Bibby Sterilin aquatron A4000 User manual

A4000 A8000 & A4000D
Aquatron
Automatic Water Stills
Assembly and
operating instructions

Contents
Location and Services required
for A4000, A8000 and A4000D 1
A4000 Aquatron (4 litre/hr, single distillation) 2
Assembly 3
Operation 5
A8000 Aquatron (8 litre/hr, single distillation) 6
Assembly 7
Operation 9
A4000D Aquatron (4 litre/hr, double distillation) 10
Assembly 11
Operation 13
Distillate collection and reservoir system 14
Connection of Stills to deionisers
and pre-treated water supplies 15
Cleaning Instructions 16
Fault Finding 17
List of Spares 18
Circuit & Wiring Diagrams 19
Limitations of use
This product meets the applicable E.C. harmonised
standards for radio frequency interference and may
be expected not to interfere with, or be affected by
other equipment with similar qualifications. We
cannot be sure that other equipment used in its
vicinity will meet these standards and we cannot
guarantee that interference will not occur in practice.
Where there is a possibility that injury, damage or loss
might occur if equipment malfunctions due to radio
frequency interference, or for general advice before
use, please contact the Technical Service Department
of Bibby Scientific Ltd.
The Aquatron Water Still complies with the
following European Directives:
89/336/EEC - E.M.C. DIRECTIVE
Amended by 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC
73/23/EEC - L.V.D. Amended by 93/68/EEC

1
In order to obtain the optimum
performance from your new Aquatron
careful consideration should be given to
the intended location and the availability
of services such as water, electricity and
drain.
Please study the following notes before
commencing installation.
Before Use
If the equipment is not used in the manner
described in this manual then its
performance and operation will be
impaired.
Aquatron water stills are designed to
operate under the following conditions:
❖For indoor use only.
❖ Ambient temperature +5°C to +40°C.
❖ Altitude up to 2000M.
❖ Relative humidity not exceeding 80%.
❖ Mains supply voltage fluctuates not
greater than ±10% of normal.
❖ Over voltage Category II IEC60364-4-443.
❖ Polluting degree 2 IEC664.
1Bench Wall Mounting
Aquatron models A4000 and A8000
can be either bench or wall mounted
and a bracket is provided for the latter
purpose. A gap of at least 50cm should
be left at the right hand end of the unit
to allow access to the heating
elements.
For reasons of weight, model A4000D
is best bench mounted, but if it is
desired to elevate the unit then a stout
shelf should be used.
2Electricity Supply
N.B. The Aquatron Water Still is
classified as “Permanently
Connected Equipment” and should
be connected to the electricity
supply by a qualified electrician in
the manner described in the
electrical installation section of this
manual.
The Aquatron stills are available in three
models, A4000, A4000D & A8000.
A suitable supply for the A4000 is rated
at 3kW, 220-240v, 50/60Hz~ single
phase. A suitable supply for the
A4000D & A8000 is rated at 6kW, 220-
240v, 50/60Hz~ single phase.
If you have any doubts about the
suitability of your supply, consult a
qualified electrician before installing
your Aquatron still.
3Water Supply
A cold water supply is required for
coolant and feed purposes. This may be
from the mains supply or a header tank
having a flow capacity of at least 1
litre/min. for the A4000 and 2
litres/min. for the A8000 and A4000D.
The pressure range should be within 3-
100 p.s.i. (0.2–7 x 105Nm-2).
If the feed water quality is poor and
likely to contain particulate matter, such
as rust or silt, it is advisable to fit a pre-
filter unit before the still.
4Drain
A waste water drain is required. It is
important that the distance between
the drain and the water still is kept as
short as possible to reduce the
possibility of pressure build-up. Similarly,
the drain pipe from the still should fall
straight, without any kinks or bends, to
allow an unimpeded flow.
5Storage Tank
A suitable reservoir, the WR20 for
instance, is required for the collection
of the distillate. This should be
positioned beneath the still ensuring
that the distillate can flow into the
reservoir without hindrance.
6Maintenance
The location of the still should facilitate
easy access for routine cleaning and
maintenance. With regards to the latter,
it is recommended that a space of at
least 50cm be provided on the right
hand side of the water still cabinet. This
is to allow the removal of the side cover
and replacement of the heating
element.
7Warranty
Bibby Scientific Ltd warrants this
instrument to be free from defects in
material and workmanship, when used
under normal laboratory conditions, for
a period of three (3) years. In the event
of a justified claim Bibby Scientific will
replace any defective component or
replace the unit free of charge.
This warranty does NOT apply if
damage is caused by fire, accident,
misuse, neglect, incorrect adjustment or
repair, damage caused by incorrect
installation, adaptation, modification,
fitting of non approved parts or repair
by unauthorised personnel.
This Warranty does not include the
heater element which is only
garanteed for up to 1000 hours in
use.
Location & Services
A4000, A8000, A4000D

2
28 27 26 25 24
23
22 21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
1Perspex Screen –
2Cabinet –
3Boiler WB4
4Funnel WF48
5Condenser WC48/M2
6Cabinet Roof –
7Wall Mounting Bracket –
8Dummy Shorting Plug –
9Green ‘Mains On’ Indicator –
10 White ‘On/Off’ Switch –
11 Amber ‘Reservoir Full’ Indicator –
12 White ‘Clean’ Switch –
13 Reservoir Pressure Switch Connection –
14 Terminal Strip for Heater Connection 700670(S)
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
15 Water Flow Control Switch WS48/1
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS
17 Cabinet End Plate –
18 Mains Water Inlet with Needle Valve –
19 Distillate Outlet Pipe (Bench Mounted) –
20 Cooling Water Pipe to Drain –
21 Thermostat Glass Tube WTT48
22 Thermostat WT4
23 Thermostat Re-set Button –
24 Distillate Outlet (Wall Mounted) –
25 Boiler Level Control WL48
26 Boiler Plastic Coupling WBC1
27 Heating Element W48H
28 Boiler Retaining Springs –
List of Major Components – A4000
Fig 1: Major component parts A4000

