i CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION/INSTALLATION 1 The miniPV®-X Automatic Viscometer .................................................................................. 1 Measuring kinematic viscosity ............................................................................................... 2 Safety cautions ..................................................................................................................... 3 Installation ......................................................................
ii Concluding a test .................................................................................................... 25 Working with Instrument Groups ......................................................................................... 25 Group configuration ................................................................................................ 26 Configuring the Machine Status window to correspond with multiple-instrument placement ........................................................
iii Testing samples—software options ...................................................................................... 64 Entering sample ID information ................................................................................ 64 Selecting sample actions .......................................................................................... 64 Viscosity Action for viscosity standards ...................................................................
iv ANALYSIS CONFIGURATION OPTIONS 85 Creating an analysis ............................................................................................................ 85 Sorting analysis data ........................................................................................................... 86 Using the date filter ............................................................................................................. 87 Using the sample filter ...............................................
v A APPENDIX A–MULTIPLE UNIT CONFIGURATION 121 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 121 Kit components ................................................................................................................ 121 Procedure ........................................................................................................................ 121 Connecting components ....................................
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1 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION/INSTALLATION The miniPV®- Series Automatic Viscometers The miniPV®-Series Automatic Viscometers are specially designed to handle the unique needs of polymer analysis laboratories for viscosity determination of polymer solutions. The operator places the test sample(s) in small vials in the sample holder(s), enters sample identification information from the computer keyboard, and initiates testing with software keypad commands.
2 Measuring Viscosity Relative viscosity (Þr), a primary concern in the polymer industry, is determined from kinematic viscosity by factoring in the density of the solvent and materials in solution and comparing the resulting absolute viscosity of the solution with the absolute viscosity of pure solvent. ASTM D 2857 states that relative viscosity is “the ratio of the viscosity of the solution, Þ, to the viscosity of the solvent, Þs, that is, Þr = Þ/Þs .
Manual viscometers 3 Sections 9-11 of ASTM D445 provide detailed instructions for using manual viscometers. ASTM D 446 suggests a minimum flow time of 200 seconds for nearly all the glass capillary viscometers (see tables in ASTM D 446). Automatic viscometers For automatic viscometers, ASTM D445 Section 6.1.2 states, “Automated apparatus may be used as long as they mimic the physical conditions, operations or processes of the manual apparatus they replace ...
4 Never operate the unit without appropriate levels of approved bath fluid in the bath. (O) Supply OFF Symbol General Caution Do not fill the bath vessel higher than the cold fill level. Unless procedures specify otherwise, always turn off the unit and disconnect the mains cable from the power source before performing service or maintenance procedures, or before moving the unit. Never operate the equipment with damaged mains power cables. Refer all service and repairs to qualified personnel.
Series to take proper safety precautions when working with these materials. These safety procedures can be found in the Material Safety Data Sheets which accompany the solutions. Installation miniPV Series setup can be accomplished in just a few minutes by following the diagrams included with the manual. Fill the miniPV Series bath per the instructions in Chapter 5.
6 Use the 6 mm FEP union to connect the protruding 6 mm FEP waste tube from the bath unit to the 6 mm FEP tubing. Then connect the other end of the 6 mm FEP tubing to the 6 mm fitting on the Waste Receiver lid. Use the DC power cable to connect the bath unit DC IN to the DC OUT on the power supply. Use the MAINS power cord to connect the Power Supply to the MAINS power outlet matching the voltage specifications on the Power Supply rear panel.
7 copy the software executable file and other necessary files to the directory you specify. update other files in your Windows® directories to versions fully compatible with the current VISCPRO® software. place a shortcut icon for the VISCPRO® executable file on your Windows® desktop. place a copy of the VISCPRO database in the appropriate directory for your operating system (see table below). The installation CDROM copy of the SAMPLES.
8 If you received a configuration disk with your installation package, the software may have already been preconfigured with instrument settings unique to your laboratory, including instrument type(s), tube range and serial #, and calibration constants. In a moment, we will verify these settings.
9 Checking configuration Initial configuration The installation CD-ROM copy of the SAMPLES.MDB file contains initial factory calibration data unique to that instrument.NOTE If you wish to restore the original configuration, archive your sample data before doing so (see Chapter 13 for information on using the Database Manager software). Then copy the original SAMPLES.MDB file from the CD-ROM to the database directory corresponding to your operating system (see table, previous page).
10 2. Select your instrument from the list of available instruments (there may be only one instrument in the list). 3. Select Instrument Settings from the list of configuration options. The Instrument Settings window will appear. You will use the Instrument Settings window (see below) to describe and control miniPV Series instrument operational features. These settings affect the instrument as a whole.
11 Viewing/editing setup information NOTE For first-time installation, make certain that the factory-prepared Configuration file has been copied to the Default Data directory per instructions on page 7 of manual. If your instrument has already been configured, you can use the instructions in this section of the manual to check or, if necessary, change the instrument settings. 1. Click Configure from the VISCPRO® menu bar. 2.
12 Manually changing tube calibration constants If you discovered any errors in the values of the calibration constants (see previous section), follow the directions in this section to manually correct them using calibration information previously obtained for your unit. If the calibration values are correct, instrument setup is complete. NOTE This procedure for manually entering/changing calibration constants bypasses the normal calibration procedure.
