L-K Industries Benchmark C User manual

To set the standard for
MANUFACTURING QUALITY and customer
service in the PETROLEUM TESTING industry.
BENCHMARK C MANUAL
Heated Laboratory Centrifuge
Demand a higher standard.
L-K INDUSTRIES
Petroleum Testing Equipment Suppliers Worldwide Since 1930

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Page. 2
Since 1930 we have taken great pride in building high quality products and
providing excellent customer service. Our original “Melton” centrifuge set the
standard in 1957 and continues to inspire our product development today.
We look forward to continuing the rich traditions that have made us
successful and to manufacturing the next generation of oilfield testing
supplies.
Thank you for your business.
Sincerely,
Eric R. Calderon
President and CEO
L-K Industries

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Page. 3
Certifications
This apparatus is certified for use in Class I, Division 2 Groups B, C, D, T3A or unclassified locations. It
conforms and/or is certified to the requirements of CSA and ETL, as specified by OSHA, CCOHS and
Standards Council of Canada. It also conforms to global safety requirements defined by UL.
The ETL Mark on the nameplate is a recognized demonstration of product compliance in the United
States and Canada and is proof of verification by a NRTL testing organization. Please see the
Specification section for applicable standards.
Limited Product Warranty
L-K Industries warrants its manufactured products against defects in materials and workmanship for a
period limited to one year from the date of shipment. If purchased from a Distribution Partner, the
warranty lasts one year from the in-service date. During the one-year warranty period, L-K Industries
shall repair or replace defective equipment free of charge. L-K Industries shall only be liable for repairs
or replacements if L-K is contacted immediately following discovery of defect(s).
Defective products (under warranty) shall only be returned after contacting and receiving permission
from L-K Industries. The warranty does not extend to L-K Industries products that have been misused,
neglected, independently modified (without L-K Industries' approval), improperly installed or
accidentally damaged. L-K Industries shall not be liable for damage or loss resulting from use of L-K
Industries products–separately or in combination with other equipment.
Contact Information
Main Line:
24-Hour Tech Helpline:
Fax:
Email:
Billing & Shipping Address:
Website:
713-926-2623
832-588-6369
713-926-7736
[email protected]
6952 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023
www.lk-ind.com

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Table of Contents
Common Issues
Motor
Lid and Door Assembly
5
6
7-8
GETTING STARTED
OPERATION
Introduction and Safety Precautions
Installation
Electrical Connection
9
9-10
10-11
11
Loading and Powering On
Heated Operation
Timer Operation
Motor Operation
MAINTENANCE
12
12
12
Replacement Parts & Repair Services
Housekeeping
Replacement of Fuses
TROUBLESHOOTING
13
13
13
APPENDICES
14-15
15
15
Appendix A: RCF/RPM Conversions**
Appendix B: Wiring & Assembly Diagrams
Appendix C: Programming Overviews

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Page. 5
Getting Started
Introduction and Safety Precautions
The Benchmark C Heated Laboratory Centrifuge is intended for use in Class I, Division 2 testing
laboratories and refineries. It operates on 120/240VAC and comes completely assembled and ready
for installation. Also included are a set of tubes, cushions, shields and collars (four each). Unpacking
and lifting the centrifuge should always be done by at least two people. Retain the custom packaging
materials for future shipping or storage.
The unit is equipped with a programmable digital temperature controller with an LCD display. The
RTD meter, or temperature controller, is preset at 140°F (60°C). There is an encoder driven
tachometer with an LCD display of the actual motor speed. Variable speed motor control is included
with a preprogrammed acceleration/deceleration ramp to ensure smooth operation.
The programmable countdown timer is integrated with the motor controller – the countdown begins
only upon reaching the designated speed for the test. Both the timer and the temperature controller
settings are adjustable.
This centrifuge is designed to optimize operator safety and includes an automatic-locking door.
Carefully following safety guidelines (i.e. OSHA) and knowing the limits of this unit will help prevent
accidents.
REMOVE all foreign objects from the centrifuge bowl.
Keep the sliding door CLOSED, especially while samples are spinning.
NEVER try to slow the trunnion arm down manually. Allow the trunnion arm to come to a
complete stop before removing samples.
Turn all switches OFF when not in use.
NEVER leave the centrifuge unattended while it is turned on or operating.
DISCONNECT the power supply before removing or replacing electrical or mechanical parts.
DO NOT leave oily or solvent saturated rags in or around the unit.
DO NOT allow unauthorized persons to operate the centrifuge.
BE AWARE of surroundings. DO NOT operate the unit when fatigued or under the influence of
medication, alcohol or illegal substances.
If a tube has broken inside of a shield, the cushion MUST be replaced.
Use CAUTION during heated operation, as the top of the unit is hot to the touch.
The following guidelines can help prevent user error/injury and improve operation:

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Getting Started
Specifications
Equipment Ratings
• Line input: 120/240 VAC, 700W, 50/60 Hz, 1Ø
• Maximum Temperature: Maximum of 212°F (100°C)
• Current Protection: 20-AMP fuse/circuit breaker
Environmental Ratings
• Indoor use only
• Altitude: 0-2000 meters
• Humidity Range: 80% RH max.
• Pollution Degree 2
Applicable Testing Standards
• ASTM D4007 (API MPMS Ch. 10.3): Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by
the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure
• ASTM D91: Standard Test Method for Precipitation Number of Lubricating Oils
• API MPMS Ch. 10.4 (withdrawn ASTM D96): Determination of Sediment and Water in Crude Oil by
the Centrifuge Method (Field Procedure)
• ASTM D1796: Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Fuel Oils by the Centrifuge Method
(Laboratory Procedure)
• ASTM D2273: Standard Test Method for Trace Sediment in Lubricating Oils
• ASTM D2709: Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle Distillate Fuels by
Centrifuge
• ASTM D893: Standard Test Method for Insolubles in Used Lubricating Oils
Applicable Safety Standards
• UL 61010-1 Issued: 2012/05/11 Ed: 3 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use - Part 1: General Requirements
• CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1 Issued: 2012/05/11 Ed: 3 Safety Requirements for Electrical
Equipmentfor Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use Part 1: General Requirements
• ISA 12.12.01 Issued: 2015/08/21 Nonincendive Electrical Equipment for Use in Class I and II,
Division 2 and Class III, Divisions 1 and 2 Hazardous (Classified) Locations
• CSA C22.2#213 Issued: 2015/08/21 Nonincendive Electrical Equipment for Use in Class I and II,
Division 2 and Class III, Divisions 1 and 2 Hazardous (Classified) Locations
• UL 823 Issue:2006/10/20 Ed:9 Rev:2012/01/31 Electric Heaters for Use in Hazardous (Classified)
Locations
NOTE: See the Operation section to learn more about high temperature protection.

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Getting Started
Installation
Warnings
Exposure to solvents (i.e. toluene) may degrade the sealing properties of materials used in the front
panel switches.
EXPLOSION HAZARD – Substitution of components may compromise ability to use the unit in Class I,
Division 2 areas.
EXPLOSION HAZARD – DO NOT replace fuses unless the main power has been switched off.
EXPLOSION HAZARD – DO NOT disconnect or disassemble equipment unless the main power has
been switched off or the area is known to be non-hazardous.
DO NOT operate this machine with unbalanced tubes and shields.
Ensure that all collars, cushions and shields are installed properly and in the correct orientation, as
shown in figure 2.
Figure 2: A/B/C/D Cushion Orientation
CUSHION
NOT USED
“A” MODELS “B” MODELS “C” MODELS “D” MODELS
For best results, the centrifuge should be housed in a controlled environment. It is recommended
that the centrifuge be secured to the benchtop, table, stand etc. using the hardware supplied.
Allow for optimum working clearance around the unit. Mount centrifuge loosely with larger holes
in the tabletop, to allow room for slight movement of centrifuge. Shown in Figures 1-3. Ensure
the unit is level by adjusting the shock mounts.
Figure 1: Schematic of Mounting Bolts
Table Top View (with Zoom) How to use Mounting Equipment

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Electrical Connection
The unit should be installed in a fixed location and should be hard-wired using 12 AWG copper wire.
The units should be connected using an external switch and a dedicated circuit breaker for
disconnection and overcurrent protection of the equipment. The external switch should be near the
unit as a safety precaution. All wiring should be completed by properly qualified electrical personnel,
per local electric code and in conformance with the standards for Class I, Division 2 hazardous
locations. Refer to the wiring detail below.
Figure 3: 120VAC/240VAC Model Wiring Diagrams
In geographical regions where power load is prone to fluctuation, power conditioning is
Recommended to filter out reductions and spikes in power. Failure to do so may void the warranty
on the unit. Contact L-K Industries for hard-wire power/line conditioner recommendations.
Getting Started
CONDUCT
HUB
CONDUCT
HUB
BACK OF CENTRIFUGE BACK OF CENTRIFUGE
120VAC
LINE IN
(BLACK)
NEUTRAL
(WHITE)
GROUND
(GREEN)
120VAC
LINEIN
(RED)
NEUTRAL
(WHITE)
GROUND
(GREEN)
120VAC 240VAC MODELS, (European Standards Only)