3
A4000 Assembly
3Remove the perspex viewing screen,
item 1 fig. 1 by using the finger recess
to lift the screen out of the lower
cabinet groove, then remove the
internal packaging which has
protected the glass boiler during
transit. Also sever the temporary tie
holding the two boiler retaining
springs, item 28 in place.
4Remove the cabinet end plate, item
17 by unscrewing the six retaining
screws and ‘shake proof washers’.
Similarly, unscrew the six countersunk
screws to remove the cabinet roof.
5Position the condenser WC48/M2 by
mounting it onto the vapour tube of
the boiler with the distillate outlet
tube of the condenser facing to the
front. See fig. 2.
6From the bag of hoses take the 1
metre length of 9mm diameter vinyl
tubing and connect it to the distillate
outlet tube of the condenser. Secure
with a tie strap.
7Pass the free end of the vinyl tubing
through the orifice in:–
i) the cabinet base, item 24, if the
A4000 is to be wall mounted.
ii) the cabinet side, item 19, if bench
mounted.
8Take the 1 metre length of 16mm
tubing and push through the larger of
the three holes, item 20, on the side
of the cabinet. This may be easier if
the tubing is lubricated by wetting it
with water. Continue until the tube
extends approximately 250mm into
the main chamber, roughly level with
the outlet of the condenser.
9Connect the tubing to the outlet of
the level control WL48 and secure
with a tie-strap.
Ensure that the Rotaflo PTFE stopcock
of the WL48 is closed.
10 Couple the WL48 to the boiler
connection arm with the plastic
coupling and rubber sleeve item 26.
Ensure there are no stresses from the
16mm tubing on the connection.
11 Unscrew the black plastic screwcap
form the WL48 and assemble the
glass funnel WF48 – item 4.
12 Looking inside the cabinet, identify
the vinyl tubing assembly fitted with 3
numbered screwthread connectors.
Referring to illustration fig. 2 make
the following connections:–
Connector No. 1 to lower water inlet
of the condenser.
Connector No. 2 to upper water
outlet of the condenser.
Connector No. 3 to boiler level control
WL48.
13 Unscrew the black plastic screwcap,
and rubber ring, form the boiler. Slide
both onto the heating element
(W48H, item 27). Insert the heater
into the boiler ensuring that the end is
supported in the glass nodule of the
boiler.
Do not over-tighten the screwcap
as this may cause the boiler to
break or push the heater in too far
as this may break the nodule.
14 Pass the electric cable of the heater
up into the electrical control
compartment via the available orifice.
Push the spade terminals onto the
correct pins of the connecting strip
(refer to fig. 3).
Fig 3 Termination for A4000
Blue - neutral
Brown - live
Earth - yellow/green
Fig 2
Screw thread
connections
To distillate
reservoir
To drain
Level control
WL48
Condenser
distillate outlet tube
Boiler
coupling
Vent pipe
PCB
Thermostat
Relay
NE
L
Heater
lead
Rubber sleeve
Your Aquatron A4000 has been designed
with ease of assembly specifically in mind,
but before commencing assembly please
study the illustration, fig. 1 on page 2 to
familiarise yourself with the general lay-
out. During assembly, follow the sequence
of instructions and do not connect the
mains electricity supply until directed.
1From the outer packaging remove all
the components including the metal
cabinet containing the glass boiler.
2Before unpacking the individual
components, identify them on the
check-list below.
Item No. Description Catalogue No. Qty.
5Condenser WC48/M2 1
27 Heater W48H 1
25 Boiler Level Control WL48 1
4Funnel WF48 1
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS 1
7Wall Mounting Bracket – 1
–Bag of plastic hoses & tie straps – 1

4
15 Refit the cabinet end panel with all six
screws and washers and the cabinet
roof with all six counter sunk screws.
Replace the perspex viewing screen.
You have now assembled your
Aquatron Water Still. Move the
assembled A4000 to its working
location - using the mounting bracket,
item 7 if the unit is to be wall
mounted. Ensure there is a space of at
least 50cm to the right of the unit to
allow access to the heating element.
16 Connect the cold water supply to the
mains water inlet, item 18, fig. 1.
Note the tubing selected should have
a safe working pressure of at least
equal to the pressure of the water
supply and should be adequately
secured by hose clips.
DO NOT TURN ON WATER SUPPLY.
17 Electrical Installation
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
EARTHED!
The electrical installation should only
be carried out by a qualified
electrician.
The A4000 is classed as permanently
connected equipment.
The equipment is supplied with 1.5m
of flexible, triple core, circular cable to
the following specification:- 1.5mm2,
to BS 6500 or equivalent and <HAR>
or BASEC approved.
Connection to the mains electrical
supply, should be via a double pole
isolation switch with a continuous
current carrying capacity of 15A at
250V and overcurrent protection
should be provided by a double pole
approved fuse rated at 15A.
These devices should be sited near to
the equipment and clearly marked –
“Disconnect device for Aquatron
Water Still“
The colour code for the mains cable
is:–
Brown – Live
Blue – Neutral
Yellow/Green – Earth
Mains Cable Replacement
If the mains cable requires
replacement, only specially prepared
spare mains lead obtained from Bibby
Scientific should be used.
DO NOT SWITCH ON ELECTRICITY
SUPPLY.
18 Connect the reservoir level control
WLS as detailed on page 14 of the
manual.
19 Refer to page 5 for operating
instructions.

5
A4000 Operation
The following instructions apply to the
A4000 water still where the water feed to
the boiler is via the mains supply, or a
header tank.
If the boiler is to be fed with either de-
ionised or pre-treated water, please follow
the instructions on page 15.
1Before switching on either the mains
electricity or water supply, identify the
control switches and indicator lights
on the front of the cabinet.
Green Light
When illuminated this shows that
there is mains supply voltage to the
unit. Under no circumstances should
the cabinet end-panel be removed
when this light is illuminated.
White “On Off” Switch
This is the primary switch for
controlling water and electricity inside
the still. The switch illuminates when
pressed in the ON position.
Amber Light
When illuminated, this indicates that
the distillate collection reservoir is full
as detected by the level control.
White “Clean” Switch
This shuts off the heating element but
allows water to flow into the boiler
when the still is being commissioned
or cleaned. When pressed in the
CLEAN position the switch illuminates.
2Carefully check the following:–
–the appropriate electricity, water
and drain services have been
provided. If in doubt, consult the
LOCATION & SERVICES section on
page 1.
–the ON/OFF switch on the control
panel is in the OFF position.
–the CLEAN switch is pressed in the
CLEAN position.
–the Rotaflo stopcock on the boiler
level control WL48 is closed.
–the Reservoir pressure switch is
fitted to the distillate collection
vessel.
–the dummy shorting plug is fitted
to socket item 8, fig. 1.
3Switch on the electricity supply – the
green indicator light will illuminate.
4Press the ON/OFF switch to the ON
position – the switch will illuminate.
5Recheck that the CLEAN switch is in
the CLEAN position and illuminated.
6Turn on the mains water supply and
using the needle valve item 18 fig. 1
on the side of the cabinet, adjust the
flow rate to approximately 1 litre/min.
Check that there are no water leaks
from the hose connections.
7Observe that the boiler is now filling
with water to cover the heating
element. When the water has reached
the pre-set level, the excess will be
discharged to drain. Check that the
drain water flows freely and does not
“back-up” into the level control.
8Switch the CLEAN button off by
pressing it for a second time – the
switch light goes out.
The heater will start to warm up and
eventually run at a red glow. If the
flow rate is insufficient, then the
heater will not switch on – this will
require the control needle valve to be
opened further. After about 2 to 3
mins. of operation distilled water will
emerge from the outlet pipe, falling
into the collection reservoir.
9To avoid excessive wastage of coolant
water, make further adjustments to
the needle valve. Slowly reduce the
flow-rate until the flow control switch,
item 15, switches off the heaters –
then increase the flow until the power
is restored.
10 Refit the perspex viewing screen.
11 Safety Cut-Outs
All Aquatron water stills are protected
by the following safety devices.
Flow Control Switch (item 15)
monitors the flow of coolant water
into the still and shuts off the heating
element, if the flow is insufficient.
Thermostat Cut-Out (item 22)
In normal operation the water within
the glass will be at 100°C. In single
fault conditions, i.e. in the event of
water supply failure, the content will
increase to 110°C where upon a
resettable thermostat will operate.
Once switched, the thermostat has to
be manually reset. This is achieved by
unscrewing the black knob, fig. 1,
item 23, located inside the cabinet
and pressing the reset button.
Reservoir Control (fig. 11)
is positioned on the collection
reservoir and switches off both the
electricity and water supply when the
reservoir is full of distilled water. The
water supply is only shut off around 7
minutes after the reservoir is full to
allow the heating element to cool.
It is recommended that the operation
of the flow switch and reservoir
control be checked on a regular basis.
a) Simulation of Mains Water
Supply Failure
Turn off the mains water supply at
the tap. This should switch off the
heating element. Turning the tap on
again will switch the heater on.
b) Simulation of Reservoir Full
Condition
Lower the glass pressure bell WPB,
(fig. 11), into the distillate to a
depth of 150mm. This will switch
off the heating element
immediately and the cooling water
after 7 minutes. Raising the bell will
cause both to be re-supplied.
12 Switching Off
Push the CLEAN switch to the ON
position. Wait until the residual heat
contained in the heating element has
dispersed and no boiling is evident.
Turn off water supply. Push ON/OFF
switch to OFF position. Isolate from
mains electricity supply.

