Anton Paar Quantachrome ULTRAPYC UPY-32 User manual

ULTRAPYC
TRUE VOLUME AND DENSITY ANALYZER
Operating Manual
Models: UPY-32, UPY-32T, MUPY-32, MUPY-32T, UPY-32F, UPY-32FT
Version: 5.xx
Original Instructions (English)
I15IB010EN-B
© 2019 Quantachrome Instruments
A brand of Anton Paar
1900 Corporate Drive
Boynton Beach FL 33426,
USA

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CONTACT INFORMATION
Quantachrome Instruments
A brand of Anton Paar
1900 Corporate Drive
Boynton Beach, Florida, 33426
USA
Tel: [phone]
E-mail:
[e-mail]
www.quantachrome.com

Ultrapyc / UltraFoam Pycnometer Operation Manual CALIBRATION DATA
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ULTRAPYC
CALIBRATION DATA
Table A-1, Calibration Sphere Data
Calibration Sphere
Volume (cm3)
Large
56.5592
Medium
28.9583
Small
7.0699
Micro (optional)
1.0725
Nano (optional)
0.0898
Three sizes of sample cells are supplied with the instrument (they are referred to as large,
medium, and small in this manual). Three optional sizes are also available and referred to as
micro, meso, and nano. The table below shows the size, nominal volume, and part number for
each sample cell.
Table A-2, Sample Cell Nominal Sizes
Sample Cell Size
Nominal Volume (cm3)
Part Number
Large
131.7
04000-0414-1
Medium
48.1
04000-3314-1
Small
10.8
04000-3319-1
Micro (optional)
4.5
04000-3320-1
Meso (optional)
1.8
04000-5418-1
Nano (optional)
0.25
04000-3707-M-1
Model Number_______________________
Serial Number________________________

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MICRO-ULTRAPYC
CALIBRATION DATA
Table A-3, Micro Calibration Sphere Data
Calibration Sphere
Volume (cm3)
Micro
1.0725
Nano
0.0898
The three sample holders supplied with the instrument are referred to as "large, medium and
small" in this manual. These are comparative sizes only. The table shows the actual size, nominal
volume, and part number for each sample holder.
Table A-4, Micro Sample Cell Nominal Sizes
Relative Size
Actual Size
Nominal Volume
(cm3)
Part Number
Large
Microcell
4.5
04000-3320-1
Medium
Mesocell
1.8
04000-5418
Small
Nanocell*
0.25
04000-3707-M
Model Number _______________________
Serial Number _______________________
*
See Appendix 5 for recommended usage.

Ultrapyc / UltraFoam Pycnometer Operation Manual TABLE OF CONTENTS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ULTRAPYC................................................................................................................... 3
MICRO-ULTRAPYC .................................................................................................... 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................. 5
PREFACE ..................................................................................................................... 9
A. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................10
1Summary of Ultrapyc 1200e/Ultrafoam Features........................................................... 11
2Technical Specifications ...................................................................................................... 12
B. SAFETY ...................................................................................................................14
1Symbols Used in this Manual ............................................................................................. 14
2Safety Instructions for the Ultrapyc................................................................................. 14
C. INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................15
1Instrument Setup.................................................................................................................. 15
1.1 Flow Diagram.................................................................................................................. 15
1.2 Start Up and Shutdown.................................................................................................. 17
1.3 Environment ................................................................................................................... 17
1.4 Gas Tank Connections .................................................................................................. 17
1.5 Sample Cell Holder and Sample Cells.......................................................................... 18
1.6 Sample Cell Holder Cover............................................................................................. 20
1.7 Calibration Spheres......................................................................................................... 20
1.8 Pressure Relief Valve...................................................................................................... 21
1.9 Solenoid Valve................................................................................................................. 21
1.10 Vacuum Pump (Optional) ............................................................................................. 22
1.11 Vacuum Accessories (Optional) ................................................................................... 23
2Instrument Controls ............................................................................................................ 23
2.1 Power Input..................................................................................................................... 24
2.2 Power Switch................................................................................................................... 25
2.3 Reset Button .................................................................................................................... 25
2.4 Valve Indicator LEDs.................................................................................................... 25
2.5 Alphanumeric Display.................................................................................................... 25
2.6 Keypad.............................................................................................................................. 25
2.7 Flow Control Valve ........................................................................................................ 25
2.8 Evacuation Rate Regulator Valve................................................................................. 26
2.9 Serial Port (Balance Interface) ...................................................................................... 26
2.10 Ethernet Port................................................................................................................... 26
2.11 USB Ports ........................................................................................................................ 26
2.12 Storage Compartment .................................................................................................... 27

