Malvern Hydro 2000uP User manual

INSTRUMENTS
Printed in England MRK0869-01
Malvern Instruments Limited
Enigma Business Park
Grovewood Road, Malvern
Worcs, WR14 1XZ, U.K.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.malvern.com
user manual
Hydro 2000
µP

Hydro 2000 µ P
User Manual
MAN0389 Issue 1.0 March 2007
MAN0389-1.0 Hydro 2000uP.book Page i Friday, March 16, 2007 4:11 PM

© Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2007
Malvern Instruments makes every effort to ensure that this document is correct. However, due to
Malvern Instruments’ policy of continual product development we are unable to guarantee the
accuracy of this, or any other document after the date of publication. We therefore disclaim all
liability for any changes, errors or omissions after the date of publication. No reproduction or
transmission of any part of this publication is allowed without the express written permission of
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Head office:
Malvern Instruments Ltd.
Enigma Business Park,
Grovewood Road,
Malvern,
Worcestershire WR14 1XZ
United Kingdom.
Tel + [44] (0)1684-892456
Fax + [44] (0)1684-892789
Windows 2000 and XP are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
Tygon is a registered trademark of Norton Co.
Perlast is a registered trademark of Precision Polymer Engineering.
Printed in England
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Hydro 2000µPPage i
Part 1 - Operator’s Guide
Introduction to this manual
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Access to the dispersion unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Assumed information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Where to get help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Hardware features
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
What the dispersion unit does . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
How the dispersion unit is controlled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
How the dispersion unit works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Hardware features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Software features
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Making a measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Manually controlling the dispersion unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Writing an SOP for the dispersion unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Making a measurement
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Measurement guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Instrument preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Anaerobic fill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Measuring new samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Changing cell holder position
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Table of Contents
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Table of Contents Hydro 2000µP
Page ii MAN 0389
Part 2 - Appendices
Specification
Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1
Chemical compatibility
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Regulatory statements
CE Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2
Index
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Part 1 -
Operator’s Guide
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Hydro 2000µPPage 1-1
1
Introduction
to this manual
Introduction
This manual describes the operation of the Micro Precision Hydro 2000µP sample
dispersion unit, one of the following:
This manual is a supplement to the following manuals:
Mastersizer 2000 User Manual (termed “the main User Manual”).
Mastersizer 2000 Essentials Manual (termed “the Essentials Manual”).
This dispersion unit manual focuses on some specific issues of the dispersion unit
that are not covered by the above manuals. It aims to:
Describe what the dispersion unit is and explain in simple terms how it works.
Identify the physical features of the dispersion unit.
Describe the software and explain how to use the dispersion unit to make a
measurement on the system.
Warning!
The dispersion unit or the samples to be measured may be hazardous if
misused. Users must read the Health and Safety information in the
Essentials Manual before operating the system.
We recommend that users who have never operated a Malvern particle analyser
read this manual fully before starting the first measurement.
Those who are more familiar with particle size analysers may wish to jump straight
to Chapter 4 of the main User Manual which gives details on making measure-
Instrument Model number
Hydro 2000µP (with ultrasonics) AWA2003
Hydro 2000µP (without ultrasonics) AWA2004
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Chapter 1 Introduction to this manual
Page 1-2 MAN 0389
1
ments. However, the importance of sample preparation before measurement can-
not be overstated so we recommend reading the chapter on sample preparation
(Chapter 8 of the main User Manual) as a priority.
Access to the dispersion unit
Within this manual, reference is made to the various people who will have access to
the dispersion unit. The following is a list of these people and their responsibilities:
Malvern personnel
Malvern personnel (service engineers, representatives, etc.) have full access to the
dispersion unit and are authorised to perform all service procedures that may
require the removal of the covers.
Supervisor
The supervisor is the person responsible for the management/safety of the disper-
sion unit and of its operation. The supervisor is responsible for the training of the
operators. The supervisor can perform all user maintenance routines identified in
Chapter 4 of the Essentials Manual.
Warning!
The supervisor/operator must never remove the covers of the instrument
or dispersion unit. Removal of the covers by unauthorised personnel will
invalidate the warranty of the dispersion unit.
Operator
An operator is a person trained in the use of the dispersion unit. The operator can
perform all user maintenance routines identified in Chapter 4 of the Essentials
Manual.
Warning!
Failure to follow this guideline could result in exposure to hazardous
voltages.
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Introduction to this manual Chapter 1
Hydro 2000µPPage 1-3
Assumed information
Naming convention
Within this manual:
The Mastersizer 2000 optical bench is referred to as “the optical bench” or “the
instrument”.
The Hydro 2000µP is referred to in full or as “the dispersion unit”.
