BRONKHORST LIQUI-FLOW L30 User manual

Instruction manual
General instructions digital
Mass Flow instrument
LIQUI-FLOW L30
Doc. no.: 9.17.044C Date: 05-02-2010
ATTENTION
Please read this instruction manual carefully before installing and operating the instrument.
Not following the guidelines could result in personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 2 9.17.044
SCOPE OF THIS MANUAL
This manual covers the general part of digital LIQUI-FLOW L30 mass flow instruments
for liquids. It treats the general instructions needed for the instruments.
More information can be found in other documents.
Multibus instruments have modular instruction manuals consisting of:
-General instructions digital LIQUI-FLOW L30
(document nr. 9.17.044)
-Operation instructions digital instruments (document nr. 9.17.023)
-Fieldbus/interface description:
-FLOW-BUS Interface (document nr. 9.17.024)
-PROFIBUS-DP Interface (document nr. 9.17.025)
-DeviceNet Interface (document nr. 9.17.026)
-RS232 Interface with FLOW-BUS protocol (document nr. 9.17.027)
-Modbus interface (9.17.035) special request

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 3
The information in this manual has been reviewed and is
believed to be wholly reliable. No responsibility, however, is
assumed for inaccuracies. The material in this manual is for
information purposes only, and is subject to change without
notice.
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V.
February 2008
Warranty
The products of Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. are warranteed
against defects in material and workmanship for a period of
three years from the date of shipment provided they are
used in accordance with the ordering specifications and not
subjected to abuse or physical damage. Products that do not
operated properly during this period may be repaired or
replaced at no charge. Repairs are normally warranteed for
one year or the balance of the original warranty, whichever is
the longer.
See also paragraph 9 of the Conditions of Sales.
The warranty includes all initial and latent defects, random
failures, and indeterminable internal causes.
It excludes failures and damage caused by the customer,
such as contamination, improper electrical hook-up, dropping
etc.
Re-conditioning of products primarily returned for warranty
service that is partly or wholly judged non-warranty may be
charged for.
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. prepays outgoing freight charges
when any part of the service is performed under warranty,
unless otherwise agreed upon beforehand, however, if the
product has been returned collect to Bronkhorst High-Tech
B.V., these costs are added to the repair invoice. Import
and/or export charges, foreign shipping methods/carriers are
paid for by the customer.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 4 9.17.044
Short-Form Operation Instruction
Before installing your Mass Flow Meter/Controller it is important to
read the attached label and check:
- Flow/pressure rate
- Fluid to be measured
- Up- and downstream pressures
- Input/output signal
Check the red-coloured sticker and make sure the test-pressure is
in agreement with normal safety factors for your application.
Check if the piping system is clean. For absolute cleanliness
always install filters to assure a clean liquid stream.
Install the LIQUI-FLOW L30 Meter/Controller in the line and
tighten the fittings according to the instructions of the supplier of
the fittings.
Choose the mounting position according to the directions given in
this manual.
Check the system for leaks before applying fluid pressure.
Electrical connections must be made according to the hook-up
diagram in the back of this manual.
Short form start-up
Install instrument in your process.
Provide instrument with correct pressure(s).
Connection analog operation
Connect the instrument to the power supply/readout unit with the
9-pin cable at the circular connector.
Connection BUS/digital operation
For this procedure: see description for specific fieldbus.
(General) Operation
Let the instrument warm-up for 30 minutes for best accuracy.
Send a setpoint to the instrument and check the measured output
signal.
