FlowLine LA12 User manual

Warranty, Service & Repair
WARRANTY
Flowline warrants to the original purchaser of its products that such
products will be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service for a period which is equal to the shorter of
one year from the date of purchase of such products or two years from
the date of manufacture of such products.
This warranty covers only those components of the products which
are non-moving and not subject to normal wear. Moreover, products
which are modified or altered, and electrical cables which are cut to
length during installation are not covered by this warranty.
Flowline’s obligation under this warranty is solely and exclusively
limited to the repair or replacement, at Flowline’s option, of the prod-
ucts (or components thereof) which Flowline’s examination proves to
its satisfaction to be defective. FLOWLINE SHALL HAVE NO
OBLIGATION FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES TO PERSON-
AL OR REAL PROPERTY, OR FOR INJURY TO ANY PERSON.
This warranty does not apply to products which have been subject to
electrical or chemical damage due to improper use, accident, negli-
gence, abuse or misuse. Abuse shall be assumed when indicated by
electrical damage to relays, reed switches or other components. The
warranty does not apply to products which are damaged during ship-
ment back to Flowline’s factory or designated service center or are
returned without the original casing on the products. Moreover, this
warranty becomes immediately null and void if anyone other than ser-
vice personnel authorized by Flowline attempts to repair the defective
products.
Products which are thought to be defective must be shipped prepaid
and insured to Flowline’s factory or a designated service center (the
identity and address of which will be provided upon request) within
30 days of the discovery of the defect. Such defective products must
be accompanied by proof of the date of purchase.
Flowline further reserves the right to unilaterally wave this warranty
and to dispose of any product returned to Flowline where:
a. There is evidence of a potentially hazardous material present
with product.
b. The product has remained unclaimed at Flowline for longer than
30 days after dutifully requesting disposition of the product.
THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND
THE DESCRIPTION ON THE FACE OF THIS WARRANTY. This
warranty and the obligations and liabilities of Flowline under it are
exclusive and instead of, and the original purchaser hereby waives, all
other remedies, warranties, guarantees or liabilities, express or
implied. EXCLUDED FROM THIS WARRANTY IS THE IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF FITNESS OF THE PRODUCTS FOR A PARTIC-
ULAR PURPOSE OR USE AND THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANT ABILITY OF THE PRODUCTS.
This warranty may not be extended, altered or varied except by a writ-
ten instrument signed by a duly-authorized officer of Flowline, Inc.
To register your product with the manufacturer, fill out the enclosed
warranty card and return it immediately to:
Flowline Inc.
10500 Humbolt Street
Los Alamitos, CA 90720.
If for some reason your product must be returned for factory ser-
vice, contact Flowline Inc. to receive a Material Return
Authorization number (MRA) first, providing the following infor-
mation:
1. Part Number, Serial Number
2. Name and telephone number of someone who can answer
technical questions related to the product and its application.
3. Return Shipping Address
4. Brief Description of the Symptom
5. Brief Description of the Application
Once you have received a Material Return Authorization number,
ship the product prepaid in its original packing to:
Flowline Factory Service
MRA _____
10500 Humbolt Street
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
To avoid delays in processing your repair, write the MRA on the
shipping label. Please include the information about the malfunc-
tion with your product. This information enables our service tech-
nicians to process your repair order as quickly as possible.
®
Version 2.4A
© 2005 FLOWLINE Inc.
All rights reserved.
Manual # LA900001 07/05
Cricket™ Alphasonic
Level Transmitter
Model LA12
Owner’s
Manual

Step One
SPECIFICATIONS
Range: 0.3 to 10' (9 cm to 3 m)
Accuracy: ± 1% of span in air
Resolution: 0.125” (3 mm)
Frequency: 2 kHz (nominal)
Pulse rate: 5 per second
Dead band: 0.3' (5 cm) minimum
Supply voltage: 12-36 VDC
Loop resistance: 600 ohms @ 36 VDC
Signal output: 4-20 mA, 12-36 VDC
Signal invert: 4-20 mA or 20-4 mA
Minimum range: 8”
Maximum range: 120"
Span adjustment: Potentiometer
Indication: LED for power status
Temperature rating: F: -40º to 140º
C: -40º to 60º
Temp. compensation: Automatic over range
Pressure rating: Atmospheric
Wave guide: Schedule 40 or 80, 1/2"
Guide materials: PVC, PP or PVDF
Enclosure rating: NEMA 4X / IP65
Enclosure material: Polypropylene, U.L. 94 VO
Diaphragm material: Polyethylene
Mounting threads: 1” NPT (1" G)
Mounting gasket: Viton 1" (metric only)
Conduit connection: 1/2” NPT
Thread material: PP
CE compliance: EN 50082-2 immunity
EN 55011 emission
About Alphasonic Technology:
An ultrasonic sound wave is pulsed five times per second from the base of
the transducer. The sound wave reflects against the process medium below
and returns to the transducer. The microprocessor based electronics measures
the time of flight between the sound generation and receipt, and translates
this figure into the distance between the transmitter and process medium
below.