13 The Calibration window Compare this value to your archive of the calibration constant data (if available) for bulb 1. The values should be identical. 3. If they are not, place your cursor in the appropriate field, delete the entry, then type the correct values for the constant in the text box. 4. Click Update tube . 5. Use the bulb spin controls to select the other bulb(s) for which you noted calibration constant errors. Input the correct values for each.
14 Compare the values in the Tray Settings: Wash window with your archived values and make any necessary changes; then click OK. To check Advanced Settings for your miniPV Series instrument, click Configure from the VISCPRO menu options and select the desired instrument. Then click Tray Settings: Advanced. The Tray Settings: Advanced window will appear. CANNON® miniPV-Series Automatic Viscometer with VISCPRO® Instruction & Operation Manual Version 1.
15 Compare the values in the Tray Settings: Advanced window with your archived values and make any necessary changes; then click OK. Preparing the miniPV Series for testing Inserting the miniPV Series temperature probes/reference thermometer Inserting the probes The temperature probe and thermal fuse probe are semi-permanently installed. Initial installation or replacement requires removal of the top cover of the bath unit.
16 Adjusting Vacuum/Pressure settings To adjust the vacuum setting for the miniPV Series, click Service from the VISCPRO menu options and select the desired instrument group and instrument. Then click Adjust Vacuum/Pressure to open the Adjust Vacuum/Pressure window. Select the desired adjustment (vacuum or pressure) and then follow the screen prompts to complete the adjustment procedure, using the appropriate controls on the instrument side (“ear”) panel.
17 3. Select the desired unit of temperature measurement (°C or °F). 4. Type the desired temperature in the Bath Temp: field. Acceptable values are any numbers between 20°C and 100°C. If necessary, you may use the decimal point key to input temperature to the nearest 0.01°C. Press OK to save the temperature setting. NOTES The miniPV Series will not allow sample testing until the instrument has equilibrated temperature at the test temperature.
18 3. Click Begin Wash to initiate the wash cycle. The Status: indicator will display and update current actions. Bypass .... option To begin washing an evacuated sample cup, click the option box to make certain that the Bypass initial cup evacuation option is selected. Do not use this option with a filled cup or the cup will overflow. 4. When the Wash cycle has been completed, click Done to exit the Wash viscometer tube window.
19 CHAPTER 2 TESTING SAMPLES WITH THE miniPV Series This chapter of the manual will provide information on testing samples using the miniPV Series. Observe the safety cautions noted in the introductory chapter when operating equipment. The miniPV Series should only be operated by qualified personnel. Turning on the miniPV Series Turn on the miniPV Series Bath Unit using the power switch on the power supply unit. Testing samples Loading software NOTES 1.
20 5. Open the View Instrument Group window (if it is not already open) by clicking View Instrument from the Main menu and selecting the desired instrument group from the list box (see Chapter 4 for more information). The View Instrument Group window 6. Select the desired group ID and click OK to display the Sample Input View. The Samle Input window (miniPV Series four--bath system) Then click the Tray tab corresponding with the desired miniPV Series. 7.
21 enter a sample ID, the sample is automatically labeled Unknown.
22 *The term absolute viscosity, as used in this manual, is also known as dynamic viscosity. For the purpose of VISCPRO® software viscosity calculations, and per ASTM D 2857 specifications, the absolute viscosity is defined by the equation ç = Ctñ - Eñ/t 2 where C is a constant, t is the drop time, ñ is the solution or solvent density and E is the kinetic energy correction constant.
23 the density of both will not be included in relative viscosity calculations. Unity Reference blank A preexistent blank, Unity Reference, is hard-coded in the VISCPRO® software with a value of “1”. Users selecting this blank when running an RV sample are effectively calculating the kinematic viscosity of the solution in a manner which permits them to use VISCPRO® polymer report options.
24 these samples should also be covered before analysis. Most lubricating oils, because they are manufactured at high temperatures and low pressures, do not contain significant volatile components and can be analyzed without being covered. The PolyVISC SPS Solution Preparation System from Cannon Instrument Company is a semi-automated solution preparation system that can be used with the minPV instruments. Contact Cannon for more information.
25 Aborting a test To permanently halt testing for a given tube/tray, click the Abort button from the Sample Input window. Then select the desired trays from the Select Trays window. Click OK to abort testing for the selected tray. NOTE Aborting a test clears all sample test information for that tray.
26 Here’s how it works: Just click Main/View Instrument from the VISCPRO II interface to open the View Instrument Group window, which displays all CANNON instrument types communicating with your computer. Then select the desired instrument group (all instruments in a single group communicate with the computer via the same COM port). Once you have opened the desired instrument group, the Sample Input window will appear.
27 instrument type. The number of instruments that can be assigned per group varies per instrument type. The Cold-Cranking Simulator (CCS) design allows only one instrument per group for that instrument type. When a new type of instrument is found on a port, the VISCPRO software automatically creates a group for that instrument. The maximum number of instruments that can exist on that port is determined by the nature of the instrument.
