Elcometer 138 User manual

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Bresle Salt Meter
User Guide
Elcometer 138
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CONTENTS
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Section
Page
1
Overview
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2
Box Contents
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3
The Controls & Display
en-3
4
Using the Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter
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5
Taking a Reading
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6
Care & Maintenance
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7
Technical Specification
en-11
8
Spares & Accessories
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9
Legal Notices & Regulatory Information
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Dimensions: 164 x 29 x 20mm (6.5 x 1.1 x 0.79")
Weight: 50g (1.76 oz) - including sensor and batteries
http://www.elcometer.com/images/stories/MSDS/Elcometer_138_84uScm_Calibration_Solution.pdf
A Material Safety Data Sheet for the Elcometer 138 Standard 84μS/cm Calibration Solution is available to download via our website:
For the avoidance of doubt, please refer to the original English language version.
© Elcometer Limited 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system or otherwise) or translated
into any language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise) without the prior written permission of Elcometer Limited.

1 OVERVIEW
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Incorporating a flat sensor, the Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter has been designed primarily for use in
accordance with ISO 8502-6 / ISO8502-9. It measures the conductivity of the sample but displays the
surface density of salts. The measured conductivity is converted to surface density of salts using the
a
ISO Salt Mix or IMO PSPC equivalent NaCI conversion factors below, dependent on the measurement
2
mode selected, based on an area of 12.5cm and a sample volume of 3ml.
For detailed information on taking measurements in accordance with ISO 8502-6 /ISO8502-9, please
refer to the user guides for the Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Kits.
a International Maritime Organisation, Performance Standard for Protective Coatings.
2 BOX CONTENTS
<
Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter & Sensor
<
Conditioning Solution; 14ml (0.47 fl oz)
<
CR2032 Lithium Batteries; x2 (supplied fitted to the Elcometer 138)
<
User Guide
Note: The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter measures aqueous solutions. The meter is NOT designed to measure solids, organic
solvents, surfactant, oil, adhesive, alcohol, strong acids (pH: 0 to 2) or strong alkalis (pH: 12 to 14). The life of the sensor
will be extremely short if these substances are measured.
b
Surface Density of Salts: Factors
ISO Salt Mix
IMO PSPC equivalent NaCI
Reading
2
mg/m
µg/cm2
2
mg/m
µg/cm2
µS/cm
x1.2
x0.12
x1.1
x0.11
The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter can also be used in accordance with US NAVY PPI 63101-000
(Rev 27), ISO 8502-11; AS 3894.6-A and SSPC Guide 15.

The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter is operated using 3 buttons and displays readings and other
information on the LCD screen.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
MEAS
IMO
ISO
CAL BATT
°C
2
µg/cm
000.0
J
910 11 12 13
14
15
16
3 THE CONTROLS & DISPLAY
ELCOMETER 138 BRESLE SALT METER OVERVIEW
1
Measurement Cell
Place a liquid sample in this cell to measure it with the electrode located on the bottom of
the cell.
2
Protection Cover
Protects the measurement cell and flat sensor in storage.
3
Lithium Batteries
CR2032 x 2
4
MEAS Button
Sets the measurement mode (ISO or IMO). View the ambient temperature measured with
the internal temperature sensor (to be used as a guide only). Switches from calibration
mode to measurement mode.
5
ON/OFF Button
Turns the meter On / Off.
6
Strap Eyelet
A strap can be attached here.
7
CAL Button
Starts calibration procedure.
8
Waterproof Gasket
Makes the meter waterproof.
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3 THE CONTROLS & DISPLAY (continued)
DISPLAY INDICATORS
9
Stability Icon
Illuminates when measured value is stabilised.
10
MEAS Icon
Illuminates when in measurement mode.
11
CAL Icon
Flashes during calibration and illuminates steadily when calibration is finished.
12
Temperature Alarm Icon
Flashes when the ambient temperature does not meet the specified operating
temperature of 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 105°F).
13
Battery Alarm Icon
Illuminates when the batteries are low and need to be replaced.
14
Measurement Units
2
The default setting is µg/cm .
15
Measured Value
Displays the surface density of salts calculated using the measured conductivity of the
sample, see below for further information.
16
Measurement Mode
Selected
The surface density of salts is calculated using the ISO Salt Mix (ISO Mode) or IMO
PSPC (IMO Mode) equivalent NaCI conversion factors, see Section 1 ‘Overview’ on page
en-2.