Your Mass Flow Meter/Controller is now ready for operation.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................ 6
1.1 General description ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.1.1 Liquid flow .................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1.2 Housing........................................................................................................................................ 6
1.1.3 Valves........................................................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Sensor principles................................................................................................................................. 7
1.2.1 LIQUI-FLOW L30 sensor............................................................................................................. 7
1.3 Valve principles ................................................................................................................................... 8
1.3.1 Solenoid valve.............................................................................................................................. 8
1.3.2 Bellow valve ................................................................................................................................. 8
1.4 Liquid conversion factors..................................................................................................................... 9
1.5 Software for physical properties of gases and liquids. ........................................................................ 9
2INSTALLATION........................................................................................................................................ 10
2.1 Receipt of equipment ........................................................................................................................ 10
2.2 Return shipment................................................................................................................................ 10
2.3 Service............................................................................................................................................... 10
2.4 Mounting............................................................................................................................................ 10
2.5 Fluid/gas connections........................................................................................................................ 10
2.6 Piping................................................................................................................................................. 11
2.7 Electrical connections........................................................................................................................ 11
2.8 Pressure testing ................................................................................................................................ 11
2.9 Supply pressure................................................................................................................................. 11
2.10 System purging.............................................................................................................................. 11
2.11 Seals.............................................................................................................................................. 11
2.12 Equipment storage......................................................................................................................... 11
2.13 Electromagnetic compatibility........................................................................................................ 12
2.14 Electro static discharge.................................................................................................................. 12
3OPERATION ............................................................................................................................................ 13
3.1 General.............................................................................................................................................. 13
3.2 Power and warm-up .......................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Start-up.............................................................................................................................................. 14
3.4 Operating conditions.......................................................................................................................... 14
3.5 Instrument performance.................................................................................................................... 14
3.5.1 Meters ........................................................................................................................................ 14
3.5.2 Controllers.................................................................................................................................. 14
3.6 Manual operation............................................................................................................................... 14
3.7 Analog operation ............................................................................................................................... 15
3.8 BUS / digital operation....................................................................................................................... 16
4MAINTENANCE........................................................................................................................................ 17
4.1 General.............................................................................................................................................. 17
4.2 LIQUI-FLOW L30 sensor .................................................................................................................. 17
4.3 Controllers......................................................................................................................................... 17
4.4 Control valves.................................................................................................................................... 17
4.4.1 Solenoid valves.......................................................................................................................... 17
4.4.2 Bellows valve.............................................................................................................................. 18
4.5 Kv-value calculation ........................................................................................................................... 18
4.6 Calibration procedure........................................................................................................................ 18
5DIGITAL INSTRUMENT........................................................................................................................... 19
6INTERFACE DESCRIPTION.................................................................................................................... 19
7TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................................................. 20
7.1 General.............................................................................................................................................. 20
7.2 Troubleshooting summary general.................................................................................................... 20
Appendices
1 Enclosures (if applicable)
2 Hook-up diagram
3 Calibration certificate

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 6 9.17.044
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 General description
1.1.1 Liquid flow
The Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. series LIQUI-FLOW L30 meter/controller for liquids is an accurate device for
measuring liquid flows from 2 kg/h up to 20 kg/h with pressures up to 400 bar depending on body rating,
virtually independent of pressure and temperature changes. The system can be completed with a control
valve and flexible readout unit to measure and control liquid flows.
1.1.2 Housing
Each instrument housing style incorporates several provisions to comply with EMC requirements.
Meter housing
Controller housing with C5 valve

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9.17.044 page 7
1.1.3 Valves
LIQUI-FLOW L30 controllers are fitted with a modular valve. The valve is attached by means of a port
connector.
Valves for liquids
C2 valve
Direct operating valve for liquids
(“open” sleeve) metal sealed with
purge connector.
C2 valve = normally closed
C4 valve
Direct operating valve for gases and
liquids. (bellow)
C4 valve = Normally closed.
C5 valve
Direct operating valve for liquids
(“open” sleeve) metal sealed.
C5 valve = normally closed
1.2 Sensor principles
1.2.1 LIQUI-FLOW L30 sensor
Measuring Principle
The LIQUI-FLOW model for flowrates up to about 20kg/h is basically a straight pipe. On this pipe a
configuration of sensors and heaters is placed. The heater temperature is maintained at a certain level above
the incoming liquid temperature.
The power needed to maintain this temperature while the fluid is flowing is measured.
Furthermore the output temperature downstream, at a certain distance from the heater is measured, resulting
in the delta-T signal (Tout -Tin).