6
29 28 27 26 25
24
23 22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
1Perspex Screen –
2Cabinet –
3Boiler WB8
4Funnel WF48
5Condenser (2 off) WC48/M2
6Cabinet Roof –
7Wall Mounting Bracket –
8Dummy Shorting Plug –
9Green ‘Mains On’ Indicator –
10 White ‘On/Off’ Switch –
11 Amber ‘Reservoir Full’ Indicator –
12 White ‘Clean’ Switch –
13 Reservoir Pressure Switch Connection –
14 Terminal Strip for Heater Connection 700670(S)
15 Water Flow Control Switch WS48/2
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS
17 Cabinet End Plate –
18 Mains Water Inlet with Needle Valve –
19 Distillate Outlet Pipe (Bench Mounted) –
20 Cooling Water Pipe to Drain (9mm) –
21 Cooling Water Pipe to Drain (16mm) –
22 Thermostat Glass Tube WTT48
23 Thermostat WT8
24 Thermostat Re-set Button –
25 Distillate Outlet Pipe (Wall Mounted) –
26 Boiler Level Control WL48
27 Boiler Plastic Coupling WBC1
28 Heating Element (2 off) W48H
29 Boiler Retaining Springs –
List of Major Components – A8000
Fig 4: Major component parts A8000

7
A8000 Assembly
3Remove the perspex viewing screen,
item 1 fig. 4 by using the finger recess
to lift the screen out of the lower
cabinet groove, then remove the
internal packaging which has
protected the glass boiler during
transit. Also sever the temporary tie
holding the two boiler retaining
springs, item 29 in place.
4Remove the cabinet end plate, item
17 by unscrewing the six retaining
screws and ‘shake proof washers’.
Similarly, unscrew the six countersunk
screws to remove the cabinet roof.
5Position one of the condensers
WC48/M2 onto the left hand vapour
tube of the boiler with the distillate
outlet tube facing the front. See fig.
5.
6Looking inside the cabinet, identify
the vinyl tubing assembly fitted with 5
numbered screwthread connectors.
Referring to fig. 5 make the following
connections to the assembled
condenser:–
Connect No. 2 to lower water inlet.
Connect No. 4 to upper water outlet.
7Position the second condenser
WC48/M2 onto the right hand vapour
tube of the boiler with the distillate
outlet tube facing the front and make
the following tube connections:–
Connect No. 1 to lower water inlet.
Connect No. 3 to upper water outlet.
8From the bag of hoses, take the 1
metre length of 9mm diameter vinyl
tubing fitted with a ‘T’ piece.
Connect the 180mm length of tubing
from the ‘T’ piece to the distillate
outlet of the condenser on the left-
hand side. Secure with a tie strap and
trim off excess strap length. Connect
the 100mm length of tubing from the
‘T’ piece to the distillate outlet of the
condenser on the right-hand side.
Secure with a tie strap.
9Pass the free end of the vinyl tubing
through
i) the cabinet base, item 25, if the
A8000 is to be wall mounted.
ii) the cabinet side, item 19, if bench
mounted.
10 Take the 1 metre length of 16mm
tubing and push through the larger of
the three holes, item 21, on the side
of the cabinet. This may be easier if
the tubing is lubricated by wetting it
with water. Continue until the tube
extends approximately 250mm into
the main chamber.
11 Connect the tubing to the outlet of
the level control WL48 and secure
with a tie strap.
Ensure that the Rotaflo PTFE stopcock
of the WL48 is closed.
12 Couple the WL48 to the boiler
connection arm with the plastic
coupling and rubber sleeve item 27.
Ensure there are no stresses from the
16mm tubing on the connection.
13 Unscrew the black plastic screwcap
from the WL48 and assemble the
glass funnel WF48 – item 4.
14 Identify the tubing connection No. 5
and make the final connection to the
boiler level control WL48, see fig. 5.
This tubing assembly is also fitted with
a 1 metre length of 9mm vinyl tubing.
Feed the free end of this tube through
the orifice, item 20, in the side of the
cabinet.
15 The tubing assembly is also fitted with
a 1 metre length of 9mm diameter
vinyl tubing. Feed the free end of this
tubing through the orifice, item 20, in
the side of the cabinet.
16 Unscrew the two black plastic
screwcaps, and rubber rings, from the
boiler. Slide both onto the heating
elements, W48H, item 28. Insert the
heaters into the boiler ensuring that
the ends are supported in the glass
nodules of the boiler.
Do not over-tighten the screwcaps
as this may cause the boiler to
break or push the heaters in too
far as this may break the nodule.
Your Aquatron A8000 has been designed
with ease of assembly specifically in mind,
but before commencing assembly please
study the illustration, fig. 4 on page 6 to
familiarise yourself with the general lay-
out. During assembly, follow the sequence
of instructions and do not connect the
mains electricity supply until directed.
1From the outer packaging remove all
the components including the metal
cabinet containing the glass boiler.
2Before unpacking the individual
components, identify them on the
check-list below.
Item No. Description Catalogue No. Qty.
5Condenser WC48/M2 2
28 Heater W48H 2
26 Boiler Level Control WL48 1
4Funnel WF48 1
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS 1
7Wall Mounting Bracket – 1
–Bag of plastic hoses & tie straps – 1
Fig 5
To distillate
reservoir
To drain
Level control
WL48
Condenser
distillate outlet tube
Boiler
coupling
Vent pipe
2
4
3
1
5
Rubber sleeve

