Delmhorst F-2000R User manual

F-2000R
REED MOISTURE METER
OPERATION MANUAL
DELMHORST EUROPE
TITANIUMLAAN 100
NL 5221 CK ‘s-HERTOGENBOSCH
THE NETHERLANDS
[e-mail]
www.MoistureMetersDelmhorst.com
[phone]

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Model F-2000R
Owner’s Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3F-2000R Features
3Before You Begin
3Button Functions
4Check Calibration
4Change The Set Point
4To Check The Accumulated Readings
5To Reset The Meter
5Recommended electrodes
5Taking A Reading
6Testing Reed stems
6Testing in Roofing sheets
6Factors Affecting Your Reading
6Range Of Moisture Content
7Reed Temperature
7Curing
7Density
7 Use Of Preservatives
8In general
8Care Of Your Meter
9Service For Your Meter
10 Warranty
11 Declaration of Conformity
This product is covered by EU directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE). For disposal
please contact your supplier or local authorities for instructions as to best do so.

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FEATURES
6% to 40% moisture range for reed
For use on plywood and chipboard
Digital readout
Built-in calibration check
Temperature stable circuit
Averages up to 100 accumulated readings
Displays average and highest of accumulated readings
Ergonomic case design
Includes (1) 9-volt battery
Three year warranty
Over 65 years of proven quality, accuracy and service
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
BUTTON FUNCTIONS
Read (#1): Reads the percent moisture content value %MC.
Calibration
Check (#2) Checks the meter calibration. Displays the average of up to 100
accumulated readings; displays the highest
stored reading; erases the readings
Set Point
Decrease (#3): Acts as an arrow button when pressed after the set-point button
to decrease the set point to a lower value.
Set-Point (#4): Displays the current set-point. Also acts as an arrow (scroll)
button to increase the set-point value in 1% increments.
When the battery is replaced, the meter displays its software version for
one second and then turns itself off. After replacing the battery, you
must reset the meter as described below in the “Resetting the Meter”
section.
NOTE, we recommend NOT to use a rechargeable battery and advise to
only use ‘ALKALINE’ batteries.

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CHECK CALIBRATION
Remove the probe from the top of the meter.
Press and hold the read button (#1) and check button (#2) simultaneously. Meter is in
calibration if it displays “12” (± .2) on the scale.
If you check the calibration and the display does not read “12,” it is likely an indication of a
low battery. If this occurs, change the battery immediately. Continued use with a low
battery may cause the meter to go out of calibration. If you have a fresh battery and the
instrument still does not indicate an acceptable calibration, return it to DELMHORST EUROPE
for service. See “Service for Your Meter” section.
CHANGE THE SET-POINT
To change the set-point value, press the set-point button (#4). The meter will
display the current set-point value.
To scroll forward to a higher value, hold the set-point button (#4) while the current
value is displayed and scroll to the set-point value desired.
To scroll backward through the set-point values, press and release the set-point
button (# 4). Within one second press and hold the set point decrease button (#3).
Continue to hold the set point decrease button (#3) and the set-point will decrease.
When scrolling in either direction, release the button to stop at your desired set-
point.
If the meter reads a %MC higher than that of the set-point, a buzzer will sound.
TO CHECK THE ACCUMULATED READINGS
This feature allows you to view the total number of all accumulated readings, the average of
those readings, and the highest stored reading.
To add a reading to the sum of all previously stored readings, release the read
button (#1) within 2 seconds. If you press and hold the read button #1, the meter will
repeat its read cycle, but will not add a new reading to the storage until the button is
released.
To view the readings press and release the calibration check button (#2). First the
meter displays the number of accumulated readings for one second, then the average of
those readings for two seconds. Then it displays the highest stored reading for two
seconds. The total "cycle" time is five seconds.
To erase all the accumulated readings, hold the calibration check button (#2) for
more than five seconds until the meter displays “0.”
To keep the accumulated readings in memory, release the calibration check button
(#2) before the total cycle time is complete.
The meter will accumulate up to 100 readings. After all 100 readings are stored, it will not
add new readings until the memory has been cleared. It will also continue to display the
average of all 100 readings as a reminder that the memory is full.