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Page. 9
Operation
This unit and all L-K Industries sample tubes are designed and fabricated in compliance with API and
ASTM standards. For optimal results, L-K Industries sample tubes (along with matching shields,
cushions and collars) should be used. Verified and certified tubes are also available.
Before centrifugation, all tubes, collars, cushions and shields should be visually inspected for damage.
Check for oil residue on cushions and ensure that the cushions rest flat inside the bottom of each
shield. Damaged parts must not be centrifuged, as they may break and cause further damage to the
centrifuge.
Figure 4: Front Panel Switches
Loading and Powering On
To supply power to the unit, turn the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch to the right. The “MAIN POWER” green
indicator light should signify that power is on. Verify that the red “EMERGENCY MOTOR OFF SWITCH” is
not engaged.
Open the sliding door and place the filled sample tubes into the shields with collars resting at the top of
the shields. Ensure that the tip of each tube rests firmly in the cushion. Before every test, inspect the
inner bowl for foreign objects and close the door. The green “STO ACTIVE” indicator light turns on when
the door is properly closed (Safe Torque Off/STO is a safety function that cuts off the supply voltage
when the door is open). Press the black “MOTOR POWER ON” button to give voltage to the motor. The
“MOTOR POWER” indicator should be lit.
Heated Operation
Preheat the unit by turning the “TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER” switch to the “ON” position. The unit is
factory programmed to 140°F/60°C. In colder environmental conditions, it may be necessary to set the
operating temperature approximately 15-20 degrees above the desired sample temperature (maximum
recommended set point is 160°F/71°C). Keep the sliding door closed as often as possible to minimize
heat loss. Once the temperature set point has been reached, the LCD display will switch from red to
green. Dry block or water bath heaters may be purchased separately from L-K Industries to preheat
samples.
The temperature probe is located underneath the lid, above the centrifuge bowl. The unit is equipped
with dual high intensity heating elements. The temperature display indicates the temperature inside the
bowl, NOT the samples. To determine sample temperature, a thermometer must be placed inside each
sample tube once a test is complete. Thermometers may be purchased separately.

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Operation
Changing Temperature Set Point
1. Press and hold “SEL” button, and then briefly press “SEL” again.
2. Press “RST” to enter security code (055).
3. Press and hold “SEL”.
4. Press “RST” to until the 4-SPT input is reached.
5. The first input is SPSEL, press “RST” to change the input to SP-1.
6. Press “SEL” until the SPT-1 input is reached.
7. In the SPT-1 input, press “RST” (temperature set point will display with a flashing digit).
8. Continue to press “RST” until desired number is reached.
9. Press “SEL” to toggle between digits.
10. Press and hold “SEL” to set and press “SEL” until the end of the program is reached.
High Temperature Protection
All centrifuge components and materials are chosen and designed to withstand temperatures up to
100°C (212°F). Although extremely rare, temperatures inside the centrifuge bowl may exceed the
maximum rated temperature. All components are rated for Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations, but
temperatures beyond 100°C may cause components to malfunction. In the case of runaway
temperature, a manual reset mechanical thermal switch is installed in the lid above the bowl.
This normally-closed limit switch is set to open at 85°C (185°F). Once the switch opens, power to the
dual bowl heaters is shut off. To reset the switch, turn off the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch. Use a
flathead screwdriver to remove the silver cap. Manually press the button until it clicks back into place.
Turn the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch on and begin operation as usual.
Timed Operation
The “COUNTDOWN TIMER” display indicates the amount of time remaining on a test. For timed
operation, turn the timer switch to the “ON” position. The unit is preset to 10 minutes as specified by
ASTM D 4007-08. If the countdown time must be changed, the controller must be reprogrammed (see
below for instructions). When the motor reaches the speed set point (determined by the dial position of
the potentiometer), the timer will begin to countdown.
Once the timer is complete, the motor will come to a controlled stop. When the timer switch is turned
off, the motor will run until manually shut down (“PUSH TO STOP” button).
NOTE: The updated temperature controller settings will not be set until the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch is
cycled off and back on.
NOTE: While the temperature controller is being programmed, the dual heaters are not regulated.
Temperature will begin to rise beyond the set point if left in “program mode” for significant periods. Be sure to
exit all programming as soon as possible.
Call the L-K Industries Tech Helpline if any assistance is required.