8
17 Pass the electric cables of the heaters
up into the electrical control
compartment via the available orifice.
Push the spade terminals onto the
correct pins of the connecting strip
(refer to fig. 6).
18 Refit the cabinet end panel with all six
screws and washers and the cabinet
roof with all six countersunk screws.
Replace the perspex viewing screen.
You have now assembled your
Aquatron Water Still. Move the
assembled A8000 to its working
location – using the mounting
bracket, item 7 if the unit is to be wall
mounted. Ensure there is a space of at
least 50cm to the right of the unit to
allow access to the heating elements.
19 Connect the cold water supply to
connection 18 fig. 4. Note the tubing
selected should have a safe working
pressure of at least equal to the
pressure of the water supply and
should be adequately secured by hose
clips.
DO NOT TURN ON WATER SUPPLY.
20 Electrical Installation
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
EARTHED!
The electrical installation should only
be carried out by a qualified
electrician.
The A8000 is classed as permanently
connected equipment.
The equipment is supplied with 1.5m
of flexible, triple core, circular cable to
the following specification:- 4.0mm2,
to BS 6500 or equivalent and <HAR>
or BASEC approved.
Connection to the mains electrical
supply, should be via a double pole
isolation switch with a continuous
current carrying capacity of 30A at
250v and overcurrent protection
should be provided by a double pole
approved fuse rated at 30A.
These devices should be sited near to
the equipment and clearly marked –
“Disconnect device for Aquatron
Water Still“
The colour code for the mains cable
is:–
Brown – Live
Blue – Neutral
Yellow/Green – Earth
Fig 6 Terminations for A8000
Mains Cable Replacement
If the mains cable requires
replacement, only specially prepared
spare mains lead obtained from Bibby
Scientific should be used.
DO NOT SWITCH ON ELECTRICITY
SUPPLY.
21 Connect the reservoir level control
WLS as detailed on page 14 of the
manual.
22 Refer to page 9 for operating
instructions.
Blue - neutral
Brown - live
Earth - yellow/green
PCB
Thermostat
Relay
Relay
NE
L
Heater
lead
(front)
Heater
lead
(back)

9
The following instructions apply to the
A8000 Aquatron water still where the
water feed to the boiler is via the mains
supply, or a header tank.
If the boiler is to be fed with either de-
ionised or pre-treated water, please follow
the instructions on page 15.
1Before switching on either the mains
electricity or water supply, identify the
control switches and indicator lights
on the front of the cabinet.
Green Light
When illuminated this shows that
there is mains supply voltage to the
unit. Under no circumstances should
the cabinet end-panel be removed
when this light is illuminated.
White “On Off” Switch
This is the primary switch for
controlling water and electricity inside
the still. The switch illuminates when
pressed in the ON position.
Amber Light
When illuminated, this indicates that
the distillate collection reservoir is full
as detected by the level control.
White “Clean” Switch
This shuts off the heating element but
allows water to flow into the boiler
when the still is being commissioned
or cleaned. When pressed in the
CLEAN position the switch illuminates.
2Carefully check the following:–
–the appropriate electricity, water
and drain services have been
provided. If in doubt, consult the
LOCATION & SERVICES section on
page 1.
–the ON/OFF switch on the control
panel is in the OFF position.
–the CLEAN switch is pressed in the
CLEAN position.
–the Rotaflo stopcock on the boiler
level control WL48 is closed.
–the Reservoir pressure switch is
fitted to the distillate collection
vessel.
–the dummy shorting plug is fitted
to socket item 8, fig. 4.
3Switch on the electricity supply – the
green indicator light will illuminate.
4Press the ON/OFF switch to the ON
position – the switch will illuminate.
5Recheck that the CLEAN switch is in
the CLEAN position and illuminated.
6Turn on the mains water supply and
using the needle valve item 18, fig. 4,
on the side of the cabinet, adjust the
flow rate to approximately 2
litres/min.
Check that there are no water leaks
from the hose connections.
7Observe that the boiler is now filling
with water to cover the heating
elements. When the water has
reached the pre-set level, the excess
will be discharged to drain. Check
that the drain water flows freely and
does not “back-up” into the level
control.
8Switch the CLEAN button off by
pressing it for a second time – the
switch light goes out.
The heaters will start to warm up and
eventually run at a red glow. If the
flow rate is insufficient, the heaters
will not switch on – this will require
the needle valve to be opened further.
After about 2 to 3 mins. of operation
distilled water will emerge from the
outlet pipe, falling into the collection
reservoir.
9To avoid excessive wastage of coolant
water, make further adjustments to
the needle valve. Slowly reduce the
flowrate until the flow control switch,
item 15, switches off the heaters –
then increase the flow until the power
is restored.
10 Refit the perspex viewing screen.
11 Safety Cut-Outs
All Aquatron water stills are protected
by the following safety devices.
Flow Control Switch (item 15)
monitors the flow of coolant water
into the still and shuts off the heating
elements, if the flow is insufficient.
Thermostat Cut-Out (item 23)
In normal operation the water within
the glass will be at 100°C. In single
fault conditions, i.e. in the event of
water supply failure, the content will
increase to 110°C where upon a
resettable thermostat will operate.
Once switched, the thermostat has to
be manually reset. This is achieved by
unscrewing the black knob, fig. 4,
item 24, located inside the cabinet
and pressing the reset button.
Reservoir Control (fig. 11)
is positioned on the collection
reservoir and switches off both the
electricity and water supply when the
reservoir is full of distilled water. The
water supply is only shut off around 7
mins. after the reservoir is full to allow
the heating element to cool.
It is recommended that the operation
of the flow switch and reservoir
control be checked on a regular basis.
a) Simulation of Mains Water
Supply Failure
Turn off the mains water supply at
the tap. This should switch off the
heating element. Turning the tap on
again will switch the heater on.
b) Simulation of Reservoir Full
Condition
Lower the glass pressure bell WFB,
fig. 11, into the distillate to a depth
of 150mm. This will switch off the
heating element immediately and
the cooling water after 7 minutes.
Raising the bell will cause both to
be re-supplied.
12 Switching Off
Push the CLEAN switch to the ON
position. Wait until the residual heat
contained in the heating elements has
dispersed and no boiling is evident.
Turn off water supply. Push ON/OFF
switch to OFF position. Isolate from
mains electricity supply.
A8000 Operation

10
29 28 27 26 25
24
23
22 21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
30
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
1Perspex Screen –
2Cabinet –
3Boiler (2 off) WB4
4Funnel WF48
5Condenser (2 off) WC48/M2
6Cabinet Roof –
7Dummy Plug –
8Boiler Level Socket for W4L2A –
9Green ‘Mains On’ Indicator –
10 White ‘On/Off’ Switch –
11 Amber ‘Reservoir Full’ Indicator –
12 White ‘Clean’ Switch –
13 Reservoir Pressure Switch Connection –
14 Terminal Strip for Heater Connection 700670(S)
15 Water Flow Control Switch WS48/2
Item Description Catalogue
no. number
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS
17 Cabinet End Plate –
18 Mains Water Inlet with Needle Valve –
19 Distillate Outlet Pipe –
20 Drain Pipe from W4L2A –
21 Cooling Water Pipe to Drain (9mm) –
22 Cooling Water Pipe to Drain (16mm) –
23 Thermostat Glass Tube WTT48
24 Thermostat WT4
25 Boiler Level Control (rear) W4L2A
26 Thermostat Re-set Button –
27 Boiler Level Control (front) WL48
28 Boiler Plastic Coupling WBC1
29 Heating Element (2 off) W48H
30 Boiler Retaining Springs –
List of Major Components – A4000D
Fig 7: Major component parts A4000D