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2.13 Calibration/Analysis Chamber ..................................................................................... 27
2.14 Circulator Bath Connections (Optional) ..................................................................... 27
D. ULTRAPYC OPERATION ................................................................................... 28
1Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 28
2Navigation Through Ultrapyc Menus ............................................................................... 29
2.1 Ultrapyc Menu Map........................................................................................................ 30
3Main Menu ............................................................................................................................ 31
3.1 Run Menu ........................................................................................................................ 31
3.1.1 Run Parameters Menu................................................................................31
3.1.1.1 Purge Mode........................................................................................32
3.1.1.2 Run Mode ..........................................................................................32
3.1.2 Sample Parameters Menu ..........................................................................33
3.2 Calibration Menu ............................................................................................................ 33
3.3 System Settings Menu .................................................................................................... 33
3.3.1 Network Menu ...........................................................................................35
3.3.2 Adding a Printer.........................................................................................35
3.3.3 Time Zone Selection..................................................................................35
3.3.4 Balance Mode Menu..................................................................................35
4Initial Software Setup........................................................................................................... 36
4.1 Time and Date................................................................................................................. 36
4.2 Network Configuration.................................................................................................. 36
4.2.1 Connecting the Ultrapyc to a LAN............................................................36
4.2.2 Connecting the Ultrapyc Directly to a Computer......................................39
4.3 Balance Mode .................................................................................................................. 39
5Manual Mode ........................................................................................................................ 39
6Calibration Routine.............................................................................................................. 41
6.1 Calibrate VA..................................................................................................................... 41
6.2 Calibrate VC...................................................................................................................... 44
6.3 Calibration Data Review................................................................................................ 47
7Sample Volume Measurements (Runs) Routine.............................................................. 49
7.1 Set Run Parameters......................................................................................................... 49
7.1.1 Set Target Pressure ....................................................................................49
7.1.2 Set the Equilibrium Time...........................................................................50
7.1.3 Set the Purge settings.................................................................................50
7.1.4 Set the Run Mode.......................................................................................51
7.1.5 Set the Cell Size.........................................................................................53
7.1.6 Set Print/Send Reports...............................................................................53
7.1.7 Set Pressure Units......................................................................................54
7.1.8 Set Gas Type..............................................................................................54
7.2 Set Sample Parameters ................................................................................................... 54
7.2.1 Set Sample Weight.....................................................................................55
7.2.1.1 Digital Balance Mode........................................................................55
7.2.1.2 Manual Entry .....................................................................................55
7.2.2 Set Sample ID ............................................................................................56
7.3 Start Run .......................................................................................................................... 56
7.4 Review Results................................................................................................................. 57

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8Result Reports....................................................................................................................... 58
E. ULTRAFOAM OPERATION ................................................................................61
1Navigation Through The Ultrafoam Menus .................................................................... 61
2Foam Mode Run Procedure ............................................................................................... 61
3Additional Foam Mode Sample Parameters..................................................................... 61
4Foam Mode Operation........................................................................................................ 63
4.1 Sample Preparation......................................................................................................... 63
4.2 Calibration........................................................................................................................ 63
4.3 Foam Volume Measurement Cycle (Run)................................................................... 63
4.3.1 Run Menu...................................................................................................63
4.3.2 Run Procedures..........................................................................................63
4.3.3 Uncorrected Open and Closed Cell Measurement.....................................64
4.3.4 Corrected Open and Closed Cell Measurement.........................................64
4.3.5 Compressibility..........................................................................................65
4.3.6 Cell Fracture...............................................................................................65
F. OPERATING SEQUENCE................................................................................... 67
G. SOURCES OF ERROR.......................................................................................... 72
1Additional Recommendations............................................................................................ 73
2Error Messages ..................................................................................................................... 73
H. PYCWEB COMPUTER INTERFACE ................................................................ 76
1Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 76
2Establishing a Connection .................................................................................................. 76
3Ultrapyc Web Pages ............................................................................................................. 78
3.1 Run 78
3.1.1 Run Parameters..........................................................................................80
3.1.2 Sample Parameters.....................................................................................81
3.1.3 Instrument Parameters ...............................................................................82
3.1.4 Parameter Files...........................................................................................84
3.2 Reports ............................................................................................................................. 84
4Sample Measurement Run Using PycWeb ....................................................................... 88
5Browser’s Refresh Button ................................................................................................... 88
6PycWeb Foam Extension.................................................................................................... 89
6.1 Extended Run Parameters (Foam Mode) ................................................................... 89
6.2 Extended Sample Parameters (Foam Mode) .............................................................. 91
6.3 Reports Extended Information (Foam Mode)........................................................... 92
I. THEORY ................................................................................................................. 93
J. APPENDICES ......................................................................................................... 95
Appendix 1 Calibration Spheres..............................................................................95
Appendix 2 Operation with Temperature Control Option.......................................96

