Halma ALICAT LC Series User manual

OPERATING MANUAL
FOR LIQUID FLOW
CONTROLLERS
Models LC · LCR · LCS · LCRS

2 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your liquid flow controller.
If you have any questions, or if something is not working as
expected, please contact us. We are eager to help you in any
way possible.
Contact Information
World Headquarters,
Tucson, Arizona, USA
[e-mail]
alicat.com
7641 N Business Park Dr.,
Tucson, AZ 85743 USA
[phone]
Europe
[email protected]om
Geograaf 24
6921 EW Duiven
The Netherlands
+31 (0)26 203.1651
China & SE Asia
[e-mail]
alicat.com.cn
2nd Floor, Block 63, No. 421,
Hong Cao Rd,
Shanghai 200233
PRC
[phone] ext. 801
India
[e-mail]
Halma India Pvt. Ltd.
Plot No . A-147, Road No. 24,
Next to Spraytech Circle
opp. Metropolitan Company,
Wagle Industrial Estate
Thane-West
Mahārāshtra 400 604
[phone]
Recalibrate your liquid flow controller every year.
Annual calibration is necessary to ensure the accuracy of
readings, and extend the Limited Lifetime Warranty. Fill out
the Service Request Form at alicat.com/service, or contact us
directly when it is time for recalibration.
For devices ordered with CSA, ATEX, ISO 17025, or other certi-
fications, please visit alicat.com/certifications. For information
about our limited lifetime warranty, visit alicat.com/warranty.
Serial #:
Next Calibration:
This device comes with a NIST-
traceable calibration certificate.
This device conforms to the European Union’s
Restriction of Use of Hazardous Substances
in Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(RoHS) Directive 2011/65/EU.
This device complies with
the requirements of the Low
Voltage Directive 2014/35/
EU and the EMC Directive
2014/30/EU and carries the
CE Marking accordingly.
This device complies with the
requirements of the European
Union’s Waste Electrical & Electronic
Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC
DOC-MANUAL-LC Rev 1, 2021.05.26
LC-0.5CCM
LC-2CCM

2021.05.26  REV.   LIQUID FLOW CONTROLLER OPERATING MANUAL 3
Introduction
Your new flow controller has a variety of innovative features:
• Control pressure while monitoring volumetric flow rate. Set the
closed loop control algorithm to pressure control, page 28.
• 1000 readings per second guarantees high resolution data,
page 15.
• Monitor live pressure and temperature during flow control,
page 6.
• Backlit display with adjustable contrast is easy to read even in
direct sunlight. In dimly lit areas, press the logo to turn on the
backlight, page 18.
• Connection to a computer for control and data logging to capture
all flow and pressure data for logging and analysis, page 19.
This manual covers the following instruments:
• LC-Series: liquid flow controllers
• LCS-Series: anti-corrosive liquid flow controllers
Using Laminar Liquid Flow Devices
THE DEVICE IS ONLY CONFIGURED FOR ONE TYPE
OF LIQUID, AND WILL ONLY FUNCTION PROPERLY
WHEN USING THAT ONE LIQUID.
By default, liquid devices are configured only for use
with pure water, such as distilled, de-ionized, Type
I (Ultrapure), Type II, and Type III. If a device is
used for any liquid other than the liquid it was
specifically engineered for, readings will be
incorrect
Minimize contaminants and liquid variations.
For water devices, DO NOT use tap water
or water with any biological components,
minerals, or oils. Any of these substances
will aect the viscosity of the liquid, leading
to inaccurate flow measurements. More
importantly, these impurities will quickly
build up in the laminar flow zone, cause
corrosion, and degrade the measurement
accuracy of the device.
For support or questions regarding the use or
operation of this device, please contact us using
the information on page 2.
Alicat oers countless combinations of device sizes, acces-
sories, connections, and configurations. These custom solutions
are oered to meet a variety of application challenges brought forth
by users pushing the boundaries of our standard oerings.
If you have an idea for a new process or a challenging application,
contact Alicat for specialized engineering and application support.
LCR-5LPM