11
Rubber sleeve
Condenser distillate
outlet tube
Vent
pipe
To W4L2A
level control
WL48
To drain
4
2
5
A4000D Assembly
Your Aquatron A4000D has been designed
with ease of assembly specifically in mind,
but before commencing assembly please
study the illustration, fig. 7 on page 10 to
familiarise yourself with the general lay-
out. During assembly, follow the sequence
of instructions and do not connect the
mains electricity supply until directed.
1From the outer packaging remove all
the components including the metal
cabinet containing the glass boiler.
2Before unpacking the individual
components, identify them on the
check-list below.
3Remove the perspex viewing screen,
item 1 fig. 7 by using the finger recess
to lift the screen out of the lower
cabinet groove, then remove the
internal packing which has protected
the glass boilers during transit. Also
sever the temporary ties holding the
boiler retaining springs, item 30, in
place.
4Remove the cabinet end plate, item
17 by unscrewing the six retaining
screws and ’shake proof washers‘.
Similarly, unscrew the six countersunk
screws to remove the cabinet roof.
5Withdraw the metal thermostat
probe, fig. 7. item 24, from the glass
tube inside the front boiler.
6Remove the front boiler from the
cabinet by releasing the retaining
springs, item 30.
7Mount one of the condensers
WC48/M2 onto the vapour tube of
the rear boiler with the distillate outlet
facing the front. See fig. 8a.
8Select one of the 1metre lengths of
9mm vinyl tubing and connect to the
upper distillate outlet tube of the
condenser. Secure with tie strap. Pass
the free end of the vinyl tubing
through hole, item 19 in the cabinet
side.
9Take the Level Control, W4L2A, item
25 and the other metre length of
9mm tubing. Connect the tubing to
the lower drain outlet of the W4L2A
and secure with tie strap. Feed the
free end of the tubing through the
opening, item 20 in the side of the
cabinet.
10 From the hose pack, take the 300mm
length of vinyl tubing and connect to
the side arm of the W4L2A, securing
with a tie strap. Direct the free end of
the tubing to the front of the cabinet.
11 Using the plastic coupling and rubber
sleeve, item 28, couple the W4L2A to
the boiler connection arm. Ensure that
the Rotaflo Stopcock on the W4L2A is
closed.
12 Connect the 4 pin DIN plug from the
float switch of the W4L2A to the DIN
socket, item 8, fig.7, situated inside
the main chamber of the cabinet.
13 Refit the front boiler into the cabinet
and secure with retaining springs.
14 Fit the remaining condenser onto the
boiler with the distillate outlet at the
front. See fig. 8b.
15 Connect the free end of the 320mm
vinyl tubing (instruction 10 refers) to
the distillate outlet of the front
condenser. Secure with a tie strap.
Fig 8a: Rear
Fig 8a: Front
Vent pipe
W4L2A
From distillate of first condenser
From distillate of first condenser
To drain
To boiler
level
socket
Item No. Description Cat. No. Qty
5Condenser WC48/M2 2
29 Heater W48H 2
27 Boiler Level Control (front) WL48 1
25 Boiler Level Control (rear) W4L2A 1
4Funnel WF48 1
16 Reservoir Level Control WLS 1
–Bag of plastic hoses & tie straps – 1
To drain

12
Blue - neutral
Brown - live
Earth - yellow/green
Fig 9 Terminations for A4000D
PCB
Thermostat
(Rear)
Thermostat
(Front)
Relay
Relay
NE
L
Heater
lead
(front)
Heater
lead
(back)
16 Refit the metal thermostat probe into
glass tube of the boiler.
17 Take the one metre length of 16mm
tubing and insert through the hole,
item 22 in the cabinet side. The
tubing should extend approximately
250mm into the cabinet, roughly level
with the outlet of the condenser.
18 Identify the front boiler level control
WL48, item 27, fig.7, and connect the
outlet to the tubing. Secure with a tie
strap. Ensure that the Rotaflo
Stopcock of the WL48 is closed.
19 Couple the WL48 to the boiler
connection arm with the plastic
coupling and rubber sleeve, item 28.
Ensure there are no stresses from the
16mm tubing on the connection.
20 Looking inside the cabinet, identify
the vinyl tubing assembly fitted with 5
numbered screwthread connectors.
Referring to illustration fig. 8 make
the following connections:–
Connector no. 1 to lower water inlet
of rear condenser.
Connector no. 2 to lower water inlet
of front condenser.
Connector no. 3 to upper water
outlet of rear condenser.
Connector no. 4 to upper water
outlet of front condenser.
Connector no. 5 to front boiler level
control WL48.
21 The tubing assembly is also fitted with
a 1 metre length of 9mm diameter
vinyl tubing. Feed the free end of this
tubing through the opening, item 21,
in the side of the cabinet.
22 Unscrew the black plastic screwcap
from the WL48 and assemble the
glass funnel WF48 – item 4.
23 Unscrew the black plastic screwcap
and rubber ring from the rear boiler.
Slide both onto heating element
W48H – item 29.
24 Assemble the heater into the boiler
ensuring that the far end is supported
in the glass nodule of the boiler.
Note: It is not necessary to over
tighten the screwcap and risk
breaking the glass boiler.
25 Pass the electric cable of the heater
up into the electrical control
compartment via the orifice
available. Push the spade terminals
onto the CORRECT PINS of the
connecting strip (refer to fig. 9).
26 Repeat the operation to fit the second
heating element for the front boiler.
27 Refit the cabinet end panel with all six
screws and washers. Refit cabinet roof
with the six countersunk screws.
28 Refit the perspex viewing panel.
29 Move assembled A4000D to desired
working location. ensure there is a
space of at least 50cm to the right of
the unit to allow access to the heating
elements.
30 Connect the cold water supply to
connection 18 fig. 7.
Note: The tubing selected should
have a safe working pressure at least
equal to the pressure of the water
supply. The tubing should be
adequately secured by hose clips.
DO NOT SWITCH ON.
31 Electrical Installation
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
EARTHED!
The electrical installation should only
be carried out by a qualified
electrician.
The A4000D is classed as permanently
connected equipment.
The equipment is supplied with 1.5m
of flexible, triple core, circular cable to
the following specification:- 4.0mm2,
to BS 6500 or equivalent and <HAR>
or BASEC approved.
Connection to the mains electrical
supply, should be via a double pole
isolation switch with a continuous
current carrying capacity of 30A at
250v and overcurrent protection
should be provided by a double pole
approved fuse rated at 30A.
These devices should be sited near to
the equipment and clearly marked –
“Disconnect device for Aquatron
Water Still“
The colour code for the mains cable
is:–
Brown – Live
Blue – Neutral
Yellow/Green – Earth
Mains Cable Replacement
If the mains cable requires
replacement, only specially prepared
spare mains lead obtained from Bibby
Scientific should be used.
DO NOT SWITCH ON ELECTRICITY
SUPPLY.
32 Connect the reservoir level control
WLS as detailed on page 14 of the
manual.
33 Refer to page 13 for operating
instructions.
Fig 10
W4L2A
Level Control
To boiler level
socket
Guide
tube
Float switch
Distillate feed
from front still
To drain
15 - 20mm