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Appendix 3 Balance Mode ......................................................................................97
Appendix 3.1 Compatible Output Format................................................................97
Appendix 3.2 Hardware Setup .................................................................................97
Appendix 4 Compatible Printers ...........................................................................100
Appendix 5 Calibration and Usage of the Nanocell (the Difference Method)......101
Appendix 6 Computer Network Address Configuration.......................................103
Appendix 6.1 Configuring a Microsoft Windows system......................................103
Appendix 6.2 Configuring Network address on LINUX (or UNIX) .....................105
Appendix 7 Report File Transfer and Firmware Update via FTP or via FileZilla 107
Appendix 7.1 Transferring Report Files.................................................................107
Appendix 7.2 Updating Pycnometer’s Firmware...................................................111
Appendix 8 Leak Check ........................................................................................115
Appendix 9 GPL / LGPL Source Code .................................................................118
Appendix 10 Foam Cutting Accessory....................................................................119
Appendix 11 Pyc-Time Zones.................................................................................120
Appendix 11.1 Pyc-Time Zones-Continued.........................................................121
Appendix 11.2 Pyc-Time Zones-Continued.........................................................122
Appendix 11.3 Pyc-Time Zones-Continued.........................................................123
Appendix 12 Preventative Maintenance Plan..........................................................124

Ultrapyc / UltraFoam Pycnometer Operation Manual PREFACE
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PREFACE
This is the operating manual for the Ultrapyc–efamily of pycnometers, which include the
Ultrapycnometer 1000e, Ultrapyc 1200e, Micro-Ultrapycnometer 1000e, and Micro-
Ultrapyc 1200e instruments as well as Ultrapycs with Foam Mode. The Ultrapyc and Micro-
Ultrapyc instruments use the same principle theory and operational procedures, hence, the
generic term “Ultrapyc” will be used throughout this manual. The Ultrapyc instruments with
Foam Mode have an extended Menu (Ultra-Foam Menu). In cases where the instructions differ, a
specific reference to the individual instrument will be clearly indicated.

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A. INTRODUCTION
PYCNOMETRY is derived from the Greek word pyknos, which has long been identified with
volume measurements. The pycnometers from Quantachrome are specifically designed to
measure the true volume of solid materials by employing Archimedes’ principle of fluid (gas)
displacement and the technique of gas expansion (Boyle's law). Ideally, a gas is used as the
displacing fluid since it penetrates the finest pores assuring maximum accuracy. For this reason,
helium is recommended since its small atomic dimensions assure penetration into crevices and
pores approaching 0.2 nm in diameter. Its behavior as an ideal gas is also desirable. Other gases
such as nitrogen can be used, often with no measurable difference. The use of nitrogen or SF6is
indicated when helium is able to penetrate the solid structure (such as in low-density polymers
and material of vegetable origin).

