Lauper Instruments AMETEK mocon PERMATRAN-W 3/34 User manual

Revision P
Part Number 143-196
PERMATRAN-W®
Model 3/34
Operator’s Manual
Gas-Detection
Lauper Instruments AG
Irisweg 16B
CH-3280 Murten
Tel. [phone]
[email protected]
www.lauper-instruments.ch

Trademarks & Patents
MOCON and PERMATRAN-W are registered trademarks of Mocon, Inc.
For information on applicable patents see:
https://www.ametekmocon.com/aboutus/legal/intellectualproperty

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual About This Manual
MOCON, Inc. Revision P iii
About This Manual
This manual explains how to set up and use the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Water Vapor Transmission
Rate System.
This manual is designed for viewing electronically. Most references to other sections or chapters in this
document are hyperlinks which can be used to navigate to the referenced section.
Please use the following guide to get started with the system.
If You Want To Set Up the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34
1. Prepare your test site.
See Appendix A “Site Preparation Instructions” starting on page A-1 in this manual.
2. Install the PERMATRAN-W components.
See Chapter 2 “Setting Up” starting on page 2-1 in this manual.
If You Want Some Background on How the System Works:
1. Get an overview of the system.
See Chapter 1 “Introduction” on page 1-1 in this manual.
2. Learn how the PERMATRAN-W measures water vapor transmission.
See Appendix D “Theory of Operation” on page D-1 in this manual.
3. Learn about the software.
See Chapter 4 “Using the Instrument Software” starting on page 4-1 in this manual.
If You Want To Get Started Measuring Water Vapor Transmission Rate:
See Chapter 3 “Preparing for a Test” beginning on page 3-1, Chapter 6 “Testing Flat Films”
on page 6-1 and Chapter 7 “Testing Packages” on page 7-1.
If You Have Problems Operating the System:
1. If an error message appears on the instrument screen see Chapter 9 “Troubleshooting”
beginning on page 9-1 in this manual.
2. If no error message appears but you have other problems, see Chapter 9 “Troubleshooting”
beginning on page 9-1 in this manual.
SERVICE NOTE:
Please do not hesitate to call MOCON in the USA at [phone]. We want you to receive the
best in product support services.

Safety Information PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
iv Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Safety Information
Be sure to read and understand this section and all other applicable chapters of the Operator's Manual and all
on-product safety signs before setting up, operating, and maintaining this analyzer.
Safety signs appear in this manual and on the analyzer. All safety signs are identified by the words WARNING and
CAUTION. These words signify the following:
•WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious personal injury.
•CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in moderate
personal injury and/or possible damage to the analyzer and its components.
To avoid personal injury and equipment damage, observe the following precautions:
Installation Precautions
•Use appropriate precautions when lifting or moving the instrument. A two-person lift is recommended.
•The maximum pressure applied to the instrument from the Carrier Gas tank must not exceed 29 psi (2
bar), or damage to the instrument will occur.
Operating Precautions
•To avoid plumbing contamination use only specified gas type at recommended operating pressure.
•Use only HPLC-grade water in the humidity generator.
•Use care to avoid splashing the RH sensor with any salt solution. The RH sensor can be irreparably
damaged by direct contact with salt solutions.
•Handle the RH probe carefully. The sensor housed in the probe is easily damaged.
•Do not expose the RH probe to an environment with RH greater than 90% RH.
Maintenance and Service Precautions
WARNING! HAZARDOUS VOLTAGES ARE PRESENT INSIDE THIS INSTRUMENT. SERVICE
SHOULD BE PERFORMED BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
AVERTISSMENT : CET INSTRUMENT PRESENTE DES NIVEAUX DANGEREUX DE TENSION.
L'ENTRETIEN DOIT ETRE EFFECTUE PAR UN PERSONNEL QUALIFIE
UNIQUEMENT.
WARNING! Protection may be impaired if this device is not used in the manner specified.
•Maintenance and service should only be performed by qualified personnel.
•Make sure the instrument is powered OFF and unplugged from the power source before removing the
covers to perform any internal maintenance or service. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock,
which can cause injury or death.
•Failure to use proper safety equipment when mixing salt solution can result in frostbite or burn injuries.
Salt solutions should be prepared only by qualified people with proper safety equipment.