28 The following procedure creates a standard CAV Data Table which will be updated as samples are tested. For additional information on analyses, consult the manual chapter corresponding to the desired analysis. 1. Select Analyses from the VISCPRO® primary menu options. 2. Select View Analysis ... from the Analyses menu. The Choose Analysis window will appear. 3. Double-click on Basic Package. 4. Click on CAV Data Table to reveal the available analyses. 5.
29 CHAPTER 3 CALIBRATING THE miniPV Series Calibration is essential for the proper operation of the miniPV Series. The miniPV Series is calibrated before it is shipped to the customer. It should be calibrated again after installation. Frequency of recalibration is at the discretion of the user.
30 3. To calibrate temperature, enter the current temperature reading to the nearest 0.01°C into the Temperature: field, subject to the following: A decimal point MAY be included as an entry. It should be preceded by at least two numbers or a "0". The entered actual temperature must not cause a correction in temperature greater than +/- 5.0 degrees. Multiple or successive entries of correction for any temperature are permissible.
31 completed. Sensor training data remains valid until the sensors are retrained at the same temperature. Retraining is necessary only when the viscometer tube is changed, or if sensor performance changes over time. Train Tube Sensors To train tube sensors, click Service menu and select the Train Tube Sensors menu for the desired instrument. The Train Tube Sensors window will open. Prewash option: Click the Prewash option if the tube is not clean and dry.
32 NOTES The software allows the operator to manually change the constants if necessary to more closely match the known viscosities of the standards. A separate calibration must be performed for each temperature at which samples will be tested. Calibration procedure 1. Assemble a group of CANNON® standard oils with known kinematic viscosities for calibration. Use at least two different standards for each bulb. Refer to the following table when choosing the appropriate standards.
33 CAUTION Make certain to enter the correct check standard viscosity (in centistokes) BEFORE running the standards. Incorrect data entry may skew future calibration results. 5. Click Run, then select the appropriate sample trays to test the standards. 6. When testing is completed, use the VISCPRO® software to log on as a Manager (Main/Log In) in order to access the calibration menu. 7. Select the desired miniPV Series instrument from the Configure menu; then select Calibration.
34 Selecting samples 10. Select (or deselect) the specific sample entries you desire to use for calibration from the displayed list by clicking on them. To select a range of samples, highlight the first sample and click on the last sample while simultaneously pressing the S key. To select several individual samples for calculation, hold down the C key and click on each of the desired samples. NOTE You must select at least two entries or the software will not recalculate the constants. 11.
35 in effect until the instrument is recalibrated at that same temperature, or until instrument and tray settings from a previously-saved instrument configuration are restored. To avoid losing valid calibration data, CANNON® recommends saving the instrument configuration settings after completing a new calibration (see Saving a configuration, chapter 4).
36 t NOTE = flow time (seconds) When calibrating the miniPV Series, the operator should analyze the viscosity standard using double determinations to obtain two flow times for each standard. The average of the two flow times is used as input data for the calibration program. CANNON® miniPV®-HX Automatic Viscometer with VISCPRO® Instruction & Operation Manual Version 1.
37 CHAPTER 4 USING THE miniPV Series SOFTWARE VISCPRO ® generic instrument interface Your software for Windows® is comprised of a generic instrument interface (VISCPRO®) and a collection of instrument/analysis-specific modules. This chapter of the manual will explain the software options for the VISCPRO® program and other modules commonly bundled with the instrument software.
38 Main Menu The View Instrument menu item opens the View Instrument Group window which permits you to select the desired test instrument type from the list of on-line instruments. The View Instrument Group window The View Instrument Group window is comprised of: The Instrument Group list box Three button options (OK, Cancel, and Help). View Instrument Group window button options: Opens the Sample Input window for the selected instrument group and restores any configuration settings for that group.
39 The Poll for Instruments menu item queries the hardware interface to establish communications with CANNON® instruments attached to the host computer. Use Poll for Instruments to establish a computer connection with instruments which may have come “on line” after the software has been in operation. When the connection has been verified by the controlling software via the hardware interface, the instrument name will be added to the status bar at the bottom of the VISCPRO® window.
40 3. Type the password in the Password field for the individual selected. 4. Click OK. Use the Change Password feature to change the current user password. Procedure 1. Log in to the VISCPRO® software using the Log In command from Main. 2. Select Change Password from the Main menu options. 3. Type in the new password in the Password field. 4. Retype the password in the Confirm Your New Password field. 5. Click OK to save the new password and close the Change Password window.
41 To use the Log Out feature, click Log Out from Main. The current user will be logged out of the security list of authorized miniPV Radio button options for analysis Series technicians and managers. configuration The software will automatically reset to the lowest security level. Any ongoing test operations will continue. Adjusting Security Settings VISCPRO® provides an interface to customize security settings for your facility.
42 Print/Print setup menu items Select this standard Windows® print menu item to access the Windows® print window. Then select print options for the currently-active analysis/ report (see Analysis options). Select this standard Windows® print menu item to access the print setup window. Check your printer driver documentation for additional information on print setup options. Select the Exit option to exit ViscPRO. Or you may click application title bar.