By combining the two signals, the transfer function of the instrument can e descried according to the following
equation:
mpsignal cK
T
Power
VΦ⋅⋅
∆
=
Vsignal = output signal
cp= specific heat
Φm = mass flow

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 8 9.17.044
1.3 Valve principles
Control valves are not designed to provide positive shut-off, although some models have excellent
capabilities for this purpose.
It is recommended to install a separate shut-off valve in the line if required. Also pressure surges, as may
occur during system pressurisation must be avoided. The following models can be distinguished:
1.3.1 Solenoid valve This is considered to be the standard (direct operated) control valve. In
general it is a normally closed solenoid valve. The plunger is lifted by the
force of the magnetic field of the coil. The orifice under the plunger is
removable for optimising the orifice diameter. Also a normally opened
solenoid valve is available.
1.3.2 Bellow valve
This valve type is a direct driven, low power, solenoid operated control valve. A special design, incorporating
a metal bellow allows for a relatively large orifice opening to be controlled. The design is suited for low
pressure or vacuum applications.
Flow control
valve

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 9
1.4 Liquid conversion factors
The general formula for determining the relationship between signal and mass flow reads:
Vkc
signal p m
=⋅ ⋅Φ
in which: Vsignal = output signal
k = calibration constant
cp= heat capacity at constant pressure of the fluid
Φm= mass flow
A conversion factor must be used if the liquid flow meter is not used on the calibrated liquid.
This conversion factor reads:
12 mm Cf Φ⋅=Φ Cf c
cp1
p2
=
in which: cp1 = heat capacity of the calibration liquid
cp2 = heat capacity of the new liquid
For application of this formula consult Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V.
1.5 Software for physical properties of gases and liquids.
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. gathered the physical properties of over 600 fluids in a database called
FLUIDAT.
Application software, such as FLUIDATon the Net (FOTN), enable the user to calculate accurate
conversion factors, not only at 20°C/1 atm, but at any temperature/pressure combination.
Apply to your distributor for more details of this software.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 10 9.17.044
2 INSTALLATION
2.1 Receipt of equipment
Check the outside packing box for damage incurred during shipment. Should the packing box be damaged,
then the local carrier must be notified at once regarding his liability, if so required. At the same time a report
should be submitted to: BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
RUURLO HOLLAND
If applicable, otherwise contact your distributor.
Remove the envelope containing the packing list; carefully remove the equipment from the packing box.
Do not discard spare or replacement parts with the packing material and inspect the contents for damaged or
missing parts.
2.2 Return shipment
When returning material, always describe the problem and if possible the work to be done, in a covering
letter.
It is absolutely required to notify the factory if toxic or dangerous fluids have been metered with the
instrument!
This to enable the factory to take sufficient precautionary measures to safe-guard the staff in their repair
department. Take proper care of packaging. If possible use the original packing box. Seal instrument in
plastic etc.
Contaminated instruments must be dispatched with a completely filled in 'declaration on
contamination form'.
Contaminated instruments without this declaration will not be accepted.
Note:
If the instruments have been used with toxic or dangerous fluids the customer should pre-clean the
instrument.
Important:
Clearly note, on top of the package, the customer clearance number of Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V., namely:
NL801989978B01
If applicable, otherwise contact your distributor for local arrangements.
2.3 Service
If the equipment is not properly serviced, serious personal injury and/or damage to the equipment could be
the result. It is therefore important that servicing is performed by trained and qualified service personnel.
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. has a trained staff of servicemen available.
2.4 Mounting
Install the LIQUI-FLOW in accordance to the direction of the FLOW arrow. The arrow for flow direction is
indicated on the instrument, between process fittings.
2.5 Fluid/gas connections
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. LIQUI-FLOW meters/controllers are equipped with compression or face-seal-
fittings. For LIQUI-FLOW these fittings are orbitally welded to the body. For leak tight installation of
compression type fittings be sure that the tube is inserted to the shoulder in the fitting body and that no dirt or
dust is present on tube, ferrules or fittings. Tighten the nut finger-tight; while holding the instrument, then
tighten the nut 1 turn.