1.0"
(25mm)
4.2" (106mm) A (Specify)
4.7" (119mm)
5.9" (149mm)
Wave Guide - 1/2" (20 mm) pipe
3/4" NPT (3/4" G)
2.8"
(71mm)
Cricket“
Transmitter
(PP)
Pipe
Adapter
(PP)
True Union
Tank Fitting
(PP)
Wave Guide
(PP, PVC
or PVDF)
Diaphragm
(PE)
100
80
60
40
20
012 16 20 24 28 32 36
Acceptable
Range
Unacceptable
Range
MaximumTemperature/Voltage
Derating @ Continuous 20 mA
Ambient SensorTemperature (¡C)
Operating Voltage (VDC)
1,400
1,200
1,000
800
600
400
200
00012 18 24 30 36
Acceptable
Range
Unacceptable
Range
Flowline Electrical Loading Limits
Max.Series Resistance(Ohms)
Supply Voltage (VDC)
POWER
SPAN
ON OFF
INVERT Cricket™
ALPHASONIC
TRANSMITTER
(-) (+)
LA12 - _ 0 _ 1
Guide Material
1 - PP
5 - PVDF
7 - PVC
MountingThread
0 - 1" NPT
2 - 1" G
AlphasonicTransmitter

Step Two Step Three
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS COMPONENTS
About this Manual:
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE MANUAL PRIOR TO
INSTALLING OR USING THIS PRODUCT. This manual
includes information on all models of the Cricket™ Alphasonic
continuous contact level transmitter from FLOWLINE: LA12-
_0_1. Please refer to the part number located on the sensor label to
verify the exact model which you have purchased.
User’s Responsibility for Safety:
FLOWLINE manufactures a wide range of liquid level sensors and
technologies. While each of these sensors is designed to operate in
a wide variety of applications, it is the user’s responsibility to select
a sensor model that is appropriate for the application, install it
properly, perform tests of the installed system, and maintain all
components. The failure to do so could result in property damage
or serious injury.
Proper Installation and Handling:
Because this is an electrically operated device, only properly-
trained staff should install and/or repair this product. Use a proper
sealant or gasket with all transmitter installations. Note: Always
install the Viton gasket with all versions of the LA12-_061. The G
threaded version of the Cricket will not seal unless the gasket is
installed properly. Never overtighten the transmitter within the fit-
ting, beyond a maximum of 80 inch-pounds torque. Always check
for leaks prior to system start-up.
Wiring and Electrical:
Asupply voltage of 12-36 VDC is used to power the LA12 trans-
mitter. The sensor systems should never exceed a maximum of 36
volts DC. Electrical wiring of the sensor should be performed in
accordance with all applicable national, state, and local codes.
Material Compatibility:
The Cricket™ enclosure (LA12 series) is made of Polypropylene
(PP) with the diaphragm made of Polyethylene (PE). The pipe
adapter is made of Polypropylene (PP). The wave guide can be of
either Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC) or
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF). Make sure that the wave guide
which you have selected is chemically compatible with the appli-
cation liquids it will contact.
Enclosure:
While the transmitter housing is liquid-resistant when installed
properly, it is not designed to be immersed. It should be mounted
in such a way that the enclosure and sensing diaphragm do not
come into contact with fluid.
Flammable, Explosive and Hazardous Applications:
The LA12 transmitter systems should not be used within flamma-
ble or explosive applications.
Input Terminal: Connect the output device to this terminal. Note the
polarity of the terminal. If polarity is not reversed, the transmitter will
not operate.
Power LED: This Green LED lights when DC power is On.
Span: Adjustment for the 4mA setting (invert off) or the 20 mA set-
ting (invert on). Follow instructions in Calibration section, Step 7.
Invert: This switch reverses the logic of the 4-20 mA output. With
Invert Off, 4 mA setting will be at the end of the wave guide and 20
mAsetting will be 2" below the top of the threads. With Invert On, 20
mA setting will be at the end of the wave guide and 4 mA setting will
be 2" below the top of the threads.
1/2" Conduit Connection: For direct electrical connection.