43 The following VISCPRO® menu options are used to create and manage analyses: View Analysis—opens the Choose Analysis window. See View Analysis, below, for more details. Report Title—opens the Designate Report Title window. Permits data entry of up to three lines of text for the report title. Configure Analysis—Accesses Configuration options. For information on configuring analyses, consult Chapter 6 and the manual chapter corresponding to the particular analysis.
44 Click the appropriate radio button . Then select the desired saved configuration (if any) and click OK: Select Open Selected Analysis Configuration if you wish to create and display the selected analysis using the saved configuration highlighted in the list box on the right side of the Choose Analysis window.
45 right-click the appropriate group button on the status bar on the bottom of the primary window. Restoring a saved window configuration does not affect current miniPV Series sample testing operations. miniPV Series module menu options In addition to the VISCPRO® general instrument menu functions, unique software application modules for each type of CANNON® instrument generate additional interface options.
46 Cancel to exit the Save Calibration Data window without saving the information. The calibration certificate will be printed after you exit the Save Calibration Data window. CANNON Instrument Company recommends saving instrument and tray settings each time a new calibration is performed.
47 The Restore Configuration window This is a security-protected feature. Depending on the user-set configuration options, technician-level personnel may only be able to restore Sample ID information. Individuals logged in to VISCPRO as a Manager will be able to restore Instrument Settings and Tray Settings. To restore information, click on the check boxes corresponding to the desired parameters. Then click OK.
48 The miniPV Series Instrument Settings window Click on this check box to activate a software counter which will generate a warning for a tube whenever the specified number of days have elapsed without performance of the Verify Known KV sample action. Enter the number of days in the appropriate field. Click on this check box to activate a software counter which will generate a warning whenever the specified number of samples have been tested without performance of the Verify Known KV sample action.
49 Instrument Settings window button options: saves the current instrument settings and exits the Instrument Settings window. restores the default configuration settings for several instrument options closes the Instrument Settings window without saving any configuration changes. Tray Settings: Tube and Bath Use the Tray Settings: Tube and Bath window to describe and control test parameters for the viscometer tube. Alter the settings using the instructions below.
50 NOTE For reporting and calibration purposes, each tube serial number value should be unique for all instruments attached to a single computer. Click on the Fast Run Tube check box if the viscometer tube is the fast run type. The Wet Tube option is required for some viscosity determination protocols. If this option is checked, the miniPV Series automatic determination will be preceded by an untimed sample drop, coating the inside of the capillary with the sample material.
51 Soak time Input the desired sample soak times for each bulb of the viscometer tube. The soak time is the length of time in which the sample will remain in the viscometer tube before being dropped. The soak time is important to ensure temperature equilibration of the sample. The range is from 0 to 240 based on which units of time the user selected from Soak Time Units. Constants The Tray Settings: Tube and Bath screen displays the calibration constants (C and E) for each bulb of the viscometer tube.
52 If both tolerance options are selected, the VISCPRO software will apply both criteria unless the Use greater option is checked. If Use greater is checked, then the software will apply the less exacting tolerance value when calculating/evaluating test results. The Tray Settings: Test window The Use spread and Use mean radio button options determine the manner in which the VISCPRO mathematically determines which sample tests have met tolerance parameters.
53 Selecting sample run required and maximum determination settings Select the number of Required determinations by clicking on the spin controls (values from 1 to 4 are acceptable). In the same manner, select the Maximum number of determinations which can be run for the tube samples (values from 1 to 20 are acceptable). NOTES VISCPRO determines the sample flow time by averaging the values of the sample runs which correspond to the chosen criteria.
54 miniPV Series instrument after each test. Higher viscosity materials may require more rinses. Lower viscosity materials may require fewer rinses, depending on the effectiveness of the solvent. Max Solvent fill time(s) The Max Solvent fill time(s) setting determines if/when the user receives a screen prompt instructing him to check/refill the external solvent vessel. Select a value from 1 to 60 seconds for this option. The recommended default is 30 seconds.
55 Cup Empty Time The Cup Empty Time option determines the amount of time allotted for evacuation of sample from the sample cup prior to the beginning of the wash sequence. Select a value from 1 to 255 seconds for this option. The evacuation time should be adjusted so the highest expected viscosity oil is evacuated from the cup before the solvent is introduced into the solvent chamber.
56 The Tray Settings: Advanced window Maximum bulb 1 fill time(s): Adjust this setting to select the desired maximum fill time for bulb 1. Acceptable values are between 20 and 400 seconds. Min. bulb 1 selection time(s): Adjust this setting to select the desired minimum time permitted for selection of bulb 1 or bulb 2 for sample testing. Acceptable values are between 0 and 20 seconds. Decreasing the setting will increase the probability that the sample will be tested in bulb 1.
57 Maximum tube empty time %: Adjust this setting to select the percentage of the drop time between the bottom sensor and the sensor at the top of bulb 1. The default value is 100%. Pull Sample Pulse On Time Adjust this setting to help eliminate bubbles that can occasionally be formed as the vacuum draws some types of samples into the viscometer tube. The pulse value is a percentage of time that the sample will be drawn up into the tube during each five-second interval of the draw period.
58 Procedure 1. From the VISCPRO® primary menu options, click Configure. 2. Select the desired instrument and click Save Instrument & Tray Settings. The Save Configuration window will appear. 3. Type a name for the new configuration in the Save As: box. Or click an existing configuration from the configuration list box. 4. Click OK to save the configuration. Or click Cancel to exit the Save Instrument & Tray Settings window without saving your changes.