If applicable follow the guidelines of the supplier of the fittings. Special types of fittings are available on
request.
* Note: Always check your system for leaks, before applying fluid/gas pressure. Especially if toxic, explosive
or other dangerous fluids are used.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 11
2.6 Piping
BE SURE THAT PIPING IS ABSOLUTELY CLEAN!
DO NOT install small diameter piping on high flowrates, because the inlet jet-flow will affect the accuracy.
DO NOT mount abrupt angles direct on in- and outlet, especially not with high flowrates. We recommend at
least 20 pipe diameters distance between the angle and the instrument.
Special care should be taken in regard to reducers placed just in front of the LIQUI-FLOW. High pressure
drop and flow disturbance can occur which can influence the LIQUI-FLOW.
2.7 Electrical connections
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. recommends using their standard cables. These cables have the right connectors
and if loose ends are used, these will be marked to prevent wrong connection.
2.8 Pressure testing
Each LIQUI-FLOW is pressure tested to at least 1.5 times the working pressure of the process
conditions stipulated by the customer, with a minimum of 8 bar.
The tested pressure is stated on the flow meter/controller with a RED COLOURED sticker. Check test
pressure before installing in the line.
If the sticker is not available or the test pressure is incorrect, the instrument should not be mounted in the
process line and be returned to the factory.
Each instrument is helium leak tested to at least 2⋅10-9 mbar l/s Helium.
2.9 Supply pressure
Do not apply pressure until electrical connections are made. When applying pressure to the system, take
care to avoid pressure shocks in the system and increase pressure gradually, especially on high pressure
units incorporating a piston operated control valve.
Make sure in case of a controller that the used valve can withstand the system pressure.
2.10 System purging
If explosive gases are to be used, purge the process with inert dry gas like Nitrogen, Argon etc. for at least 30
minutes at a high enough flow.
In systems with corrosive or reactive fluids, purging with an inert gas is absolutely necessary, because if the
tubing has been exposed to air, introducing these fluids will tend to clog up or corrode the system due to a
chemical reaction with oxygen or moist air.
Complete purging is also required to remove such fluids from the system before exposing the system to air. It
is preferred not to expose the system to air, when working with these corrosive fluids.
2.11 Seals
Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. has gathered a material compatibility chart from a number of sources believed to
be reliable.
However, it is a general guide only. Operating conditions may substantially change the accuracy of this guide.
Therefore there is no liability for damages accruing from the use of this guide.
The customer’s application will demand its own specific design or test evaluation for optimum reliability.
So check if the seals like O-rings, plunger and packing gland of the capillary are correct for the process.
2.12 Equipment storage
The equipment should be stored in its original packing in a cupboard warehouse or similar. Care should be
taken not to subject the equipment to excessive temperatures or humidity.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 12 9.17.044
2.13 Electromagnetic compatibility
Conditions for compliance with EMC requirements
All instruments described in this manual carry the CE-mark.
Therefore they have to comply with the EMC requirements, as they are valid for these instruments.
However compliance with the EMC requirements is not possible without the use of proper cables and
connector/gland assemblies.
For good results Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. can provide standard cables. Otherwise follow the guidelines as
stated below.
1. D-Connector assembly
2. Connector LIQUI-FLOW
Note:
When connecting the system to other devices (e.g. to PLC), be sure that the integrity of the shielding is not
affected. Do not use unshielded wire terminals.
1. For FLOW-BUS S(F)TP data (patch) cable connection to M12 connectors follow the instructions of the
supplier. It is important to use shielded twisted pair cables and shielded RJ45 modular jack connectors.
2. For PROFIBUS-DP, Modbus or DeviceNet data cable connections follow the instructions of the cable
suppliers for the specific field-bus system.
2.14 Electro static discharge
This instrument contains electronic components that are susceptible to damage by static electric discharges.
Proper handling procedures must be taken during installation, removing and connecting the electronics.
Fold the shield of the cable back over the cable (the shield must be around the cable)
.
