Manning VL-F7-N4-LPA-MK Manual

VL-F7-N4-LPA-MK
Instruction and
Installation Manual
Vent Line Sensor
for Ammonia and
Other Refrigerants
Linear4/20 mA Output
MOUNT ENCLOSURE THIS END UP.
DO NOT BLOCK PERFORATED VENT HOLES.
PRE-AMP
®
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 1
405 Barclay Boulevard
Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069
Tel: [phone]
Toll free: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[email protected] 18394 VLF7LPA 07/2016 REV H

Contents Serial number:
Section Title Page
1 Sensor Description 3
2 Installation 5
3 Operation 8
4 Limited Warranty 10
Special Caution
Always assume that a relief valve can release at any moment. Always employ a “buddy” system,
having help with you and watching what you are doing at all times. Always use safety goggles
or a safety face shield, and always use gloves and have additional protective equipment easily
available, including eye flushing equipment and a breathing apparatus.
Personnel should be well trained and protected against falling if a sudden refrigerant leak
startles the service person. Make sure there is always an escape route in case of a refrigerant
release.
Introduction
This manual has been prepared to help in the use and installation of the Manning Systems
VL-F7-LPA Vent Line Sensor. This manual will convey the operating details of the sensor,
ensure proper installation, and demonstrate start-up and routine maintenance procedures.
This manual must be carefully followed by all individuals who have or will have the
responsibility for using or servicing the sensor. Warranties made by Manning Systems, Inc.
with respect to this equipment will be voided if the equipment is not used and serviced in
accordance with the instructions in this manual. If in doubt about a procedure, please contact
Manning Systems, Inc. before proceeding.
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 2

1Sensor Description
The Manning Systems VL-F7-LPA Vent Line Sensor has
a solid-state sensor imbedded in a 2" forged steel bull
plug. A NEMA 4, 16 gauge steel box is fastened to the
bull plug and houses a terminal strip. This is then
wired to the current pre-amp which transmits a linear
4/20 mA signal to the readout equipment.
The standard trip points are normally in the 5,000 ppm
to 10,000 ppm range. Manning Systems highly
recommends that trip points be in this range due to
the fact that minute amounts of a refrigerant released
in the very small volume of a relief header will cause
very high gas concentrations, normally in the percent
range. Trying to have lower setpoints almost always
results in false trips.
The solid-state sensor used in this design must be
considered “broad-spectrum,” i.e., it will detect many
gases. Normally this is not a problem due to the higher
setpoints commonly used.
The VL-F7-LPA Vent Line Sensor should only be used
in non-hazardous locations. Explosion-proof designs
are not available at this time.
The sensors normally exhibit long life (five to eight
years) unless exposed to very high gas concentrations
for long periods or immersed in liquid refrigerant.
Proper location in mounting the vent line sensor is the
key to long and trouble-free life. Carefully review the
mounting instruction portion of this manual.
Figure 1: Dimensions of the Vent Line Sensor
and Pre-Amp
MOUNT ENCLOSURE THIS END UP.
DO NOT BLOCK PERFORATED VENT HOLES.
PRE-AMP
2"
4 1/2"
2 3/8"
3 1/8"
5/16" diameter
2" N.P.T.
pipe plug
7/8" diameter hole for 1/2"
conduit electrical connection
6 3/4"
®
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 3

1Sensor Description continued
System Specifications
Method: Solid-state
Range:
• Ammonia – 0 to 10,000 ppm (1%)
• CFC/HCFC/HFCs – 0 to 1,000 ppm
(depending on refrigerant)
Output: Linear 4/20 mA – connects to all Manning
Systems readouts or other devices capable of accepting a
4/20 mA signal
Power Requirements: Powered directly from Manning
Systems readouts or, when used as 4/20 mA pre-amp
and sensor only, requires 17/24 VDC at 200 mA
Operating Temperatures: –20° F to +120° F
Enclosures:
• Sensor – Aluminum NEMA 4
• Pre-amp – Stainless Steel NEMA 4
Weight:
• 3 lbs., sensor only
• 15 lbs., with mounting kit
Dimensions:
• Sensor – 4 1/2" x 3 1/8" x 3 1/8"
• 4/20 mA pre-amp enclosure – 6" x 4" x 4"
Cable Requirements:
• Pre-amp to readout – #18/3 shielded cable
(Belden #8770), maximum run length 1,500 feet
• Sensor to pre-amp – #16 AWG, 4 conductors,
non-shielded for runs up to 25 feet
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 4

