Ele 1500 User manual

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
45-3810, 45-3815
1 9907X0071 Issue 2
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Centrifuge Extractor 1500
Centrifuge Extractor 3000
45-3810, 45-3815
ELE International
Chartmoor Road, Chartwell Business Park
Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 4WG
England
phone: [phone]
fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]
http://www.ele.com
ELE International, a division of Hach Lange Ltd.
Distributor:
ELE International
Soiltest Product Division
PO Box 389, Loveland, CO 80539
USA
phone: [phone]
fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]
http://www.eleusa.com
In the interests of improving and updating its equipment, ELE reserves the right to alter specifications to equipment at any time
ELE International 2011 

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
45-3810, 45-3815
2 9907X0071 Issue 2
Contents
Section Page
1 Introduction 3
2 Specification 4
3 Description 4
4 Safety 6
5 Installation 6
6 Operation 7
7 Hazards to Health 8
8 Maintenance 10
WEEE Directive

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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1 Introduction
1.1 Centrifuge extractor, 1500 g capacity EN 12697-1, ASTM D2172, AASHTO T58,
T164
The centrifuge extractor is designed for use in the determination of bitumen
percentage in bituminous mixtures. It has a removable, precision machined aluminum
rotor-bowl with removable bowl-cover. Filter paper rings are compressed between the
rotor-bowl and cover by means of a knurled nut. The rotor-bowl assembly spins on a
vertical shaft enclosed in machined (liquid-tight) aluminum housing. The vertical shaft
has ball bearings at the top and bottom to maintain alignment and minimize the
vibration from an unbalanced sample. The unit has a brake control for fast stopping.
The continuously variable speed control has a range from 0 to 3600 rpm. The solvent
is introduced during the test through the cup on the housing cover. The lower housing
of the centrifuge is a one piece aluminum casting; epoxy finished for ease of cleaning,
and designed to shield the electric motor completely from asphalts and solvents.
1.2 Large centrifuge extractor, 3000 g capacity
The continuously variable speed control has a range of 0-3600 rpm. The 3000 g
capacity allows maximum time economy and maximum accuracy where aggregate
particles are large or where the mix is not uniform.
Figure 1

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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2 Specification
Standard Centrifuge
Capacity
1500 g
Speed range
0-3600 rpm
Size
510 x 300 x 560 mm (h x w x l)
Weight (approx.)
30 kg
Power requirements
240 V / 0.75 amps
Large Centrifuge
Capacity
3000 g
Speed range
0-3600 rpm
Size
510 x 300 x 560 mm (h x w x l)
Weight (approx.)
37 kg
Power requirements
240 V / 0.75 amps
3 Description
3.1 Base Unit
3.1.1 The base unit is of rigidly constructed welded steel that houses both the motor drive
unit (1) and speed controller (2).
3.1.2 The speed controller incorporates a switch to provide an electro-mechanical brake to
minimize the time required to stop the centrifuge. This is operated when the controller
is turned fully anti-clockwise past zero.
3.1.3 The motor is attached to the main bearing assembly (3) and drive shaft (4) that
retains and drives the centrifuge bowl.
3.1.4 The top end of the drive shaft engages with a stabilizing bearing fitted to the top cover
of the centrifuge.
3.1.5 The drive shaft incorporates a spigot (5) that engages with the bowl.
3.2 Light alloy bowl assembly
3.2.1 The bowl assembly comprises an inner centrifuge unit and a protective bowl and
cover.
3.2.2 The inner bowl (6) slides on the shaft (4) to engage with the driving spigot (5).
3.2.3 A cover (7) is provided for the centrifuge bowl and is clamped to it by means of the
knurled nut (8).
3.2.4 The whole assembly is easily lifted from the apparatus for purposes of weighing and
the use of more than one centrifuge bowl.
3.2.5 The outer bowl (9) is rigidly fixed by 4 bolts (15) to the base unit and the bearing
assembly (3).

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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Figure 2
1.
Motor Drive Unit
7.
Cover
13.
Filter Discs
2.
Speed Controller
8.
Knurled Nut
14.
Fill Point
3.
Main Bearing Assembly
9.
Outer Bowl
15.
Retaining Bolts
4.
Drive Shaft
10.
Fasteners
16.
Start / Stop
5.
Spigot
11.
Top Cover
6.
Inner Bowl
12.
Speed Controller

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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3.2.6 Three fasteners (10) are provided to retain the top cover (11) in position during the
centrifuge process.
3.2.7 The cover incorporates a bearing that engages with the end of the drive shaft (4) to
minimize vibration. It also provides a means of adding solvent as specified during the
centrifuge process (14).
4 Safety
Warnings!
Do not operate without the cover correctly positioned and locked.
Do not remove the cover while the bowl is rotating.
If excessive vibration occurs, switch off and check for distribution of the test
specimen in the bowl.
Use only in a well ventilated location.
5 Installation
5.1 Location
5.1.1 The apparatus can be mounted on any solid bench that will support the weight and
remain firm during the centrifuging process.
5.1.2 The apparatus can alternatively be secured directly to the bench by removing the four
feet and screwing through the bench top (Figure 3).
Figure 3 View on underside of centrifuge showing fixing hole centres
5.2 Collection of extract
5.2.1 To assist with the disposal or collection of the solvent / bitumen solution, place the
plastic extension tube over the drain tube protruding from the side of the bowl cover.