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Operation
Changing Temperature Set Point
1. Press and hold “SEL” button, and then briefly press “SEL” again
2. Press “RST” to enter security code (055)
3. Press and hold “SEL”
4. Press “RST” to get to 1-INPut, and then press “SEL” until the t-Strt input is reached
5. In the t-Strt input, press “RST” (time set point will display with a flashing digit)
6. Continue to press “RST” until desired number is reached
7. Press “SEL” to toggle between digits
8. To continue changing each digit, press “RST”
9. Press and hold “SEL” to set and press “SEL” until the end of the program is reached
Motor Operation
To start the motor, press the “PUSH TO RUN” button. Slowly tune the “SPEED ADJUST” knob until the
desired test speed is displayed on the “RPM INDICATOR” (see Appendix A for various RCF values). The
RPM INDICATOR, or rate meter, displays the actual speed (not theoretical). Physically mark that position
for future reference. If multiple speeds are used, mark each potentiometer position. If the same speed
is used repeatedly, the potentiometer knob may be left in that position while starting or stopping the
motor and when the unit is turned off. The motor controller is preprogrammed to allow controlled
acceleration and deceleration of the motor, regardless of speed set point.
DO NOT attempt to operate the unit with the sliding door open, as the motor will not run until the door
is completely closed. The sliding door locking mechanism will remain engaged until the motion of the
rotor has stopped.
To stop the motor during normal operation, press the “PUSH TO STOP” button. When the “RPM
INDICATOR” reads “0”, wait for the locking mechanism to disengage and then open the door. When the
trunnion arm has come to a complete stop, remove samples and close the door.
In an emergency (i.e. tube breakage), press the “EMERGENCY MOTOR OFF SWITCH”. Power to the motor
will be shut off and the motor will free fall to a stop. Once troubleshooting is complete and it is safe to
resume operation, twist and pull out the emergency switch. As an extra precaution, reset the unit by
turning the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch off and on. It will take approximately 1-2 minutes for the motor
controller to boot up. If the “PUSH TO RUN” button is pressed during reboot, the motor will not run.
NOTE: The updated timer settings will not be set until the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch is cycled off and back
on. Call the L-K Industries Tech Helpline if any assistance is required.
NOTE: To prolong centrifuge life, use the lowest feasible speed setting. The maximum allowable speed is 2300
rpm.
NOTE: DO NOT open the sliding door immediately after the emergency switch has been engaged. The motor is
still in free fall and any dislodged objects may be launched out of the centrifuge.
NOTE: It is recommended to take extra precaution while loading and unloading samples. Engage the
“EMERGENCY MOTOR OFF SWITCH” while working inside the bowl.
NOTE: Contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline for instructions for manually bypassing the locking
mechanism. The manual bypass should ONLY be done to verify centrifuge speed.

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Maintenance
Replacement Parts & Repair Services
Replacement parts for all centrifuges can be purchased through the L-K Industries warehouse, on
the L-K Industries website or from a Distribution Partner (see back cover). L-K Industries also repairs
and rebuilds all centrifuge models in-house. For repairs, first obtain a RMA (Return Merchandise
Authorization) number from L-K Industries. Then ship the unit to L-K Industries with a completed
RMA form describing any problems.
Housekeeping
Clean the unit after each test. Oil residue can build up and cause difficulty operating the unit.
Periodically check the sample tube cushions inside the trunnion shields for excess wear. Before each
test, examine moving parts (electrical and mechanical) for wear and stress. Replace parts as
necessary.
If a tube has broken inside a shield, the cushion MUST be replaced. Glass particles (not visible to the
naked eye) can become embedded in the cushions and cause future breakage of tubes. Two extra
cushions are provided.
NOTE: “B” style tubes DO NOT require cushions or collars.
Fuses
The fuses are used for over-current protection due to voltage spikes or other accidents. If
replacement becomes necessary, turn off the “MAIN DISCONNECT” switch. Remove the fuses and
replace with an appropriate L-K fuse that is CSA or UL certified. Contact L-K Industries Warehouse for
the correct fuse part numbers.
Figure 3-1 Fuse Types
FUSE HOLDER
5A
5A
20A
20A
20A
FAST ACTING
SLOW-BLOW
SLOW-BLOW
SLOW-BLOW
SLOW-BLOW