4 USING THE ELCOMETER 138 BRESLE SALT METER
Ÿ The sensor is a consumable part. If it becomes damaged or its performance deteriorates, it will
need to be replaced - see Section 8 ‘Spares & Accessories’ on page en-12.
4.1 CAUTION
Ÿ Do not subject the meter to high temperature or humidity.
Ÿ Do not allow contact with solvents.
Ÿ Although the product is waterproof, avoid immersing it completely. If the meter is accidentally
dropped in water, take it out and remove the moisture.
To fit or replace the batteries:
Ÿ Do not measure samples hotter than 40°C (105°F)
Ÿ Do not allow utensils (tweezers, pipette, etc) to touch sensor cell.
Ÿ Do not exert undue force on the sensor.
4.2 FITTING AND REPLACING THE BATTERIES
The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter uses dry cell batteries only and is supplied with two CR2032 lithium
batteries fitted with an isolation strip. Remove the isolation strip before first use.
Ÿ Never apply undue force when opening the meter (to change the batteries or sensor).
1 Place batteries in the battery clips ensuring correct
polarity.
Ÿ Do not drop the meter.
Ÿ To ensure the meter is waterproof check that the waterproof gasket is clean, not damaged,
seated properly in the groove and is not twisted or warped.
2 To reassemble the meter, slide the sensor onto the body
of the meter and push the body and sensor together
gently until sensor retaining clip engages.
Battery
Battery
Clip
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4 USING THE ELCOMETER 138 BRESLE SALT METER (continued)
Detaching the sensor:
2 Slide the sensor across the meter so the clip (A) fits into the hole
on the sensor tongue (a), as shown.
Note: Ensure that the waterproof gasket is lying flat and not twisted.
2 The sensor can now be completely removed from the meter.
When the battery voltage becomes low, the low battery warning indicator will flash. Replace both
batteries immediately.
Attaching the sensor:
1 Lift the sensor tongue tip and slide the sensor slightly away from the meter.
Note: Lithium batteries must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental contamination. Please consult your local
Environmental Authority for information on disposal in your region. Do not dispose of any batteries in fire.
Ensure the meter is turned OFF before attaching / detaching the sensor. If the meter is turned ON with
the sensor detached, the battery alarm may illuminate. In this case, turn the meter OFF and attach the
sensor, and then turn the meter ON again.
4.3 ATTACHING & DETACHING THE SENSOR
1 Ensure that the waterproof gasket is clean and undamaged.
When removing the sensor, do not let any water penetrate the inside of the
meter. If some moisture remains on the waterproof gasket, very carefully wipe
the moisture off.
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Waterproof
Gasket

4 USING THE ELCOMETER 138 BRESLE SALT METER (continued)
Ensure that the sensor tongue is outside the meter case. If the tongue is inserted between the case and
the connector of the meter, it may damage the connector.
Correct procedure for closing meter after removal of the sensor:
2 Leave for approximately 10 minutes.
4 Wash the measurement cell with standard solution.
Replacement Sensor T13830628
The sensor is a consumable part. If it becomes damaged or its performance deteriorates, it will need to
be replaced.
Description Part Number
3 Clean the measurement cell with running water.
5 Perform the calibration procedure, see Section 4.5 on page en-8.
1 Put some drops of the conditioning solution into the measurement cell.
4.4 ELECTRODE SURFACE TREATMENT PROCEDURE
When using the sensor for the first time or again after several weeks of disuse, perform the electrode
surface treatment procedure as follows:
Sensor Tongue Meter
Connector Sensor Meter Sensor Meter
üû
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1 Press the ON/OFF button to switch the meter on.
4.5 CALIBRATING THE ELCOMETER 138
When using the sensor for the first time or again after several weeks of disuse, perform the electrode
surface treatment procedure, see Section 4.4 on page en-7:
2 Press the CAL button until appears on the display.
5 Clean the sensor with tap water and remove moisture.
4 Close the protection cover and press the CAL button for over 2 seconds.
and J flash and the calibration value is displayed. After the calibration
is completed, and J stop flashing and illuminate steadily.
6 Press the MEAS button for 0.5 seconds to enter the measurement mode and
prepare for measurement.
4 Bubbles in the solution may cause the measurement to be inaccurate.
4 If continues to flash and the ‘Err’ (error message) is displayed, the calibration has
failed. Check that the standard solution conductivity is correct and perform the calibration
procedure again after thoroughly cleaning the sensor. If the calibration failed whilst using
the correct standard solution, the sensor may be damaged and should be replaced, see
Section 4.3 on page en-7.
3 an appropriate amount Open the protection cover and place of standard
84µS/cm solution, see Section 8 ‘Spares & Accessories on page en-12, into
the measurement cell avoiding the inclusion of bubbles. Washing the sensor
with standard solution beforehand may provide more accurate calibration.
CAL
CAL
Button
Protection
Cover
CAL
CAL
4 USING THE ELCOMETER 138 BRESLE SALT METER (continued)
CAL
Cell
Electrode
Appropriate Too Little