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Table of Contents
MOCON, Inc. Revision P v
Table of Contents
About This Manual ........................................................................................................................................iii
Safety Information........................................................................................................................................ iv
Chapter 1: Introduction..............................................................................................................................1-1
Features...............................................................................................................................................1-2
Permeation Test Overview ...................................................................................................................1-3
Individual Zero Phase.....................................................................................................................1-3
Conditioning the Sample ................................................................................................................1-3
ReZero State..................................................................................................................................1-3
Cell Examination State ...................................................................................................................1-3
Bypass State ..................................................................................................................................1-3
Test Completion .............................................................................................................................1-3
Report Generation..........................................................................................................................1-4
Measuring Water Vapor Transmission Rate .........................................................................................1-4
Testing Films and Packages ................................................................................................................1-6
Chapter 2: Setting Up ...............................................................................................................................2-1
Unpacking the System .........................................................................................................................2-1
Preparing for Installation ......................................................................................................................2-1
Front Panel Parts and Controls ............................................................................................................2-2
Back Panel Parts and Controls.............................................................................................................2-4
Carrier Gas (Nitrogen)..........................................................................................................................2-5
Gas Distribution System.......................................................................................................................2-5
Connecting the Gas Lines ....................................................................................................................2-6
Setting the Gas Supply Pressure .........................................................................................................2-8
System Outgassing ..............................................................................................................................2-8
Chapter 3: Preparing for a Test.................................................................................................................3-1
Testing Basics......................................................................................................................................3-1
How Barrier Properties Affect Testing ..................................................................................................3-1
Testing Very Good Barriers ............................................................................................................3-1
Testing Very Poor Barriers .............................................................................................................3-1
Testing Mixed Barriers....................................................................................................................3-2
Testing Moisture Sensitive Barriers ................................................................................................3-2
Developing Test Methods for your Films and Packages .......................................................................3-2
The Examination Time....................................................................................................................3-2
The ReZero Frequency ..................................................................................................................3-2
The Sample Conditioning Time ......................................................................................................3-3
Individual Zero Processing .............................................................................................................3-3
Determining When to Stop a Test...................................................................................................3-4
Choosing a Test Method ......................................................................................................................3-4
The Auto Test Method....................................................................................................................3-4
The Advanced Test Method............................................................................................................3-4
Saved Test Methods ......................................................................................................................3-4
Using Test Sequencing ........................................................................................................................3-4
Chapter 4: Using the Instrument Software.................................................................................................4-1
Software Features................................................................................................................................4-1
Instrument Software Structure and Organization ..................................................................................4-2
Chapter 5: Permeant Sensor Calibration...................................................................................................5-1