59 You may evaluate the accuracy of the new calibration constants by comparing the known viscosity for the standard with the calculated viscosity for each standard selected for the new calibration. This difference is displayed as a percentage in the last column (% Diff) of the updated sample list box. Show Calibration Data The Show Calibration Data button is a toggle that will permit you to compare current and new calibration data and constant information.
60 Service menu To access the service menu items, click Service from the VISCPRO® primary display and select the desired instrument. The Monitor window permits the user to view current operational values for the miniPV Series instrument. These settings may be helpful to CANNON ® technical personnel when troubleshooting difficulties with the miniPV Series. Select Wash viscometer tube to open the Wash viscometer tube window. Click Begin Wash to initiate the wash cycle.
61 To adjust the vacuum/pressure settings for the miniPV Series, click Service from the VISCPRO menu options and select the desired instrument group and instrument. Then click Adjust Vacuum/Pressure to open the Adjust Vacuum/Pressure window. Select the desired adjustment (vacuum or pressure) and then follow the screen prompts to complete the adjustment procedure, using the appropriate controls on the instrument wing panel.
62 the Clear General Offset option is checked, VISCPRO will clear the (factory-preset) General Offset for all temperatures for the instrument. This Instrument Setting cannot be restored except from a previouslysaved Configuration. It is not recommended that you exercise this option without consulting with CANNON Instrument Company personnel.
63 To set security levels, first log into the VISCPRO software as a Manager.
64 When you have finished updating settings, click the Save button to save settings and close the Set Security Levels window. Or click Cancel to close the window without saving changes. Testing samples—software options This section of the manual provides information on using the software to perform common miniPV Series operations. For a step-by-step procedure detailing both hardware and software operations involved in sample testing, refer to Chapter 2. Entering sample ID information Procedure 1.
65 Sample actions No action—clears action column for highlighted samples. No testing The Sample Action popup Viscosity Action window will take place for this tray position. Measure kinematic viscosity—measures sample viscosity. Verify Known KV—measures sample viscosity at the conclusion of the automated test and tags data for possible use in calibrations/ reports.
66 Sequential Sample IDs—creates a numeric sequence for the highlighted sample ID(s) in the list box. You have the option of selecting a standard alphanumeric prefix and/or suffix to accompany the sequence numbers, and you also can select the starting numeral in the sequence. Procedure 1. To use the Sequential Sample IDs feature, highlight the desired sample tray location(s) in the list box (or skip to the next step to select all). 2.
67 The viscosity of the standard must be entered in the Check Standard Viscosity field in order that the resultant viscosity determination may be used for verification and calibration. Copy & Paste Sample ID data entry options The VISCPRO® Sample ID data entry screen supports Copy and Paste options. Copying Sample IDs To copy a Sample ID entry, including the configuration information, highlight the desired line(s) from the Sample List Box and right-click your mouse to access the Sample Action window.
68 Saving Sample ID information Many users will test the same series of samples on a regular basis for trend analysis and other quality control objectives. To save time with Sample ID data entry, VISCPRO provides an option for saving and recalling Sample ID information. Saving Sample IDs To save Sample IDs, complete your sample ID data entry (see previous sections) from the Sample Input window, then click the Save IDs button. The Samples window will open.
69 Click the name of the desired confiugration to highlight it. Then click OK. Selected settings will be restored. The Load Instrument and Tray Settings window miniPV Series analysis modules The VISCPRO® software is shipped with several analysis modules which can be used to create reports based on sample test data. For general instructions on using analyses, see Chapter 6, Analysis Configuration Options.
70 displayed on the VI analysis. The VI Matching function is always indicated on the VISCPRO® status bar, whether or not a VI domain (viscometer tube set) has been defined. Configuration procedure To configure the VI Matcher: 1. Load the VISCPRO® software. 2. Log on to the system as a Manager (a password may be required) to access the VI Matcher function, which is security-protected. NOTE For more information on the security log-in procedure, see Security Options, this chapter. 3.
71 6. Click on the serial numbers in the Select Low Temperature Tubes list box which correspond to tubes that should be configured as low temperature tubes by the VI Matcher. As you do so, the serial numbers will be added to the Selected Tubes list box. NOTE Samples must have been previously run in a tube in order for the tubes to show up in the Select Tubes list boxes To “de-select” a selected tube, click again on the highlighted tube serial number 7.
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73 CHAPTER 5 OPERATING, MAINTAINING AND SERVICING THE miniPV Series This chapter of the miniPV Series Instruction & Operation Manual contains information regarding the operation, service and maintenance of the miniPV Series instrument. For additional information on required utilities, instrument installation and setup, refer to Chapter 1.
74 Bath Unit connections For information regarding Bath Unit connections, refer to the installation section of Chapter 1. Solvent Dispensing System The miniPV Series is equipped with a solvent system used to wash the viscometer tubes after each sample test. The system consists of the internal and external solvent and drain lines, the user-supplied solvent vessel, and the Waste Receiver assembly (including solvent dispensing unit).