13
The following instructions apply to the
A4000D double distillation stills where the
water feed to the first stage boiler is either
via the mains supply or a header tank.
If it is desired to feed the first stage boiler
with deionised or pre-treated water to
obviate cleaning, then the instructions on
page 15 should be followed.
1Before switching ON either mains
electricity or water supply, identify the
control switches and indicator lights
on the front of the cabinet.
Green Light
When illuminated this shows there is
mains supply voltage within the unit.
In no circumstances should the
cabinet end-panel be removed when
this light is illuminated.
White “On/Off” Switch
The primary switch for controlling
water and electricity inside the still.
The switch illuminates when pressed
in the ON position.
Amber Light
When illuminated, this indicates that
the distillate collection reservoir is full,
as detected by the level control.
White “Clean” Switch
This shuts off the heating elements
but allows water to flow into the
boiler. Used for filling the boiler on
commissioning and cleaning purposes.
The switch illuminates when pressed
in the ‘ON’ position.
2Carefully check the following:–
–That the appropriate electricity,
water and drain services have been
provided. If in doubt,– consult the
“Location and Services” notes on
page 1.
–Water still ON/OFF switch is in the
OFF position.
i.e. – switch should not be pressed
and should not illuminate.
–Water still CLEAN switch is in the
ON position.
–The Rotaflo stopcock on the front
boiler level control WL48 is closed.
–The float switch on the second
stage boiler level control W4L2A is
set at the factory. However, check
that this has not been disturbed
during transit. A rough check is that
the distance from the top of the
large screw cap of the W4L2A to
the top of the glass guide tube
should be approximately 15-20mm
see fig. 10.
–The dummy shorting plug is fitted
to socket item 7, fig. 7.
3Switch on the electricity supply.
(Note: the green indicator light will
illuminate).
4Press the ON/OFF switch to the ON
position (switch will illuminate).
5Re-check that the Clean switch is in
the ‘ON’ position (switch will
illuminate).
6Turn on the mains water supply and
using the needle valve, item 18, fig. 7,
on the side of the cabinet, adjust the
flow rate to approximately 2
litres/minute.
Check there are no water leaks from
the hose connectors.
7Observe that the front boiler is now
filling with water to cover the heating
elements. When the water has
reached the pre-set level excess will be
discharged to drain. Check that the
drain water flows freely and does not
“back-up” into the level control.
8Press the Clean button to ‘OFF’
position. (Switch light should go out).
The heater on the front boiler should
start to warm up and eventually run
with a red glow. After a short time
distilled water will emerge from the
outlet pipe item. This should feed into
the empty rear boiler via the level
control W4L2A.
9Allow the rear boiler to fill with single
distilled water (for approx. 20 to 30
minutes), keeping an eye on the level.
Note that the heater of the second
stage only comes on when the level of
single distilled water in the rear boiler
is at about the equator. It may be
necessary to adjust the level of the
float switch of the WL42A to achieve
this condition. Refer to fig. 10.
Lifting the guide tube increases the
level at which the heating element
will switch on.
Lowering the guide tube decreases
the level at which the element will
switch on.
Double distilled water ultimately flows
from outlet pipe, item 19. This should
fall away from the still with no kinks,
restrictions or U bends.
10 To avoid excessive wastage of coolant
water, make further adjustments to
the needle valve, item 18. Slowly
reduce the flowrate until the flow
control, item 15, switches off the
heaters - then increase the flow until
the power is restored.
11 Safety Cut-Outs
All Aquatron water stills are protected
by the following safety devices.
Flow Control Switch (item 15)
monitors the flow of coolant water
into the still and shuts off the heating
elements, if the flow is insufficient.
Thermostat Cut-Out (item 24)
In normal operation the water within
the glass will be at 100°C. In single
fault conditions, i.e. in the event of
water supply failure, the content will
increase to 110°C where upon a
resettable thermostat will operate.
Once switched, the thermostat has to
be manually reset. This is achieved by
unscrewing the black knob, fig. 7,
item 26, located inside the cabinet
and pressing the reset button.
Reservoir Control (fig. 11)
is positioned on the collection
reservoir and switches off both the
electricity and water supply when the
reservoir is full of distilled water. The
water supply is only shut off around 7
mins. after the reservoir is full to allow
the heating elements to cool.
It is recommended that the operation
of the flow switch and reservoir
control be checked on a regular basis.
a) Simulation of Mains Water
Supply Failure
Turn off the mains water supply at
the tap. This should switch off the
heating element. Turning the tap on
again will switch the heaters on.
b) Simulation of Reservoir Full
Condition
Lower the glass pressure bell WFB,
fig. 11, into the distillate to a depth
of 150mm. This will switch off the
heating element immediately and
the cooling water after 7 minutes.
Raising the bell will cause both to
be re-supplied.
12 Switching Off
Push the CLEAN switch to the ON
position. Wait until the residual heat
contained in the heating elements has
dispersed and no boiling is evident.
Turn off water supply. Push ON/OFF
switch to OFF position. Isolate from
mains electricity supply.
A4000D Operation

14
Each Aquatron water still is supplied with a
RESERVOIR LEVEL CONTROL, WLS, fig. 11.
This automatically switches off the heating
elements and coolant water supply when
the distillate collection reservoir is filled
with distilled water.
Note that, the control is fitted with a
‘delay timer’ which switches off the
coolant water supply approximately 7
minutes after the heating elements. This is
to allow time for the heaters to cool and
for boiling to cease.
The control also automatically switches on
the heating elements and coolant water
supply when the level of distillate in the
collection reservoir falls.
It is possible to fit the glass pressure bell of
the control to most types of reservoir and
container by means of a metal clip WFC/1
which is provided.
Alternatively, Bibby Scientific offer a
purpose designed reservoir collection
system WR20 fitted with a special adapter
to hold the bell, see fig. 12.
Fitting the Reservoir Control WLS to
Collection Vessels
1Position the distillate collection
reservoir in a suitable location. This
should be below the water still so that
the vinyl rubber tubing transporting
the distilled water from the still can
fall down to the reservoir without
restrictions, kinks or U bends.
2Take the Reservoir Level Control WLS
and connect the free end of the
rubber tubing to the nozzle, item 13,
of the reservoir pressure switch
located on the side of the cabinet.
3Use the metal clip to fit the glass
pressure bell inside the distillate
collection reservoir. Refer to fig. 11.
4Position the bell so that the open end
is 140mm below the desired distillate
level.
Bibby Scientific offer a purpose designed
reservoir system for the collection of
distilled water from your Aquatron.
This comprises:–
WR20 – 20 litre Pyrex glass reservoir
complete with Rotaflo stop-cock
and special lid.
WS20 – Reservoir stand, 43cm high for
use with WR20.
The lid of the reservoir has a side arm for
connection to the distillate feed from the
Aquatron and a vent fitted with a
bacteriological filter to maintain the purity
of the water. A screwthread fitting is also
provided to support the Reservoir Level
Control WLS.
Location & Assembly
1Locate the reservoir in a position
which is below the level of the water
still.
2Fit the Rotaflo drain cock to the
lower ground glass socket of the
reservoir and secure with the plastic
joint clip.
3Take the bacteriological filter and
connect this to the top of the glass
feed-pipe using the vinyl tubing
provided. Fit the feed pipe and filter
into the reservoir lid via the large
screwcap fitting.
4Fit the Reservoir Level Control WLS to
the lid via the small screwcap fitting.
Note that the stem of the glass
pressure bell should extend
approximately 50mm above the
screwcap (see illustration).
5Place the assembled lid into the
socket of the reservoir.
6Take the rubber tubing from the
reservoir level control WLS and
connect to the small plastic nozzle,
item 13, on the side of the water still
cabinet.
7Take the vinyl plastic tubing from the
distillate outlet of the water still and
connect to the side-arm of the feed
pipe on the reservoir lid. Ensure that
the tubing falls down to the reservoir
without any restrictions, kinks or U
bends.
Distillate Collection
A4000, A8000,
A4000D
Reservoir System
WR20 & WS20
Fig 11
WLS Reservoir level control
140mm
Fig 12
Reservoir WR20 and Stand WS20
To pressure switch
(Item 13 on Aquatron)
Distillate
from
Aquatron
50mm
WLS