Table of Contents PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
vi Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Permeant Sensor Accuracy Check.......................................................................................................5-1
Performing a Permeant Sensor Calibration ..........................................................................................5-1
Permeant Sensor Calibration Test Setup .............................................................................................5-2
Chapter 6: Testing Flat Film Samples .......................................................................................................6-1
Testing Suggestions.............................................................................................................................6-1
Preparing for a Film Test......................................................................................................................6-2
Sample Size.........................................................................................................................................6-2
Using Masks ........................................................................................................................................6-2
Orienting the Sample ...........................................................................................................................6-3
Using a 100% RH Test Gas .................................................................................................................6-3
Using Saturated Sponges for testing at 100% RH ..........................................................................6-3
Using a Generated RH Test Gas..........................................................................................................6-4
Filling the Humidifier.......................................................................................................................6-4
Filling the Humidifier during a Test .................................................................................................6-4
Humidifier Ports and Controls.........................................................................................................6-5
Mounting a Sample in the Test Cell......................................................................................................6-6
Loading and Unloading the Test Cell....................................................................................................6-7
Setting Up and Starting a Film Test......................................................................................................6-8
Monitoring and Controlling a Film Test .................................................................................................6-8
Chapter 7: Testing Packages....................................................................................................................7-1
Testing Suggestions.............................................................................................................................7-1
Preparing the Instrument for a Package Test .......................................................................................7-2
Package Testing Methods....................................................................................................................7-3
Testing using Ambient Conditions ..................................................................................................7-3
Package Test Gas Generation .......................................................................................................7-3
Package Conditioning.....................................................................................................................7-3
Testing using an Environmental Chamber......................................................................................7-3
Package Mounting Methods.................................................................................................................7-4
Mounting Bottles, Cups and Trays using a Package Plate..............................................................7-4
Mounting Pouches and Bags..........................................................................................................7-5
Setting Up and Starting a Package Test...............................................................................................7-6
Monitoring and Controlling a Package Test ..........................................................................................7-6
Chapter 8: Maintenance............................................................................................................................8-1
Cleaning the Instrument .......................................................................................................................8-1
Cleaning the Air Filters.........................................................................................................................8-2
Cleaning the Test Cells ........................................................................................................................8-3
Maintaining the Test Cells ....................................................................................................................8-3
Drying Out the Humidifier .....................................................................................................................8-3
100% RH Test Cell Components and Part Numbers ............................................................................8-4
Generated RH Test Cell Components and Part Numbers ....................................................................8-5
Changing the Desiccant .......................................................................................................................8-6
System Standby...................................................................................................................................8-8
System Shutdown for Storage or Repair ..............................................................................................8-8
Chapter 9: Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................9-1
Error Messages and Warnings .............................................................................................................9-1
Troubleshooting Testing Problems .......................................................................................................9-1
Recovering from a Sensor Over-Range Condition................................................................................9-2
Recovering from a Power Failure .........................................................................................................9-2
Chapter 10: Specifications ......................................................................................................................10-1
Physical Specifications.......................................................................................................................10-1

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Table of Contents
MOCON, Inc. Revision P vii
Environmental Requirements .............................................................................................................10-1
Electrical Requirements .....................................................................................................................10-1
Gas Supply Requirements .................................................................................................................10-2
Operational Capabilities .....................................................................................................................10-2
Environmental Chamber Specifications..............................................................................................10-3
Transmission Rate Range and Repeatability Capabilities ..................................................................10-4
Appendix A: Site Preparation Instructions ................................................................................................ A-1
Appendix A: Site Preparation Instructions...................................................................................................... A-1
Appendix B: Spare Parts.......................................................................................................................... B-1
Appendix C: Warranty and Service Policies ............................................................................................. C-1
Appendix C: Warranty and Service Policies .................................................................................................... C-1
Appendix D: Theory of Operation............................................................................................................. D-1
How the Water Vapor Transmission Rate is measured ....................................................................... D-1
How the Water Vapor Sensor Works................................................................................................... D-1
Water Vapor Sensor Calibration Theory.............................................................................................. D-1
Barrier Temperature ...................................................................................................................... D-2
Test Gas Driving Force.................................................................................................................. D-2
Barometric Pressure...................................................................................................................... D-2
Relative Humidity .......................................................................................................................... D-2
How a Humidified Test Gas is Generated............................................................................................ D-3
How the ReZero Cell Works................................................................................................................ D-3
How the Auto-Test Method Works....................................................................................................... D-4
How Sequential Testing Works ........................................................................................................... D-4
Appendix E: Electrical and Plumbing Diagrams ....................................................................................... E-1
Appendix F: Preparing RH Calibration Standards .....................................................................................F-1
RH Calibration Equipment....................................................................................................................F-1
Choosing a Salt Solution ......................................................................................................................F-1
Preparing a High Level Calibration Standard........................................................................................F-2
Preparing a Low Level Calibration Standard ........................................................................................F-2
Preparing a Saturated Salt Solution .....................................................................................................F-2
Appendix G: Compliance ......................................................................................................................... G-1