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Readings below 6% will be displayed as “0”. Those above 40% will be displayed as
“99.9.” Neither will be added to the accumulated readings or used in calculation of
average or highest reading.
TO RESET THE METER
Press and release the calibration check button (#2).
Within one second, press and hold the scale button (#3).
The meter will reset itself and display “119.” This indicates that the meter has been
reset is returned to it’s default set-point 19%. It will also clear all of the readings stored
in memory.
RECOMMENDED ELECTRODES
830-x pen electrode together with H-4 handle. Two handed operation to minimize stress
placed on the meter casing. For use on thatch reed and stacks
Pen electrode 1235, mounted directly on the meter. One hand operation for measuring
the MC of reed on the roof.
Pin electrode 2-E for use on stems and roofing sheets
TAKING A READING
TESTING REED
Connect the pen electrode, 830-X/H-4 or 1235, to the external connector on the top
of the meter.
Insert the electrode into the reed (bundle)
Press the read button (#1). The meter displays the %MC for two seconds.
NOTES
The reed electrode is electrically insulated, except at the metal points near the tip. The
moisture content measured represents the reed in contact with the tip of the prod only.
If possible, insert the electrode parallel to the reed
Reed may have wide variations in moisture content throughout the bundle. Readings
should be taken in several different parts of the bundle and the highest readings used as
a guideline. The arrangement and compaction of the reed stems in a bundle may have
an effect on meter readings.
If you are testing high density stacks, we recommend using the H-4 handle with the
830-2 25cm prod, 830-3 45cm prod, or the 830-4 90cm prod. Using the handle/prod
combination eliminates excess stress on the instrument case that may occur when trying
to insert the prod into a high density or large bundle.
When using the 90cm prod, be sure to guide the prod into the bundle with one hand
while pushing on the H-4 handle.

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TESTING SEPARATE REED STEMS
Connect the pin electrode 2-E to the external connector on the top of the meter.
Prepare a representative sample by collecting 5 thick, slow drying reeds from
various parts of the bundle.
Insert the electrode into each reed stem
Press the read button (#1) and take a reading.
The average outcome of the stems will approximately 3-5% higher if compared with
the pen test
NOTES
Repeat the steps above if considerable variations are found in the meter readings
TESTING ROOFING SHEETS
Connect the pin electrode 2-E to the external connector on the top of the meter.
Insert the pins approx 5 mm into the sheet
Press the read button #1 and take a reading.
Make several tests on the roofing sheets
NOTES
The readings are not actual percentages but should be judged as reference.
FACTORS AFFECTING YOUR READINGS
Because of the many variables that affect the electrical meter readings, the indicated
moisture content should not be used as an absolute quantitative measurement. Meter
readings are very useful guidelines for safe use of reed.
Meter readings become more significant when they are considered in the light of the density
of the stacks, anticipated handling and storage, and prevailing climate conditions.
RANGE OF MOISTURE CONTENT
The F-2000 is designed to test moisture in reed over a range of 6%-40%. Readings over
30% should be used only as a qualitative indication of high moisture content. Delmhorst
moisture meters use the relationship existing between electrical conductivity and moisture
content in reed. As moisture content increases, so does the conductivity.
Tests on reed at high moisture content, over 25%, are less accurate. This is mostly due to
the variability in moisture distribution. The reduced level of accuracy in the high range does
not significantly affect the usefulness of the meter, as a few high readings indicate that
some action be taken to dry the reed to avoid spoilage or even self-combustion.

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While it is important to note the average of several readings, it is even more important to
note the high readings and the frequency at which they occur.
REED TEMPERATURE
The F-2000R has been calibrated at 80°F on various samples and on different cuttings and
mixtures. The higher the temperature of the sample, the higher the meter readings will be.
Temperatures lower than 80°F cause lower meter readings. The correction is approximately
1% point for every 20°F/12°C difference. Refer to chart below:
Reed temperature
Add to reading
Subtract from reading
20°F / -7°C
3
--
40°F / 5°C
2
--
60°F / 15°C
1
--
80°F / 30°C
0
0
100°F / 40°C
--
1
120°F / 50°C
--
2
140°F / 60°C
--
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Example:
Meter reading : 22%
Temperature : 40°F / 5°C
Moisture Content : 24% (22 + 2)
CURING
Before proper curing has taken place, wide variations in moisture content should be
expected in both reed stems and in the stacks. These variations will be exposed by meter
readings taken on different parts of the bundle. The higher the moisture range, the
wider are the variations. The more curing has been allowed to take place, the
greater uniformity in moisture distribution can be expected.
The validity of the meter readings is closely related to the care spent in sampling the reed
to be tested. A firm contact of the electrode with the reed is important. The number of tests
made should be increased whenever the initial readings show considerable variations.
DENSITY
The calibration of the moisture testers applies to stacks of normal “average” density.
Generally:
High pressed stacks may yield readings 1-2% points higher.
Loose pressed stacks tend to yield 1-2% point lower.
Tests in stacked loose reed stems usually yield readings 2%-3% lower.
USE OF PRESERVATIVES
Reed preservative or stabilizers may also have an effect on meter readings. Normally a
reed bundle treated with preservative will read higher than a bundle of the same reed that
had not been treated. The readings typically increase by 2-4% points, and 24-48 hours
after treatment, the readings between the stacks tends to equalize.