Wind a copper tape around the shield.
Solder a black
w
ireonthetape
and connect to pin 9 of connector
20 mm
8mm
D-connector housing
metalized
connector
other wires
black wire
(shield)
copper tape
shielded cable
e.g. LAPP LiYCY
SHRINK SOLDERCONTACTS WITH SHRINKTUBING
BRE 160 BLACK OR EQ.
8 DIN CONNECTOR AMPHENOL
TRANSPARANT TUBING
C091 31D008 200 2
O-RING
CONNECTED TO THE CONNECTORHOUSING
FOLD THE SHIELD OF THE CABLE BACK OVER
THE CABLE.(THE SHIELD MUST BE AROUND
THE CABLE)
SHIELD OF THE CABLE SHOULD BE
CABLE LIYCY 8x0.25mm
2.5
20mm
2
METAL RING
solder-side
Amphenol 8-pin
DIN connector female
5
7
3
86
24
1
SERIE 423 99.5672.19.08
8 DIN CONNECTOR BINDER
O-RING
DETAIL
THE CABLE.(THE SHIELD MUST BE AROUND
FOLD THE SHIELD OF THE CABLE BACK OVER
CABLE LIYCY 8x0.25mm
20mm
4.0
DETAIL
CONNECTED TO THE CONNECTORHOUSING
SHIELD OF THE CABLE SHOULD BE
BLACK TUBING
THE CABLE)
2
solder-side
Binder 8-pin
DIN connector female
SHRINK SOLDERCONTACTS WITH SHRINKTUBING
1
3
BRE 160 BLACK OR EQ.
786
524

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 13
3 OPERATION
3.1 General
The Bronkhorst High-Tech B.V. instruments are designed in such a way that they will meet user process
requirements in the best possible way.
The LIQUI-FLOW L30 meters/controllers can be powered from +15 Vdc to +24 Vdc.
When providing your own power supply be sure that voltage and current rating are according to the
specifications of the instrument(s) and furthermore that the source is capable of delivering enough power to
the instrument(s).
Cable wire diameters should be sufficient to carry the supply current and voltage losses must be kept as low
as possible. When in doubt: consult factory.
Caution: The LIQUI-FLOW L30 meters/controllers must be powered via the 8 pin circular connector. It
is not possible to power the instruments via the bus connector.
Digital instruments can be operated by means of:
1. Analog interface (0...5Vdc/0...10Vdc/0...20mA/4...20mA)
2. RS232 interface (connected to COM-port by means of special cable on 38400 Baud)
3. FLOW-BUS
4. PROFIBUS-DP
5. DeviceNet
6. Modbus (special request)
Option 1 and 2 are always present on multibus instruments. An interface to any available fieldbus is optional.
Operation via analog interface, RS232 interface and an optional fieldbus can be performed at the same time.
A special parameter called “control mode” indicates to which setpoint the controller should listen: analog or
digital (via fieldbus or RS232). The RS232 interface behaves like a FLOW-BUS interface.
When using more interfaces at the same time, reading can be done simultaneously without problems.
When changing a parameter value, the last value send by an interface will be valid.
Also the push-button switch and the LED’s on the back side of the instrument can be used for manual
operation of some options.
The green LED will indicate in what mode the instrument is active.
The red LED will indicate error/warning situations.
3.2 Power and warm-up
Before switching on power check if all connections have been made according to the hook-up diagram which
belongs to the instrument.
It is recommended to turn on power before applying pressure on the instrument and to switch off power after
removing pressure.
Check fluid connections and make sure there is no leakage. If needed purge the system with a proper fluid.
For a gas instrument only purging with gases is allowed. Liquid instruments may be purged with either a gas
or a liquid, whatever is needed for the purpose.
Turn on power and allow at least 30 minutes to warm up and stabilise. In cases where no electronics are
involved (valves only) warming up is not needed.
During warm-up period, fluid pressure may either be on or off.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 14 9.17.044
3.3 Start-up
Turn on fluid supply gently. Avoid pressure shocks, and bring the instrument gradually up to the level of the
actual operating conditions. Also switch off fluid supply gently.
