Geotech ET Series User manual

Rev 08/30/12 Part # 12050339
1500’-3000’ (450 m-925 m)
ET/MDPE Tape
Water Level Meter
(with optional electric rewind)
Installation and Operation Manual

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Table of Contents
Section 1: System Description ………………….…………………………………..…….. 3
Section 2: System Installation ……………………………………………………….……. 6
Section 3: System Operation ……………………….…………………..………………… 7
Section 4: System Maintenance ……………………………………….…………….…… 8
Section 5: System Troubleshooting……………………….…………….………………... 9
Section 6: System Specifications…………………….……….……………………….….. 10
Section 7: System Schematics ……………………………………………………………. 11
Section 8: Replacement Parts List …………………….……………….………………… 12
Warranty and Repair ……..…………….………………………………..………………… 16

2
NOTE
DOCUMENTATION CONVENTIONS
This uses the following conventions to present information:
An exclamation point icon indicates a WARNING of a situation
or condition that could lead to personal injury or death. You
should not proceed until you read and thoroughly understand the
WARNING message.
WARNING
CAUTION
A raised hand icon indicates CAUTION information that relates to
a situation or condition that could lead to equipment malfunction
or damage. You should not proceed until you read and thoroughly
understand the CAUTION message.
A note icon indicates NOTE information. Notes provide additional
or supplementary information about an activity or concept.

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Section 1: System Description
Function and Theory
The Geotech ET/MDPE Water Level Meter (ET/MDPE) is a portable instrument used to
accurately measure water levels in monitoring wells and bore holes. The sensor consists
of a stainless steel and PTFE probe attached to a reel-mounted, polyethylene-coated
engineer’s tape. The engineer's tape comes in standard or metric graduations, and is
accurate to 1/100th of a foot, or 1 millimeter.
The sensor relies on fluid conductivity to determine the presence of water. An audible
signal and visible LED activate when the probe contacts water. It features adjustable
sensitivity, used to prevent false triggering.
The ET/MDPE is intended for use as a depth to water measuring device. Using the
ET/MDPE for any other purpose may compromise safety of the operator and/or void
manufacturer’s warranty.
To avoid damage to tape and strain relief, do not over tighten reel
with probe in storage position.

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System Components
Figure 1-1 –Manual Reel Front View
Figure 1-2 –Manual Reel Side View

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Figure 1-3 –Electric Reel Front View
Figure 1-4 –Electric Reel Side View

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Section 2: System Installation
Manual Reel
Carefully lower the probe into the well, using the tape guard to prevent damage to the
tape.
In wells larger than 4” (10 cm) be careful not to let the tape scrape against the lip of the
well casing.
Electric Reel
1. Plug power cord into the control box of the reel.
2. Attach red clip to positive battery terminal, and black clip to the negative battery
terminal.
3. Turn the speed control dial fully counter-clockwise. Press desired button
(up/down). Slowly rotate the speed control until reel is rotating at the desired
speed.
Do not use the tape guard in wells larger than 4” (10 cm), as it may fall
down the well.
Keep hands and loose article of clothing away from chain.
DO NOT operate unit without a guard!
When winding the tape up on the reel, pay careful attention so
that the tape and/or probe do not get caught or tangled.

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If you are not able to hang the frame onto the well head, then either use the white plastic
leader guard (standard with all units), or the optional Tape Guide, to prevent the edge of
the well head from damaging the tape. Figure 2-2 is an example of the two parts
Figure 2-1 Tape Leader Guard, Tape Guide and Tape Weight (Optional)
Optional Tape Weight Installation
Attach tape weight to tape near probe end being lowered into well.
1) Loosen the screws using an Allen wrench.
2) Slide the weight onto the tape.
3) Tighten the screws.
Do not use the tape leader guard in wells larger than 4”
(10cm), as it may fall down the well. The optional tape weight
helps sink probe into a deep or crooked well.