2Installation
ALocating the VL-F7-LPA
in a Vent Line System
Discharging to atmosphere, vent line sensors must be
mounted within one or two feet from discharge into
the air.
Over 95% of all problems experienced with the VL Vent
Line Sensor have been due to mounting the sensor away
from the discharge, usually lower into the system, below
the roof line. In this lower area you will encounter
residual oil from previous releases, bacterial action due
to moisture and heat, pipe coating residuals and minute
relief valve weeping. All this action is additive and is a
sure cause for trouble.
See Figure 2 which shows where to mount the vent line
sensor. Important mounting considerations:
• Make sure discharge does not come down on top
of sensor, i.e., hit the sensor or maintenance
personnel when working on sensor.
• Weld nipple to a vertical pipe.
• Do provide a plug or means of inducing a draft
through the vent header to remove residual
refrigerant after a leak. (Check with local codes to
see what is allowed in your area before doing
this.) Inducing an easy means of clearing the
header will help in troubleshooting a weeping
relief valve.
• Safety – Always follow accepted industry
practice by using a face shield and gloves when
working on the vent line sensor or any part of the
vent line system. Always assume a relief valve
could release at any moment. Always treat vent
line systems with extreme caution (see Figure 2).
BMounting the VL-F7-LPA
in a Relief System Venting
Directly into a Water Tank
Due to numerous code requirements a common practice
is to plumb vent line systems to discharge directly into a
water tank. Even though this seems like a very simple
and safe way to protect from atmospheric discharge, it
presents some unique challenges to the refrigeration
designer in assuring a safe relief system. It also presents
challenges in where to mount the vent line sensor.
The vent line sensor was developed over the years for
monitoring atmospheric discharge of vent lines. When
properly mounted as described in Section A, it is an
extremely reliable method of detecting releases to the
atmosphere.
Figure 2: Mounting the Vent Line Sensor
Make sure discharge
does not hit the vent
line sensor housing
Vent line header
Roof line
IMPORTANT: The vent line sensor must be
mounted no further than 1 to 2 feet from discharge
NEMA 4 design
(keep away from
discharge)
25' max between sensor and pre-amp
Mount pre-amp for easy access
2" plug
3/4" plug for testing
Nipple Tee
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 5

2Installation continued
The advent of the water dump tank utilizing a standard
water level covering the relief header discharge presents
the vent line sensor with some unique challenges. There
are several possible mounting locations as follows:
• Water tank atmospheric vent. The simplest and
most trouble-free method of mounting a vent line
sensor is in this location. This location will not catch
the small weepers but only the larger discharges
resulting in NH3vapor escaping from the water tank.
This method requires no compressed air venting
and the resulting problems this can cause. To help
eliminate water condensation on the sensor, remove
the 3/4" test plug to allow ventilation across the
sensor (see Figure 3).
• Mounting the sensor between the water seal and
relief valves. After years of actual field experience
this location has proven the most difficult. There
have been occasions where the water has been
siphoned back into the vent header, completely
immersing the vent line sensor and relief valves.
Figure 3: Mounting the Vent Line Sensor when
using a water tank atmospheric vent
• Mounted with compressed air purge. The most
successful systems have used compressed air
venting into the header as shown in Figure 4. It is
essential that this is dry air. Small compressors
dedicated to this have been marginally effective due
to the water condensed during the compression
cycle. It is essential the compressed air be dry in
order to help purge the complete vent line header
and also to compensate for the moisture migration
from the water seal. Process facilities that have
plant compressed air work the best when utilizing a
large dedicated dryer for the air injection.
The purge air will cause a small pressure to build
due to the water “head” of the tank. A water head of
15 feet to 20 feet will cause the sensor to be 30 to
40 percent less sensitive due to the higher air
pressure. This is normally not a problem due to the
high refrigerant concentrations needed for a trip
condition (see Figure 4).
In summary, if at all possible mount the vent line sensor
on the tank atmospheric vent and utilize a water
monitoring method such as pH in the water tank.
Figure 4: Compressed air purge system for the
Vent Line Sensor
Suggest removing 3/4" plug to
allow ventilation across sensor to
minimize water condensation
Water level
Relief header
Water purge tank
Relief header
Check valve
Needle valve
Filter
Tie in at lowest point
Flow meter Regulator Compressed
air supply
1 to 5 liters per minute
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 6