NOTE! Always consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the gas being
used and the sample being analyzed.
The Quantachrome Ultrapyc are the ultimate instruments for measuring the true volume and
density of powders, foams, and bulk solids. A wide range of sample cell sizes are easily
interchanged to accommodate many different samples. Calibration, sample conditioning,
operation of valves and calculation of results are completely automatic. Samples are quickly and
automatically analyzed as many times as necessary to achieve the user-desired percent deviation
from mean at the specified number of runs. Should the deviation setting be too narrow, the
analysis terminates upon reaching an operator specified maximum number of runs. The results
are printed automatically, freeing the operator to perform other laboratory tasks. For laboratories
with lower analytical throughput needs, the single sample station Ultrapyc 1200eprovides ease
of operation and high performance. It can be loaded, purged, and automatically analyzed in
sequence with no operator involvement. Adjustable flow rates provide maximum flexibility of
operation.
For measurement of foams, a specialized UltraFoam version is available. This is a system for
automatic measurement of open and closed cell content with automatic functions for the analysis
of cell compressibility and cell fracture according to ASTM D-6226.
For measurements of extremely small amounts of material, the Micro-Ultrapyc provides three
interchangeable cell sizes of 4.5 cm3, 1.8 cm3and 0.25 cm3.
For measurements that require a fixed, known temperature, a temperature control option is
available for the Ultrapyc.
GENERAL APPLICATIONS include research, development, and quality control in diverse
industries related to: carbon blacks, catalysts, cement, ceramics, charcoals, cosmetics, desiccants,
fertilizers, fibers, fillers, insulating and structural foams, powdered foods, ion exchange resins,
minerals such as alumina, silica, titania and others, nuclear fuels, petrochemicals,
pharmaceuticals, and powdered metals. Pycnometry can even determine the percentage of solids
in a slurry.

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1Summary of Ultrapyc 1200e/Ultrafoam Features
Automatic Functions —Operating simplicity is achieved via PC and a standard web
browser or via built-in keypad following prompts or instructions which are automatically
presented on the alphanumeric display. Measurements and reporting of results are totally
automatic. Continuous self-diagnostics monitor and signal fault conditions that may arise.
The transducer is automatically reset to zero prior to each run. Front panel LEDs display the
operational status at all times.
Sample Identification —In the analysis parameters, alphanumeric sample ID’s may be
added to uniquely identify the sample.
Temperature Readout —Sample temperature is displayed and printed to ±0.1 °C. This
feature is important for: (a) verifying operation at the calibration point, or (b) making
corrections when analyzing larger quantities of materials whose density varies significantly
with temperature.
Target Pressure - The measurement of pressure-deformable cellular foams (insulation) is
made possible by this feature. A user can conveniently reduce the target pressure typically
from around 18 psi to 2 psi. The ULTRAFOAM version uses optimum low pressure and
performs calculations of open and closed cell content with or without ASTM correction for
cut cells.
Sample Purge - Before analysis, samples are automatically conditioned to remove
contaminants and trapped air. The user has a choice to purge by a continuous flow or, by a
pulse mode suitable for powders. In addition, The Ultrapyc 1200e has capability to purge the
sample by vacuum for a “user selectable” time (vacuum pump supplied separately).
Repeat Run Mode - This feature eliminates the need to reenter the same set of analysis
parameters prior to each run. It allows one to quickly change sample weight and sample ID,
or simply to re-run a sample by a double keystroke. Greater simplicity and ease of operation
are afforded when connected to a PC.
Useful Statistics - For three or more averaged measurements, the % coefficient of variance
and the standard deviation of the volume and the density are reported. This allows a relative
comparison of samples from run-to-run and a precise assessment of the absolute variation of
the sample being measured.
NIST Traceability - Pycnometer volume calibration spheres can be provided with a formal
Report of Calibration from the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
PC Connectivity - Ultrapyc 1200efeatures USB connections to a PC and communication
via a standard web browser. Analysis can be started and monitored from the PC, even
remotely on a network. Reports can be accessed for analysis on the PC, or can be stored on
an external USB flash / thumb drive.
Balance Port - Permits interface with configurable analytical balance for automatic transfer
of sample weight. Eliminates risk of transcription error.