Table of Contents PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
viii Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Figures
Figure 1-1: PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 System......................................................................................1-1
Figure 1-2: The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 - 100% RH Test Cell ..........................................................1-4
Figure 1-3: The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 - Generated RH Test Cell ..................................................1-5
Figure 2-1: Front Panel Parts and Controls ...............................................................................................2-2
Figure 2-2: Front Panel Parts and Controls ...............................................................................................2-3
Figure 2-3: Back Panel Parts and Controls ...............................................................................................2-4
Figure 2-4: System Plumbing Connection Diagram...................................................................................2-5
Figure 6-1: Humidifier Fill Ports.................................................................................................................6-5
Figure 6-2: Mounting a Film Sample .........................................................................................................6-6
Figure 6-3: Loading the Test Cell ..............................................................................................................6-7
Figure 7-1: Installing the Package Adapter Cell ........................................................................................7-2
Figure 7-2: Using a Package Mounting Plate ............................................................................................7-4
Figure 7-3: Pouches and Bags - Bottom Mount.........................................................................................7-5
Figure 7-4: Pouches and Bags - Top Mount..............................................................................................7-5
Figure 8-1: The Air Filters .........................................................................................................................8-2
Figure 8-2: 100% RH Test Cell Components ............................................................................................8-4
Figure 8-3: Generated RH Test Cell Components.....................................................................................8-5
Figure 8-4: The Desiccant Chamber .........................................................................................................8-7
Figure E-1: Plumbing Diagram Page 1................................................................................................... E-2
Figure E-2: Plumbing Diagram Page 2................................................................................................... E-3
Figure E-3: Electrical Diagram Page 1 ................................................................................................... E-4
Figure E-4: Electrical Diagram Page 2 ................................................................................................... E-5
Figure E-5: Electrical Diagram Page 3 ................................................................................................... E-6
Tables
Table 2-1: Front Panel Parts and Controls ................................................................................................2-3
Table 2-2: Back Panel Parts and Controls.................................................................................................2-4
Table 6-1: Humidifier Ports and Controls ..................................................................................................6-5
Table 8-1: 100% RH Test Cell Components..............................................................................................8-4
Table 8-2: Generated RH Test Cell Components......................................................................................8-5
Table 10-1: Physical Specifications.........................................................................................................10-1
Table 10-2: Environmental Requirements ...............................................................................................10-1
Table 10-3: Electrical Specifications........................................................................................................10-1
Table 10-4: Gas Supply Specifications....................................................................................................10-2
Table 10-5: Operational Capabilities .......................................................................................................10-2
Table 10-6: Environmental Chamber Specifications................................................................................10-3
Table 10-7: Transmission Rate Range and Repeatability Capabilities .....................................................10-4
Table 10-8: Salt Solution Humidity Standards in Percent RH ....................................................................F-1

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Introduction
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 1-1
Chapter 1:Introduction
This chapter provides a brief overview of the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Water Vapor Transmission Rate
System.
Read this chapter to get an overview of:
•The features of the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 system
•A summary of basic steps in a permeation test
•A summary of how a Water Vapor Transmission Rate measurement is performed
•A summary of how Film and Package testing is performed
Figure 1-1: PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 System

Introduction PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
1-2 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Features
The following features of the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Water Vapor Transmission Rate System make it
very versatile and easy to use:
•Fully automatic (Hands Off) testing.
•Reduced test times (less total time to achieve a Test Result).*
•Removable test cell for faster film mounting.
•Pneumatically clamped test cells.
•TruSeal™ test cells for increased performance.
•Automatic control of the Test Cell Temperature.
•Automatic control of Pressure, Flow and RH.
•Package Testing Adapter (Optional).
•Carrier Purge feature for package testing.
•Advanced Gas Saver function reduces gas consumption.
•Advanced automatic testing features simplify testing Barriers with unknown properties.
•Automatic Test Sequencing (perform a sequence of tests at different RH and temperatures).
•Automatically save and print Test Results.
•Internal storage of at least 100 Test Results.
•Integrated and intuitive touch screen operator interface.
•Remote Access and Control (requires optional Perm-Net Light software).
•Standard Ethernet port (100T).
•Dual USB 2.0 ports (for connection of keyboard, mouse or memory devices).
*Compared to the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/31 series

