FlowLine MiniMe LU12 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, go to the Flowline
website for on-line registration. The website address is as follows:
www.flowline.com.
On-line Warranty Registration can be found under Contact Us is
the Navigation Bar along the side of the home page.
If for some reason your product must be returned for factory ser-
vice, contact Flowline Inc. at [phone] to receive a Material
Return Authorization number (MRA), providing the following
information:
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.
®
MiniMe™ 2-Wire Ultrasonic
Level Transmitter
Model LU12/LU13/LU14
Owner’s Manual
Version 0.7A
© 2003 FLOWLINE Inc.
All rights reserved.
Manual # LU900012 05/03
IP
67

Step One
SPECIFICATIONS
Range: LU12: 0.33’ to 10’ (10 cm to 3m)
LU13: 0.33’ to 25’ (10 cm to 7.6m)
LU14: 0.66’ to 40’ (20 cm to 12.2m)
Accuracy: ± .15% of span in air
Resolution: 0.125” (3 mm)
Beam width: LU12: 2” diameter
LU13: 3” diameter
LU14: 3” diameter
Dead band: LU12: 0.33’ (10 cm)
LU13: 0.33’ (10 cm)
LU14: 0.66’ (20 cm)
LED indication: Power, indication and echo-status
Memory: Non-volatile
Supply voltage: 12 - 28 VDC
Loop resistance: 600 Ohms @ 24 VDC
Signal output: 4-20 mA, two-wire
Calibration: Target, calibration wire
Fail-safety: Reverts to 22 mA
Process temperature: F: -40º to 160º
C: -40º to 71º
Temp. compensation: Automatic
Electronics temp: F: -40º to 160º
C: -40º to 71º
Pressure rating: 30 psi (2 bar) @ 25 °C., derated @ 1.667 psi
(0.113 bar) per °C. above 25 °C.
Enclosure rating: NEMA 6 (IP67)
Installed height: 1.7” (4.3 cm) above tank process mount
Enclosure material: Polycarbonate, PC/ABS FR
Transducer materials: PVDF Kynar®
Cable jacket mat’l: Polypropylene
Cable type: 3-conductor, shielded
Cable length: 10’ (3 m)
Process mount: LU12: 1” NPT (1” G)
LU13/14: 2” NPT (2” G)
Mounting gasket: Viton® (G version only)
Classification: General purpose
CE compliance: EN 50082-2 immunity
EN 55011 emission
0.7"
(17 mm)
1.4"(37 mm)
2.4" (61 mm)
10' Cable (3.0 m)
Shld
Red
Black
White
4.1" (105 mm)
1" NPT
(1" G)
10' Cable (3.0 m)
Shld
Red
Black
White
1.7"(44 mm)
2.4"(61 mm)
3.4" (86 mm)
4.1" (105 mm)
2" NPT
(2" G)
Overview:
MiniMe redefines performance for continuous non-contact ultrasonic
level measurement in bulk chemical, oil and waste storage tanks up to
40’ (12.2 m), and is ideally suited for challenging corrosive, coating or
waste liquids. The compact corrosion proof package is completely
sealed and stands only 1.7” above the tank top. The transmitter is
broadly selected for atmospheric bulk storage, day tank, process vessel
and waste sump applications. Media examples include ink and polymer.
The transmitter may be spanned in seconds using the calibration wire,
a DC power supply and flat reflective target. To set the 4 mA span,
attach the calibration wire to the return side of the power supply, hold
the transmitter at the desired range and turn power on until the
Flowline logo plate illuminates. To set the 20 mA span, connect the
calibration wire to the positive side of the power supply and follow
the same procedure.
Part Number Max. Range Deadband Beam Thread
LU12-5001 10’ (3m) 4” (10 cm) 2” 1” NPT
LU12-5061 10’ (3m) 4” (10 cm) 2” 1” G
LU13-5001 25’ (7.6m) 4” (10 cm) 3” 2” NPT
LU13-5061 25’ (7.6m) 4” (10 cm) 3” 2” G
LU14-5001 40’ (12.2m) 8” (20 cm) 3” 2” NPT
LU14-5061 40’ (12.2m) 8” (20 cm) 3” 2” G
4.0" (102 mm)
4.1" (105 mm)
40
30
20
10
00
-40 -20 00 20 40 60 80
Acceptable
Range
Unacceptable
Range
Temperature/Pressure Derating
Operating Pressure (psi)
Temperature (C°)
800
600
400
200
0
12 16 20 24 28
Acceptable
Range
Unacceptable
Range
Flowline Electrical Loading Limits
Max. Series Resistance (Ohms)
Supply Voltage (VDC)
pg
Derating @ Continuous 20 mA
Ambient Sensor Temperature (°C)
Operating Voltage (VDC)
100
80
60
40
20
0
Acceptable
Range
Unacceptable
Range
12 16 20 24 28
MiniMe - Side View
LU13 & LU14 Series
MiniMe - Side View
LU12 Series
MiniMe - Top View
LU12, LU13 & LU14 Series

Step Two
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
About this Manual:
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE MANUAL PRIOR TO
INSTALLING OR USING THIS PRODUCT. This manual
includes information on the MiniMe™ Ultrasonic Level
Transmitter from FLOWLINE: LU12-50_1, LU13-50_1 and
LU14-50_1. Please refer to the part number located on the trans-
mitter 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 with all installations. Note: Always install the Viton gasket
with the LU1_-5061. The G threaded version of the MiniMe will
not seal unless the gasket is installed properly. Never overtighten
the transmitter within the fitting. Always check for leaks prior to
system start-up.
