KERN MLS 50-3C User manual

KERN & Sohn GmbH
Ziegelei 1
D-72336 Balingen
email: [e-mail]
Phone: +49-[0]7433- 9933-0
Fax: +49-[0]7433-9933-149
Internet: www.kern-sohn.com
Operating Manual
Electronic Moisture analyzer
KERN MLS_C
Version 3.0
11/2013
GB
MLS_C-BA-e-1330

2 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
GB
KERN MLS_C
Version 3.0 11/2013
Operating Manual
Electronic Moisture analyzer
Table of Contents
1TECHNICAL DATA ............................................................................................. 4
1.1 Dimensions ............................................................................................................................... 5
2DEVICE OVERVIEW ........................................................................................... 6
2.1 Keyboard overview ................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Display overview (during measurement) ............................................................................... 8
3BASIC INFORMATION (GENERAL) .................................................................. 9
3.1 Proper use ................................................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Improper Use ............................................................................................................................ 9
3.3 Warranty .................................................................................................................................... 9
3.4 Monitoring of Test Resources ................................................................................................. 9
4BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ..................................................................... 10
4.1 Pay attention to the instructions in the Operation Manual ................................................ 10
4.2 Personnel training .................................................................................................................. 10
4.3 Danger Information ................................................................................................................ 10
5TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE ................................................................... 12
5.1 Testing upon acceptance ...................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Packaging / return transport ................................................................................................. 12
6UNPACKING, SETUP AND COMMISSIONING ............................................... 14
6.1 Installation Site, Location of Use .......................................................................................... 14
6.2 Unpacking and assembly ...................................................................................................... 15
6.3 Scope of delivery .................................................................................................................... 16
6.4 Mains connection ................................................................................................................... 16
6.4.1 Switch on the unit................................................................................................................. 16
6.5 Connection of peripheral devices ......................................................................................... 16
6.6 Initial Commissioning ............................................................................................................ 16
6.7 Operating the scales using PS keyboard............................................................................. 17
7MENU ................................................................................................................ 17
7.1 Navigation in the menu: ......................................................................................................... 19

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 3
8USER MENU ..................................................................................................... 22
8.1 P1 Calibration (adjustment) ................................................................................................... 23
8.2 P2 GLP (Good laboratory practice) ...................................................................................... 33
8.2.1 P3 Date/time ........................................................................................................................ 35
8.2.2 P4 display............................................................................................................................. 37
8.2.3 P5 RS-232............................................................................................................................ 39
8.2.4 P6 output.............................................................................................................................. 40
8.2.5 P7 General functions............................................................................................................ 46
9OPERATOR MENU – MOISTURE ANALYSIS ................................................. 47
9.1 Moisture analysis without using the program library ......................................................... 47
9.1.1 Disabling the program library............................................................................................... 47
9.1.2 Setting drying parameters.................................................................................................... 48
9.1.3 How to implement drying...................................................................................................... 53
9.2 Moisture analysis using the program library ...................................................................... 57
9.2.1 Enabling of program library.................................................................................................. 57
9.2.2 Setting drying parameters.................................................................................................... 58
9.2.3 How to save drying parameters ........................................................................................... 66
9.2.4 How to invoke drying parameters / drying............................................................................ 66
10 STORING MEASURED RESULTS ............................................................... 70
11 GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING MOISTURE ANALYSIS ........... 71
11.1 Application .............................................................................................................................. 71
11.2 Basics ...................................................................................................................................... 71
11.3 Adjustment to existing measuring method ......................................................................... 71
11.4 Preparing a sample ................................................................................................................ 71
11.5 Sample material ...................................................................................................................... 73
11.6 Sample size / originally weighted in quantity ...................................................................... 73
11.7 Drying temperature ................................................................................................................ 74
11.7.1 Drying temperatures above 160 °C (MLS 50-3HA250N only)......................................... 74
11.8 Description of heating profiles ............................................................................................. 75
11.9 Recommendations / Guidelines ............................................................................................ 76
12 DATA OUTPUT ............................................................................................. 77
12.1 Remote control instructions ................................................................................................. 78
13 SERVICE, MAINTENANCE, DISPOSAL ...................................................... 79
13.1 Cleaning .................................................................................................................................. 79
13.2 Change fuse ............................................................................................................................ 81
13.3 Servicing, maintenance ......................................................................................................... 81
13.4 Disposal ................................................................................................................................... 81
14 INSTANT HELP ............................................................................................. 82
15 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .............................................................. 83

4 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
1 Technical Data
ata MLS 50-3C
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

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 5
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 – 99h 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]
Chart [%M]
shows theprogress of the drying process.
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
1.1 Dimensions

6 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
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

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 7
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

8 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
2.2 Display overview (during measurement)
1. Display in moisture %
2. Current moisture content in %.
3. Output interval 30 s
4. Unit of measured result
5. Shutoff criterion
6. Heating profile
7. Previous drying time
8. Current status
9. Processing temperature
10. Processing heating profile
11. Target temperature
12. Drying process active

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 9
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.