4 Table of Contents
Contents
Introduction 3
Quick Start Guide 5
Getting Started 6
Getting to Know Your Liquid Flow Controller 6
The Liquid Flow Controller Display 6
Status Messages 6
Mounting 6
Filters 6
Device Ports 7
Operating Pressure 7
Bleed Ports 7
Power and Signal Connections 8
Analog Signals 8
Displaying Live Flow Data 9
Option: Collecting Totalized Flow Data 10
Dispensing in Batches 10
Repeating a Batch 10
Pausing or Canceling a Batch 11
Control 12
Changing the Setpoint 12
Adjusting Setpoint with an IPC 12
Setpoint Setup 12
Using Autotare 12
Changing Between Setpoint Sources 12
Setpoint with an Idle Modbus RTU Connection 12
Managing Setpoint on Power Up 12
Establishing Setpoint Limits 12
Control Loop 13
Changing the Controlled Variable 13
Adjusting the PD/PDF or PD²I Control Algorithms 13
Troubleshooting Valve Performance with PID Tuning 14
Limiting Flow while Controlling Pressure 14
Using a Control Deadband for Pressure Control 14
Setpoint Ramping 15
Setting the Ramp Rate 15
Ramping Options 15
Displaying Valve Drive Percentage 15
Device Information 16
Setup 17
Sensor Setup 17
Choosing Engineering Units 17
Flow and Pressure Averaging 17
Zero Band 17
Configuring Serial Communications 17
Unit ID 17
Modbus RTU Configuration 17
Baud Rate 18
Display Setup 18
Main Screen Options 18
Screen Lighting 18
Display Rotation 18
Advanced Setup 18
Serial Communication 19
Establish Communication 19
Alicat’s Serial Terminal Application 19
Modbus RTU Communication 19
Serial Streaming vs. Polling 19
Polling Mode 19
Streaming Mode 20
Taring 20
Collecting Flow Data 20
Quick Command Guide 21
Troubleshooting 22
General Use 22
Flow Readings 22
Serial Communications 23
Maintenance 23
Reference Information 24
Engineering Units 24
Pinouts 25
8-Pin Mini-DIN (Default) 25
Locking Industrial Connector Pinout 25
9-Pin D-Sub Connector Pinouts 26
15-Pin D-Sub Connector Pinouts 27
M12 Connector Pinouts 27

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+0.00
+0.00 +22.73
CCM MENU
PSIG ¤C SETPT
+0.00
Volu Flow
CCM
Water
+0.00
I/O Port
(shape varies)
DC
In
Light
Switch
Controls Valve
Display
Flow
Body
Process
Connections
Mounting
Holes
Bleed
Ports
Quick Start Guide
Setup
• Connect your liquid controller. Ensure
that flow will pass through your device in the
same direction as the arrow on the flow body
(usually left to right).
• Choose your engineering units. You can
choose the measurement units by selecting
MAIN MENU → SETUP → Sensor → Engineering
Units (page 17).
Operation: Flow Verification
• Monitor live volumetric flow, temperature,
and pressure readings. Readings are
updated and displayed on your device in
real time (page 15).
• (Optional) Capture totalized readings. The
totalizer option displays the total flow that has
passed through the device since the last time
the totalizer was reset. If your device has a
totalizer, press NEXT from the main live data
display to access the totalizer (page 10).
Connectors and Buttons
The drawing to the right represents a typical
configuration of a standard liquid flow controller.
Your liquid flow controller’s appearance and
connections may differ. page 3has more
examples.
Backlight
The monochrome display comes equipped with
a backlight. To toggle the backlight power,
press the logo on the front of your device.
For optional color TFT displays, pressing this
button will turn o the display to conserve power
(page 9).
Maintenance and Care
• Liquid flow controllers require minimal
cleaning and maintenance when flowing
clean liquids (page 23).
• Calibrate your liquid flow controller annually.
To schedule a calibration, please contact
support (page 2).
This LC-10CCM model liquid flow
controller is a typical device. The
flow body and the valve sizes
can vary significantly.