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Introduction
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 1-3
Permeation Test Overview
A “Permeation Test” consists of up to two phases that are performed using a Test Cell. The “Cell” may
contain a flat film sample or be connected to a package fixture. The Test Phase (always present) is used to
measure the transmission rate of the test sample. The Individual Zero Phase is optional and may occur at
the beginning or end of a Permeation Test. Each phase in the test consists of a series of discrete states. A
Permeation Test may utilize all or only a subset of the possible test states. During a test the steps (or
states) within each phase are executed in a fixed order. This order is called the “Test Sequence”. A brief
description of the phases and states within a permeation test are given below:
Individual Zero Phase
An Individual Zero Phase is used to determine the amount of water vapor that is present in the carrier gas
from factors other than actual transmission through the sample. This amount is subtracted from the
transmission rate obtained for each sample during testing. For more information on when and how to use an
Individual Zero Phase see “Individual Zero Processing” in Chapter 3.
Conditioning the Sample
Almost every material requires a period of time to acclimate to the environment and reach equilibrium. A
time period can be specified to allow the barrier to “Condition” to the test environment. The Conditioning
Period when used will occur at the beginning of each test phase.
ReZero State
Periodically the instrument baseline must be measured so that any changes in the baseline will not affect
the accuracy of your transmission rate data. This is done during a “ReZero State” by measuring the
apparent water vapor transmission rate of the ReZero Cell.
Cell Examination State
The Cell Examination State is used to measure the transmission rate of the barrier sample. The carrier gas
leaving the Test Cell is sent to the water vapor sensor where the amount of water vapor contained in the
gas is measured to determine a transmission rate.
Bypass State
The Bypass State is used to minimize exposure of the water vapor sensor to excessive background levels
of water vapor. The water vapor sensor is automatically placed in the Bypass State during conditioning,
when tests are completed or when an excessively high level of water vapor is detected.
Test Completion
At some point sufficient measurements will have been made to accurately determine the transmission rate
of the samples. A Permeation Test can be terminated manually by the user, after a fixed number of test
cycles or using an automatic convergence process. When testing is complete, the cell is removed from the
test sequence and no further transmission rate examination of that sample is performed. For more
information on stopping a transmission rate test see “Determining When to Stop a Test” in Chapter 3.

Introduction PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
1-4 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Report Generation
You can request a report for one or both cells at any time until a new permeation test is started. See the
instrument Help System for information on printing reports.
Measuring Water Vapor Transmission Rate
To make an accurate transmission rate measurement a known concentration Test Gas (usually 100%
Water vapor) is applied to one side of the barrier material to be tested and the other side is swept with an
water vapor free Carrier Gas (nitrogen). This process is illustrated in Figure 1-2 which depicts a Film sample
mounted in a standard 100% RH Test Cell.
As shown in the illustration the film is mounted between the two parts of the test cell. The o-rings and
sealing surfaces in the cell prevent outside air from affecting the measurement.
The Test Gas (100% RH water vapor) is continuously applied to bottom half of the cell.
The Carrier Gas (nitrogen) enters the top half of the cell. As water vapor permeates the sample barrier it
mixes with the Carrier Gas. The output side (exhaust) of the test cell is routed to the water vapor sensor.
The amount of water vapor in the carrier gas is measured using the water vapor sensor.
Seal leakage can be a significant source of error when measuring the transmission rate of a film sample.
The TruSeal™ flush ring at the perimeter of the Test Cell minimizes the effect of ambient water vapor on the
measurement. During a test the TruSeal™ flush ring is purged with carrier gas minimizing the possibility of
leakage past (or permeation through) the seals.
Figure 1-2: The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 - 100% RH Test Cell
The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 can use a generated RH for the Test Gas. The RH of the Test Gas can be
from 5% to 90% RH for a Model G and from 50% to 90% for a Model H. Testing with a Generated RH Test
Gas requires a different Test Cell configuration than that which is used for testing at 100% RH. This is
illustrated in Figure 1-3 which depicts a Film sample mounted in a Generated RH Test Cell.
Saturated Sponge
Flush Gas Out
Carrier Out
Carrier In
Flush Gas In