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Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Issues that may occur during centrifuge operation include excessive vibration, broken tubes, broken
or malfunctioning LCD screens, cushions stuck in shields, etc. For issues that cannot be identified
and resolved by the user, more technical troubleshooting details can be found on the L-K Industries
website. Alternatively, contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline for assistance.
Motor
If the motor does not run when the “PUSH TO RUN” button is pushed, make sure there is power to
the motor (green indicator light on). If the light is off, press the “MOTOR POWER ON” button. Ensure
that the sliding door is completely closed. The door locking mechanism consists of a proximity switch
that uses a sensor to determine whether the door is closed. When the door is closed, the switch
closes a circuit feeding power to the motor. Also, check to make sure the “EMERGENCY MOTOR OFF
SWITCH” is not pushed in.
If the motor stalls or does not come up to speed properly or the heaters do not turn on, check the
fuses inside the front panel. Contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline if assistance is needed in
checking or changing fuses.
If using the Countdown Timer during operation, make sure there is time remaining. Once the timer
runs out, the motor will automatically shut down. If the timer is not being used (i.e. for tests longer
than the typical preset time), turn the timer to the “OFF” position.
When the motor controller is functioning properly, the green indicator light will be lit. If the green
light does not turn on when the “MOTOR POWER ON” button is pressed, there are several
possibilities for the error. Use a screwdriver to open the front panel of the unit and view fault codes
on the LCD screen of the motor controller Contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline for help
troubleshooting fault codes.
Heaters & Temperature Controller
If the temperature displayed on the temperature controller has dropped significantly, the
temperature inside the bowl may have reached high enough temperature to open the manual
reset mechanical thermal switch on top of the lid. This will disconnect power to the heaters. Check
the switch on top of the lid to see if it has been tripped. Ensure that the button on the switch snaps
back into place.
If the manual thermal switch has not been tripped, contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline for
assistance.
Lid and Door Assembly
The following are possible sources of failure of the lid and door locking mechanism:
• Sliding Door – Add grease for smoother opening and closing.
• Proximity Switch & Sensor – These work together to detect door position and allow power to the
motor; failure of either prevents the motor from running.
• Magnet – This is mounted inside the sliding door and aligns with the sensor when the door is
closed; can become detached.
• Solenoid & Locking Pin – These work together to lock the door during motor operation; locking pin
may be misaligned with the door.
Contact the L-K Industries Tech Helpline to troubleshoot problems with the lid and door assembly.

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Page. 14
Appendices
Appendix A: RCF/RPM Conversions**
MODEL LB14-C120C LB14-D120C
Tip-to-tip Diameter (")
RPM*
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
550
600
650
700
750
800
850
900
950
1000
1050
1100
1150
1200
1250
1300
1350
20.38
RCF
12
18
26
36
46
59
73
88
104
123
142
163
186
210
235
262
290
320
351
384
418
453
490
529
19.72
RCF
11
18
25
34
45
57
70
85
101
119
138
158
180
203
227
253
281
310
340
371
404
439
475
512

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Appendices
Appendix A: RCF/RPM Conversions**
Appendix B: Wiring & Assembly
Diagrams
The following schematics may be
found at: www.lk-ind.com/downloads
• 115VAC and 220VAC Wiring
• Outer Front Panel Schematic
• Inner Front Panel Schematic
• Motor Assembly
• Bowl Heater Assembly
• Bowl Assembly
• Door and Locking Mechanism
Assembly
• Front Panel and Lid Assembly
Appendix C: Programming Overviews
The following programming diagrams may be
found at: www.lk-ind.com/downloads
• Temperature Controller Quick
Programming
• RPM Quick Programming
• Timer Quick Programming
MODEL LB14-C120C LB14-D120C
Tip-to-tip Diameter (")
RPM*
1400
1450
1500
1550
1600
1650
1700
1750
1800
1850
1900
1950
2000
2050
2100
2150
2200
2250
2300
2350
2400
2450
2500
20.38
RCF
569
610
653
697
743
790
839
889
940
993
1048
1104
1161
1220
1280
1341
1405
1469
1535
1603
1672
1742
1814
19.72
RCF
550
590
632
675
719
765
812
860
910
961
1014
1068
1123
1180
1238
1298
1359
1422
1485
1551
1617
1686
1755
*RPM =265×√(RCF/D), where D = tip-to-tip
tube diameter in inches
**ASTM minimum recommended RCF: 600

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