Argos StarFire XT User manual

Operator’s Manual
Mode d’emploi
Istruzioni per l’uso
Bedienungsanleitung
Manual del Operador
Argos Technologies, Inc.
1551 South Scottsdale Court
Suite 200
Elgin, IL 60123
Toll Free: 800-886-8675
International: 847-622-0456
www.argos-tech.com
manufacturing solutions for science
™
XT

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Argos Technologies StarFire XT — Operator’s Manual
English

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Argos Technologies StarFire XT — Operator’s Manual
English
Table of Contents
Introduction..................................................... 3
HazardWarnings&CautionNotes................................... 3
Hazard Warnings used in this instruction manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
HazardWarningsusedontheDevice.............................. 3
Hazard Warnings used on the LCD Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
ImportantSafetyInformation....................................... 4
SafetyFeaturesofStarFireXT.................................... 4
UsingStarFireXT.............................................. 4
GeneralSafetyNotes........................................... 5
Restrictionsforuse............................................. 5
WarrantyInformation ............................................. 6
RepairService................................................... 6
ProductDescription.............................................. 7
Packagecontents.............................................. 7
Frontview.................................................. 7
LCDdisplay ................................................ 7
RearView.................................................. 8
BurnerHead................................................ 8
BottomView................................................ 8
GettingStarted.................................................. 9
Connecting StarFire XT to a power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operating StarFire XT with optional battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Inserting or replacing the battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Chargingthebattery ......................................... 9
Connecting StarFire XT to a gas supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Changingthenozzles........................................ 10
Fitting the appropriate gas nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Installing and removing adapters for gas connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Connecting the CV 360 gas cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Removing and changing the gas cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Setting the right flammable mixture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Connectingthefootswitch ................................... 12
Removing and attaching the burner head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SwitchingStarFireXTonandoff................................... 13
MenuFunctions ................................................ 13
Sensoroperatingmode...................................... 13
SensorOFFswitch.......................................... 14
FootSwitchOperatingMode.................................. 14
Buttonoperatingmode ...................................... 15
Adjusting the system parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Workingwithliquids............................................. 16
Troubleshooting(FAQ) ........................................... 17
Maintenance, Care and Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
CareandMaintenance......................................... 19
TechnicalData ................................................. 20
AccessoriesandSpareParts...................................... 21

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Argos Technologies StarFire XT — Operator’s Manual
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i
Introduction
Thank you for your recent purchase of the Argos StarFire XT, the safe alternative to the
standard Bunsen Burner.
This instruction manual contains all the information required to safely use and maintain
the StarFire XT.
Hazard Warnings & Caution Notes
Hazard Warnings used in this instruction manual
STOP
CAUTION
Indicates possible damage to the instrument. Comply with the instructions.
DANGER
Indicates possible danger of personal injury or death. It is important that you comply
with the instructions and precautions.
NOTE
Provides important information on the correct operation of StarFire XT.
Hazard Warnings used on the Device
ATTENTION HOT
Risk of burns from the flame or hot surfaces.
Hazard Warnings used on the LCD Display
ATTENTION HOT
Risk of burns from hot surfaces on the device.
CAUTION IN THE “SENSOR” MODE
Flame ignites automatically if object, e.g. hand, comes close to the sensor.
WARNING/ERROR
StarFire XT has detected an error and will detail the problem in text on the same
screen.
BATTERY LOW (optional)
The battery symbol is displayed when the optional rechargeable battery pack is
inserted. When the battery symbol appears empty ( ) the battery should be recharged
immediately.

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Argos Technologies StarFire XT — Operator’s Manual
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Important Safety Information
StarFire XT is an automatic Bunsen burner that can be used to heat or sterilize samples,
flasks or other laboratory materials. Unlike traditional Bunsen burners, StarFire XT is
not intended for continuous heating applications.
Always use this product in accordance with these instructions. Where appropriate,
safety goggles and protective clothing may be required for your safety.
Safety Features of StarFire XT
• If the flame is not ignited within 5 seconds, the flame detection will shut off the
gas supply.
• If the temperature exceeds the safe operating level the gas supply to the unit is
automatically shut off.
Using StarFire XT
StarFire XT has been designed to incorporate several safety features that comply with
industry recognized safety standards. The unit should only be operated by trained
personnel following the operating instructions detailed in this manual.
StarFire XT should never be used in disrepair or operated by untrained personnel.
Doing so may result in potential safety risks to the laboratory.
To ensure the safe operation of the StarFire XT, all personnel that operate the burner
must have read and understood the manual. Should you have any questions regarding
its operation please contact our Technical Support department prior to operation.
Contact your local safety officer if you have any questions about local or corporate
regulations and guidelines related to the safe operation of our instrument.