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5 TAKING A READING
The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter has been designed primarily for use in accordance with ISO 8502-6
/ ISO8502-9. It measures the conductivity of the sample but displays the surface density of salts. The
measured conductivity is converted to surface density of salts using the ISO Salt Mix or IMO PSPC
equivalent NaCI conversion factors below, dependent on the measurement mode selected, based on an
2
area of 12.5cm and a sample volume of 3ml.
For detailed information on taking measurements in accordance with ISO 8502-6 /ISO8502-9, please
refer to the user guides for the Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Kits.
Surface Density of Salts: Factors
ISO Salt Mix
IMO PSPC equivalent NaCI
Reading
2
mg/m
µg/cm2
2
mg/m
µg/cm2
µS/cm
x1.2
x0.12
x1.1
x0.11
5 Read the value displayed when appears. illuminates when measured value is stabilised.J J
Note: If a measurement result is out of the specified measurement range, the displayed measured value flashes.
5.1 TAKING A READING
2 Open the protection cover.
3 Put 3ml of the sample into the measurement cell avoiding the inclusion of
bubbles.
4 Bubbles in the solution may cause the measurement to be inaccurate.
4 Close the protection cover.
4 Ambient air may cause the measurement values to fluctuate. To reduce
environmental interference, close the protection cover.
1 Press the ON/OFF button to switch the meter on.

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5 TAKING A READING (continued)
5.2 AFTER MEASUREMENT
1 Press the ON/OFF button to switch the meter off.
2 Wash the sensor with tap water and wipe away any residual water using a clean tissue.
3 Replace the sensor protection cap.
Note: If the meter is to remain unused for a long period of time, use pure water instead of tap water to wash the sensor.
6 CARE & MAINTENANCE
The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter is designed to give many years reliable service under normal
operating conditions.
Ÿ Prolonged periods of non-use may cause the sensor to dry out. This can result in malfunction or
unstable readings. Pour conditioning solution into the sensor cell and leave for a few minutes to
allow the sensor to become saturated. Wash the sensor with water prior to use.
Ÿ If the measuring surface of the sensor is contaminated or if air bubbles are regularly present in the
sample, clean the sensor using a diluted neutral detergent (diluted 100 times).
Ÿ The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter incorporates a Liquid Crystal Display. If the display is heated
above 50°C (120°F) it may be damaged. This can happen if the meter is left in a car parked in
strong sunlight.
The Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter does not contain any user-serviceable components. In the unlikely
event of a fault, the meter should be returned to your local Elcometer supplier or directly to Elcometer
Limited - contact details can be found on our website, www.elcometer.com. The warranty will be
invalidated if the instrument has been opened.

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7 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Measurement Principle
2 Electrode Bioplar AC
Measurement Mode
ISO, IMO, Temperature
Minimum Sample Volume
0.12ml
ISO Mode
IMO Mode
Measurement Range
2
0 - 2399µg/cm
2
0 - 2199µg/cm
b
Conversion Factor
2
µS/cm to mg/m : 1.2
2
µS/cm to µg/cm : 0.12
2
µS/cm to µg/cm : 0.11
2
µS/cm to mg/m : 1.1
Resolution
2 2
0 - 239.9µg/cm : 0.1µg/cm
2 2
240 - 2399µg/cm : 1µg/cm
2 2
220 - 2199µg/cm : 1µg/cm
2 2
0 - 219.9µg/cm : 0.1µg/cm
Accuracy
±2% of full scale (for each range)
Operating Temperature
5°C to 40°C (41°F to 105°F)
Operating Humidity
85% or less relative humidity (no condensation)
Battery Type
2 x CR2032 lithium
Battery Life
Approximately 200 hours continuous use
without backlight
Dimensions
164 x 29 x 20mm (6.5 x 1.1 x 0.79")
Weight
50g (1.76 oz) - including sensor and batteries
b 2
Based on an area of 12.5cm and a sample volume of 3ml.

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8 SPARES & ACCESSORIES
Description Part Number
Replacement Sensor for Elcometer 138 Bresle Salt Meter T13830628
Standard 84μS/cm Calibration Solution: 250ml (8.45fl oz) Bottle T13830629-1
A Material Safety Data Sheet for the Elcometer 138 Standard 84μS/cm Calibration Solution is available to download via our website:
http://www.elcometer.com/images/stories/MSDS/Elcometer_138_84uScm_Calibration_Solution.pdf
9 LEGAL NOTICES & REGULATORY INFORMATION
2011/65/EU Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances
Declaration of Conformity: This product complies with the requirements of the following EU Directives:
2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility
is a registered trademark of Elcometer Limited, Edge Lane, Manchester, M43 6BU.
United Kingdom
www.elcometer.com/images/stories/PDFs/Datasheets/Declaration of Conformity/English/DoC_138.pdf
Class B product: Suitable for use in domestic establishments and in establishments directly connected to a low voltage power supply network which
supplies buildings used for domestic purposes.
All other trademarks acknowledged.
This product is Class B, Group 1 ISM equipment according to CISPR 11.
Group 1 ISM product: A product in which there is intentionally generated and/or used conductively coupled radio-frequency energy which is necessary for
the internal functioning of the equipment itself.
Please ensure that all packaging is disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your local Environmental Authority for further guidance.
CAUTION
If the standard solution used for calibration of the meter comes into contact with the skin, wash the skin with fresh water. If the standard
solution comes into contact with eyes, immediately flush the eye with large amounts of fresh water and seek medical advice.
The Declaration of Conformity is available to download via:
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