KERN mlb-c User manual

KERN & Sohn GmbH
Ziegelei 1
D-72336 Balingen
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Phone: +49-[0]7433- 9933-0
Fax: +49-[0]7433-9933-149
Internet: www.kern-sohn.com
Operating manual
Electronic Moisture Analyser
KERN MLB_C
Version 3.1
03/2014
GB
MLB_C-BA-e-1431

2 MLB_C-BA-e-1431
GB
KERN MLB_C
Version 3.1 03/2014
Operating manual
Electronic Moisture Analyser
Contents
1TECHNICAL DATA............................................................................................. 5
1.1 Dimensions ............................................................................................................................... 6
2DEVICE OVERVIEW........................................................................................... 7
2.1 Keyboard overview................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 Display overview (during measurement)............................................................................... 9
3BASIC INFORMATION (GENERAL)................................................................ 10
3.1 Proper use............................................................................................................................... 10
3.2 Improper Use .......................................................................................................................... 10
3.3 Warranty.................................................................................................................................. 10
3.4 Monitoring of Test Resources............................................................................................... 10
4BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS..................................................................... 11
4.1 Pay attention to the instructions in the Operation Manual................................................ 11
4.2 Personnel training.................................................................................................................. 11
4.3 Danger Information ................................................................................................................ 11
5TRANSPORT AND STORAGE......................................................................... 13
5.1 Testing upon acceptance ...................................................................................................... 13
5.2 Packaging / return transport................................................................................................. 13
6UNPACKING, SETUP AND COMMISSIONING ............................................... 15
6.1 Installation Site, Location of Use.......................................................................................... 15
6.2 Unpacking and assembly ...................................................................................................... 16
6.2.1 Scope of delivery ............................................................................................................. 17
6.3 Mains connection................................................................................................................... 17

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 3
6.4 Switch on/switch off device .................................................................................................. 17
Stability display ................................................................................................................................... 17
Balance zero display........................................................................................................................... 17
6.5 Connection of peripheral devices......................................................................................... 18
6.6 Initial Commissioning ............................................................................................................ 18
7WEIGH/TARE ................................................................................................... 19
8MENU................................................................................................................ 20
9P1 CAL - ADJUSTMENT.................................................................................. 22
9.1 P1-01 External adjustment .................................................................................................... 22
9.2 P1-02 Adjustment test............................................................................................................ 23
9.3 P1-03 Temperature adjustment............................................................................................. 24
9.5 P1-04 Adjustment record print-out....................................................................................... 28
9.6 P1-05 temperature calibration............................................................................................... 29
10 P2 GLP (GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICE) .............................................. 31
11 P3 SETTING DATE/TIME.............................................................................. 33
12 P4 BASIC SETTINGS ................................................................................... 34
13 P5 RS 232 INTERFACE................................................................................ 36
14 P6 OTHER USEFUL FUNCTIONS................................................................ 39
15 OPERATOR MENU – MOISTURE ANALYSIS............................................. 42
15.1 Moisture analysis without using the program library......................................................... 42
Setting drying parameters.................................................................................................................. 42
How to implement drying.................................................................................................................... 51
15.2 Moisture analysis using the program library ...................................................................... 55
Activate program library “P6-01-Libr”............................................................................................... 55
Setting drying parameters.................................................................................................................. 55
Select drying parameters and carry out drying ............................................................................... 56

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16 GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING MOISTURE ANALYSIS........... 57
16.1 Application.............................................................................................................................. 57
16.2 Basics...................................................................................................................................... 57
16.3 Adjustment to existing measuring method ......................................................................... 57
16.4 Preparing a sample ................................................................................................................ 58
16.5 Sample material...................................................................................................................... 59
16.6 Sample size / originally weighted in quantity...................................................................... 59
16.7 Drying temperature ................................................................................................................ 60
16.8 Recommendations / Guidelines............................................................................................ 61
17 DATA OUTPUT ............................................................................................. 62
17.1 Remote control instructions ................................................................................................. 63
18 SERVICING, MAINTENANCE, DISPOSAL .................................................. 64
18.1 Cleaning .................................................................................................................................. 64
18.2 Change fuse............................................................................................................................ 66
18.3 Servicing, maintenance ......................................................................................................... 66
18.4 Disposal................................................................................................................................... 66
19 INSTANT HELP............................................................................................. 67
20 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY.............................................................. 68