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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Safety
Whilst the test is in operation do not remove any covers or attempt to adjust any part of the
machine.
Ensure all moving parts are thoroughly secured before attempting any maintenance.
Ensure all appropriate measures are taken to protect the operator from excessive noise.
See noise certificate (when supplied).
Power Supply
Electrical Safety
Warning: Before removing any covers or performing maintenance repair and service, isolate
from electrical supply by removing mains plug. Where mains supply is required during these
activities, only competent persons should perform the work.
Check that the power supply is compatible with the requirements stated on the label and
connect in accordance with IEE regulations or to local requirements. It is advised that this
machine be connected via a residual current device (not supplied), and it should operate if
earth leakage current exceeds 0.03 amps.
It is recommended that the mains cable be connected to a no-volts switch so that in the
event of a mains failure, the apparatus can only be re-started if the no-volt switch has been
reset.
The power cable is coded as follows:
Brown Wire
L
Live or power
Blue Wire
N
Neutral
Green / Yellow Wire
E
Earth or Ground
Portable Appliance Tests (PAT)
An electrical safety test label is fitted (usually adjacent to the mains input socket).
Organizations have an obligation to ensure equipment is maintained and is safe for use.
Regular PAT testing is one means of ensuring equipment continues to be electrically safe.
DO NOT FLASH TEST ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT.
If in doubt as to the most suitable connection point (which will usually be an earth
stud or an external earth connection) contact the ELE Service Department for
assistance.
6 Operation
6.1 Preparation
6.1.1 Set the speed control (12) fully anti-clockwise to the brake position and release the
fasteners (10) to remove the cover (11).
6.1.2 Remove the centrifuge bowl assembly (6, 7 and 8) and stand on a bench.
6.1.3 Place the portion of test material evenly in the bowl and add sufficient solvent to
cover it. Note: although the base unit is flame proof, it is recommended that non-
flammable solvents such as trichloroethylene or methylene chloride are used.

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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6.1.4 Place a low ash filter paper ring (13) on the lip of the bowl (6), place the cover (7) in
position and clamp the assembly using nut (8).
6.1.5 The assembly can be left for up to 1 hour to allow the solvent to take the bitumen into
solution.
6.2 Centrifuge Process
6.2.1 When ready place the bowl assembly onto the drive shaft (4) ensuring that the slot in
the base of the bowl engages with the driving spigot (5).
6.2.2 Place the cover (11) over the outer bowl and lock in position using the three fasteners
(10).
Note: It is important to ensure that this operation is carried out correctly and that the
cover is properly locked in position.
6.2.3 Start centrifuging by slowly increasing the speed rotating the speed controller
clockwise.
6.2.4 Only proceed to maximum speed when the initial flow of solution from the bowl slows
to a trickle.
6.2.5 When it is considered that drainage is complete, turn the speed controller (12) to the
brake position (fully anti-clockwise).
6.3 Subsequent solvent additions
6.3.1 After centrifuge has stopped, add a further 200 ml of solvent through the top of the
cover (11) at fill point (14).
6.3.2 Allow a few minutes for the solvent to mix with the aggregates in the bowl and then
repeat the centrifuge operation (5.2.3 to 5.2.5).
6.3.3 This operation should be repeated at least twice more or until the solution is clear, or
a light straw colour.
6.4 Weighing and drying
6.4.1 The use of the bowl assembly as part of the quantitative extraction of bitumen from
bituminous mixtures requires the careful weighing of the bowl and ingredients at
various stages of the test.
6.4.2 The operator should follow the instruction details in the relevant national Standards
document.
6.4.3 To ensure accurate and repeatable results, it is important to always keep the inner
bowl and cover assembly clean and dry.
7Hazards to Health
7.1 Inhalation
Although methylene chloride is not known to cause any permanent organic injury, it
can have anesthetic effects, and inhalation of its vapors may cause nausea,
headaches, drowsiness, or can prove suddenly fatal if exposure has been severe.
Methylene chloride is a volatile liquid, even at normal room temperatures, and the
concentration of vapor in the atmosphere can increase rapidly, particularly in confined
spaces. Good general background ventilation is therefore required where methylene
chloride is to be used and, in addition, extraction vents may be required close to the
source of any vapor emissions and at ground level, where the heavy vapor tends to
collect.