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Important Safety Information (cont.)
General Safety Notes
• Never leave an activated StarFire XT unattended
• When unpacking, be sure to check for any transportation damage. Do not operate if
damage is detected.
• Always remove the gas cartridge before removing the gas cartridge adapter.
• There are no serviceable parts inside the StarFire XT, contact Argos Technologies or a
trained service dealer should your instrument need repair or service.
• Do not change or alter the device in any manner. Doing so nullifies the warranty and
may pose a safety risk.
• Only use Argos parts, supplies and accessories with the StarFire XT unit.
• Always wear proper safety equipment (especially protective eyewear) when operating
the StarFire XT.
• StarFire XT should only be operated in well ventilated areas and away from any
flammable or combustable materials.
• To ensure safe operation, all gas connections should be tightened and checked
for leaking.
• Only approved safety gas tubing should be used with the StarFire XT.
• Keep hands and face away from the burner head at all times.
• The burner head remains hot after the flame is extinguished. Do not touch. Allow
sufficient time for the head to cool down before transporting, servicing or cleaning
the unit.
• Do not pour or spill materials into the burner head. Doing so may prevent the unit
from operating properly.
• Ensure StarFire XT is switched off and the power supply disconnected before
inserting or removing the optional rechargeable battery pack.
Important: You must turn off the gas supply when:
• The unit is initially installed or moved to a new location
• The gas cartridge is replaced
• During extended periods when the unit is not in use
• Any time you clean or service the unit
• The gas adapter or rechargeable battery is being replaced.
Restrictions for use
CAUTION
The StarFire XT is not intended to be operated by turning the unit upside down.
Never carry the StarFire XT by the burner head as the unit may detach.

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Warranty Information
Your Argos StarFire XT is warranted to be free of defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase, providing that:
• The unit has not been opened or attempted to be opened by the end user
• The user ensures that it has been carefully cleaned and decontaminated
• The unit has been operated according to these instructions and not in any
improper way
In order to qualify for warranty repair; the customer must return the warranty card
supplied with the unit that includes all of the information required to validate proof of
purchase. Should warranty service be required, repair or replacement will be provided by
Argos without charge. Freight shipping the unit to Argos will be the responsibility of the
purchaser.There are no other warranties of application or merchantability.
Repair Service
Should your StarFire XT require service or repair, please contact Argos Technologies
Customer Service.They will issue a Return Authorization Number and advice on the
proper packing and method of shipment.
Customer Service:
Within US: 800-886-8675
Outside US: 847-622-0456
Argos Technologies, Inc.
1551 South Scottsdale Court
Suite 200
Elgin, IL 60123
Attn: Technical Services
Be sure that your RA number is on the shipping label.
Please use the same above numbers if you require any technical assistance or support.

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Product Description
Package contents
• StarFire XT Burner
• Universal Power Supply
• UK Adapter
• US Adapter
• EU Adapter
• Alternate Nozzle
• Warranty Registration Card
• Instruction Manual
• 10mm gas adapter for mains gas supply
Front View
1. Burner Head
2. GAS KNOB: to regulate the gas supply
(flame size)
3. AIR KNOB: to regulate the air supply
(flame temperature)
4. MENU KNOB/BUTTON: to switch
StarFire XT on and off. Rotate to scroll
through menus and push to select.
Ignites the flame in BUTTON MODE
5. LCD Display
LCD Display
6. Motion Sensor
7. Operating Mode or Caution Mode
symbol
8. Remaining battery charge and
“Attention Hot” symbol
9. Current operating mode with current
settings, e.g. burning time or remaining
burning time
1
4
5
2
3
6
9
7
8

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Burner Head
13. Ignition Electrode
14. Burner chamber with flame opening
15. Flame Detect Electrode
Bottom View
16. Folding Stand, to position device at an
angle when working with fluid
17. Brass screw, for access to the nozzle
18. Battery Compartment
19. Alternative Nozzle
20. Release button for adapters for gas
connection
21. Sensor manual on/off switch
Product Description (cont.)
Rear View
10. Foot Switch connection (jack)
11. Mains plug socket (mains plug)
12. Gas adapter opening (for engaging)
10
11 12
14
13
15
19
20
17
16 18
21