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 5
1 Technical data
Data MLB 50-3C MLB 50-3C110V
Radiator Infrared (1 x 400 W)
Temperature range max. 160°C
Maximum load (Max) 50 g
Readability (d) 1 mg
Display accuracy
Weighed portion < 1.5 g 0,01 %
Display accuracy
Weighed portion > 1.5 g 0,001 %
Recommended
adjustment weight, not
added (class) 50g (F1)
Sample size max. 50 g
Warm-up time 4 h
Heating profiles Standard drying
Step-by-step drying
Quick drying
Gentle drying
Repeatability for
originally weighted in
quantity 2 g
0.24 %
Repeatability for
originally weighted in
quantity 10 g
0,04 %
Repeatability in weighing
mode (= standard
deviation)
0,001g
Environmental
conditions
•+10°C….+40°C ambient temperature
•max 80% air humidity non-condensing

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Shut-down criteria
•Automatic 1 (shut-down at change of weighing value
< 1mg within 10 s)
•Automatic 2 (shut-down at change of weighing value
< 1mg within 25 s)
•Automatic 3 (shut-down at change of weighing value
< 1mg within 60 s)
•Automatic 4 (shut-down at change of weighing value
< 1mg within 90 s)
•Automatic 5 (shut-down at change of weighing value
< 1mg within 120 s)
•Manual
•Time-controlled (1 min – 9h 59 min)
Sample dishes included 10 (Ø 92 mm)
Display after drying
Display can be switched at
any time
Moisture [%] =
Weight loss from starting weight (SW) 0 – 100 %
Dry mass [%] =
Residual weight (RW) left from starting weight
(SW)
100 – 0 %
ATRO[%] [(SG – RG) : RG ] x 100% 0 – 999 %
Residual weight
[g]
Dimensions Housing 206 x 333 x 192 mm
Available drying chamber 120 x 120 x 20 mm
Net weight 4.9 kg
Electric Supply 230V/420W 50 Hz AC 110V/420W 60 Hz AC
1.1 Dimensions

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 7
2 Device overview
Pos.
Description
1
Heated cover
2
Viewing panel
3
Halogen lamp
4
Sample dish
5
Windshield
6
Removal aid
7
Display
8
Keyboard
9
Adjustable foot

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2.1 Keyboard overview
Button Function
•Switch machine on/off
•Switch display during drying process
•Start/finish measurement
•Exit menu
•Quit
•Navigation keys
•Data export to external device
•Confirm / store settings
•Taring
•Zeroing
•Go to application menu
(set drying parameters)
•Call-up user menu

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 9
2.2 Display overview (during measurement)
1. Display in moisture %
2. Current moisture content in %.
3. Results display in moisture %
4. Heating profile
5. Shutoff criterion
6. Previous drying time
7. Current temperature
8. Drying process active

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3 Basic Information (General)
3.1 Proper use
The device purchased by you is designed for a fast and reliable determination of
material moisture in liquid, porous and solid materials by applying the method of
thermogravimetrics.
3.2 Improper Use
Impacts and overloading exceeding the stated maximum load (max) of the device,
minus a possibly existing tare load, must be strictly avoided.
Balance may be damage by this.
Never operate device in explosive environment. The serial version is not explosion
protected.
The structure of the balance may not be modified. This may lead to incorrect
weighing results, safety-related faults and destruction of the balance.
The balance may only be used according to the described conditions. Other areas of
use must be released by KERN in writing.
3.3 Warranty
Loss of warranty due to:
- Our conditions in the operation manual are ignored
- The appliance is used outside the described uses
- The appliance is modified or opened
- Mechanical damage and damage caused by media, liquids, natural wear and tear
- The appliance is improperly set up or incorrectly electrically connected
- The measuring system is overloaded
3.4 Monitoring of Test Resources
In the framework of quality assurance the measuring-related properties of the
balance and, if applicable, the testing weight, must be checked regularly. The
responsible user must define a suitable interval as well as type and scope of this test.
Information is available on KERN’s home page (www.kern-sohn.com) with regard to
the monitoring of balance test substances and the test weights required for this. In
KERN's accredited DKD calibration laboratory test weights and balances may be
calibrated (return to the national standard) fast and at moderate cost.