3.4 Operating conditions
Each instrument has been calibrated and adjusted for customer process conditions.
Controllers or valves may not operate correctly, if process conditions vary too much, because of the
restriction of the orifice in the valve.
3.5 Instrument performance
3.5.1 Meters
Assuming that the transfer function of a system is an exponential shaped curve, the time constant is defined
as follows:
time constant = time for the signal to reach 63.2 % of its final output value. Approx. five time constants is the
time to reach the final value.
For the LIQUI-FLOW L30 meters the actual response depends on model and flow rate.
3.5.2 Controllers
The dynamic response of a controller is factory set. Standard settling-time is defined as the time to reach the
setpoint (and stay) within ±2% of the initial setpoint. The settling time depends on the properties of the flow,
the system pressure and the valve type used.
The control mode is factory set in such a way that after a stepwise change in the flow, there will be little
overshoot.
3.6 Manual operation
By means of manual operation of the push-button switch (#) some important actions for the instrument can
be selected/started. These options are available in both analog and BUS/digital operation modes.
(See also manual operation in document number 9.17.023)
These functions are:
- Reset (instrument firmware-program reset)
- Restore factory settings (in case of unintentionally change of the settings)
for FLOW-BUS only:
- Automatic installation to FLOW-BUS (installs instrument to free address)
- Remote installation to FLOW-BUS (instruments will be installed by E-7000 or PC-software)

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 15
3.7 Analog operation
Digital instruments can be operated with analog signals through the 8-pin circular connector.
The instruments are compatible in use with analog instruments on this point.
Analog operated instruments, can be hooked up using an 8-wire shielded cable, connected according to the
Bronkhorst High-Tech standard.
Each electronic P. C. board is set for one of the following output (and corresponding input) signals:
Signal output (sensor) input (setpoint)
code signal signal
A 0…5 Vdc 0…5 Vdc
B 0…10 Vdc 0…10 Vdc
F 0…20 mA (sourcing) 0…20 mA (sinking)
G 4…20 mA (sourcing) 4…20 mA (sinking)
For meters only the output signal is available.
At analog operation the following parameters are available:
- measured value
- setpoint (controllers only)
- valve voltage (controllers only)
Note:
When operating the instrument through the analog interface it is possible to connect the instrument to any
supported fieldbus system (or RS232-interface with special cable) for reading/changing parameters (e.g.
controller response or other fluid selection).
For FLOW-BUS versions of the instruments a readout/control module for digital instruments can be
temporarily connected to the M12 Connector.
instrument
output
0V common
mA
+
-
I
Current output signals
Sourcing

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 16 9.17.044
3.8 BUS / digital operation
Operation via fieldbus reduces the amount of cables to build a system of several instruments and offers more
parameter values to be monitored/changed by the user.
See instruction manual: operating digital mass flow / pressure instruments for more details (document nr.
9.17.023).
Operation by means of a fieldbus adds a lot of extra features (compared to analog operation) to the
instruments.
Such as:
- setpoint slope (ramp function on setpoint for smooth control)
- 8 selectable fluids
- direct reading at readout/control module or host computer
- testing and self diagnosis
- response alarm (setpoint-measure too high for too long time)
- several control/setpoint modes (e.g. purge/close valve)
- master/slave modes for ratio control (FLOW-BUS only)
- identification (serialnumber, modelnumber, device type, user tag)
- adjustable minimal and maximal alarm limits
- (batch) counter
- adjustable response time for controller when opening from zero
- adjustable response time for normal control
- adjustable response time for stable control (|setpoint-measure| < 2%)
Special software like FlowDDE, FlowPlot and FlowView can be used to control these settings.
For operation of digital instruments by means of a specific fieldbus system or RS232, see following
documents (available as PDF-file):
•for FLOW-BUS document number: 9.17.024
•for PROFIBUS-DP document number: 9.17.025
•for DeviceNet document number: 9.17.026
•for RS232 document number 9.17.027
•for Modbus document number 9.17.035
Note:
Special RS232 cable has partnr. 7.03.348 and consists of a T-part with 1 male and 1 female 8DIN connector
on one instrument-side and a normal female sub-D 9 connector on the side of the computer.