2Installation continued
CWiring
Figure 5 presents wiring information for the VL-F7-LPA.
Electrical wiring must comply with all applicable codes.
Plant equipment that may be involved and operating
conditions should be discussed with local operating
personnel to determine if any special needs should be
taken into account.
Nearly all start-up problems are due to improper wiring
or monitor configuration. Please follow these guidelines
carefully.
Between the current pre-amp and monitoring equipment
use three conductor, #18 AWG, insulated, stranded,
shielded copper cable. Between the vent line sensor and
current pre-amp use #16 AWG, four conductors, non-
shielded.
Do not pull sensor wiring with AC power cables. This
will cause electrical interference. Be sure there are no
breaks or splices in sensor wiring runs. If cable runs
cannot be made without a splice, all connections must
be soldered. Soldering should be done using a rosin flux
to tie the connecting ends of sensor wires to ensure a
positive and long-lasting contact.
Ground the shield at the main control panel. Tape all
exposed shield wire at the sensor to insulate it from the
enclosure.
All penetrations into a refrigerated room should be
sealed to prevent condensate from forming in the
conduit and dripping into the sensor enclosure. Silicone
should not be used near the sensor, because silicone can
damage the sensor.
Make drip loops for cables going into sensor housings.
Follow the mounting instructions on the Pre-Amp
enclosure (…This End Up). See Figure 2.
Electrical Power: 24 VDC regulated, 300 mA.
Output: Linear 4/20 mA output corresponding to 0–1%.
Monitoring equipment may have a maximum input
impedance of 250 ohms.
Cable Recommendation, Pre-Amp to Monitoring Device:
#18/3 shielded cable (Belden #8770 or equivalent). Length
of cable to pre-amp should be no greater than 1,500 feet.
Use only the existing punched holes for connections to the
pre-amp.
Cable Recommendation, Vent Line Sensor to Pre-Amp:
#16 AWG, 4 conductors non-shielded. Length of cable
from vent line sensor to pre-amp should be no greater
than 25 feet. Use only the existing punched holes for
connections to the pre-amp.
Monitoring: The VL-F7-LPA Sensor may be monitored
by the Manning Systems GM-10, GM-4, GM-1, GM-JR or
other appropriately configured system. Monitoring
equipment must be configured to indicate a fault if the
signal is below 1.5 mA.
A signal above 20 mA must be considered a high gas
concentration.
Figure 5: Wiring diagram for the Vent Line Sensor
+
––
+
MANNING SYSTEMS, INC.
MSI LSS 400
REV 0
GND
CAL
CAL
FLT
TEST +
12 TO 24 VDC
4 - 20 mA
TEST –
ZERO
40 TO 200
MVDC
SHD
GND
+24
SIG
O O
R R
SPAN
S
R
R
O
O
Linear Pre-Amp VL sensor
RED
RED
ORANGE
ORANGE
VL sensor junction box cover
(cover removed)
1500' maximum—
3-conductor #18 AWG shielded
(Belden #8770 or equivalent)
Bare— Connects to case
ground of monitoring
equipment (earth ground)
Black— Connects to power
supply ground side
Red— Connects to 24 VDC
power supply positive side
(300 mA)
White— Connects to signal
input of monitoring equipment
7/8" Diameter hole for 1/2"
conduit electrical connection.
Conduit hole should always be
mounted pointing down
25' maximum— 16 AWG,
4 conductors, non-shielded
Junction box may be rotated
1/2 turn either direction
relative to pipe plug to align
conduit hole as required to
facilitate electrical connection
O-Ring seal gasket
for CEMA/NEMA 4
applications
Existing sensor wires
Gas sensor
2" N.P.T.
pipe plug
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 7