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 11
4 Basic Safety Precautions
4.1 Pay attention to the instructions in the Operation Manual
Carefully read this operation manual before setup and commissioning,
even if you are already familiar with KERN balances.
All language versions contain a non-binding translation.
The original German is binding.
4.2 Personnel training
The device may be used and serviced only by trained staff.
4.3 Danger Information
WARNING
!
The moisture analyser is used to analyse the moisture content of materials.
This instrument must be used exclusively for this purpose. Any other usage
may cause a risk to personnel, damage to the instrument or other material
damage.
!
The moisture analyser should be used mainly for the drying of aqueous
substances.
!
The moisture analyser may not be used in a hazardous area.
!
The instrument may only be operated and maintained by trained personnel.
!
Carefully read this operation manual before setup and commissioning, even if
you are already familiar with KERN instruments.
Hazards during and after measuring
!
Ensure correct installation of all components, see chap. 6.2
!
Careful when removing the sample.
The sample itself, the sample dish and the
heating unit may be very hot.
!
Use the sample retainer at all times as it allows safe working and prevents
burns.
!
Individual parts of the case (e. g. the ventilation grids) may heat up
considerably during operation. Therefore, only take hold of the instrument by
the marked handles.

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CAUTION
The moisture analyzer operates using heat!
+Maintain sufficient space in the environment of the instrument to
prevent heat build-up (distance from the instrument 20cm,
upwards 1m).
+The heat extractor of the sample must never be covered, blocked,
taped up or altered in any other way.
+Never place combustible materials on, under or next to the
instrument, as the environment of the instrument heats up to a
high temperature.
+Careful when removing the sample. The sample itself, the sample
dish and the heating unit may be very hot.
CAUTION
Fire or explosion
+Explosive, easily flammable samples and samples that go into a
chemical reaction when subjected to heat, may not be analysed
with the moisture analyser. Sample materials developing
aggressive vapours (e. g. acids) may cause corrosion problems on
some parts of the instrument.
+If in doubt, conduct a risk analysis.
+Select a drying temperature for samples of this kind that is low
enough to prevent ignition or explosion.
+Wear safety goggles.
WARNING
Substances that contain toxic or corrosive ingredients,
produce toxic gases when drying, cause irritation (eyes, skin,
airways), induce nausea or result in death
+Sample materials emitting toxic substances must be dried with a
special extraction system in place. Create an environment that
prevents the inhalation of vapours hazardous to health.
+Sample materials developing aggressive vapours (e. g. acids) may
cause corrosion problems on some parts of the instrument.

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 13
5 Transport and storage
5.1 Testing upon acceptance
When receiving the appliance, please check packaging immediately, and the
appliance itself when unpacking for possible visible damage.
5.2 Packaging / return transport
Keep all parts of the original packaging for a possibly required
return.
Only use original packaging for returning.

Prior to dispatch disconnect all cables and remove loose/mobile
parts.

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Secure all items against slipping or damage.

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 15
6 Unpacking, Setup and Commissioning
6.1 Installation Site, Location of Use
The instrument is designed to achieve reliable weighing results under normal
conditions of use. You will work accurately and fast, if you select the right location for
the instrument.
On the installation site observe the following:
!
Remove explosion prone and easily flammable material in the immediate
vicinity.
Emerging vapours, sample dish and all parts of the sample chamber are hot!
!
Protect the instrument against direct draughts due to open windows and
doors.
!
Avoid extreme heat and temperature fluctuations e.g. due to installation next
to radiators.
!
Do not expose the instrument to extreme dampness for longer periods of time.
Non-permitted condensation (condensation of air humidity on the instrument )
may occur if a cold instrument is taken to a considerably warmer environment.
In this case, acclimatize the disconnected instrument for ca. 2 hours at room
temperature.
!
Avoid direct sunlight
!
The air humidity should be between 45% and 75%, non-condensing.
!
Sufficient distance from heat-sensitive materials in area around instrument.
!
Protect the instrument against high humidity, vapours and dust,
!
Major display deviations (incorrect weighing results) may be experienced
should electromagnetic fields (e.g. due to mobile phones or radio instruments),
static electricity accumulations or instable power supply occur. Change
location or remove source of interference.
!
Avoid static charging of the material to be weighed, weighing container and
windshield
!
Place the instrument on a firm, level surface.
!
Avoid jarring during weighing.