75 Application compatibility The solvent used in a particular viscometer tube must be able to dry at the test temperature of the tube (during the washing cycle). Choose the appropriate solvent accordingly. Checking solvent levels It is the responsibility of the operator to visually monitor the amount of solvent remaining in the solvent container. Check the solvent container liquid level frequently. When the solvent level drops to within 2.5-5.
76 WARNING Waste sample/solvents can present possible environmental and health hazards. Dispose of all waste materials in accordance with environmental and safety regulations. Dual-solvent washing For testing heavy or hard-to-clean materials, CANNON® Instrument Company recommends a dual-solvent washing system. The dual-solvent washing process uses two different solvents. The first wash might ordinarily use a heavy solvent to clean the sample residue out of the viscometer tubes.
77 Carousel Adjustments Homing the Carousel 1. From the Service menu in ViscPRO, select miniPV Series Motor Control. 2. Check Home Motors. 3. Click Start. 4. The carousel will home itself. NOTE Factory Preset refer to the instructions below only if out of Adjustment. Adjusting sample tray height 1. Ensure the R208 driver units have been properly adjusted and the power is off. 2. Open the motor driver housing and connect a multi-meter to GND and EHOME. 3.
78 4. Apply power to the instrument and adjust the potentiometer to get a reading of 0.50V for the elevate driver. 5. Turn off the power to the instrument. 6. Disconnect the positive probe from the potentiometer lead of the elevate driver.7. Connect the positive probe to the potentiometer lead of the rotate driver. The rotate driver is located furthest from the instrument. 7. Apply power to the instrument and adjust the potentiometer to get a reading of 0.34V for the rotate driver. 8.
79 4. Insert the end of the fill tube from the Fill Cap Assembly into the slot in the top of the bath flange. 5. Lift and invert the bottle to begin introducing 900 mL of the appropriate grade of ambient-temperature silicone bath fluid into the bath. Add a small amount first and check for leaks. Then continue filling to the cold fill level, marked by a decal cold fill line. The cold fill line is approximately 3 centimeters (1.25”) below the bottom of the top bath flange.
80 5. When fluid has drained from the bath, close the drain valve by tightening the drain plug clockwise to its furthest position. Tighten securely to prevent leaks. 6. Remove the drain hose from the drain tube. 7. Replace the front panel with the screws previously removed. Then close the ear panels to complete the drain procedure. Bath heaters The miniPV Series Bath Unit is equipped with two heating elements (control and auxillary).
81 reference thermometer to ensure that the miniPV Series is controlling at the desired operating temperature. If the computer temperature display does not agree with the reference thermometer, perform the temperature calibration procedure per manual instructions. Dual-solvent washing For testing heavy oils or hard-to-clean materials, CANNON® Instrument Company recommends a dual-solvent washing system. The dual-solvent washing process uses two different solvents.
82 Complete? Daily maintenance Check liquid level in the Waste Receiver. Empty if necessary, using appropriate precautions for your solvent/samples. Check solvent level(s) in the solvent vessel(s). Refill solvent vessel(s) if necessary. Clean instrument surfaces with a damp cloth or absorbant paper towel. Run a calibration check standard or reference oil for each bulb to be used for the day’s testing. Calibrate if result variance warrants.
83 miniPV Series repair/replacement components The parts included in the list below are the more common repair/replacement components for the miniPV Series. When making repairs using these items, make certain to replace obsolete or worn components with matching components. Installation kit The installation kit contains all parts required for assembly/installation of the miniPV Series. Kit replacements may be purchased from CANNON ® (part #P81.2879).
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85 CHAPTER 6 ANALYSIS CONFIGURATION OPTIONS Data obtained from all instruments during sample testing is stored in the central VISCPRO® database. To view data, you must create an analysis configuration requesting the desired sample information in the desired format. Analysis configurations can be saved and later restored. The analysis configuration options provide powerful tools for reporting sample information.
86 NOTE If you have already configured and saved an analysis, its name will appear in the list box on the right side of the window. If you click on an existing configuration and click OK, the analysis will be performed using the selected configuration settings. It will not be necessary to complete the remaining steps in this procedure. 5. Click OK. The analysis Configuration window will appear. The Configuration window consists of tabbed pages with filter options appropriate for the analysis. 6.
87 Using the date filter Use the date filter to select date/time parameters for the analysis. To use the date filter, click the Date Filter tab from the analysis configuration window. To define a Fixed Date and Time, click the corresponding radio button . Then use the spin controls and/or list box selection options to set the appropriate date/time parameters. All samples tested after the start date/time and before the end date/time, inclusive, will be included.
88 Using the sample filter Use the sample filter to limit the analysis to samples which have been tested on certain instruments and tubes, or which have certain Sample ID characteristics. To filter samples by instrument, tube serial number (S/N) or Sample ID, click the Sample Filter tab from the analysis configuration window. Some (not all) analyses offer an option to display data for samples which did not complete successfully. Click the Display Unsuccessful Samples box if you wish to use this data.
89 include data from all samples starting with S. %S% would include data from all samples containing S. The underscore (_) is a single-character wildcard. You may use multiple IDs separated by a comma. For example, AV%,40C% would display all samples beginning with AV or 40C. NOTE If no instruments/tubes/Sample IDs are selected, the analysis will display data for ALL instruments/tubes/Sample IDs.