Cricket Transmitter: Housing containing the electronics for the
transmitter. The housing is rated NEMA 4X (IP 65) with a material of
construction of Polypropylene (PP), U.L. 94 VO.
Diaphragm: Sensing transducer for
transmitting and receiving the sound
pulses. The material of construction
for the diaphragm is Polyethylene
(PE).
Pipe Adapter: Attaches the wave
guide to the transmitter in conjunc-
tion with the true union fitting.
Material of construction for the pipe
adapter is PP and the female thread is
a 1/2" NPT.
True Union Fitting: Attaches the
wave guide to the transmitter. Also
provides the mounting threads for the
Cricket™. Threads for the true union
fitting are either 1" NPT or 1" G.
Material of construction for the true
union fitting is Polypropylene (PP).
Wave Guide: Device which directs
the sound pulses created by the trans-
mitter. Materials of construction for
wave guides are Polypropylene (PP),
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) or Polyvinylchloride (PVC).
WARNING
The Cricket™ is shipped with the pipe adapter installed in the true
union fitting. Remove the pipe adapter before installing the pipe.
Avoid installing the Cricket™ near a source of vibrations or loud
repetitive noise, such as a motor.
Always install the 1" Viton gasket with all versions of the LA12-
_061. The G threaded version of the Cricket will not seal unless the
gasket is installed properly.
POWER
SPAN
ON OFF
INVERT Cricket™
ALPHASONIC
TRANSMITTER
(-) (+)
Span
Power LED
Invert
Input
Terminal
1/2 Conduit
Connection
Cricket“
Transmitter
(PP)
Pipe
Adapter
(PP)
True Union
Tank Fitting
(PP)
Wave Guide
(PP, PVC
or PVDF)
Diaphragm
(PE)
Make a Fail-Safe System:
Design a fail-safe system that accommodates the possibility of
transmitter or power failure. In critical applications, FLOWLINE
recommends the use of redundant backup systems and alarms in
addition to the primary system.

Step Four Step Five
ASSEMBLY CALIBRATION
Calibrating the Cricker™
The Cricket™ measurement span may be calibrated over the entire
range of the wave guide. Use the following procedure to calibrate the
measurement span.
1. Connect a multimeter in series to read current. The top of the
Cricket's™ current signal is located 2" from the bottom of the
threads. The calibration procedure for the transmitter requires that
the bottom of the transmitter's current signal be set using the Span
potentiometer.
2. Set Invert switch to OFF.
3. Set level to lowest point. A cup of liquid or a piece of tape over
the end of the pipe may be used as a substitution for a low level
reading.
4. Turn Span until current reads 4 mA. Turning pot counterclock-
wise will lower the current and turning the pot clockwise will
increase the current. Always increase current to above 5 mA and
slowly return to 4 mA for best results. The Cricket™ is now cali-
brated for normal operation. Remove the cup of water or tape and
continue on to Installation (Step Six).
If the Cricket's current signal is need to be reversed (20 mAat the end
of the pipe), continue on to step five.
5. Turn Invert to ON if 20 mA signal at end of LA12 is required.
Adjust pot until 20 mA is read. Always decrease current to below
19 mA and slowly increase to 20 mA for best results.
6. Remove cup of water or tape if required.
Calibration Invert Off
Invert On
MODEL LA12-_0_1-00" ONLY:
Cricket wave guides may be assembled in the factory or in the field.
If your Cricket was factory assembled, skip to installation. If your
Cricket requires field assembly, then use the following instructions
below.
1. First, remove the true union fitting from the transmitter. The
assembly can be removed by hand.
2. Turn a 1/2" NPT male thread on the end of the 1/2" schedule 40 or
80 pipe.
3. Locate the pipe adapter and thread the pipe into the 1/2" NPT
thread.
4. Drill a 1/8" pressure equalization hole through the pipe. The loca-
tion of the hole should be placed from 1" to 1-1/2" from the top of
the wave guide.
5. Make sure all burrs have been removed from the pipe ID.
6. Insert the wave guide assembly into the true union fitting.
7. Finally, insert the assembled pieces into the transmitter. Tighten
the fitting to hand tight.
8. Proceed to the calibration section.
Always use a 1/2" schedule 40 or 80 (PP, PVDF or PVC)
pipe.
com
mA
(+)
456
Power
Supply
20 mA
4 mA
Invert OFF
4 mA
20 mA
Invert ON
1" to
1-1/4"
1/8" D.