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2Technical Specifications
ULTRAPYC 1200eINSTRUMENT
PHYSICAL
†
Height:......................................................22.7 cm (8.9 in)
Width: .....................................................31.1 cm (12.25 in)
Depth:.......................................................54.0 cm (21.25 in)
Weight:.....................................................9.75 kg (21.5 lbs.)
ELECTRICAL
Voltage:....................................................100 - 240 VAC (see nameplate on rear of unit)
Frequency:................................................50/60 Hz
Power (max):............................................150 W
Connection:..............................................Grounded, single-phase outlet
ENVIRONMENTAL
Operating Temperature:...........................10 C –38 C
Max. Relative Humidity: .........................90 % (non-condensing)
OPERATION
Fully automated, easy access to instrument’s Menus from a front panel Keypad or PC using
PYCWEB computer interface; allows user to set-up, collect, display and archive data.
GAS
Ultrahigh purity compressed gas regulated to a pressure of 20 psig (He is recommended; N2or
SF6are suitable alternatives for helium permeable materials). Any other non-corrosive dry gas
may be used for special applications.
PURGE MODES
Continuous flow for solids, pulse mode for powders or evacuation (optional vacuum pump is
required).
FLOW RATES
User selectable with precision needle valve(s).
PRECISION
Digital pressure display resolution of 0.0001 pounds per square inch (psi).

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CALIBRATION
Stainless-steel sphere standards; NIST traceable values optional. Each instrument supplied with a
full set of spheres housed in protective, padded wooden box.
OUTPUTS
RS232 serial port for balance interface; two USB port(s) for printer and portable flash drive
storage, RJ45 Ethernet port for network/LAN internet connection to PC.
PERFORMANCE
Based on clean, dry, thermally equilibrated samples and filled sample cell:
Table A-1, Accuracy and Repeatability Using ULTRAPYC or ULTRAFOAM units.
Cell Size
Accuracy
Repeatability
135 cm3
< ± 0.02%
< ± 0.01%
50 cm3
< ± 0.02%
< ± 0.01%
10 cm3
< ± 0.03%
< ± 0.015%
4.5 cm3
< ± 0.35%
< ± 0.175%
1.8 cm3
< ± 2%
< ± 1%
0.25 cm3
< ± 4%
< ± 2%
Table A-2, Accuracy and Repeateability Using MICRO-ULTRAPYC unit
Cell Size
Accuracy
Repeatability
4.5 cm3
< ± 0.1%
< ± 0.05%
1.8 cm3
< ± 0.30%
< ± 0.15%
0.25 cm3
< ± 1.0%
< ± 0.50%
OPTIONS
Temperature control (requires external bath/circulator, not included).
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Gas regulator assembly (P/N 01207), bath/circulator (P/N 02126-1), HP printer (P/N 38093 or
P/N 38093-1).

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B. SAFETY
1Symbols Used in this Manual
CAUTION! This sign denotes a hazard that could result in damage to the
instrument.
WARNING! This sign denotes a hazard that could result in injury to the operator.

NOTE! This sign denotes an important detail.

TOOLS REQUIRED: This signifies that tools are required for the described
action.
2Safety Instructions for the Ultrapyc
This instrument has been designed for laboratory use only.
The Ultrapyc requires a trained operator to use the instrument.
This instrument must not be used for any application other than that for which it was
designed.
Operate this instrument only at the voltage specified on the nameplate on the rear of the
instrument.
Operator must be aware of hazards associated with the sample under test.
‡
Operator must be aware of hazards associated with the gas(es) used.‡
This instrument must be disconnected from the mains for any cleaning, maintenance or
service.
Do not make any unauthorized modifications to this instrument.
When attaching a plug to the power cord, be sure to follow the color code shown below:
Brown = live, blue = neutral, green/yellow = earth ground.
‡
Always consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the gas being used and the sample to be analyzed!
!
!

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C. INSTALLATION
1Instrument Setup
1.1 Flow Diagram
Shown on the next page is a flow diagram of the Ultrapyc. A simplified flow diagram can also be
displayed by accessing the manual mode of the PycWeb computer interface.
CAUTION! Familiarize yourself with the instrument’s Flow Diagram before
proceeding with Operation and/or accessing the Manual Mode.
!

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Figure C.1, Schematic diagram of Ultrapyc family of Pycnometers.