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Occasional higher readings may occur if, in addition to the effect of the increased
conductivity due to the stabilizer, the stacks tested also show an increase in temperature
and “sweating.” As the stabilizer becomes more thoroughly absorbed and the sweating
subsides, the meter readings recede to the initial level and will continue to decrease,
assuming that the bundle becomes progressively dryer.
IN GENERAL
When testing bundled reed, it is essential to take readings at several different points in the
bundle. Reed moisture may vary a great deal in the same bundle. For example, at one
point bundle moisture may be 20% and at another over 35%.
More tests must be made whenever the variations among readings are greater. If there is a
possibility of high moisture areas, samples from these locations should be taken. Areas of
high moisture content will spoil, resulting in loss.
It is extremely important to note the high readings and the frequency at which they occur.
CARE OF YOUR METER
To keep your meter in good working order:
Store your meter in a clean, dry place. The protective carrying case provided is an ideal
storage place when the
meter is not in use.
Change the 9-Volt battery as needed. Continued use with a low battery may cause the
meter to go out of calibration.
Clean the meter, contact pins, and probes with any biodegradable cleaner.
Use the cleaner sparingly and on external parts only. Keep the cleaner out of the
external connector.
DO NOT IMMERSE THE METER OR ANY ELECTRODE IN WATER.
Remove the battery if the meter will not be used for one month or longer.

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SERVICE FOR YOUR METER
Pack your meter securely. Enclose a purchase order or letter with a brief description of
the problem.
There is no need to call us for a return authorization number if you are within the EU.
Customers outside the EU must contact us for more specific instructions prior to
returning a meter.
Include your name, address, daytime phone and fax numbers or e-mail address. If you
believe the meter is under warranty, please provide the original sales slip or invoice.
Ship via UPS, Express Mail, Priority Mail or any overnight courier who provides prompt
service. Do not use standard parcel post.
Insure your instrument for its full value and ship prepaid. We are not responsible for
damage in transit.
We do not accept COD shipments or cover any incoming freight or duty charges on
returned merchandise
Turnaround time on repairs is approximately two weeks.
We will call you with an estimate if you specifically request one, or if we determine that
the meter may be too costly to repair.
Non-warranty repairs will be returned via UPS/COD unless you have already established
other payment terms. There is no COD service outside the EU.
Payments have to be made by Bank transfer prior to the return shipment. A Proforma
invoice will be raised in advance.
Warranty repairs will be returned at no charge if shipped within the EU via GLS Ground
Service. Freight charges for expedited services (i.e., Federal Express, UPS/2 Day, UPS/1
Day, etc.) are the customer’s responsibility and will be charged as per the above terms.

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WARRANTY
DELMHORST EUROPE, referred to hereafter as DELMHORST, guarantees your moisture
meter for three years from date of purchase and any optional electrodes against defects in
material or workmanship for 90 days. If, within the warranty period of the meter, you find
any defect in material or workmanship return the meter following the instructions in the
“Service for Your Meter” section. This limited warranty does not cover abuse, alteration,
misuse, damage during shipment, improper service, unauthorized or unreasonable use of
the meter or electrodes. This warranty does not cover batteries, pin assemblies, or pins. If
the meter or any optional electrodes have been tampered with, the warranty shall be void.
At our option we may replace or repair the meter. DELMHORST shall not be liable for
incidental or consequential damages for the breach of any express or implied warranty with
respect to this product or its calibration. With proper care and maintenance the meter
should stay in calibration; follow the instructions in the “Care of Your Meter” section.
Under no circumstances shall DELMHORST be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, or
consequential damages of any type whatsoever, including, but not limited to, lost profits or
downtime arising out of or related in any respect to the meters or electrodes and no other
warranty, written, oral or implied applies. DELMHORST shall in no event be liable for any
breach of warranty or defect in this product that exceeds the amount of purchase of this
product. The express warranty set forth above constitutes the entire warranty with respect
to Delmhorst meters and electrodes and no other warranty, written, oral, or implied applies.
This warranty is personal to the customer purchasing the product and is not transferable.
ARTTEST B.V.
Trade name DELMHORST EUROPE
TITANIUMLAAN 100
NL 5221 CK ‘s-HERTOGENBOSCH
THE NETHERLANDS
[e-mail]
www.moisturemetersdelmhorst.com
[phone]
For already 65 years, Delmhorst is a leading brand for high-quality resistance moisture
meters. Today the Delmhorst range consists of a complete line of portable moisture meters
for a variety of different applications including woodworking / lumber, agriculture,
construction and paper.
This product is covered by EU directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE). For disposal
please contact your supplier or local authorities for instructions as to best do so.

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufacturer's Name: Delmhorst Instrument Co.
Manufacturer's Address: 51 Indian Lane East
Towaco, NJ 07082
USA
Council Directive(s): 89/336/EEC - Meets EMC directive
73/23/EEC - Not required. Voltage used or generated
is not within scope of Low Voltage Directive.
Standard(s) to which Conformity is declared :
EN 50082-1:1992- EMC Generic immunity standard
EN 50081-1:1992- EMC Generic emission standard
EN 55011:1991- Limits and methods of measurement of
radio disturbance characteristics of (ISM) equipment.
Type of Product : Reed Moisture Meter
Model No. F-2000R
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the product specified above conforms
to the above Directive(s) and Standard(s).
Thomas Laurenzi, President
Delmhorst Instrument Co.
NJ, USA

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