90 Saving a current analysis To save a current analysis configuration: 1. Select Analyses from the VISCPRO® primary menu options. 2. Select Save Analysis from the Analyses menu options. 3. Select the desired analysis. The Save Configuration window will appear. Type the name of the new configuration in the Save As: field. Or double-click the name of a preexisting configuration in the Existing Configurations list box to replace the existing configuration with the new configuration settings. 4. Click OK.
91 Keystrokes for selecting data for printing You can print data for a selected sample or samples from an on-screen analysis by highlighting the desired sample data and then using the Print option from the VISCPRO® Main Menu. To select data for a single sample, click on the line of data associated with the sample on the screen display. To print a sequential range of samples, highlight the first sample in the range, then hold down the S key and click on the last sample in the range.
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93 CHAPTER 7 CAV DATA TABLE The CAV sample analysis is designed to permit convenient viewing of data collected from samples which have been tested using the Measure Sample Viscosity sample action option. The sample analysis displays sample data in a tabular format.
94 {1,10} Efflux%—For multi-drop samples: displays the first 10 sample efflux times {1,20} Efflux%—For multi-drop samples: displays the first 20 sample efflux times Avg Efflux%—The average efflux time for efflux values used for viscosity calculation C, E—The calibration constants used for this determination SUS—Saybolt Furol Seconds calculation % KE—Percent contribution of the kinetic energy correction to the measured viscosity.
95 5. Click on the Define and Open New Configuration radio button (or verify that the option is selected). NOTE If you have already configured and saved an analysis, its name will appear in the list box on the right side of the window. If you click on an existing configuration and click OK, the analysis will be performed using the selected configuration settings. It will not be necessary to complete the remaining steps in this procedure. 6. Click OK. The Sample Analysis Configuration window will appear.
96 Selecting Report data filter options Modifying data presentation To delete an item from the report, right-click the column name for the data and then select the Delete option from the popup menu. To insert an item into the report in a particular position, right-click the column name at the desired position and select the Insert New option. Then click on the desired item to insert it in the report at the selected position. 8. When you have completed the configuration, click OK.
97 9. Click Yes to save the configuration. The Save Configuration window will appear. The Save Configuration window 10. Type the name of the new configuration in the Save As: field. Or double-click the name of a preexisting configuration in the Existing Configurations list box to replace the existing configuration with the new configuration settings. 11. Click OK. The analysis will be performed and displayed using the selected configuration settings.
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99 CHAPTER 8 SAMPLE DATA EXPORT ANALYSIS The VISCPRO® Sample Data Export analysis provides a convenient operator interface for configuring sample information from the sample database for serial output and exporting it in ASCII text format. The port output filters (Date, Sample and Port Output Format) permit the user to select and output desired data to a file, LPT port or serial port in whatever format is desired.
100 Configuring the Sample Data Export analysis 1. Select Analyses from the VISCPRO® menu options. 2. Select View Analysis from the Analyses menu options 3. Double-click Data Export Package from the list of available analysis types. 4. Select the Sample Data Export analysis option. 5. Click the Define and Open New Configuration radio button define a new analysis configuration.
101 The Port Output Format window NOTE If you select NEW FILE for output, click the button to open the Windows Save As: box. Select the desired directory and type the desired file name in the File Name: text box. If you select an existing file, ASCII port analysis data will be appended to the file. Make certain that you have selected the desired port for configuration by clicking on the port name in the Add Port list box prior to selecting output data and formatting options for that port.
102 g. If you would like to include a header at the beginning of the analysis, click the Header button and add the desired text string via the keyboard. Format the entry as desired using the Carriage Return (CR) and Line Feed (LF) options as necessary to indicate line breaks. Then click OK. Adding a footer NOTE h. If you would like to include a footer at the end of the analysis, click the Footer button and add the desired text string via the keyboard.
103 options. Then click on the desired configuration from the list of saved configurations and click OK. Exporting specific sample dataTo re-send data from specific samples, use Sample Filter options, including wildcard characters if desired, to reconfigure the analysis to send only the necessary data.
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105 CHAPTER 9 ERROR DATA EXPORT ANALYSIS The VISCPRO® Error Data Export analysis compiles error information from the sample database for serial output and exports it in ASCII text format. The port output filters (Date, Error and Error Report) permit the user to select and output desired data to a file, LPT port or serial port in whatever format is desired. NOTE Available data for analysis Once the port output analysis has been generated, it cannot be reconfigured like other VISCPRO® analyses.
106 5. Click the Define and Open New Configuration radio button define a new analysis configuration. NOTE to If you have already configured and saved an analysis, its name will appear in the list box on the right side of the window. If you click on an existing configuration and click OK, the analysis will be performed using the selected configuration settings. It will not be necessary to complete the remaining steps in this procedure. 6. Click OK. The Port Output Configuration window will appear.
107 The Error Page tab You may use multiple IDs separated by a comma. For example, AV%,40C% would display all samples beginning with AV or 40C. NOTE Port Output Format filter Adding ports Configuring output If no error sources/technicians are selected, the analysis will display data for ALL error sources/technicians. c.