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Figure 2-2 Fitting (Optional) Tape Weight
Figure 2-3 Tightening (Optional) Tape Weight

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Section 3: System Operation
1. Turn the instrument on with the ON/SENSITIVITY switch. If the buzzer makes a
loud signal and the light is visible, the battery is adequate for normal operation.
2. Lower the probe down the well to the water surface. The light and buzzer will
activate. At this point, adjust the probe sensitivity dial by rotating it counter-
clockwise until the light and buzzer shut off.
3. With the probe still in contact with the water, adjust the probe sensitivity dial
clockwise until the light and buzzer barely activate. In this setting, the probe will
detect water levels but will not be affected by false triggering.
4. Water level measurements can now be taken from the top of the casing or any
reference point.
5. The meter should be stored with the switch in the OFF position. If the meter will
be stored and not used for three (3) months or longer, remove the battery to
prevent battery leakage from damaging the meter.
To avoid damage to tape and strain relief, do not over tighten reel
with probe in storage position.

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Section 4: System Maintenance
Battery Replacement
Replace the battery when the audible and visible signals become weak or the unit does
not operate.
1. Gently remove the battery tray.
2. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one.
Cleaning
The ET/MDPE can be cleaned with mild detergents such as trisodium phosphate (TSP). If
other detergents are used, take care to select detergents that are compatible with PTFE,
polypropylene, and stainless steel. The reel should not be submerged in any liquid, but
may be cleaned with a damp cloth.
Cleaning the Optical Probe
The optical end of the probe should be periodically cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaner
such as isopropyl alcohol, xylene, methanol, phosphate free type cleaner. To clean the
sensor probe head, place a small amount of the cleaner on a cotton swab; rub the optical
face and around the conductivity sensor wire to remove all foreign matter. Repeat this
process until all foreign matter has been removed.
Be aware of the polarity (+, -) of the battery when placing the new
battery in the tray. Use a 9V alkaline battery only.

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Section 5: System Troubleshooting
Problem: No signal (audible or visible) when unit is turned on.
Solutions:
The battery is discharged. Check or change battery (Section 4).
The circuit is malfunctioning. Contact Geotech Service.
Problem: No indication of water.
Solutions:
The conductive contact is dirty. Clean the contact (Section 4).
There is an open connection in the tape. Replace tape and/or probe.
The circuit is malfunctioning. Contact Geotech Service.
Problem: The signal (audible or visible) is intermittent.
Solutions:
There is an open connection in the tape. Replace tape and/or probe.
There is a loose connection in the circuit or the probe. Repair the connection.
Problem: The signal (audible or visible) is continuous when not in water.
Solutions:
The conductive contact is dirty (causing bridging). Clean the contact (Section 4).
There is a short in the tape and/or probe. Replace tape and/or probe.
The circuit is malfunctioning. Contact Geotech Service.
For technical assistance, call Geotech Environmental Equipment at 1-303-320-4764 or 1-
800-833-7958

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Section 6: System Specifications
Probe
Material: Stainless Steel and PTFE
Weight: 4.53oz (128 g)
Diameter: 5/8 inch (1.6 cm)
Length: 7 ¾ inches (19.7 cm)
Minimum Detectable Conductivity: 10 µS
Tape
Material: Polyethylene coated stainless
Length/Weight: 1500’ / 450 m = 61 lbs / 27.7 kg (manual)
1500’ / 450 m = 80 lbs / 36.3 kg (electric)
2000’ / 600 m = 68 lbs / 31.0 kg (man.)
2000’ / 600 m = 87 lbs / 39.5 (elec.)
2500’ / 750 m = 79 lbs / 35.8 (man.)
2500’ / 750 m = 98 lbs / 44.5 (elec.)
3000’ / 925 m = 86 lbs / 39.0 (man.)
3000’ / 925 m = 105 lbs / 47.6 (elec.)
Tape accuracy: 100th of a foot (3 mm) / 100’ (30.5 m)
Reel/Frame
Material: Steel and Aluminum
Size: 1500’ to 2000’ 18.25” H x 14” W x 15” L (man.)
(46.4 cm H x 35.6 cm W x 38.1 cm L)
18.25” H x 14” W x 20.5”L (elec.)
(46.4 cm H x 35.6 cm W x 52.1 cm L)
2500’ to 3000’ 18.25“ H x 14“ W x 21.0“L (man.)
(46.4 cm H x 35.6 cm W x 53.0 cm L)
18.25“ H x 14“ W x 26.5“L (elec.)
(46.4 cm H x 35.6 cm W x 67.3 cm L)
Unit
Battery: 9V alkaline
Battery Life: Continuously detecting 8 hours
On not detecting >1 year
Output tone: 5 kHz
Operating Temperature: 32-140°F (0-60°C)
Storage Temperature: -40-150°F (-40-66°C)
Response Time: <10 milliseconds
Tape Weight (Optional) 1” (2.54cm) OD, 4” (10.16cm) Long,
12.74oz (361g)