Wiring and Electrical:
A supply voltage of 12-28 VDC is used to power the
LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter. The sensor systems should
never exceed a maximum of 28 volts DC. Electrical wiring of the
sensor should be performed in accordance with all applicable
national, state, and local codes.
Material Compatibility:
The MiniMe™ enclosure is made of a flame retardant
Polycarbonate (PC/ABS FR). The transducer is made of
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF). Make sure that the model which
you have selected is chemically compatible with the application
liquids it will contact.
Enclosure:
While the transmitter housing is liquid-resistant and can be fully
submersed, MiniMe is not designed to be operational when
immersed. It should be mounted in such a way that the enclosure
and transducer do not come into contact with fluid under normal
operational conditions.
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.
Flammable, Explosive and Hazardous Applications:
The LU12/13/14 series transmitter systems should not be used
within classified hazardous environments.
Warning
Always install the Viton gasket with all versions of the LU1_-
5061. The G threaded version of the MiniMe will not seal unless
the gasket is installed properly.
Step Three
About Digital Infinity:
Digital Infinity provides unparalleled sensor performance and appli-
cation benefits through advanced digital surface imaging and signal
processing technology.
Performance Benefits:
Digital Infinity sensors are accurate to
± 0.15% of measured span in air with
no accuracy degrading over span.
The powerful sensors are capable of
ranges up to 40’ with only a 2” trans-
ducer. The minimum dead band is 2”
for optimum tank filling capacity.
The applied beam width is narrowed
to an amazing 3” of minimum
required free space across the span for
use in restricted locations.
Application Benefits:
Digital Infinity sensors are widely
installed in tank adapters, still wells
or flanges, and can even be located in
the center of parabolic dome top
tanks. The raw signal strength and
processing capacity enable the sensor
to measure through significant vapor
density. The digital surface imaging
creates a living process map that
rejects obstacle reflections from with-
in the broader beam. The same imag-
ing technology enables deep mea-
surement into sloped cone tank bot-
toms. With various power modes, the
sensor is able to detect and adjust for
the presence of process foam. During
agitation, the digital surface imaging
maintains focus and accuracy. In the
event of acoustic signal loss, the sensor will invert to the safe state
and indicate a diagnostic string for use in troubleshooting.
Its level made simple!
TECHNOLOGY

Step Five
WIRING
Wiring to a FLOWLINE Continuous Controller (LC52 Series):
Connect the Red wire to the positive 24 VDC, 25 mA terminal on the
LC52 series controller. Connect the Black wire to the GND terminal on
the LC52 series controller (See illustration below). Check the LC52’s
instruction manual for setting the LC52 for loop powered operation.
Wiring to a Two-Wire Loop Powered Indicator:
The MiniMe requires 12-28 VDC power and an indicator which
receives a 4-20 mAcurrent input. Connect the Red wire of the MiniMe
level transmitter to the positive VDC terminal on the power supply.
Connect the Black wire on the LU12/LU13/ LU14 series to the (+) ter-
minal on the loop indicator. Connect the (-) of the loop indicator to the
(-) of the power supply (See illustration below).
Wiring to a Typical PLC:
The MiniMe requires a PLC which provides a 12-28 VDC excitation
and receives a 4-20 mA current input. Connect the Red wire of the
LU12/LU13/LU14 series to the positive VDC power terminal.
Connect the Black wire on the MiniMe transmitter to the (+) channel
on the PLC. Connect the (-) of the PLC to the (-) of the power ter-
minal (See illustration below).
Wiring to a Flowline Universal Panel Meter:
Connect the Red wire to the P+ (Positive 24 VDC) terminal on the LI1_
series panel meter. Connect the Black wire to the S+ (Signal Input) ter-
minal on the LI1_ series panel meter. Jumper between the S- (Signal
return) terminal and the P- (Power return) terminal on the LI1_ series
panel meter (see illustration below).