10 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
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 appliance may only be operated and maintained by trained personnel.
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.

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 11
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.

12 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
5 Transportation & 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.

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 13
Secure all items against slipping or damage.

14 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
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.

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 15
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

16 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
6.3 Scope of delivery
Serial accessories:
•Moisture analyzer, see illustration chap. 2
•10 sample dishes
•Power cable
•Operating manual
6.4 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 labelling match the local mains voltage?
- Do not connect if mains voltages are different!
- If matching, connect the scales.
The moisture meter 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.
6.4.1 Switch on the unit
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.
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.

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 17
6.7 Operating the scales using PS keyboard
Using a PS keyboard will help you to enter numbers and texts faster and easier.
Balance keyboard
PS keyboard
Balance keyboard
PS keyboard
7 Menu
The menu is arranged in a user and operator menu.
Activate the user menu via the Fkey, the operator menu via the MENU button.
The table below shows the functions of the user menu.
User menu (F-key)
P1 Calibration
P1 01 external calibration
P1 02 user calibration
P1 03 calibration test
P1 04 temperature adjustment
P1 05 protocol printout yes/no
P1 06 temperature calibration
P2 GLP
P2 01 user
P2 02 project
P2 03 printout time yes/no
P2 04 printout date yes/no
P2 05 user printout yes/no
P2 06 project printout yes/no
P2 07 Id printout yes/no
P2 08 cal. printout yes/no

18 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
P3
Date/time
P3 01 date format M/T/J; T/M/J
P3 02 clock time format 12 h; 24 h
P3 03 time
P3 04 date
P3 05 display time yes/no
P3 06 display date yes/no
P4 Readout
P4 01 filter Extra slow; slow; standard; fast; extra fast
P4 02 auto zero yes/no
P4 03 temperature yes/no
P4 04 negative yes/no
P5
RS-232
P5 01 Baud speed 2400; 4800; 9600; 19200
P5 02 parity None, even, odd
P5 03 data bits 7 bits; 8 bits
P5 04 stop bits 1 bit; 2 bits
P5 05 handshake none; XON/XOFF; RTS/CTS
P5 06 printout for style yes/no
P5 07 printer Epson/Standard
P6
Printout
P6 01 printout no.
P6 02 header no.
P6 03.line no.
P6 04 footnote no.
P6 05 1. printout start
P6 06 1. printout stop
P6 13 1. text
P6 14 2. text
P7 Globals
P7 01 password None or 8 characters
P7 02 program library 0 – off; 1 - on
P7 03 beep 0 – off; 1 - on
P7 04 language English, German
P7 05 backlight 0 – off; 1 - on
P7 06 Brightness
P7 07 contrast
P7 08 Balance Id
P7 09 Software rev. MSF i.24
P7 10 parameter printout
P7 11 parameter receive
P7 12 ID setting
P7 13 ID autoprint 0 – off; 1 - on
P7 14 Prev. version 0 – off; 1 - on

MLS_C-BA-e-1330 19
7.1 Navigation in the menu:
Operation/display: Description:
The overview for the Operator Menu appears
Either
P7 02 program library “on“ (See chpt. 9.2.1)
Up to 100 different drying processes can be stored in the device.
Simply invoke and start
the finished processes from the library.
or
P7 02 program library “off” (See chpt. 9.1.1)
Press the Esc-key and exit the overview without changing any settings
The overview for the User Menu appears
Either press the Esc-key twice and exit the overview without changing any settings or
or
change settings in the menu as follows.
Menu selection via arrow keys:
Use the cursor (►) to select your setting.
Use the key to move the cursor (►) down, the 
key to move it up
P1 alibration
P2 GLP
P3 D
P5 RS-232
P6
P7
C
ate/Time
P4 Redout
Printouts
Globals
Setup29.12.04

20 MLS_C-BA-e-1330
Confirm the setting by pressing the

-key; the
submenu appears on the display
How to change functions and parameters
Use the arrow keys to move within and enter into the
menu:
To select parameters in a function or to
increase/decrease the value of a digit or number
press the - and -key.
To shift to the right or left by one menu item press the
- and

-key.
Confirm your entries
Change display during drying process
There are 5 different options to display the measured
result; switching is achieved by pressing the M-key.
1. Drying time
2. Temperature in heating chamber
3. Heating profiles
4. Result in %M; %D; %R – diagram
5. Weight loss in [g]
Setup
29.12.04 Setup