Micromeritics FLEX Series User manual

PRE-INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS AND
CHECKLIST
350-42870-01
Apr 2021
(Rev H)
FLEX™SERIES
SURFACE AND CATALYST CHARACTERIZATION ANALYZER

TRADEMARKS
Alconox is a registered trademark of the Alconox Company.
Flex is a registered trademark of Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.
FlowPrep is a trademark of Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.
MicroActive is a trademark of Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.
Micromeritics is a registered trademark of Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Smart VacPrep is a trademark of Micromeritics Instrument Corporation.
Copyright
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement and may be used or
copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
____________________________________________________________________________
Copyright © 2013 - 2021. Micromeritics Instrument Corporation. All rights reserved.

CORPORATE PROFILE
Micromeritics Instrument Corporation is the world’s leading supplier of high-performance systems
to characterize particles, powders and porous materials with a focus on physical properties,
chemical activity, and flow properties. Our technology portfolio includes: pycnometry, adsorption,
dynamic chemisorption, particle size and shape, intrusion porosimetry, powder rheology, and
activity testing of catalysts. The company has R&D and manufacturing sites in the USA, UK, and
Spain, and direct sales and service operations throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Micromeritics systems are the instruments-of-choice in more than 10,000 laboratories of the
world’s most innovative companies, prestigious government, and academic institutions. Our
world-class scientists and responsive support teams enable customer success by applying
Micromeritics technology to the most demanding applications. For more information, please visit
www.Micromeritics.com.
Corporate Profile
Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
350-42870-01 (Rev H) — Apr 2021 iii

Contact Us
CONTACT US
Micromeritics Instrument Corporation
4356 Communications Drive
Norcross, GA / USA / 30093-2901
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.Micromeritics.com
Instrument Service or Repair
Phone: [phone]
International — contact your local distributor or call 1-770-662-3666
[email protected]
Micromeritics Learning Center
Phone: [phone]
www.Micro.edu
iv Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
350-42870-01 (Rev H) — Apr 2021

ABOUT THIS MANUAL
All references to 3500, Flex, or Flex Series in this document encompass the Flex,
3Flex, and Flex Confirm environments unless otherwise noted.
The following symbols or icons indicate safety precautions and/or supplemental information and
may appear in this manual:
NOTE— Notes contain important information applicable to the topic.
CAUTION — Cautions contain information to help prevent actions that may damage
the analyzer or components.
WARNING — Warnings contain information to help prevent actions that may cause
personal injury.
NOTE— Notes that apply to 21CFR11 environments only (Confirm applications).
Dynamic Analysis and Chemisorption options are not applicable when the software is
installed in 21CFR11 environments.
About this Manual
Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
350-42870-01 (Rev H) — Apr 2021 v