The combination of the optical bench, one or more dispersion units and the
computer is referred to as “the system”.
Menu commands
Menu commands from the Malvern software are referred to in the form main
menu-menu item. As an example, the command Configure-New SOP refers to
selecting the New SOP item in the Configure menu. The same rules apply for
sub-menus of sub-menus, so that Tools-Options-Instrument Port refers to the
Instrument Port item in the Options sub-menu, which itself is a sub-menu of
the Tools menu. Menu commands are always shown in bold text.
Where to get help
Full details on where and how to obtain help can be found in Chapter 1 of the
Mastersizer 2000 User Manual.
The Essentials Manual gives information on the following:
Site requirements.
Health and Safety.
Maintenance.
Installation (in case the system has to be moved after its initial installation by
Malvern Instruments personnel).
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Chapter 1 Introduction to this manual
Page 1-4 MAN 0389
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Hydro 2000µPPage 2-1
2
Hardware features
Introduction
This chapter gives a simple overview of the dispersion unit. All key aspects of the
dispersion unit’s operation are explained in very simple terms. This chapter covers:
What the dispersion unit does.
How the dispersion unit is controlled.
How the dispersion unit works.
The hardware features in detail.
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Chapter 2 Hardware features
Page 2-2 MAN 0389
2
What the dispersion unit does
The sole purpose of any sample dispersion unit is to prepare the sample then
deliver it to the measurement zone of the optical bench so that it can be measured.
The Hydro 2000µP allows the Mastersizer to be used for particle-in-liquid particle
sizing and has been specifically designed so that only small amounts of sample and
suspending liquids (dispersants) are required.
The small volume of the Hydro 2000µP is ideal when using solvent dispersants or
when samples and dispersants are either expensive or hazardous.
The materials used in the manufacture of the dispersion unit maximise the range of
samples which can be measured.
Other features of the dispersion unit include:
Variable speed pump – allows a wide range of particle sizes and densities to
be suspended and circulated.
Ultrasonic system (optional) – allows particle agglomerates to be dispersed
and assists in removing bubbles from the system.
Warning!
When using solvents, especially those with low ignition points, minimise
the use of ultrasonics. There is a remote possibility that localised heating
caused by the ultrasonic action may cause an explosive reaction. Check the
Material Safety Data Sheets for all substances used.
Temperature sensing – an internal sensor monitors the temperature of the
dispersant. The software can be configured so that measurements are only
made between user specified temperature limits. This can be used to ensure
that the instrument can only be used when it has reached the correct tempera-
ture.
How the dispersion unit is controlled
The dispersion unit is controlled using a single software dialogue with sliders for
the pump speed and ultrasonic power (Chapter 3 has details). The dialogue also
has pump pause, drain valve and Anaerobic fill buttons.
When controlled through a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), the software
tells the user what value to set for each parameter.
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Hardware features Chapter 2
Hydro 2000µPPage 2-3
How the dispersion unit works
The dispersion unit looks like this:
ill 5473
The dispersion unit comprises two main units:
The control unit which contains most of the control electronics.
The cell unit which contains the cell, the sample well, pump, ultrasonic probe
(optional) and the drain facilities.
The dispersant is injected into the cell via the dispersant inlet port using a syringe
. Once preliminary measurements (“backgrounds”) are made, the sample to be
measured is added to the well . The pump agitates the dispersant to ensure that
the sample does not settle out and continually circulates the sample through the
cell and then back to the well.
Within the cell, the dispersant and sample flow between two glass windows . The
windows are precisely mounted within the measurement zone of the optical bench
where a laser is passed through the sample/dispersant mixture. The particles
within the sample scatter the laser light. This scattered laser light is measured by
the optical bench and used to calculate the particle size distribution of the sample.
4
5
3
2
9
8
7
6
1
10
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Chapter 2 Hardware features
Page 2-4 MAN 0389
The optional ultrasonic probe can be used to break up particle agglomerates and
help to remove bubbles from the system.
Once the sample has been measured, an internal drain valve is operated and the dis-
persant and sample are drained to an external beaker .
The lid for the well should always be fitted during a measurement. The lid is
locked in place by rotating the locking lever .
All functions of the dispersion unit are controlled using the Malvern software.
Hardware features
This section describes the hardware in detail.
Main system components
The diagram below shows a typical installation for the Hydro 2000µP. Its main
components are identified. These components are examined in more detail later in
this section.
ill 5407
Power supply
The external DC Power Supply Unit (PSU) supplies all power requirements to the
dispersion unit.
4
5
3
2
9
8
7
6
1
10
11
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Hardware features Chapter 2
Hydro 2000µPPage 2-5
Warning!