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1.2 Start Up and Shutdown
The Ultrapyc runs the Linux operating system (OS.) When power is applied to the unit and the
power switch is turned on, it takes one full minute to boot the operating system and launch the
Ultrapyc control programs. During the one minute boot up time the only indication that the unit
is ON will be the yellow colored backlight of the LCD display screen. Be patient; don’t cycle the
power switch. Allow the pycnometer time to boot fully before beginning operation. Once the
Ultrapyc control program begins running, text messages will be displayed on the LCD screen
and the green LEDs will light up. When the LEDs light the Ultrapyc is ready for use.
Like most modern operating systems, the Linux operating system could be damaged if the unit is
not shut down properly. The Ultrapyc main menu selection “8 –Shutdown” is used to
initiate a graceful shutdown of the Ultrapyc control programs and the Linux operating system.
Always call the main menu option “8 –Shutdown,” and wait for 1 minute before turning off
the power switch.
1.3 Environment
Do not operate this instrument under a heat or air conditioning duct, near open windows, or in
direct sunlight. The Ultrapyc should be maintained in an environment with a temperature that is
as constant as possible. This is most effectively achieved by connecting an optional circulating
bath (P/N 02126-1) to the instrument (provided that the unit has optional circulator bath
connections installed).When the instrument is first turned ON, it should not be operated until
thermal equilibration has been reached.
Allow sufficient space to the left and to the right of the instrument for optional accessories such
as a printer, balance, PC, and a bath circulator. Position the instrument for easy access the on/off
switch if necessary.
1.4 Gas Tank Connections

TOOLS REQUIRED: 7/16” wrench (not supplied).
Attach a dual stage regulator with stainless steel diaphragm to the nitrogen or helium gas tank.
Connect the regulator to the bulkhead fitting on the rear of the cabinet using the 1/8” copper
tubing and nut & ferrule set supplied. It may be necessary to obtain an adapter in order to
connect the tubing to the regulator. A suitable regulator assembly (P/N 01207) complete with
shut-off valve, CGA580 cylinder fitting and 1/8” outlet fitting is available from Quantachrome.
Adjust the tank pressure regulator to slightly above 20 psig (140 kPa). Pressures above 25 psig
can damage the Ultrapyc pressure transducer. Check for leaks at the fitting using a soap solution.
It is important to properly establish the inlet gas pressure at the instrument and to check that the
instrument is leak-free. Use Manual Mode (see Section D.5) to determine the gas input pressure
at the instrument. Do not rely on the gas tank regulator for an accurate assessment of the
pressure.

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CAUTION! Before proceeding, familiarize yourself with the instrument’s Manual
Mode (see Section D.5 for a description of valve operation).
Follow the steps below after connecting the gas tank to the instrument:
1. Set the tank pressure to 0 psig by fully unwinding the regulator spindle.
2. Go into Manual Mode and bleed the gas input line down by opening the input, expansion,
Va Large, and vent valves (refer to Figure F.2 in Section F).
3. The input gas pressure should be 1.5–2 psi above the desired target pressure, Pa. For
example, if the desired target pressure for the measurement is 18 psig, zero the transducer
and slowly build pressure into the closed cell chamber by closing the expansion valve and
slowly increasing the tank pressure (refer to Figure F.6 in Section F) to a maximum of
19.5–20 psig.
4. Once the target input pressure (Pa + 1.5–2 psi) has been established, the rate of
pressurization in the sample cell must also be set. Close the gas input valve and open the
expansion valve (the vent valve is already open from the previous step) to vent the
system to ambient pressure. Zero the transducer. When the transducer is reading
approximately zero, close the expansion valve. Open the Storage Compartment and
locate the Gas Flow Control needle valve (refer to Section C.2). A small flat-head
screwdriver (not supplied) will be necessary to adjust the needle valve. Open the gas
input valve and monitor the rate at which the sample chamber is pressurized. Adjust the
needle valve such that Pa is achieved in 30-60 seconds or at a rate of no more than 0.1 psi
per “update” by the time Pa is reached.