3Operation
AStart-Up Procedures
Before applying power, make a final check of all wiring
for continuity, shorts, grounds, etc. It is usually best to
disconnect external alarms and other equipment from
the sensor until the initial start-up procedures are
completed.
After power-up, allow 24 hours for the system to
stabilize before testing the sensors. Because sensors are
normally located at a distance from the main unit, the
test time required and accuracy of the response checks
will be improved if two people perform the start-up
procedures and use radio contact.
Start-Up Test:
• One person exposes each sensor to a small
amount of the gas that is being monitored.
• The second person stays at the control unit to
determine that each sensor, when exposed to the
gas fumes, is connected to the proper input and
responds, causing appropriate alarm functions.
To do this preliminary check, there are two simple
possibilities:
• Remove the full 2" test plug in the tee. Soak a
small rag in “Parsons Ammonia Cleaner” and stuff
this rag up the 2" tee to expose the sensor.
• Remove the small 3/4" plug in the tee and inject a
small amount of propane/butane from an unlit
plumber’s torch.
Either of the above methods will work for the ammonia
or halocarbon vent line sensor as they both use broad-
spectrum sensors.
BCalibration
Each Vent Line Sensor has been factory tested with a
calibrated gas sample. Information is noted on the data
sheet provided with each sensor.
Due to environmental differences and background
gases, the installed clean air signal may be different
than it was during factory calibration. This difference
can be zeroed out.
Zero Calibration: After the unit is installed and has
been powered up for a minimum of 24 hours, the unit
should be zero calibrated by the following:
• Be sure the unit is in clean air, or apply zero air
at 0.8 L/min.
• Adjust the zero pot until the sensor outputs
4.0 mA (40 mV from Test [–] to Test [+]).
Span Calibration: The unit is factory calibrated and
normally does not need to be spanned. Do not adjust the
span pot without certified calibration gas! If span
adjustment is required, the following procedure will
span the unit:
• Perform zero adjustment before spanning
• Apply span gas at 0.8 L/min (span gas must be in
air, not nitrogen or other carrier).
• After span gas has been on sensor for two
minutes, adjust the span pot until the correct
output is achieved.
Calibration kits are available from Manning Systems.
Calibration of vent line sensors is normally done in the
field by using the simple method described under “Start-
Up Procedures” where the sensor is challenged with a
gas and the proper outputs and trips are observed.
(The challenge gas must cause a proper alarm trip.)
In a vent line the recommended trip point level is
approximately 17 mA. Lower setpoints can result in
false trips. Never set alarm points higher than 20 mA.
If certified gas samples are required, contact Manning
Systems for gases available and to discuss techniques in
calibration depending on how the vent line sensor is
mounted.
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 8

3Operation continued
CTroubleshooting
The greatest probability for trouble is reversed or
incorrect wiring. Always be consistent with color codes
and double-check terminal screw tightness.
If sensor output is 0.5 mA: The vent line pre-amp
continuously monitors the status of the sensor and, if
fault conditions arise, the red FLT LED in the pre-amp
will light (see Figure 6). After a short time delay, the
pre-amp will output a signal of 0.5 mA. Monitoring
equipment must be configured to indicate a fault if the
signal is less than 1.5 mA.
First, check for proper color codes or loose wires to
sensors labelled “O O R R” on both the pre-amp and
vent line sensor.
Second, if the FLT LED is lit continuously, remove the
Vent Line Sensor junction box cover (see Figure 5). With
power off, measure the resistance across the “RR” (Red
Red) terminals which should be approximately 30 ohms.
If this is an open circuit, a replacement sensor is
required. Contact Manning Systems. If the FLT LED is
flashing, this indicates a faulty sensor. Contact Manning
Systems for a replacement sensor.
If the sensor output is 0 mA: First, verify +24 VDC at
the sensor terminal block (see Figure 6, Note 2).
Second, check voltage between Test– and Test+ (see
Figure 6, Note 1). Voltage should be in the range of 40 mV
to 200 mV corresponding to an actual current flow of 4 to
20 mA. If this voltage is 0 mV, the signal has no path to
ground. Check monitoring equipment connections and
configuration. Input impedance must be 250 ohms or less.
If sensor output indicates a gas concentration when the
vent line appears clean: Remove the 3/4" vent plug
bushing carefully and you should observe a signal
decrease. Weeping pressure relief valves could be the
problem. Remove the full 2" plug for greater ventilation.
Always do the testing at the sensor with special
caution as all vent line systems could discharge at any
time. Always be prepared and wear appropriate
protective gear such as a face shield and gloves.
A high signal can also be caused by lack of oxygen if the
sensor is located more than two feet from the atmos-
pheric discharge. See the mounting instructions for
proper mounting techniques.
Contact Manning Systems for more details if you cannot
identify the problem.
DMaintenance
Manning Systems recommends that as a minimum
each sensor be challenged with a gas sample once each
six (6) months.
Also, the signal being sent by the sensor should be
logged on a monthly basis.
During the gas challenge test, all alarm outputs should
be confirmed and logged to insure system integrity.
EReplacement Parts
For replacement parts, contact Manning Systems, Inc.
Be sure to give serial number of unit.
Figure 6: Troubleshooting the 4/20 mA Vent Line
Sensor and Pre-Amp
+
––
+
MANNING SYSTEMS, INC.
MSI LSS 400
REV 0
GND
CAL
CAL
FLT
TEST+
12 TO 24 VDC
4 - 20 mA
TEST–
ZERO
40 TO 200
MVDC
SHD
GND
+24
SIG
O O
R R
SPAN
S
40-200 mV
Black
-Red +
mVDC
17-24
Black
-Red +
VDC
Note 1: Checking signal
Note 2: Verifying +24VDC
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 02/2005 REVF Copyright © 2005 Manning Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 9