True Union
Tank Fitting Wave Guide Assembly

Step Six Step Seven
INSTALLATION WIRING
Installing the Cricket™:
FLOWLINE’s LA12 transmitter may be installed through the tank
top, through a stand pipe top or to the side of a tank. Tank top and
stand pipe installations require a 1" NPT fitting or blind flange. Side
wall installations require a side mount bracket from FLOWLINE,
model LM50-1001, and a 2" to 1" NPT reducer bushing or equivalent.
1. Install the appropriate 1" fitting in the top wall of the tank or stand
pipe. Prior to installation, make sure that the fitting has been
installed properly and checked for leaks. Use a proper sealant at
the time of installation to ensure a liquid-tight seal. Secondly,
make sure that the fitting’s threads are not damaged or worn.
2. Unscrew the True Union Tank Fitting from the transmitter. Install
True Union Tank Fitting along with the Wave Guide Assembly
into the fitting. Apply the appropriate amount of sealant to the
tapered threads which will be screwed into the fitting.
3. Insert the Transmitter on the True Union Tank Fitting and tighten
to hand tight.
4. Always check for leaks prior to system start-up. To ensure proper
installation, a complete leak test and simulation of actual process
conditions should be preformed.
LM50 Tank Mount Stand Pipe
Side Mount Mounting Mounting
Bracket
WARNING
Avoid installing the Cricket™ near a source of vibrations or loud
repetitive noise, such as a motor.
Do not insert or remove the Cricket™ quickly from its fitting.
Doing so may increase the back pressure within the pipe and
cause the diaphragm to rupture.
Always install the 1" Viton gasket with all versions of the
LA12-_061. The G threaded version of the Cricket will not
seal unless the gasket is installed properly.
Wiring the Cricket™
Remove the cap of the LA12 transmitter enclosure. The terminals of
the transmitter are visible from the top of the enclosure.
1. Wiring to a FLOWLINE Continuous Controller (LC52):
Connect the (+) terminal to the positive 24 VDC, 4 - 20 mA ter-
minal on the LC52 controller. Connect the (-) terminal to the GND
terminal on the LC52 continuous controller (See illustration
below). Check LC52 instruction manual for setting the LC52 for
loop powered operation.
2. Wiring to a Two-Wire Loop Indicator:
The LA12 requires a loop indicator that receives a 4-20 mA cur-
rent input. A 12-36 VDC power supply is required for the system.
Connect the (+) terminal of the LA12 transmitter to the positive
VDC terminal on the power supply. Connect the (-) terminal on the
LA12 to the (+) terminal on the loop indicator. Connect the (-) of
the loop indicator to the (-) of the power supply (See illustration
below).
3. Wiring to a typical PLC:
The LA12 requires a PLC which provides a 12-36 VDC excitation
and receives a 4-20 mA current input. Connect the (+) terminal of
the LA12 transmitter to the positive VDC power terminal.
Connect the (-) terminal on the LA12 to the (+) channel on the
PLC. Connect the (-) of the PLC to the (-) of the power terminal
(See illustration below).
POWER
SPAN
ON OFF
INVERT Cricket™
ALPHASONIC
TRANSMITTER
(-) (+)
+ - - +
DC Power
Supply
14-36 VDC
POWER
SPAN
ON OFF
INVERT Cricket™
ALPHASONIC
TRANSMITTER
(-) (+)
LATCH
ON OFF
P W R
RELAY 1
INVERT DELAY
RELAY 2
INVERT DELA
Y
4 20 OP
EASY CAL
UP DOWN SET
INPUT
0% 100%
OFF SET SPAN RLY1
RLY2A RLY2B
POWER
SPAN
ON OFF
INVERT Cricket™
ALPHASONIC
TRANSMITTER
(-) (+)
+ -
DC Power
Supply
14-36 VDC
Typical PLC
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
A

Step Eight Step Nine
MAINTENANCE
General:
The LA12 series level transmitter itself requires no periodic mainte-
nance except cleaning as required. It is the responsibility of the user
to determine the appropriate maintenance schedule, based on the spe-
cific characteristics of the application liquids.
Cleaning Procedure:
1. Power: Make Sure that all power to the transmitter, controller
and/or power supply is completely disconnected.
2. Sensor Removal: In all through-wall installations, make sure that
the tank is drained well below the sensor prior to removal.
Carefully, remove the sensor from the installation.
3. Cleaning the Sensor: Use a soft bristle brush and mild detergent,
carefully wash the wave guide of the LA12. Do not use harsh
abrasives such as steel wool or sandpaper, which might damage
the transmitter's surface. Do not use incompatible solvents which
may damage the transmitters PP, PVDF or PVC plastic body.
4. Sensor Installation: Follow the appropriate steps of installation as
outlined in the installation section of this manual.