By means of this cable it is possible to offer RS232 communication and still be able to connect power-supply
and analog interface through the (analog) 8DIN connector.
RS232 communication is only possible with a baudrate of 38.4 KBaud and can be used for either:
•Uploading new firmware by means of a special program (for trained BHT-service personnel only)
•Servicing your instrument using BHT-service programs (for trained BHT-service personnel only)
•Operating your instrument using FLOWDDE, FLOWB32.DLL or RS232-ASCII protocol (end user)

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 17
4 MAINTENANCE
4.1 General
No routine maintenance is required to be performed on the meters or controllers. In case of severe
contamination it may be required to clean the valve orifice separately.
4.2 LIQUI-FLOW L30 sensor
The user cannot change the flow range of a liquid flow sensor. The sensor is an integral part of the
instrument and cannot be removed from it. For occasional cleaning the instrument may be flushed with a
cleaning fluid.
4.3 Controllers
All sensor types can be combined with a control valve to be operated together as a control loop. Controller
systems are either available as separate units; a sensor and a control valve, or as an integrated unit.
If applicable maintenance procedures are described under “control valves”
4.4 Control valves
Control valves cannot be used for shut-off and/or on-off applications. Pressure surges, as may occur during
system pressurisation or deflation must be avoided.
4.4.1 Solenoid valves
These are considered to be the directly operated control and pilot valves. They can be disassembled in the
field by the user for cleaning and servicing. The parts can be cleaned with a cleaning liquid, or in an ultrasonic
bath.
To disassemble the valve proceed as follows:
a) disconnect the instrument connector (not necessary with separate valve)
b) remove the hex nut on top of the valve assembly
c) lift the cover (coil) assembly
d) unscrew the flange
e) lift valve assembly carefully from the base
f) unscrew set screw for the orifice and subsequently loosen the orifice and the orifice holder
g) remove the plunger assembly
Clean parts and carefully re-assemble in reverse order. It is recommended to replace the O-rings prior to re-
assembly.
After having re-assembled the control valve, it is recommended to check the control characteristics of the
valve. This can best be done by using a separate variable 15 Vdc power supply source.
Proceed as follows:
- disconnect the valve leads and connect to supply source
- apply gas pressure as per working conditions
- apply power by gradually increasing voltage
- the valve should open at 7 Vdc ±3 Vdc
- the fully opened position is reached at approx. 9 Vdc ±1.5 Vdc.
In case the valve does not operate within the voltage levels stated, then it must be disassembled, and the
orifice must be adjusted to the proper position.
Re-assemble valve and repeat procedure if required.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 18 9.17.044
4.4.2 Bellows valve
These valves are suited for low pressure or vacuum applications. The user should not disassemble this
model.
4.5 Kv-value calculation
This calculation method can be used to determine the Kv-value of the main orifice of a control valve.
Determine desired ∆p across valve.
∆p must be at least 50% of supply pressure
Kv-value calculation 1000p
Km
v⋅∆
Φ
=
ρ
ρ
Units: flow - )/h(kg
m
Φ
density -
ρ (kg / m ) at 20 C
3 o
and 1 atm.
delta p - ∆p(bard)
The orifice bore diameter can be determined by:
d7.6K
v
=[mm]
For C2 type of valves the diameter of the orifice can be calculated as shown above or looked up in the graph
below.
ΦΦ
v2 v 2
HO= customer customer
HO
ρ
ρ
in which: Φv= volume flow
ρ
= density
10
4
10
3
10
1
10
-1
10
1
10
0
10
4
10
3
10
2
10
1
P (bar)
d = 0.1 mm
d = 0.37 mm
d = 0.3 mm
d = 0.2 mm
d = 0.14 mm
10
2
10
0
10
-2
O HO (ml/h)
2
10
-1
10
1
10
0
d = 1.0 mm d = 0.7 mm
d = 0.5 mm
P m a x.
v
If liquids have viscosity’s >15 cs (water = 1 cs), the flat orifice and plunger type control mechanism cannot be
used. For measuring systems only check maximum possible viscosity with factory.