LATCH
ON OFF
PWR
RELAY 1
INVERT DELAY
RELAY 2
INVERT DELAY
420OP
EASY CAL
UP DOWN SET
INPUT
0% 100%
OFF SET SPAN RLY1 RLY2A RLY2B
WHITE
BLACK
RED
+- -+
DC Power
Supply
12-28 VDC
WHITE
BLACK
RED
Typical PLC
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
A
+-
DC Power
Supply
12-28 VDC
WHITE
BLACK
RED
WHITE
BLACK
RED
AHC
CLO
SDMS+S-P-P+L L
Universal Panel Meter
LI1_ Series
VAC
Power
Step Four
ELECTRICAL
Supply Voltage: The supply voltage to the LU12/LI13/LU14 series
transmitter should never exceed a maximum of 28 VDC. Flowline
controllers have a built-in 24 VDC power supply, which provides
power to all of Flowline’s transmitters. Alternative controllers and
power supplies, with a minimum output of 12 VDC up to a maximum
output of 28 VDC, may also be used with the LU12/LU13/LU14
series transmitter.
Required Cable Length: Determine the length of cable required
between the MiniMe and its point of termination. Allow enough slack
to ensure the easy installation, removal and/or maintenance of the
transmitter. The cable length may be extended up to a maximum of
1000 feet, using a well-insulated, shielded wire from 14 to 20 gauge,
depending on the overall cable run.
Wire Stripping: Using a 10 gauge wire stripper, carefully remove
the outer layer of insulation from the last 1-1/4” of the transmitters
cable. Unwrap and discard the exposed foil shield from around the
signal wires, leaving the drain wire attached if desired. With a 20
gauge wire stripper, remove the last 1/4” of the colored insulation
from the signal wires.
Signal Outputs (4-20 mA Current Signal):The standard method
used by Flowline controllers and panel meters; this technology uses
only the Red and Black wires from the MiniMe level transmitter. The
White Wire is only used to calibrate the transmitter. The transmitter
is typically field programmed, such that the output is 4 mA for an
empty tank and 20 mA for a full tank. The White wire is only used to
program the 4 mA and 20 mA settings and is not used during normal
operation.
4mA
20 mA

Step Seven
CALIBRATION
Introduction:
The MiniMe is typically calibrated in two steps, when the tank is empty
and when the tank is full. Either step can be done first and can be
changed at any time. Please note that the MiniMe can only be set at the
exact distance for the empty or full levels of liquids. The MiniMe can
be targeted at either the actual liquid or at a fixed object such as a wall
or mirror. Also note that the calibration time will increase as the mea-
surement distance increases. At the maximum range of the transmitter,
calibration times can approach 30 seconds or longer.
Empty Calibration - 4 mA Setting:
1. Power down the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter.
2. Position the transmitter at the exact distance for a 4 mA or empty
setting (see illustration below).
4mA
20 mA
(+)
(-)
Red
White
Black
(+)
(-)
Red
White
Black
3. Connect the White Wire to the Black Wire (low side) - Negative
Terminal (see illustration above).
4. Add power to the transmitter.
5. Wait until you see a the LED flash on the
LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter.
6. Power down the transmitter
7. Remove the White Wire from the
Black Wire (low side) - Negative
Terminal (see illustration). Secure the
White wire is a safe position so it can
never come into contact with the
exposed Red or Black wires during normal operation.
8. Return power to the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter for nor-
mal operation.
Full Calibration - 20 mA Setting:
1. Power down the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter.
2. Position the transmitter at the exact distance for a 20 mA or full
setting (see illustration below).
3. Connect the White Wire to the Red Wire (high side) - Positive
Terminal (see illustration above).
4. Add power to the transmitter.
5. Wait until you see the LED flash on the
LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter.
6. Power down the transmitter
7. Remove the White Wire from the Red
Wire (high side) - Positive Terminal
(see illustration). Secure the White
wire is a safe position so it can never
come into contact with the exposed
Red or Black wires during normal operation.
8. Return power to the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter for nor-
mal operation.
(+)
(-)
Red
White
Black
Not Used
(+)
(-)
Red
White
Black
Not Used
MiniMe
LED
MiniMe
LED
Step Six
INSTALLATION
FLOWLINE’s LU12/LU13/LU14 transmitter is commonly installed
in either a Tank Adapter or Flange. Installation requires a 1" NPT (G)
tank adapter or flange for the LU12 series and a 2” NPT (G) tank
adapter or flange for the LU13 or LU14 series.
1. Install the appropriate fitting (tank adapter or flange) in the top
wall of the tank. 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 threads are not damaged or worn.
2. Insert the Transmitter into the fitting and tighten to hand tight.
3. Always check for leaks prior to system start-up. To ensure prop-
er installation, a complete leak test and simulation of actual
process conditions should be preformed.