6 Getting Started
Getting Started
Getting to Know Your Liquid Flow Controller
The Liquid Flow Controller Display
The figure to the right identifies the various features of the flow meter display.
Highlights pressure in the center of the device.

Highlights temperature in the center of the device
Opens a menu to set the flow or pressure control setpoint (page 12).
Highlights volumetric flow rate in the center of the device.
MENU enters the main menu system.
NEXT accesses the optional flow totalizer (page 10).
Toggles the backlight.
Status Messages
Status messages are shown to the right of the main readout number. In the example to
the right the OVR message shows that the totalizer rolled over to zero.
ADC Analog-digital converter error
EXH Exhaust mode active
HLD Valve hold active
LCK Front display is locked
OVR Totalizer rolled over to zero
POV Pressure over range of device
TMF Totalizer missed out-of-range flow
TOV Temperature over range of device
VOV Volumetric flow over range of device
Mounting
Liquid flow controllers do not require straight runs of pipe upstream or downstream. Most
flow controller models can be mounted in any position, including upside-down. All liquid
flow controllers use media-isolated sensors that must be tared after changing orientation.
✓ Note: If air bubbles are continuously introduced to the flow upstream of the device,
the device may be mounted ue down to prevent bubbles from being trapped in
the pressure sensor ports. Tare the device after changing its position or orientation.
! Warning: If the device has been installed upside down, avoid using the bleed screws
as liquid may leak into the electronics housing and cause permanent damage that is
not covered by the warranty.
▲
Caution: Flow controllers that use large Rolamite valves should be mounted with their
valve oriented vertically (right-side up). If another orientation is desired, please contact
support.
Filters
When pressure drop is not a concern, use in-line sintered filters to prevent large particulates
from entering the flow body of the controller. Suggested maximum particulate sizes are
as follows:
• 20 microns for units with flow ranges ≤ 100 CCM.
• 40 microns for units with flow ranges >100 CCM.
✓
Note: Avoiding long runs of small-diameter tubing upstream or downstream of the
device will reduce liquid hammer.
The main display. Note the button
behind the logo, which toggles the
device backlight.
The main display with a PSID
(PSI-differential) pressure reading.

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Device Ports
Your flow controller has been shipped with plastic plugs fitted into its ports. To lessen
the chance of contaminating the flow stream, do not remove these plugs until you are
ready to install the device.
Standard liquid flow controllers have female inlet and outlet ports. Welded VCR® and
other specialty fittings may have male connections.
• If you are using a fitting that does not have a face seal, use thread-sealing Teflon tape to
prevent leakage around the port threads, but do not wrap the first two threads entering
the device. This will minimize the possibility of getting tape into the flow stream and
clogging the laminar flow elements.
• Face seal fittings do not need Teflon tape applied to the threads.
!
Warning: It is not recommended to use pipe dopes or sealants on the process connections
as these compounds can cause permanent damage to the controller should they get
into the flow stream.
Your flow controller can measure and control flow generated by positive pressure and/or
suction. Connect the controller so that the flow travels in the same direction as the flow
arrow, usually from left to right from the front of the device.
Operating Pressure
Maximum operating line pressure is 100 . If the line pressure is higher than 100 ,
use a pressure regulator upstream to reduce the pressure. Maximum proof pressure is
200 ; above this pressure the device may be permanently damaged.
▲
Caution: Exceeding the maximum specified line pressure may cause permanent damage
to the solid-state dierential pressure transducer.
Bleed Ports
Liquid flow controllers include bleed ports (8-32 Nylon tapped screw) on the front for the
removal of air bubbles.
✓
Note: A small amount of liquid will leak from the device during this procedure. Take
necessary precautions to prevent damage to anything nearby.
Bleed both of the ports as follows:
1. With the controller installed, and a >50% setpoint given, gently loosen the upstream
bleed port screw 1 to 2 turns, or until liquid begins to leak from the threads. Do not
remove the screw, as it has pressure behind it, is very small, is easy to lose, and is
delicate to rethread.
2. Gently tap the flow body to remove air bubbles (screwdriver handles work well). This
may not be visible or audible.
3. Gently tighten the screw until the leakage stops, taking care not to crush the nylon tip.
✓ Note: If your device is mounted in an inverted position, avoid using the bleed screws,
as liquid may leak and cause permanent damage.
A VCR®-compatible connection.
A VCO®-compatible connections.
5⁄64″ 8-32 Nylon-tipped
hex bleed screw
Loosen to bleed liquid,
but do not remove