108 Error Ports Ouput Configuration options Delaying serial output e. You may delay data transmission of serial output for a time parameter you specify by clicking the Delay button to insert the delay code into the Configuration list box, Header or Footer. The Delay Configuration window will appear. To set the time of the Delay, type a numeric value in the appropriate field, and click on one of the radio buttons to select the correct unit of time. Then click OK. Selecting output data f.
109 Adding a header g. If you would like to include a header at the beginning of the analysis, click the Header button and add the desired text string via the keyboard. Format the entry as desired using the Carriage Return (CR) and Line Feed (LF) options as necessary to indicate line breaks. Then click OK. Adding a footer h. If you would like to include a footer at the end of the analysis, click the Footer button and add the desired text string via the keyboard.
110 Re-sending export data To re-send Port Output Analysis data for a displayed analysis, first save the analysis by clicking Analyses/Save Configuration, selecting the desired analysis, typing the analysis name in the Save As: list box and clicking OK. Then close the Port Output Analysis window and re-select Port Output Analysis by clicking Analyses/View Analysis from the primary menu options. Then click on the desired configuration from the list of saved configurations and click OK.
111 CHAPTER 10 ERROR LOG TABLE ANALYSIS The Error Log Table is designed as a troubleshooting tool to display error messages generated by the software during automatic processing of sample data. The Error Log Table displays data in a tabular format.
112 Choosing the Error Log analysis 4. Click on the Define and Open New Configuration radio button (or verify that the option is selected). NOTE If you have already configured and saved an analysis, its name will appear in the list box on the right side of the window. If you click on an existing configuration and click OK, the analysis will be performed using the selected configuration settings. It will not be necessary to complete the remaining steps in this procedure. 5. Click OK.
113 8. Click Yes to save the configuration. The Save Configuration window will appear. The Save Configuration window 9. Type the name of the new configuration in the Save As: field. Or double-click the name of a preexisting configuration in the Existing Configurations list box to replace the existing configuration with the new configuration settings. 10. Click OK. The analysis will be performed and displayed using the selected configuration settings.
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115 CHAPTER 11 USING THE DATABASE MANAGER The Database Manager is a separate software program which is automatically installed in the same directory as your VISCPRO® software.
116 Starting the program To start the Database Manager software: 1. Exit the VISCPRO® application. Then click on the Windows® Start bar. 2. Select Programs/VISCPRO 2.0/VISCPRO Database Manager from the list of options. Archiving old data When to archive Data from the VISCPRO® database should be regularly archived in order to maintain the size and utility of the database file and to provide an additional level of security for your test data.
117 Change . . . procedure NOTE 1. Select Change Database Directory from the button options. A Browse … window will permit you to select the correct location for the database (SAMPLES.mdb) file. The current database directory is indicated at the top of the window. 2. Select the correct drive and use the Windows® controls to select the directory (folder) you wish to identify as the database location. 3. Click on OK to confirm database directory selection.
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119 CHAPTER 12 REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST Following is a list of miniPV-HX replacement parts available from CANNON® Instrument Company. Replacement fuses are initially provided with your instrument. It may be desirable for some users to maintain additional components in inventory. PART # DESCRIPTION P61.5234 P65.3013 P65.3181 P65.3245 P65.3247 P81.2109 P81.2110 P81.2111 P81.2113 P81.2128 P81.2150 P81.2194 P81.2217 P81.2261 P81.2263 P81.2370 P81.2388 P81.2404 P81.
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121 CHAPTER A APPENDIX A–MULTIPLE UNIT CONFIGURATION Introduction The miniAV instrument is capable of being networked with the controlling computer via available RS-485 connections. As many as four miniAV instruments may be connected to a single computer. Follow the instructions in this appendix to complete assembly of the multi-unit networking kit, available from CANNON®.
122 4. Attach a shorter RJ-45 cable to one of the twin RS-485 connectors on the ear panel of the first miniAV bath. Then attach the other end of the cable to one of the twin RS-485 connectors on the ear panel of the adjacent Bath Unit. 5. Continue the procedure from the previous step for each bath consecutively until you have completed RS-485 connections between each Bath Unit and the previous unit in the sequence (see diagram). ------ ------ ------ 6.
123 CHAPTER I INDEX A D Abort test 24 Advanced configuration 56 Analyses 42 Analysis types 42 creating 87 deleting 92 menu options for 42 printing 92 printing selected data from 93 reconfiguring 91 resizing table columns for 91 saving 92 sorting data in 88 using the date filter for 89 using the report filter for 91 using the sample filter for 90 viewing 43 wildcard filter options for 90, 118 Analysis modules 71 ASTM methods 2 Available Instruments 38 Database Manager 127 archiving old data with 128 ch
124 O S (continued) Open Selected Analysis Configuration 44 Solvent container filling 77 Solvent Wash by computer 84 dual 84 Solvents 76 Spare parts kit 86 Standard ASCII Port Output analysis 105 adding a footer to 108 adding a header to 108 delaying serial output for 107 P Password changing 40 Pause 24 Poll for Instruments 39 Power supply 75 Preventive maintenance 21 R Repair/replacement kits 86 Restore Instrument Configuration 46, 59 Restore Sample Information 46, 59 Restore software options 45 T S