1. Limited Warranty
Honeywell Analytics, Inc. (”Honeywell”) warrants to
the original purchaser and/or ultimate customer
(”Purchaser”) of Honeywell’s products (”Product”) that
if any part thereof proves to be defective in material
or workmanship withing eighteen months of the date
of shipment by Honeywell or twelve months from the
date of rst use by the purchaser, whichever comes
rst, such defective part will be repaired or replaced,
free of charge, at Honeywell’s discretion if shipped
prepaid to Honeywell Analytics at 405 Barclay Boulevard,
Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069, in a package equal to or in
the original container. The Product will be returned
freight prepaid and repaired or replaced if it is
determined by Honeywell that the part failed due to
defective materials or workmanship. The repair or
replacement of any such defective part shall be
Honeywell’s sole and exclusive responsibility and
liability under the limited warranty.
4. Limited Warranty
A. If gas sensors are part of the Product, the gas
sensor is covered by a twelve month limited
warranty of the manufacturer.
B. If gas sensors are covered by this limited warranty,
the gas sensor is subject to inspection by Honeywell
for extended exposure to excessive gas
concentrations if a claim by the Purchaser is made
under this limited warranty. Should such inspection
indicate that the gas sensor has been expended
rather than failed prematurely, this limited warranty
shall not apply to the Product.
C. This limited warranty does not cover consumable
items such as batteries or items subject to wear or
periodic replacement including lamps, fuses, valves,
vanes, sensor elements, cartridges, or lter
elements.
2. Exclusions
4Limited Warranty
3. Warranty Limitation and Exclusion
Honeywell will have no further obligation under this
limited warranty. All warranty obligations of Honeywell
are extinguishable if the Product has been subject to
abuse, misuse, negligence, or accident or if the
Purchaser fails to perform any of the duties set forth
in this limited warranty or if the Product has not been
operated in accordance with the instructions, or if
the Product serial number has been removed or
altered.
4. Disclaimer of Unstated Warranties
THE WARRANTY PRINTED ABOVE IS THE ONLY
WARRANTY APPLICABLE TO THIS PURCHASE. ALL
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE HEREBY
DISCLAIMED.
5. Limitation of Liability
IT IS UNDERSTOOD AND AGREED THAT HONEYWELL’S
LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, IN TORT, UNDER
ANY WARRANTY, IN NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE
SHALL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF THE PURCHASE
PRICE PAID BY THE PURCHASER FOR THE PRODUCT
AND UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL
HONEYWELL BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. THE PRICE STATED FOR
THE PRODUCT IS A CONSIDERATION LIMITING
HONEYWELL’S LIABILITY. NO ACTION, REGARDLESS
OF FORM, ARISING OUT OF THE TRANSACTIONS
UNDER THIS WARRANTY MAY BE BROUGHT BY THE
PURCHASER MORE THAN ONE YEAR AFTER THE
CAUSE OF ACTION HAS OCCURRED.
Manning VL-F7-LPA Gas Sensor 18394 VLF7LPA 07/2016 REVH 10