8 Getting Started
Power and Signal Connections
Power can be supplied to your controller through either the power jack or the multi-pin connector on top of your device.
✓
Note: Power requirements vary based on analog configuration and valve type. Please reference the associated specification
sheet at alicat.com/specs for power requirements.
Standard 8-Pin Mini-DIN Pinout
Pin Function
Not connected Optional: 4–20 mA primary output signal
Static 5.12 Vdc by default. Optional: secondary analog output (4–20 mA, 0–5 Vdc, 1–5 Vdc, 0–10 Vdc) or basic alarm
Serial RS-232 RX / RS-485(−) input signal (receive)
Analog setpoint input
Serial RS-232 TX / RS-485(+) output signal (send)
0–5 Vdc Optional: 1–5 Vdc or 0–10 Vdc output signal
Power in (as described above)
Ground (common for power, digital communications, analog signals and alarms)
The above pinout is applicable to all devices with the Mini-DIN connector. The availability of dierent output signals
depends on the options ordered. Optional configurations are noted on the unit’s calibration sheet.
▲
Caution: Do not connect power to pins 1 through 6, as permanent damage can occur. It is common to mistake pin 2 (labeled
5.12 Vdc Output) as the standard 0–5 Vdc analog output signal. Pin 2 is normally a constant 5.12 Vdc.
For more pinout configurations, see diagrams starting on page 25.
Analog Signals
Primary Analog Output Signal
Most instruments include a primary analog output signal, which is linear over its entire range. For all analog output
configurations, the lowest output indicates zero flow, and highest indicates full-scale flow. Depending on the quality of
the grounding, a zero flow condition is approximately 0.010 Vdc.
For example, a 5 Vdc output from a 0–5 Vdc 100 CCM unit would indicate a flow of 100 CCM.
Option: Secondary Analog Output Signal
The default 8-pin Mini-DIN connector places the secondary analog output on pin 2 for both voltage and current signals.
Your device’s secondary analog signal may dier from its primary output signal.
The calibration sheet that shipped with the device shows which output signals were ordered.
Option: 4–20 mA Current Output Signal
If your controller has a 4–20 mA current primary or secondary output signal, your flow controller will require 15–30 Vdc
power.
▲
Caution: Do not connect 4–20 mA devices to “loop powered” systems, as this will damage portions of the circuitry beyond
repair and void the warranty. If you must interface with existing loop powered systems, always use a signal isolator and
a separate power supply.
Male Connector: Cable
Female Connector: Device
1
4
5
68
7
3
2 1
4
5
6
87
3
2