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Introduction
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 1-5
Figure 1-3: The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 - Generated RH Test Cell
Flush Gas In
Flush Gas Out
Carrier In
Carrier Out
Test Gas Out
Test Gas In

Introduction PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
1-6 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Testing Films and Packages
The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 can measure the Water Vapor Transmission Rate of film samples or
entire packages.
To test a film sample it is prepared and mounted in a Test Cell. The test cell is used to maintain the film
sample at a specified temperature. The Test Gas supplied to the test cell can be 100% RH or at a specified
RH. For more information on testing Flat Film samples see Chapter 6.
To test packages at ambient temperature; a package mounted in an appropriate “fixture” can be connected
to the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 using the optional Package Adapter. For more control over sample
temperature an Environmental Chamber can be used.
A 100% RH Test Gas is required for testing packages, the Generated RH capability of the PERMATRAN-W
Model 3/34 is not available when testing packages.
For more information on testing packages see Chapter 7.

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Setting Up
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 2-1
Chapter 2: Setting Up
This chapter provides information on how to set up a PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 and prepare it for use.
Read this chapter to learn about:
•Unpacking the System
•Preparing for System Installation
•Front Panel Parts and Controls
•Back Panel Parts and Controls
•Connecting oxygen and nitrogen gas lines to the instrument
Unpacking the System
Each PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 instrument is shipped in its own crate. Any optional kits or accessories
may be shipped in the instrument crate or in separate cartons. A checklist will be included for the instrument
and any of the optional kits you may have purchased.
If any components are missing or damaged please call MOCON in the USA at [phone].
Preparing for Installation
The Site Preparation Instructions (Appendix A) contain important information about preparing a location for
the instrument and the facilities required for your new instrument. Please read Appendix A before
proceeding with the installation of the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34.
The ambient environmental conditions in which the instrument will be used must meet those specified on
page 10-1 in Chapter 10.
The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 should be placed on a bench or table capable of supporting
approximately 43 kg (95 lbs). The work surface should be flat, clean and free of excessive vibration.
If installing a printer that will be directly connected to the PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34, place it next to the
instrument. Read the manual that came with the printer for installation procedures.
Do not plug the instrument or printer into a power source until all components have been set up and
connected.
Before proceeding with the setup or operation of the instrument familiarize yourself with the locations and
names of the parts and controls on the front and rear of the instrument.

Setting Up PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
2-2 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Front Panel Parts and Controls
The names and locations of the parts and controls located on the front of the instrument are shown in
Figure 2-1, Figure 2-2 and Table 2.1.
Figure 2-1: Front Panel Parts and Controls
6
5
4
3
2
1
8
7

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Setting Up
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 2-3
Figure 2-2: Front Panel Parts and Controls
Item
Name
Description
1
Cell B Load/Unload button
This button is used to Load and Unload the Test Cell
2
Cell B Status Indicator
This indicator is used to show the Status of Cell B
3
Cell A Load/Unload button
This button is used to Load and Unload the Test Cell
4
Cell A Status Indicator
This indicator is used to show the Status of Cell A
5
Cover
The cover that is used to access the Humidifier and cell
t
6
Instrument Display
The color touch-screen display used for instrument control
7
Test Cell Drawer - Cell A
The drawer which contains the Test Cell for Cell A
8
Test Cell Drawer - Cell B
The drawer which contains the Test Cell for Cell B
9
ReZero Cell Vent
The carrier gas vent for the ReZero cell
10
Cell A Vent
The carrier gas vent for Test Cell A
11
Cell B Vent
The carrier gas vent for Test Cell B
12
Thermometer Well
A thermometer well for use with a external thermometer
13
Reservoir Fill/Drain Valve
The screw used to open & close the Reservoir drain
14
Reservoir Drain/Fill Port
The drain port for the Reservoir
15
Water Reservoir
Window showing the Reservoir water level
Table 2-1: Front Panel Parts and Controls
15
9
10
14
13
11
12