15
Connection of
Aquatron stills to
deionised and
pre-treated water
supplies
Many laboratories prefer to feed their
water stills with deionised or pre-treated
water to obviate the need for boiler
cleaning and de-scaling.
Your new Aquatron can be easily
converted to deionised water-feed by use
of a simple accessory – the WATER FEED
CONVERSION KIT, Catalogue No. WCK/N.
This kit permits the still to operate with
most types of deioniser and also piped
supplies of pre-treated water. Please
contact Bibby Scientific or your laboratory
trade house for ordering and price
information.
The sequence of operations to fit the
WCK/N is detailed below:–
1Assemble the Aquatron as described
under the relevant ASSEMBLY
instructions.
A4000 refer to page 3
A8000 refer to page 7
A4000D refer to page 11
2Ensure the unit is isolated from the
mains electricity supply.
3Remove the perspex viewing screen,
the cabinet end-panel and the cabinet
roof.
4Lift out the front switch panel from
the cabinet groove by unscrewing the
counter sunk screw at the top of the
panel. This will allow better access to
the plumbing system.
5Identify the length of 9mm vinyl
tubing which connects the side arm of
the Boiler Level Control WL48 and the
outlet of the Water Flow Control
Switch (WS48/1 or WS48/2). Remove
the tubing by unscrewing the plastic
screwthread connector from the
WL48 and then severing the tie strap
on the Flow Switch.
6From the Water Feed Conversion Kit
WCK/N, take the 1 metre length of
9mm vinyl tubing. Push one end of
the tubing onto the OUTLET of the
Water Flow Control Switch, and
secure with a tie-strap.
7Push the free end of the tubing
through the vacant orifice in the side
of the cabinet and lead to the drain.
8Take the 220mm length of reinforced
plastic tubing from the WCK/N kit.
Connect the free-end to the nozzle of
the solenoid valve, item 1, fig 13.
Secure with metal hose clip. Fit the
other end of the tubing to the side
arm of the Level Control WL48, item
3, using the screwthread connector.
9Refit the front switch panel and
secure with screw.
10 Take the plastic screwcap, hose
connector and rubber ring from the
WCK/N kit. Fit to the deionised water
inlet, item 2, fig. 13, having first
removed the red protective cap.
11 Unscrew the screwcap, item 4, fig. 13,
from the Level Control WL48. Remove
the glass funnel WF48 and the rubber
ring which are no longer required.
12 Take the glass float, guide tube and
washer assembly, item 5, and pass the
electric lead and plug through the
hole in the screwcap. Carefully push
the washer into the cap.
13 Refit the screwcap and float assembly
to the Level Control WL48 ensuring
that the end of the guide tube locates
in the well at the base.
14 Remove the dummy shorting plug
from the socket item, 6, fig. 13, and
fit the plug from the Float Switch.
15 Replace the cabinet end-plate and
roof.
16 Connect the hose connector, item 2,
of the deionised water inlet to the
outlet of the deioniser or pre-treated
water supply. Note the tubing selected
should have a safe working pressure
of at least equal to the pressure of the
water supply and should be
adequately secured with hose clips.
1Before switching on either the mains
electricity or water supply, identify the
control switches and indicator lights
on the front of the cabinet.
Green Light
When illuminated this shows that
there is mains supply voltage to the
unit. Under no circumstances should
the cabinet end-panel be removed this
light is illuminated.
White ‘ON/Off’ Switch
This is the primary switch for
controlling water and electricity inside
the still. The switch illuminates when
pressed in the ON position.
Amber Light
When illuminated this indicates that
the distillate collection reservoir is full
as detected by the level control.
White ‘Clean’ Switch
This shuts off the heating element but
allows water to flow into the boiler
when the still is being commissioned
or cleaned. When pressed in the
CLEAN position the switch illuminates.
2Carefully check the following:–
–the appropriate electricity, water
and drain services have been
provided. If in doubt, consult the
LOCATION AND SERVICES section
on page 1.
–the ON/OFF switch on the control
panel is in the OFF position.
–the CLEAN switch is pressed in the
CLEAN position.
–the Rotaflo Stopcock on the boiler
level control WL48 is closed.
–the Reservoir pressure switch is
fitted to the distillate collection
vessel.
–the dummy shorting plug has been
removed from it’s socket and
replaced with the lead from the
WCK/N.
Operation
Fig 13 Conversion to deionised or pre-treated water supply
Deioniser or
pre-treated water supply
3
2
1
6
45

16
3Switch on the electricity supply – the
green indicator light will illuminate.
4Press the ON/OFF switch to the ON
position – the switch will illuminate.
5Recheck that the CLEAN switch is in
the CLEAN position and illuminated.
6Turn on the mains water supply and
using the needle valve on the side of
the cabinet, adjust the flow rate to
approximately 1 Litre/Min. for A4000
and 2 Litres/Min. for A8000 and
A4000D. Ensure that the mains water
flows to drain without any restriction.
7Turn on the supply of deionised or
pre-treated water. Observe that
deionised water enters the boiler via
the float system of the WCK/N.
8Allow deionised water to flow into
the boiler until the heating element(s)
is covered by approximately 10mm. At
this level the flow of deionised water
into the boiler should be automatically
cut off by the WCK/N float system.
9Switch off the CLEAN button by
pressing it for a second time – the
switch light goes out.
The heater(s) will start to warm up
and eventually run at a red glow. (If
heater fails to glow, check that the
flow of mains water is adequate).
10 Allow distillation to commence and
observe that the WCK/N float system
allows fresh deionised water to enter
the boiler and maintain a satisfactory
operating level.
If the deionised supply fails then the
WCK/N will switch off the heater until
it is restored.
11 Replace the perspex viewing screen.
When any of the Aquatron stills have been
used to produce distilled water directly
from a mains water supply, there will
inevitably be a build-up of scale in the
boiler and on the heating element(s). To
obtain optimum performance from the still
the scale should be removed on a regular
basis. The time span between cleaning
depends entirely upon the hardness of the
water supply. In very hard water areas it
may be necessary to clean the still once a
week, whereas in soft water areas several
weeks may elapse before cleaning is
necessary.
It should not, of course, be necessary to
de-scale the second stage boiler on the
A4000D or when the stills have been
operated from a de-ioniser.
Cleaning the still involves the use of
concentrated hydrochloric acid. As a safety
precaution protective clothing, gloves,
mask and goggles should be worn during
cleaning.
Note:
The cabinet and perspex screen should be
cleaned using a dilute detergent solution
only.
It is possible to descale the Aquatron
Water Still without dismantling the
glassware by following these instructions
in conjunction with Control of Substances
Hazardous to Health regulations (COSHH)
1988.
Method
1Push the CLEAN switch to the CLEAN
position – the switch illuminates.
2Observe that the heating element/s
has switched off. Allow boiling to stop
and water to cool.
3Push ON/OFF switch to OFF position.
4Remove perspex screen.
5Open the Rotaflo stopcock on the
level control WL48, allow the boiler to
empty to 3/4’s of its full capacity, and
close stopcock.
6Carefully add about 100ml. of
concentrated hydrochloric acid into
the glass funnel of the WL48.
7Push the ON/OFF switch to the ON
position, the boiler will refill to its
operating level.
8Push the ON/OFF switch to the OFF
position.
9Allow the chemical reaction within the
boiler to continue until all the deposits
have been removed.
Note – if scale has built up above the
operating level, the boiler may be
completely filled by either lifting the
drain pipe or restricting the flow of
water to drain. This operation must be
carefully controlled so that the boiler
does not over-fill and cause water to
be forced over the funnel top.
10 Open Rotaflo stopcock and allow
contents of the boiler to drain
completely.
Note:
If the acid added to the boiler has not
been completely neutralised, the
liquid flowing to drain may be
strongly acid. Necessary safety
precautions should be observed
around the drain position, and any
effluent control procedures followed.
11 Close Rotaflo stopcock.
12 Push ON/OFF switch to ON position
and allow boiler to fill with water.
Again the boiler may be completely
filled by following procedure detailed
in step 8.
13 Push ON/OFF switch to OFF position.
14 Drain the boiler by opening the
Rotaflo stopcock.
15 Repeat steps 11-14 two or three times
until the boiler has been thoroughly
flushed through.
16 The still is re-started by finishing the
cleaning cycle at step 12, and then
pushing the CLEAN switch to the OFF
position. (Switch is not illuminated).
Before collecting the distillate the still
should be allowed to run for about 10
minutes with the distillate running to
drain, this will ensure that any residual
acid is removed.
Note:
The amount of acid required will
depend upon the degree of scaling.
If after performing the cleaning cycle
deposits are left in the boiler, it may
be necessary to repeat the cleaning
cycle using a fresh quantity of acid.
The benefits gained from regular
cleaning cannot be over emphasised.
Cleaning
A4000, A8000,
A4000D