Warning
Do not install the Minime™ in pressurized applications above 30 psi.
Always install the Viton gasket with all versions of the LU1_-5-61.
The G threaded version of the Minime will not seal unless the gasket
is 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 fittings threads are not
damaged or worn.
Depth
Inner Diameter
VACUUM
Do not install
MiniMe at an
angle
Avoid installing
less than 2” from
side of tank
Avoid installing
MiniMe directly
above obstruc-
tions in tank
MiniMe will not
operate in
vacuum
Tank Adapter Installation:
Choose a fitting which minimizes
interference to sound pulses. Fittings
with two sets of threads (T x T) will
increase interference and could reduce
the overall range of MiniMe.
Tank Adapter
Flange Flange Installation:
For optimum installation, choose the
Tank adapter installation method. If
the MiniMe is installed in a Flange,
use a flange with a maximum height
of 12 inches (30.5 cm) and a mini-
mum Inner Diameter of 3 inches (80
mm) for best results.

Step Nine
MAINTENANCE
General:
The LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter itself requires no periodic
maintenance except cleaning as required. It is the responsibility of the
user to determine the appropriate maintenance schedule, based on the
specific 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. Transmitter Removal: In all installations, make sure that the tank
is drained well below a safe level prior to removal. Carefully,
remove the transmitter from the installation.
3. Cleaning the Sensor: Use a soft bristle brush and mild detergent,
carefully wash the transducer of the MiniMe. Do not use a harsh
abrasive such as steel wool or sandpaper, which might damage the
transmitter's surface. Do not use incompatible solvents which may
damage the PVDF transducer or the transmitters PP body.
4. Sensor Installation: Follow the appropriate steps of installation as
outlined in the installation section of this manual.
Factory Reset:
MiniMe can be reset to its original factory settings. The factory set-
tings are reset individually (4 mAor 20 mA) and follow a similar pro-
cedure listed in Calibration. To reset MiniMe:
1. Power down the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter.
2. Connect the White Wire to either the Red Wire (20 mA reset) or
to the Black Wire (4 mA reset).
4. Add power to the transmitter for approximately 2 seconds and
then power down.
5. To reset the other setting, switch the White Wire to the other ter-
minal and repeat Step 4.
6. Remove the White Wire from the Red or Black Wire. Secure the
White wire is a safe position so it can never come into contact
with the exposed Red or Black wires during normal operation.
7. Return power to the LU12/LU13/LU14 series transmitter for nor-
mal operation.
Unlike the Calibration procedure, the Blue LED will not flash when
doing the factory reset.
Factory Settings for LU12/LU13/LU14 Series Transmitter
Step Eight
CALIBRATION
The Minime™ is factory calibrated with a pre-programmed measure-
ment span. The 4 mA position is located at the maximum distance
from the transducer face of the LU12/LU13/LU14 series. The 20 mA
position is located at the dead band distance from the transducer face.
Refer to the chart below for the exact distances.
Testing the MiniMe:
1. Connect a multimeter in series to read the current output.
2. Verify that the current signal decreases as the distance from the
liquid to MiniMe increases.
3. Verify that the current signal increases as the distance from the
liquid to the MiniMe decreases.
LED Indication:
The Minime™ features a single LED indica-
tor which is used for fail-safe and program-
ming indication. During normal operation,
the LED will be OFF.
Calibration:
During calibration, the LED will flash once
when the 4 mA or 20 mA distance has been set within the MiniMe.
Please note that the calibration time will increase as the measurement
distance increases. At the maximum range of the transmitter, calibra-
tion times can approach 30 seconds or longer.
Fail-Safe Operation:
During normal operation, the LED will turn ON when the transmitter
does not receive a signal return (Loss of Signal), forcing the trans-
mitter into a fail-safe mode. During the fail-safe mode, the current
will increase up to 22 mA and hold until the acoustic signal is re-
acquired. Once re-acquired, the LED will turn OFF and the current
will indicate the appropriate measured value. A flashing LED indi-
cates that the distance the transmitter is reading is out of range with
respect to the 4 mA or 20 mA setting.
Power
Supply
Power
Supply
20 mA
4mA
mA
456
mA
19 20 21
Red Black
Red Black
LED
Transmitter EC4 setting EC20 setting
LU12 series 120” (304.8 cm) 2” (5 cm)
LU13 series 300” (762 cm) 4” (10 cm)
LU14 series 480” (1219.2 cm) 8” (20 cm)
Transmitter EC4 setting EC20 setting
LU12 series 120” (304.8 cm) 2” (5 cm)
LU13 series 300” (762 cm) 4” (10 cm)
LU14 series 480” (1219.2 cm) 8” (20 cm)