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Getting Started
Please ensure that all packaging materials have been removed before you start using
your StarFire XT. Place StarFire XT on a flat and dry surface.
Connecting StarFire XT to a power supply
• StarFireXTissuppliedwithamainsadapterpowersupply.
• Attachthemainsadapterwiththeprimaryadaptersuitableforyourpowerline
socket outlet.
• Pluginthemainsadapterintoastandardelectricalsourceandconnectittothe
StarFire XT mains plug socket located in the back of the unit.
Operating StarFire XT with optional battery
• StarFireXTcanbeoperatedusingtheoptionalrechargeablebatterypack
(see “Accessories and Spare Parts” on page 21) when not connected to a main
electricity supply
Inserting or replacing the battery
• Slidethecoveronthebatterycompartmentinthedirectionofthearrow.
• Ifnecessary,removethebattery.Insertthenewbatterysothatthepolesontheinside
point to the contacts of the device.
• Slidethecoverintotheslotcountertothedirectionofthearrowuntilitclicksinto
place.
STOP
CAUTION
On first use the battery must be charged in StarFire XT for 12 hours without
interruption
STOP
CAUTION
Do not short-circuit the battery, i.e. do not bypass the two poles with a conductive
object.
Charging the battery
When initially inserting a new battery and when the battery is low it will need to be
charged. This is performed in the device. StarFire XT is designed to include charge
protection which will prevent the battery from being over charged. This ensures
maximum battery life.
• TochargethebatteryplugStarFireXTintothemainsusingthemainsadapter
provided. StarFire XT can be on or off.
• Afterabout12hoursthebatteryisfullycharged.Ensurethemainspowersupply
is connected for the full 12 hours. Once charged the mains power supply should be
disconnected.
i
NOTE
StarFire XT can be used while the battery is charging although the battery may take
longer to charge fully. To prolong battery life, it is recommended that the battery be
removed if StarFire XT will be connected to the mains power supply for extended
periods.

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• Stand the unit upright to access the
bottom of the case.
• Remove the brass screw (1) from
the case bottom using a flat head
screwdriver
• Tilt or turn the device over until the
nozzle drops out of the burner head
assembly.
• Locate the nozzle holder next to the
brass screw that holds the extra nozzle.
• Remove the nozzle from the tube and
insert the new nozzle into the burner
head assembly.
• Replace the brass screw and tighten to
the stop point.
Fitting the appropriate gas nozzle
The E nozzle for natural gas is fitted ex-factory for StarFire XT. Should you plan to use
either propane or butane as fuel, please change the nozzle.
Type of Gas Gas Input Pressure Inscription on Nozzle
Natural gas (methane) 20 mbar E
Butane/propane gas 50 mbar P
STOP
CAUTION
StarFire XT must only be operated with the correct nozzle that corresponds to the
type of gas used. Only use nozzles supplied with StarFire XT. While changing
nozzles the user should inspect the o-ring located in the brass screw (see above) for
damage and replace if necessary.
Getting Started (cont.)
Installing and removing adapters for gas connection
StarFire XT is supplied with a barbed 10mm tubing adapter. The adapter is to be used
when using house or natural gas and not intended for use with the CV360 gas cartridge.
• Insert the barbed adapter in the gas adapter opening of StarFire XT, until it clicks into
position.
• Connect to the gas supply with safety tubing and secure with a clip if necessary.
Connecting StarFire XT to a gas supply
StarFire XT can be used with natural gas (gas mixture, >85% methane, further
alkanes) and commercial butane/propane gas (gas mixture, 65%-10% butane, 20%-40%
propane). When connecting to natural gas be sure to use only approved and tested
gas safety hose with an inner diameter of 10 mm.
Changing the nozzles
To exchange gas nozzles, follow the following procedures:

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Getting Started (cont.)
WARNING
To operate the StarFire XT using a gas cartridge, the P nozzle must be used in the
burner head. Only use gas cartridges between ambient temperatures of 15-35°C.
The CV 360 cartridge is connected as follows:
• Insert the gas cartridge adapter in the
adapter opening until you hear a “click”
• Insert the gas cartridge into the cap
until it audibly clicks into position
• The gas cartridge is now inserted
• Turn the black knob fully in the “ON”
direction to allow the gas to flow.
• The flame can be ignited using any of
the two operating modes with the gas
canister connected.
• Verify that there are no leaks prior to
engaging flame.
CAUTION
Care must be taken not to dislodge the gas canister during use.
• To remove the adapter, use a pointed
tool, such as a ball point pen, to press
the adapter release button on the
underside (1) of the device and pull the
adapter away from the device (2)
• Insert the new adapter into the gas
adapter opening until it clicks into
position.
Connecting the gas cartridge
STOP
CAUTION
When changing the gas adapter ensure the device is switched off and disconnected
from the mains supply, and the gas supply is shut off.