Setting Up PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
2-4 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Back Panel Parts and Controls
The names and locations of the parts and controls located on the back of the instrument are shown in
Figure 2-3 and Table 2.2.
Figure 2-3: Back Panel Parts and Controls
Item Name Description
1 Power In The connector the power cord attaches to.
2 Fuse Holder The fuse holder contains the fuses used to protect the instrument.
3 Power Switch
The switch that is used to turn the instrument on and off.
l is ON
О is OFF
4 Carrier Gas Inlet Port The fitting that connects the carrier gas supply to the instrument.
5 Cooling Fan The fan that supplies cooling air to the test cell heating/cooling system.
6 Network Port A 10/100T Ethernet port for connection to a network.
7 USB Ports USB 2.0 Ports for connection of USB devices (keyboard, mouse).
8 Enclosure Fans The fans that supply cooling air to the instrument enclosure.
Table 2-2: Back Panel Parts and Controls
4
3
2
1
5
6
7
8

PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual Setting Up
MOCON, Inc. Revision P 2-5
Carrier Gas (Nitrogen)
The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 requires a Carrier Gas that is 99.7% nitrogen. A standard T size cylinder
will typically provide sufficient gas to operate a single instrument for several weeks.
Gas Distribution System
Each instrument ships with a local regulator/isolation device (called a Regulator Tee) that can be used to
connect the instrument to a common Carrier Gas distribution system. Figure 2-4 illustrates how a gas
distribution system for multiple instruments can be created using the provided Regulator Tee.
When using compressed gas cylinders, consideration should be given to the impact cylinder replacement
will have on operational efficiency. Interruptions to the gas supply when a cylinder is changed (or goes
empty) will have an adverse effect on any active tests. Cylinder manifolds that provide an uninterrupted gas
supply during cylinder replacement are available from many gas suppliers.
Figure 2-4: System Plumbing Connection Diagram

Setting Up PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 Operator’s Manual
2-6 Revision P MOCON, Inc.
Connecting the Gas Lines
The PERMATRAN-W Model 3/34 has a gas inlet for connection of the Carrier Gas (nitrogen) supply. This
compression fitting is intended for use with 1/8” copper tubing. Refer to Figure 2-3 and Figure 2-4 for the
location of the fitting and an example of plumbing system diagram.
The optional Starter Kit (052-056) contains 50 feet (14 meters) of tubing in addition to extra compression
nuts, ferrules and grease.
Follow these steps to connect the gas supply lines:
1. Remove the brass plug from the Carrier Gas fitting on the instrument back panel. Save this
plug as it will be needed later.
2. Cut a piece of tubing approximately 6 inches in length (15 cm).
3. Cut a piece of tubing approximately 10 inches in length (25 cm).
4. Apply a thin coating of High Vacuum grease to four compression ferrules.
5. Connect the Carrier Gas fitting on the instrument back panel to one side of the particulate
filter (051-791) using the shorter piece of tubing and two nuts and ferrules.
6. Connect the other side of the particulate filter to the output fitting on a regulator tee using the
longer piece tubing and two nuts and ferrules.
7. Cut a piece of tubing to connect the Desiccant Tower to the Carrier Gas (Nitrogen) supply.
8. Apply a thin coating of High Vacuum grease to a compression ferrule.
9. Connect the inlet fitting on the Desiccant Tower to the Carrier Gas (Nitrogen) supply
regulator using a nuts and a ferrule. The inlet fitting on the Desiccant Tower is on the end of
the chamber containing the cover. Make sure the tube is inserted all the way into the fitting
on the Desiccant Tower before tightening the knurled nut.
10. Cut a piece of tubing to connect the regulator tee to the Desiccant Tower.
11. Apply a thin coating of High Vacuum grease to a compression ferrule.