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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The vapor may flow into underground pits etc., and will be slow to disperse there or in
enclosed vessels or other confined spaces. Such pits and enclosed vessels must only
be entered when wearing breathing apparatus, with a colleague in attendance, and
after authorization by a responsible person. Refer to local safety standards.
7.2 Contact with the skin and eyes
Methylene chloride is a powerful solvent and can readily remove the natural grease
from the skin. Methylene chloride (or any other solvent) may cause dermatitis.
Absorption through the skin could produce the same effects as inhalation but under
normal conditions the methylene chloride will evaporate so rapidly that absorption will
not occur. However, absorption could occur if methylene chloride remains in contact
with the skin for a prolonged period of time e.g. by saturation of clothing. Splashes of
methylene chloride liquid in the eyes can be painful and cause irritation, but it is
unlikely that any serious or permanent injury will result. The hazards of both skin and
eye contact may be increased by the presence of any thickener or film-forming agent
in the methylene chloride which may prevent its rapid evaporation.
Working procedures should be designed to avoid the chance of personnel being
splashed with methylene chloride. However, where intermittent contact cannot be
avoided, protective clothing, e.g. splash proof goggles, gloves and aprons made from
polyvinyl chloride, nitrile rubber, or neoprene should be worn.
7.3 Ingestion
The swallowing of small splashes of methylene chloride is unlikely to cause any
significant reaction, though larger amounts could cause internal irritation, nausea,
vomiting and diarrhea and could lead to drowsiness and unconsciousness.
7.4 First aid and medical attention
7.4.1 General
Any person showing signs of exposure to methylene chloride should be carried to a
fresh atmosphere and should be kept warm and quiet. Medical attention should
always be sought.
7.4.2 Inhalation
If a patient is conscious he/she should be made to lie down and should be kept warm
and quiet until examined by a doctor. Under no circumstances should the patient be
allowed to resume work or to be taken home until permission is given by the doctor.
If the patient is unconscious, a doctor must be called at once. Oxygen should be
administered through a face mask. If breathing stops, or becomes irregular, apply
artificial respiration and continue oxygen inhalation. When the patient recovers
consciousness he/she must be kept warm and remain lying down until examined by a
doctor. The patient must not be taken home until permission is given by a doctor.
7.4.3 Skin contact
Methylene chloride will normally evaporate readily from the skin and any items which
prevent rapid evaporation, e.g. clothes wet with methylene chloride, should be
removed at once. If the methylene chloride contains thickeners or film-forming resins
which could prevent its rapid evaporation, the affected areas of the skin should be
washed with warm soapy water. Application of suitable replenishing creams will
restore some grease to the skin, thereby giving some relief.

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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7.4.4 Eye contact
The eye should be thoroughly washed out with running water from a tap or saline
solution from an eye wash bottle. Washing should be continued for at least 10
minutes, holding the eye-lid firmly open and ensuring that the washing liquid enters all
parts of the eye. A doctor should be consulted as soon as possible.
7.4.5 Swallowing
The patient should be given an emetic, such as salty water, to induce vomiting. A
doctor should be called at once.
8 Maintenance
8.1 Routine
8.1.1 The apparatus is designed to operate over long periods with a minimum of
maintenance. However, the following checks are recommended during daily
operation.
8.2 Outer cover bearing
8.2.1 The stabilizing bearing on the cover unit is exposed to the solvent vapors which may
slowly dissolve out the lubricating grease.
8.2.2 It is recommended that on a daily basis, without removing the retaining clips, this
bearing is checked and a portion of general purpose engineering grease smeared
across the bearing cover.
8.2.3 To avoid chattering between the bowl (6) and the spigot (5), the latter is fitted with ten
‘O’ ring rubbers to act as a shock absorber.
8.2.4 As a matter of routine, check the rubbers for signs of damage.
8.2.5 If necessary, remove and replace with ‘O’ rings.
8.2.6 To gain access to these rubbers, it may be found easier to remove the outer bowl (9)
by unscrewing the 4 retaining bolts (15).
8.3 Electrical
8.3.1 The arrangement of the two micro switches as part of the speed controller is carefully
set for the correct operation of the motor and brake. It is recommended that these are
not disturbed.

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
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DIRECTIVE ON WASTE ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (WEEE)

Centrifuge Extractor 1500, Centrifuge Extractor 3000
45-3810, 45-3815
12 9907X0071 Issue 2