4.6 Calibration procedure
All instruments are factory calibrated. For re-calibration or re-ranging contact supplier or factory.

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
9.17.044 page 19
5 DIGITAL INSTRUMENT
See document number 9.17.023 for detailed description.
6 INTERFACE DESCRIPTION
For a description of the available interfaces see document numbers:
9.17.024 for FLOW-BUS
9.17.025 for PROFIBUS-DP
9.17.026 for DeviceNet
9.17.027 for RS232
9.17.035 for Modbus (special request)

BRONKHORST HIGH-TECH B.V.
page 20 9.17.044
7 TROUBLESHOOTING
7.1 General
For a correct analysis of the proper operation of a LIQUI-FLOW L30 meter or controller it is recommended to
remove the unit from the process line and check it without applying fluid supply pressure. In case the unit is
dirty, this can be ascertained immediately by loosening the compression type couplings and, if applicable the
flange on the inlet side.
Furthermore remove the cover and check if all connectors are fixed properly. Energising or de-energising of
the instrument indicates whether there is an electronic failure. When powering up the red LED is on and the
green LED is flashing for a second or two. Then the instrument should go in normal operation mode. See
document number 9.17.023 for detailed description of the LED indication.
After that, fluid pressure is to be applied in order to check behaviour.
7.2 Troubleshooting summary general
Symptom Possible cause Action
1a) check power supplyNo power supply 1b) check cable connection
Output stage blown-up due to long lasting
shortage and/or high-voltage peaks 1c) return to factory
Supply pressure too low, or differential pressure
across meter too low 1d) increase supply pressure
Valve blocked/contaminated 1e) connect 0 .. 15 Vdc to valve and slowly
increase voltage while supply pressure is ‘on’.
The valve should open at 7V ±3V; if not open,
then clean parts and adjust valve (qualified
personnel only)
Screen in inlet fitting blocked 1f) clean screen
No output signal
Sensor failure 1g) return to factory
Output stage blown-up 2a) return to factoryMaximum output signal Sensor failure 2b) return to factory
Screen blocked/contamined 3a) clean screen
sensor blocked/contaminated 3b) clean sensor with a gas or fluid
Valve blocked/contaminated 3c) clean valve
Valve internal damage (swollen seat in plunger) 3d) replace plunger assembly and adjust valve
or return
Output signal much lower than
setpoint signal or desired flow
Incorrect type of gas is used and/or
pressure/diff. pressure is to low 3e) try instrument on conditions for which it was designed
Flow is gradually decreasing Valve adjustment has changed 4a) see ‘1e’
Supply pressure/diff. pressure too high 5a) lower pressure
Controller adjustment wrong 5b) adjust controller
Software like FLOWPLOT can be used to do
this. Please contact the distributor for details.
Pipeline too short between pressure regulator
and LIQUI-FLOW 5c) increase length or diameter of piping upstream
Valve sleeve or internals damaged 5d) replace damaged parts and adjust valve,
see ‘1e’ or return to factory
Oscillation
Valve leaks due to damaged plunger or dirt in
orifice 6a) clean orifice and/or, when replacing plunger assembly, see ‘1e’
Small flow at zero setpoint
Pressure too high or much too low 6b) apply correct pressure
High flow at zero setpoint Damaged diaphragm (only applicable to valves
with membrane) 7a) replace membrane seal
Gas in the system 8a) Purge the systemDisturbances in the flow Expansion of liquids to gasses 8b) Check properties fluid used
Gas in the system 9a) Purge the system
Measure time to short 9b) Measure long enough to get a reliable
measurement
Calibration error
Right reference instrument 9c) The LIQUI-FLOW is a mass-flow
meter/controller and should not be checked with
a volume-meter.
Note: For other (more specific) problems see also troubleshooting parts in other documents.