General Safety
GENERAL SAFETY
Do not modify this instrument without the authorization of a Micromeritics service per-
sonnel.
Toxic or flammable gases require proper venting of exhaust.
Use caution in the areas where this symbol is displayed on the instrument — such as
the heating mantles and furnace. These surfaces may be hot and could cause serious
burns. Use the gloves supplied in the accessories kit.
Any piece of laboratory equipment can become dangerous to personnel when improperly
operated or poorly maintained. All employees operating and maintaining Micromeritics
instruments should be familiar with its operation and should be thoroughly trained and instructed
on safety.
nRead the manual for any special operational instructions for the instrument.
nKnow how the instrument functions and understand the operating processes.
nWear the appropriate personal protective equipment when operating this instru-
ment — such as eye protection, lab coat, protective gloves, etc.
nWhen lifting or relocating the instrument, use proper lifting and transporting devices
for heavy instruments. Ensure that sufficient personnel are available to assist in
moving the instrument. The Flex weighs approximately 103 - 106 kg (227 - 234lb)
depending on configuration.
nAlways pay attention to the safety instructions provided on each label affixed to the
instrument and do not alter or remove the labels. When inspecting the instrument,
ensure that the safety labels have not become worn or damaged.
nThe Flex has a safety shield. Ensure it is in place when operating the instrument.
nProper maintenance is critical to personnel safety and smooth instrument oper-
ation and performance. Instruments require regular maintenance to help promote
safety, provide an optimum end test result, and to prevent costly down time. Failure
to practice proper maintenance procedures can lead to unsafe conditions and
shorten the life of the instrument.
nImproper handling, disposing of, or transporting potentially hazardous materials
can cause serious bodily harm or damage the instrument. Always refer to the
MSDS when handling hazardous materials. Safe operation and handling of the
instrument, supplies, and accessories is the responsibility of the operator.
vi Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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INTENDED USE
Micromeritics Flex Surface Characterization Analyzer is a fully automated one, two or three
station instrument capable of high-performance physisorption and chemisorption analyses with
superior accuracy, resolution, and data reduction.
The instrument is intended to be operated by trained personnel familiar with the
proper operation of the equipment recommended by the manufacturer as well as
relevant hazards involved and prevention methods. All use, other than that described
in this manual, is seen as unintended use and can cause a safety hazard.
The instrument is intended to be used as per applicable local and national regulations.
General Safety
Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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General Safety
TRAINING
It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that all personnel operating or maintaining the
equipment participate in training and instruction sessions. All personnel operating, inspecting,
servicing, or cleaning this instrument must be properly trained in operation and machine safety
before operating this instrument.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY USE PERIOD
Part Name
Hazardous Substances
Lead
(Pb)
Mercury
(Hg)
Cadmium
(Cd)
Hexavalent
Chromium
(Cr (VI))
Polybrominated
biphenyls
(PBB)
Polybrominated
diphenyl ethers
(PBDE)
Cover x o o o o o
Power
Supplies x o o o o o
Printed
Circuit
Boards
x o o o o o
Cables, Con-
nectors &
Transducers
x o o o o o
Hazardous Substances Table
o Hazardous substance is below the specified limits as described in SJ/T11363-2006.
x Hazardous substance is above the specified limits as described in SJ/T11363-2006.
The Environmentally Friendly Use Period (EFUP) for all enclosed products
and their parts are per the symbol shown here, unless otherwise marked. Cer-
tain parts may have a different EFUP (for example, battery modules) and so
are marked to reflect such. The Environmentally Friendly Use Period is valid
only when the product is operated under the conditions defined in the product
manual.
viii Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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Table of Contents
Corporate Profile iii
Contact Us iv
About this Manual v
General Safety vi
1 Pre-installation Document Overview 1 - 1
Micromeritics Installed Instruments Only 1 - 2
2 Pre-installation Instructions 2 - 1
Unpacking and Inspection 2 - 1
Shipping Damage 2 - 1
Analyzer Space 2 - 2
Installation Configuration 2 - 3
Computer System 2 - 3
Environmental Factors 2 - 5
Power 2 - 5
Gas Supply 2 - 6
Laboratory Equipment and Supplies 2 - 10
3 Pre-installation Checklists 3 - 1
Unpacking and Inspection Checklist 3 - 1
Analyzer Space Checklist 3 - 1
Installation Configuration Checklist 3 - 2
Environmental Factors Checklist 3 - 2
Gas Supply Checklist 3 - 3
Computer System Checklist 3 - 4
Degas Unit Checklist 3 - 4
Laboratory Equipment and Supplies Checklist 3 - 5
Application Related Issues Checklist 3 - 5
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Personnel Security Clearance Checklist 3 - 5
