4. Can I upgrade a Golden Gate Mark 1 to a Mark 2 and what are the advantages?

The Mark 2 Golden Gate ATR accessory differs from the Mark 1 version by modifications to the top plate and clamp bridge assembly.

The Mark 2 Golden Gate top plates have a torque limiter screw with a set torque of 50cNm, which is the equivalent of an 80lbs load being applied to the sample via the anvil face. For Mark 2 top plates a torque wrench and Torx adapter piece is no longer supplied because the set torque load is sufficient for most samples. There is however, a Torx screw in the centre at the top of the torque limiter screw mechanism, so if the load to be applied to the sample needs to be higher or lower than that from the set torque, the torque wrench (P/N 10504) with the Torx adapter (P/N 10505) can be still be used.

On the Mark 2 top plates there is a quick lock device which allows the bridge to be closed (in the down position) by pushing down on the locking screw and turning it 90 degrees clockwise to lock. The Mark 1 Golden Gate has a threaded locking screw, which requires 4 or 5 complete clockwise rotations to lock the bridge closed. In addition, the Mark 2 top plates has a "stay up" device, so when the bridge is open (standing up) a little ball bearing catch prevents the bridge from accidentally falling down to a closed position.

Mark 1 top plates can be upgraded to incorporate the Mark 2 top plate features by returning a Mark 1 top plate to Specac for the work to be carried out against an order for P/N 10564. Please note that the original diamond/tungsten carbide assembly within a Mark 1 top plate will be retained for use within the Mark 2 top plate. The cost for the upgrade P/N 10564 does not include a new diamond/tungsten carbide assembly.