2021.05.26  REV.   LIQUID FLOW CONTROLLER OPERATING MANUAL 9
Displaying Live Flow Data
Main Display
The main display has three primary functions:
• Displaying live temperature, pressure, and flow data
• Changing the flow or pressure control setpoint (page 12)
• Accessing the main menu (MENU) or the optional totalizer (NEXT) (page 10)
This screen displays live data for all flow parameters simultaneously. Live data is measured
1000 times per second and the LCD display is updated 10 times per second. The button
next to the four measurements highlight their values in the center.
Taring Your Flow Controller
MENU →TARE FLOW or TARES
Taring is an important practice that ensures your flow controller provides its most accurate
measurements. This function gives the flow controller a zero reference for flow measure-
ments. Gauge pressure can also be tared on all liquid devices.
How to Tare
When autotare is on (Autotare: On), flow rate is tared when a zero setpoint is given for more than two seconds (page 12).
Taring Flow
MENU →TARES →TARE FLOW
Flow tares should take place at the expected process pressure, with no flow. A message, “ENSURE NO FLOW BEFORE
PRESSING TARE” will be displayed. Press TARE to complete the taring process.
Taring Pressure
MENU →TARES →TARE PRESS
After pressing TARE PRESS, the message, “PRESS TARE WHEN VENTED TO AMBIENT WITH NO FLOW”, followed by “CURRENT PRESSURE
OFFSET:” will be displayed.
When to Tare
• Before every new flow measurement cycle
• After significant changes in temperature or pressure
• After dropping or bumping the flow controller
• After changing the device’s orientation
Option: Color TFT Display
Instruments ordered with a color display are functionally the same as standard backlit monochrome instruments. The
color enables additional on-screen information.
Multi-Color Display Indicators
• GREEN: Parameter labels and adjustments associated with the button directly above or below the label are green.
• WHITE: The color of each parameter will be displayed in white when the device is operating within device specifications.
• RED: The color of a parameter will be displayed in red when its value exceeds 128% of the device’s specifications.
• YELLOW: Menu items that are ready to be selected appear in yellow. This color replaces the > symbol in selections
on monochrome display.
✓ Note: Press the logo to turn o the color display backlight. The flow controller remains in operation while the backlight is o.
✓ Note: Color displays will require an additional 40 mA when using a 12 Vdc power supply. All other device specifications from
your device’s specification sheet remain in eect.
The main display. Note the button
behind the logo, which toggles the
device backlight.

10 Getting Started
Option: Collecting Totalized Flow Data
MAIN DISPLAY →NEXT (totalizer menu)
The optional flow totalizer displays the total amount of mass or volume that has flowed through the instrument since its
last reset, similar to a gasoline pump. It also enables batch dispensing (page 10).
• TOTAL/TIMER toggles between totalized flow and elapsed time as the highlighted parameter in the center.
• SETPT displays the current setpoint. Press to set a new setpoint, or to clear the setpoint (page 12).
• LPM (or another measurement of volumetric flow) displays the live flow rate. Press to change engineering units.
• (Optional) V AVG: Shows totalizer averaging, which displays average flow rate since last reset, updated live.
• BATCH selects the quantity to be dispensed in each batch. -NONE- appears if the batch mode is o.
• RESET clears all totalized data and immediately resets the timer to zero. The next batch, if set, begins immediately.
• MENU enters the main menu.
Totalizer Rollover Functions
The totalizer will report a maximum of 7 digits. By default, the placement of the decimal is the same as the live flow rate.
The totalizer can be configured at the time of order for the following behaviors:
• Rollover (Default): Totalizer resumes counting from zero as soon as the maximum count has been reached.
• Freeze: Totalizer stops counting at max count, until it is reset manually.
• Error (Default): Displays OVR status message when maximum count has been reached; compatible with the rollover
and freeze functions.
The elapsed time counter has a maximum value of 9999:59:59 (h:m:s) (416 days, 16 hours). If flow is still being totalized
at that point, the timer freezes, regardless of the behavior chosen above for the totalized flow readings.
Dispensing in Batches
Batch dispensing allows you to choose a desired total volume to flow, after which the valve closes. You can repeat batches
with a single button press. A totalizer is required to dispense batches.
Starting batch dispensing
1. From the totalizer screen, press BATCH. Choose the total quantity to be dispensed in each batch. Press SET to accept
the new batch size.
2. From the totalizer screen (page 10), press SETPT to choose a non-zero setpoint. Flow begins as soon as you
press SET.
✓ Note: Batch dispensing requires an active batch size and a non-zero setpoint. If your controller already has a non-zero
setpoint, flow begins as soon as you press SET from the batch size screen.
While a new batch is being dispensed, the BATCH button changes to show the quantity that remains to be dispensed.
When the batch size has been achieved, the BATCH button displays -DONE- and flow stops automatically.
The batch size can be changed while a batch is in progress. If the new batch size is larger than the current totalized flow,
then flow continues until the new value is reached. If the new batch size is smaller than the current totalized flow, then
the flow stops immediately. Press RESET to start the new batch.
Repeating a Batch
• For an identical, new batch, press RESET. Flow begins immediately.
• For a new batch of a dierent size, press BATCH, and select the new batch size. If there is a non-zero setpoint, flow will
begin as soon as SET is pressed.