17
In the event of operating difficulties with
your Aquatron it is suggested that the
following basic checks are made. (Please
note that these checks should only be
carried out by suitably qualified
personnel).
If these checks fail to identify and remedy
the problem then you are advised to seek
the help of your supplier or the Technical
Services Department of Bibby Scientific Ltd.
1Unit completely inoperative –
No mains green indicator light on
Check the electricity supply to the
Aquatron and ensure that a fuse has
not blown at the plug or supply fuse
board. (This check should be
conducted by a QUALIFIED
ELECTRICIAN).
2Heater(s) not on –
Mains green indicator light on
water flowing
a) Check the Aquatron switches are in
the correct mode, i.e.:
ON/OFF switch is in the ON
position.
CLEAN switch is in the OFF position.
Check that the Reservoir indicator
light is NOT illuminated and
indicating a full collection reservoir.
b) Check that the 15 amp fuses,
located inside the electrical
chamber of the cabinet, have not
blown. (This check should be
conducted by a QUALIFIED
ELECTRICIAN).
c) Check that the flow of cooling
water is sufficient.
A4000 requires a flowrate of at
least 1 litre/min.
A8000, A4000D requires a flowrate
of at least 2 litres/min.
If the flowrate is NOT sufficient
then:–
Check the mains water supply is
turned on.
Check the needle valve on the
right-hand side of the cabinet is
open.
Check the water inlet filter is not
blocked (see note 8).
Check the flow of water is not
impeded by blockages or
restrictions.
3Heater(s) not on –
Water not flowing
Mains green indicator light on
Check that the thermostat has not
operated. Confirm this by pressing the
thermostat reset button located inside
the main chamber of the cabinet.
If the thermostat has cut-out then the
cause should be identified at once.
Check that the boiler contains
sufficient water.
Check that the plumbing connections
are not leaking.
Check that the stopcock on the boiler
level control WL48 is closed.
4Heater in second stage boiler of
A4000D not on
Check the setting of the boiler level
control W4L2A. See page 12 for
details.
Check thermostat has not operated.
See notes under 3.
5Water level in boiler too high –
Choking of condenser
Check that the flow of water into the
boiler is not excessive. Control flow by
adjusting needle valve on right-hand
side of cabinet.
Check that the coolant water drain
pipe falls away from the Aquatron
without restrictions or U bends.
If level of water in the second stage
boiler of model A4000D is too high,
then:–
Check setting of the float switch in
boiler level control W4L2A. See page
12 for details.
6Distillate quality low –
Check the condition of the boiler and
clean if heavily scaled.
7Distillate collection reservoir
floods –
Check the location of the Reservoir
level control WLS inside the reservoir.
See page 13 for details.
Check that the WLS pipe connections
between the glass bell and Aquatron
are secure and air tight.
8Cleaning blocked water filters
Your Aquatron is fitted with a built-in
water filter to prevent the ingress of
particulate matter into the plumbing
system.
The filter can be examined and
cleaned if necessary by unscrewing
the black plastic screwcap which
secures the needle valve, item 18, to
the right-hand side of the cabinet.
A similar filter is also incorporated on
the same side of the cabinet for use
with pre-treated water supplies.
Access is via the black screwcap which
secures the hose nozzle.
Fault Finding
A4000, A8000,
A4000D
Additional checks
for Aquatrons fed
with deionised or
pre-treated water
a) Boiler does not fill –
Check that supply of pre-treated
water is switched on.
Check input water filter on side of
cabinet is not blocked (see note 8).
Check Water Feed Conversion Kit
WCK/N is correctly fitted and
adjusted. See page 14 for details.
b) Heater(s) not on –
Check water level in boiler is above
the heating element.
Check Water Feed Conversion Kit
WCK/N is correctly fitted and
adjusted. See page 14 for details.

18
List of Spares
Catalogue no.
Boiler for A4000, A4000D WB4
Boiler for A8000 WB8
Boiler plastic coupling WBC1
Boiler Level Control WL48
Boiler level control for A4000D rear boiler W4L2A
Float switch for W4L2A X/6I/B595264
Condenser WC48/M2
Electric fuse, 15 amp, HRC W15F
Funnel WF48
Heater W48H
Hose assembly for A4000 WH48/1
Hose assembly for A8000 WH48/2
Hose assembly for A4000D WH48/3
Printed circuit board WPCB/M3
O ring (lower) for vapour tube QR38/24
O ring (upper) for vapour tube WB48/01
Reservoir assembly complete WR20
Components:–
20 litre glass reservoir 1569/22
Bacteriological filter WR20/01
Lid/adapter WR20/02
Feed pipe WR20/03
Stopcock WR20/04
Stopcock retaining clip KC29
Reservoir metal stand WS20
Reservoir Level Control WLS
Reservoir pressure switch WPS
Rubber ring for heating element QR38/24
Rubber ring for thermostat QR18/10
Rubber rings for reservoir lid QR18/10 & QR28/18
Screwcap for heating element QC38/25
Screwcap for thermostat QC18/11
Screwcaps for reservoir lid QC18/11 & QC28/21
Screwthread connectors for hose assemblies 4510/02
Solenoid valve WSV
Thermostat for A4000 & A4000D WT4
Thermostat for A8000 WT8
Thermostat glass tube WTT48
Water Feed Conversion kit WCK/N
Float switch for WCK/N WCK/01N
Water Flow Control Switch for A4000 WS48/1
Water Flow Control Switch for A8000 & A4000D WS48/2