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Removing and changing the gas cartridge
WARNING
Do not remove or replace the gas cartridge unless the gas adapter is connected to the
device and shut off (by turning the black knob in the “OFF” direction until it stops)
The CV 360 gas cartridge is removed and changed as follows:
• The gas adapter should be attached to StarFire XT
• Turn the black knob in the “OFF” direction until the gas is shut off
• Pull the gas cartridge away from the gas adapter (towards the front of the device)
• Push a new gas cartridge into place (see “connecting the gas cartridge” above)
• Fully rotate the knob in the “ON”direction to allow gas to flow.
Getting Started (cont.)
STOP
CAUTION
Do not lift or transport the StarFire XT by the burner head.
CAUTION
After using StarFire XT the burner head will be extremely hot, wait for this to cool
down before removing the burner head.
i
NOTE
When pulling the cartridge from the adapter small amounts of gas may leak out but are
not considered dangerous.
Setting the right flammable mixture
You can adjust the size of the flame by rotating the GAS KNOB on the front of the unit.
Rotating the knob reduces the gas supply and lowers the flame while turning counter
clockwise increases the gas and increases the flame.
You can adjust the flame temperature by rotating the AIR KNOB on the front of the
unit. Rotating the knob reduces the air supply and lowers the flame temperature while
turning counter clockwise increases the air supply and increases the flame temperature.
Connecting the foot switch
The footswitch is an optional accessory (see “Accessories and Spare Parts”on page 21)
• Insert the jack of the footswitch in the socket on the back of the device
(see page 8 for details)
• The foot switch is now connected and can be used to ignite the flame
Removing and attaching the burner head
• Pull the burner head up vertically to remove from base unit
• To reinstall, align the three contact pins with the proper holes and push gently straight
down until it clicks in place

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Switching StarFire XT on and off
• Briefly pressing the MENU button will switch StarFire XT on.
• StarFire XT can be switched off by pressing the MENU button for at least 2 seconds.
• If StarFire XT has not been used for 15 minutes it will switch off automatically to
conserve energy. If desired this can be changed in the settings.
• When StarFire XT is switched on for the
first time a screen will come up asking the
desired language. Use the MENU KNOB to
scroll through the options then press MENU
BUTTON to select. StarFire XT will use this
language unless changed in the SETTINGS menu or the device is reset.
Menu Functions
Rotate the MENU KNOB to scroll through the different operating modes. Select mode
by pushing the knob briefly.
An object passing in front of the
sensor will ignite the flame
Pressing the MENU BUTTON will
ignite the flame
Pressing the optional footswitch will
ignite the flame
Change the general setting
parameters
In several operating modes, pressing the
MENU BUTTON will display adjustable
parameters on a black background.These can
be changed by rotating the MENU KNOB and
confirmed by pressing briefly.
SENSOR operating mode
In SENSOR operating mode, the flame is ignited when an object is passed in front of the
sensor window at a distance less than 5 cm.
CAUTION
For safety reasons, it is highly recommended the SENSOR ACTIVATION is left at
x2 (see “Adjusting the system parameters” on page 15). This will mean that the flame
is only ignited when an object passes in front of the sensor twice is quick succession,
meaning that accidental ignition is extremely unlikely.