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6.2 Unpacking and assembly
Take the moisture meter carefully out of its packaging, remove the plastic jacket and
install it at the designated work space.
The moisture meter is supplied part-assembled. Control whether the delivery is
complete immediately after unpacking the individual parts and assemble the separate
component parts according to the enclosed diagram.
Put on the dish retainer carefully, ensuring correct positioning:
Level instrument with foot screws until the air bubble of the water
balance is in the prescribed circle.
Check levelling regularly.
Sample dish
Dish retainer
Removal aid
Windshield
Windshield base plate

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 17
6.2.1 Scope of delivery
Serial accessories:
•Moisture analyzer, see illustration chap. 2
•10 sample dishes
•Power cable
•Operating manual
6.3 Mains connection
Power supply is provided via the supplied mains cable.
Check, whether the voltage acceptance on the scales is set correctly. Do not connect
the scales to the power grid unless the information on the scales (sticker) matches
the local mains voltage.
Important:
Does the rating match the standard local mains current?
- Do not connect if mains voltages are different!
- If matching, connect the scales.
The moisture analyzer must be connected to a standard socket with earth terminal.
Do not eliminate the protective effect by using an extension lead without earth
terminal. For power supplies from power grids without earth terminals call a specialist
to establish equivalent protection according to the relevant installation regulations.
6.4 Switch on/switch off device
Press the ON/OFF key. The unit will carry out a self-test. The device is ready for
measuring as soon as 0.000 g appears on the weighing display. If the display
deviates from zero, operate the TARE key.
For short pauses in measurement, switch off device at ON/OFF switch and do not
disconnect from mains.
Stability display
If the display shows the stability display [ ]the balance is in a stable status. If the
status is instable the [ ] display disappears.
Balance zero display
Should the balance not display exactly zero despite empty balance pan, wait for
stability display and press the TARE button. The balance start with resetting to zero
and the symbol "a" will appear.

18 MLB_C-BA-e-1431
6.5 Connection of peripheral devices
Before connecting or disconnecting of additional devices (printer, PC) to the data
interface, always disconnect the balance from the power supply.
With your balance, only use accessories and peripheral devices by KERN, as they
are ideally tuned to your balance.
6.6 Initial Commissioning
In order to obtain exact results with the electronic balances, your balance must have
reached the operating temperature (see warming up time chap. 1).
During this warming up time the balance must be connected to the power supply
(mains, accumulator or battery).
The accuracy of the balance depends on the local acceleration of gravity.
Strictly observe hints in chapter Adjustment.

MLB_C-BA-e-1431 19
7 Weigh/tare
Weighing
Switch on with ON/OFF switch.
Place load on and off weighing platform several times before weighing.
Place items to be weighed on platform and wait for stability indicator [ ] to
appear; take weight reading.
Tare
Tare device with TARE button if using a weighing container. The tare weight
is saved until it is deleted.
Note:
The tare procedure can be repeated as many times as necessary, for
example with initial weighing of several components for a mix (add-on
weighing). The limit is reached when the total weighing range capacity is full.
After removing the taring container the total weight is displayed as negative
display.
Delete tare
Remove weight from scales and press TARE button, the zero display will
appear.

20 MLB_C-BA-e-1431
8 Menu
The menu is arranged in a user and operator menu. The scales are adjusted to user
requirements in the user menu; setting of drying parameters is carried out in the
application menu. The user menu is displayed using the Fswitch, the application
menu is displayed using the MENU switch.
User menu
P1
CAL
Adjustment
P1 01 ECAL
External adjustment
P1 02 tCAL Adjustment test
P1 03 tE_CAL Temperature adjustment
P1 04 CALr Record print out yes/no
P1 05 tSt_Co Temperature calibration
P2
GLP
Best laboratory practice
P2 01 USr User
P2 02 PrJ Project
P2 03 Ptin Print time yes/no
P2 04 PdAt Datum yes/no
P2 05 PUSr User yes/no
P2 06 PPrJ Print project yes/no
P2 07 PId Print serial no. yes/no
P2 08 PFr Frame printout yes/no
P3
time
Date/time
P3 01 StinnE Date format M/T/J; T/M/J
P3 02 SdAtE Time format 12 h; 24 h
P4
rEAd
Basic Settings
P4-01 AuE Filter settings Stand/Slouu/FASt
P4-02 Auto Auto zero On/OFF
P5
Print
RS232-parameters
P5-01 bAud Baud rate 2400/4800/9600/19200
P5-02 PStb Show unstable weight readings YES/no
P5-03 LinE_t
Output interval
1/2/3/5/10/20/30/60/120/180
P5-04 Prn-Pc Output to PC YES/no
P6
other
Other useful functions
P6-01 Libr
Program library
YES/no
P6-02 bL Display background illumination On/Aut/OF
P6-03 bLba Brightness of display No/10/20/30/40/50/60/70/80/90/100
P6-04 bEEP Key sound yes/no
P6-05 PrnS Print out “Current menu
settings”
P6-06 Preuer Not documented yes/no