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Section 7: System Schematic
Figure 7-1 - Manual Reel Front and Side View
Figure 7-2 - Electric Reel Front and Side View

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Section 8: Replacement Parts List
Parts Description Parts List
REEL,GEOWLM,1500/2000',MANRWD 52050144
REEL,GEOWLM,1500/2000',ELCRWD 52050145
REEL,GEOWLM,2500/3000',MANRWD 52050259
REEL,GEOWLM,2500/3000',ELCRWD 52050258
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,1500FT 52050124
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,2000FT 52050125
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,2500FT 52050175
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,3000FT 52050255
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,1500' 52050224
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,2000' 52050225
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,2500' 52050250
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,3000' 52050251
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,450M 52050248
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,600M 52050249
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,750M 52050256
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,POLY,925M 52050257
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,450M 52050260
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,600M 52050261
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,750M 52050252
ASSY,TAPE,GEOWLM,MDPE,925M 52050253
ASSY,PROBE,GEOWLM 52050052
GUARD,LEADER,PROPAMIDE,NATURAL 12050060
GUIDE,TAPE,PVC 22050601
MANUAL,WATER LEVEL 1500'-2000' METER
W/ OPTIONAL ELECTRIC REW 12050339
TAPE WEIGHT (OPTIONAL) 52050277
BATTERY, HOLDER, 9V, QUICK CHANGE
POCKET 12050065
O-RING 17500202
WASHER, WAVE 12050255

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NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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The Warranty
For a period of one (1) year from date of first sale, product is warranted to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship. Geotech agrees to repair or replace, at Geotech’s
option, the portion proving defective, or at our option to refund the purchase price thereof.
Geotech will have no warranty obligation if the product is subjected to abnormal operating
conditions, accident, abuse, misuse, unauthorized modification, alteration, repair, or
replacement of wear parts. User assumes all other risk, if any, including the risk of injury,
loss, or damage, direct or consequential, arising out of the use, misuse, or inability to use
this product. User agrees to use, maintain and install product in accordance with
recommendations and instructions. User is responsible for transportation charges
connected to the repair or replacement of product under this warranty.
Equipment Return Policy
A Return Material Authorization number (RMA #) is required prior to return of any
equipment to our facilities, please call our 800 number for appropriate location. An RMA #
will be issued upon receipt of your request to return equipment, which should include
reasons for the return. Your return shipment to us must have this RMA # clearly marked
on the outside of the package. Proof of date of purchase is required for processing of all
warranty requests.
This policy applies to both equipment sales and repair orders.
FOR A RETURN MATERIAL AUTHORIZATION, PLEASE CALL OUR
SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-833-7958.
Model Number: ________________
Serial Number: ________________
Date of Purchase: ________________
Equipment Decontamination
Prior to return, all equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated. Please
make note on RMA form, the use of equipment, contaminants equipment was exposed to,
and decontamination solutions/methods used. Geotech reserves the right to refuse any
equipment not properly decontaminated. Geotech may also choose to decontaminate the
equipment for a fee, which will be applied to the repair order invoice.