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Menu Functions (cont.)
Press the MENU BUTTON to change the duration of the flame (between 1 second and
60 minutes). Rotate the knob to the desired time and press to confirm. While ignited, the
timer on the LCD display will countdown the remaining time.
Parameter Description Range Basic
Setting
Specifying the
burning time of the
flame
1 sec –
60 min 10 s
The flame can be also be extinguished at any time by activating the SENSOR once or
pressing the MENU KNOB.
Sensor OFF switch
If desired, the sensor can be manually switched off to prevent accidental ignition.
The switch can be found on the underside of StarFire XT (see “Bottom View”on
page 8). When this is switched to “0”the LCD will display “OFF” where the timer would
normally be.
Foot Switch Operating Mode
In the FOOTSWITCH operating mode, when the timer is set to “off” (Default setting)
the flame can only be ignited by depressing the footswitch.To extinguish the flame
release the footswitch.
StarFire XT can also be set so that the footswitch will ignite the flame for a pre-defined
time. In FOOTSWITCH mode, press the MENU BUTTON to highlight the timer.
Rotate the MENU KNOB to set the time (between 1 second and 60 minutes). Press
the MENU KNOB to select the desired flame time. Actuate the footswitch to ignite
the flame.The LCD display will show the remaining flame time.The flame can also be
extinguished at any time by actuating the footswitch again, or by pushing the MENU
BUTTON.
Parameter Description Range Basic
Setting
Flame is ignited
by depressing
footswitch
– Off
Setting the burning
time of the flame
1 sec –
60 min Off

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Menu Functions (cont.)
i
NOTE
The maximum burning time is factory-set to 1 minute for safety reasons. This can be
changed in Settings (see “Adjusting the system parameters” below).
Adjusting the system parameters
While in the SETTINGS Menu, you can scroll through the following functions by
rotating the menu knob and then pressing to select the required parameter.
Parameter Description Range Default
Setting
Specifying the
desired language
English
Deutsch
Français
Italiano
Espanol
English
Specify the
maximum burning
time in the
BUTTON operating
mode.
1 – 60
min off 1 min
The device will
automatically shut
down after this
amount of time of
inactivity.
1 – 60
min off 15 min
Changes the level
of sensitivity for the
sensor
Low
High High
Setting how many
times the sensor
must be activated
to ignite flame
(once or twice in
quick succession)
x1
x2
x2
Restores the
default factory
settings.



BUTTON operating mode
In the BUTTON operating mode, pressing the MENU KNOB briefly will ignite and
extinguish the flame.

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To minimize the risks of spilling liquids
into or contaminating burner head, you
may tilt the unit using the folding bracket
located underneath the unit.
To tilt the device, pull the folding stand
away from the base until it clicks into
place.To un-tilt the device, push the
folding stand together gently and rotate
until flat against the base.
Parameter Description Range Default
Setting
Version of firmware
for service
technician
– –
Return to the
operating modes – –
Menu Functions (cont.)
Working with liquids

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Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Warnings and notes are displayed when StarFire detects an error (e.g. burner head
missing or check gas).
If an error is detected StarFire XT automatically extinguishes the flame. Press the MENU
BUTTON to acknowledge the error message.This will return to the last operating mode.
All possible error messages are shown below with the recommended course of action.
Error Message Technical Cause Possible cause and
correction
Flame detect has
not detected a
flame.
The valve is
closed
Gas supply not connected
• Connectagassupply
• Turnonthegassupply
• ReplaceCV360cartridge
(if being used)
Flame detect electrode
broken or dirty
• Visuallyinspectelectrode
• Cleanelectrodewith
alcohol
• Replaceburnerheadif
necessary
Flame was blown out
several times
• Checkthegas/air
mixture
• Preventdraft
The burner head
has not been
detected
Burner head not in place
or inserted correctly
• Insertburnerhead
Contact pin on burner
head is broken or dirty
• Cleanthecontactpin

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Error Message Technical Cause Possible cause and
correction
Temperature in
burner chamber
has exceed a
critical value
The device has
overheated due to
continuous use
• Allowthedevicetocool
down
Ambient temperature too
warm
Reflection of the flame
on the device due to
inappropriate use
Failure of flame
detection
Flame detect electrode is
broken or dirty
• Cleanelectrodeor
replace burner head if
damaged
Troubleshooting (FAQ) (cont.)

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Maintenance, Care and Safety Precautions
Care and Maintenance
WARNING
Allow the burner head to cool down before cleaning, disinfecting, or servicing
StarFire XT. Always switch off and disconnect StarFire XT from the mains power
supply and the gas supply. Allow the device to dry before using it again.
DANGER
Before cleaning the equipment, remove the plug from the power supply. Never use
aggressive solutions such as nitro thinners, etc.
StarFire XT can be cleaned with a soft cloth and most commercial disinfectants. A 70%
ethanol solution can also be used.
The burner head can also be cleaned by following the removal procedure (see page 12)
and cleaning with soap or commercial disinfectants.
Should the burner head fail to ignite you may try using a 70% ethanol solution applied
with a nylon swab to clean the ignition electrode. Once the electrode is bent, however, it
will no longer ignite and must be replaced.