and control unit for precise pressure management.
- Power Supply: Compatible with 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz @ 2 KVA power supply.
- Fluid Reservoir: Select models include a 5-gallon (19-liter) fluid reservoir.