NOTE! The rate of pressurization in the sample chamber should be checked each
time, when a different size sample cell is selected for an analysis. Small
sample cells will pressurize more quickly than a large or medium size cell.
Test the instrument for leaks following the instructions in the Appendix 8 “Leak Check.”
1.5 Sample Cell Holder and Sample Cells
The cylinder located in the front panel is the calibration/analysis chamber (also referred to as
sample cell holder). The sample cell is a stainless steel cup, which slides into the sample cell
holder. The large sample cell fits tightly into the sample cell holder. However, when the medium
or small sample cell is used, an appropriate aluminum sleeve (also referred to as adapter sleeve)
is first inserted inside the sample cell holder. Sample cell will slowly settle into the cell holder
(or proper cell adapter - if used) in order to avoid spilling powder when inserted. To remove the
sample cell, rotate the black plastic cover on top of the sample cell holder counterclockwise. The
cell can then be lifted out using a lift out tool P/N 75184 inserted into one of the small
holes/grooves near the top. When using the large sample cell, be sure that the horizontal slits
near the top of the cell line up with the vertical groove machined into the cell holder. This
ensures that the gas has a free path into and out of the cell.
Three sample cells are supplied with the Ultrapycnometer 1000eand Ultrapyc 1200e. Their
nominal capacities (volumes) are approximately 135, 50, and 10 cm3(see Ultrapyc Calibration
Data Table on page 3). Additionally, optional 4.5 (micro), 1.8 (meso), and 0.25 (nano) cm3cells
!

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are available. However, the use of the smaller cells will result in a small loss in accuracy. The
micro, meso, and nano cells are used with their respective adapter sleeves.
Three sample cells are supplied with the Micro-Ultrapycnometer 1000eand Micro-Ultrapyc
1200e. These have nominal volumes of 4.5, 1.8 and 0.25 cm3(see Micro-Ultrapyc Calibration
Data in Table A-3 on page 4).
Figure C.2, (from left to right) Ultrapyc’s Sample Cell Holder, Cover, and Sample Cells
Lift out tool P/N 75184
Figure C.3, Micro-Ultrapyc’s Adapter Sleeves, Cells and Cover
Prior to density measurement, the sample cell should be weighed, filled with sample (optimally
to at least ¾ of the cell volume), and re-weighed. The sample weight is then determined by
weight difference. For maximum accuracy, a final weighing should be done after completing the
analysis if the samples are to be decontaminated.

NOTE! If fine powders are being tested, the sample may be elutriated during the
analysis. To prevent this from occurring, optional non-elutriating sample
holders and covers with fine holes are available.

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1.6 Sample Cell Holder Cover
In order to insure reproducible cell volumes:
1. When sealing the sample cell inside the calibration/analysis chamber (i.e. inside the
sample cell holder), make certain that the O-ring is secured in the groove machined into
the inside of the sample cell holder cover. A light film of vacuum grease on the O-ring is
essential to insure a good seal and make it easier to insert the cover on the cell station.
Replacement O-Rings are sold in pairs (P/N 51000-032).

NOTE! Use Vacuum Grease P/N 91000-.25 to lubricate the O-ring, Never use
petroleum jelly as this will degrade it.
2. Align the fiduciary mark on the cover with the mark on the cabinet. Then rotate the black
delrin ring clockwise on the threads of the cell holder until it turns no further (metal-to-
metal contact is made; the black delrin cover will rotate around the inner sealing plug. A
locating pin, on the bottom side of the cell cover, mates to a groove on the face of the cell
holder. The O-ring makes a radial seal on the inside of the cell holder.
3. The mating surfaces of the top of the cell and the underside of the cover must be kept
clean in order to insure that they always seal the same way.

NOTE! When not in use, the sample cell holder/ chamber should be kept tightly
sealed to prevent contamination by ambient moisture and to maintain the
thermal equilibrium of the system.
1.7 Calibration Spheres
Four calibration spheres are supplied with the Ultrapycnometer 1000eand Ultrapyc 1200e; 1
large (56.5592 cc), 1 medium (28.9583 cc), and 2 small (7.0699 cc each). Two calibration
spheres are supplied with the Micro-Ultrapycnometer 1000eand Micro-Ultrapyc 1200e;
1.0725 cc each. The calibration spheres are used when recalibrating VAand VC. When not in use
the calibration spheres should be stored in the built-in storage compartment. When handling the
spheres, gloves or paper towels should be used to prevent transfer of oils and heat to the spheres.
When placing the calibration sphere in the large cell, the cell should be turned on its side and the
sphere rolled into it to prevent deforming the cell.
Care must be taken to protect the spheres from damage since this could change their volumes and
might lead to inaccurate calibrations.
Ultrapyc: When recalibrating VA, three spheres together (1 large and 2 small, total combined
volume = 70.699 cc) are used for the large VA. One small sphere is used for the small VA.
Micro-Ultrapyc: When recalibrating VA, both spheres are used for the large VA. One sphere is
used for the small VA.