The PSU used on the Hydro 2000µP is not designed for operation in wet
conditions. Do not place it in areas that are prone to spillages.
Warning!
Only use the power supply and cables supplied by Malvern Instruments.
Control unit
The control unit contains most of the control electronics for the dispersion unit.
Power and communications cables are connected to the control unit. A control
cable is connected from the front of the control unit to the front of the cell unit.
Cell unit
The cell unit contains the cell, well, pump and drain facilities. The cell unit is
designed to circulate the sample and dispersant mixture and pass it through the
analysing laser beam of the optical bench.
Sample well
The well in the cell unit is where sample to be measured is added. The sample well
and connecting pipes have a capacity of less than 20ml.
Dispersant input/syringe
The dispersant for suspending the sample and flushing the system is injected into
this port using a syringe. Always use a syringe with a maximum capacity of 20 to
25ml.
Drain beaker
Once the measurement is complete (or during a flush routine to clean the system)
an internal drain valve can be operated. The contents of the cell will drain through
the drain port into the drain beaker.
If the end of the drain pipe is under the surface of the waste liquid, the back pres-
sure created may prevent the cell from draining correctly. Typically ensure that the
end of the tube is approximately 3cm below the rim of the beaker (slide the beaker
holder until the correct length is achieved).
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Chapter 2 Hardware features
Page 2-6 MAN 0389
ill 5643
Warning!
If using hazardous dispersants or samples, do not allow the beaker to
become over-full. If dispersants or samples are noxious, the instrument
should ideally be used in a fume cupboard.
Drain beaker holder
The drain beaker may hold hazardous samples and dispersants. The drain beaker
holder secures the drain beaker to prevent it from being accidentally knocked over
when the cell unit is removed from the optical bench.
We recommend that the beaker holder is always used.
Cell unit holder
The cell unit holder is a “parking” area for the cell when it is not in use. This is par-
ticularly useful when more than one dispersion unit is in use. It allows the cell to be
removed and stored without the need to disconnect it from the dispersion unit.
When the cell is “parked” for a short period make sure that the cell is full of disper-
sant. If it is to be parked for longer periods, the unit should be drained and the cell
windows dried. The Essentials manual describes these procedures.
Well lid
The well lid is used to reduce the escape of hazardous fumes when measuring
using hazardous samples and dispersants. It also reduces the risk of accidental
splashing from the well.
Always use the well lid when making measurements or moving the cell unit.
Always lock the lid into place with the lid locking lever .
Lid locking lever
The lid locking lever is used to lock the well lid in place when measurements are
taking place.
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Hardware features Chapter 2
Hydro 2000µPPage 2-7
Dispersant valve
The dispersant valve is used to prevent sample or dispersant leaking when the dis-
persant input syringe is removed.
Two types of valve are available:
Aqueous valve – this is disposable and can be used with non aggressive dis-
persants such as water. The valve is easily identifiable as it is made of transpar-
ent, purple plastic.
Non-aqueous valve – suitable for use with a large range of chemically aggres-
sive dispersants. The non-aqueous valve is white and has a tap on its side.
Replacement valves are available from a Malvern representative.
Controller unit
This section examines the controller unit in more detail. As stated above, the con-
troller unit contains most of the control electronics for the dispersion unit.
Rear panel
The rear panel of the controller unit is shown below and its main features identi-
fied.
ill 5409
DC power input
Power input from the external power supply.
WARNING:
Toprevent electric shock donot remove screws.
No use r s erv ice abl e par t s ins ide.
Refer servicing to Malvern trained service personnel.
CAUTION
Flash tests can
permanently da mage
this equipment
ACCESSORY COMMS
IN OUT
DRAIN OPEN/CLOSED
DC IN 24V
2.9 A
4
3
2
1
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Chapter 2 Hardware features
Page 2-8 MAN 0389
Warning!
The PSU is not designed for operation in wet conditions. Do not place it
in areas prone to spillages.
Warning!
Only use the PSU and cables supplied by Malvern Instruments.
Accessory comms “in” connector
The communications cable from the optical bench or from another dispersion unit
connects here.
Accessory comms “out” connector
If more than one dispersion unit is connected to the system and this is the first dis-
persion unit in line, a communication cable will be connected from this connector
to the Accessory comms - in connector on the second dispersion unit.
Caution!
The termination plug supplied with the optical bench must be fitted here
if this is the only dispersion unit connected or it is the last dispersion unit
in the line.
Manual drain
The manual drain button can be pressed to drain the well. Users may wish to do
this if, for example, they need to drain the dispersion unit without having to start
the control software. Pressing the button once (for about half a second) will open
the drain valve. Pressing the button a second time will close the drain valve. If the
drain valve is left open for more than 15 minutes it will automatically close.
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