4 Pre-installation Instructions — 21CFR11 Environments 4 - 1
5 Pre-installation Checklist — 21CFR11 Environments 5 - 1
Personnel Requirements 5 - 1
User Information Requirements 5 - 2
Users and Groups Worksheet for 21CFR11 5 - 3
6 Dates and Signatures — All Environments 6 - 1
Projected Installation Date 6 - 1
Commitment Statement and Signature Form 6 - 1
Flex 3500 Declaration of Conformity DoC - 1
xFlex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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1 PRE-INSTALLATION DOCUMENT OVERVIEW
If a Micromeritics Service Technician performs this installation, additional charges
apply. Please see Contact Us on pageiv for information on how to contact
Micromeritics.
This document describes how to prepare a site for installation of the Flex for both standard and 21
CFR Part 11 (Confirm) environments. If Micromeritics will be performing this installation, when the
enclosed procedures have been completed, return the signed and dated form to Micromeritics as
outlined in Dates and Signatures — All Environments on page6 - 1. If unsure about any part
of this document or the checklist, contact the Micromeritics Service Department for clarification.
The following chart indicates the applicable sections for your type of installation:
Section
Installation
Type
Std Cfr
Pre-installation Document Overview above.ü ü
Pre-installation Instructions on page2 - 1.Contains instructions to help ana-
lyze the installation site. ü ü
Pre-installation Checklists on page3 - 1.Contains questions and a checklist
for the installation site. ü ü
Pre-installation Instructions — 21CFR11 Environments on page4 - 1.Con-
tains information to help analyze the installation site for 21 CFR Part 11 envir-
onments.
ü
Pre-installation Checklist — 21CFR11 Environments on page5 - 1.Con-
tains questions and a checklist for the installation site for 21 CFR Part 11 envir-
onments.
ü
Dates and Signatures — All Environments on page6 - 1.For use when
Micromeritics will be performing this installation. Read this entire document
carefully. Complete all checklists. Sign and return the form in this section to
Micromeritics. Micromeritics will contact you to confirm an installation date.
ü ü
1 Pre-installation Document Overview
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1 Pre-installation Document Overview
MICROMERITICS INSTALLED INSTRUMENTS ONLY
APPLICATION RELATED ISSUES
To ensure a thorough installation, it will be helpful for Micromeritics to know which types of
samples will be tested. If known, list them in Application Related Issues Checklist on page3 -
5.
Please advise Micromeritics if samples require any pretreatment. If required, do you have the
proper equipment to pretreat your samples? Micromeritics offers application assistance through
our materials analysis laboratory (Micromeritics Particle Testing Authority).
HAZARDS AND PRECAUTIONS
Inform Micromeritics of any on-site conditions that may present hazards to Micromeritics
employees or equipment. Advise Micromeritics of any precautions that need to be taken.
SAFETY MEASURES
Inform Micromeritics of any safety equipment, requirements, or procedures necessary for
Micromeritics employees to enter and install the system at your facility.
PERSONNEL SECURITY CLEARANCE
If security clearances, insurance certificates, or any other special arrangements are required for
Micromeritics employees to enter your facility, see Personnel Security Clearance Checklist on
page3 - 5 to explain. Inform Micromeritics how much advance notice you require to obtain
clearance.
PROJECTED INSTALLATION DATE
Read this entire document carefully. Complete all checklists in this document. Sign and return all
checklists and the form in Dates and Signatures — All Environments on page6 - 1 to
Micromeritics. Micromeritics will contact you to confirm an installation date.
1 - 2 Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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2 PRE-INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
When the equipment is received, unpack and inspect the contents of the shipping container(s).
Use the packing list to verify that all products, accessories, software (if applicable), and
documentation are received intact and in the correct quantity. The shipping container(s) and
contents should be inspected within a few days of receipt in the event damage or loss has
occurred. Sort through all packing material before declaring missing equipment or parts.
Micromeritics recommends saving all shipping containers until installation of the equip-
ment is complete. All shipping containers where equipment is to be declared as dam-
aged or lost must be examined by the claims investigator prior to completion of the
inspection report.
SHIPPING DAMAGE
If equipment is damaged or lost in transit, you are required to make note of the damage or loss on
the freight bill. The freight carrier, not Micromeritics, is responsible for all damage or loss occurring
during shipment. If damage or loss of equipment is discovered during shipment, report the
condition to the carrier immediately. Insurance claims MUST be made with the freight carrier, NOT
Micromeritics.
nKeep all software, manuals, and accessories with the equipment.
nReport any shipping damage immediately to the carrier and follow their directions.
nReport missing or wrong parts to Micromeritics, in addition to any shipping damage, only after
filing a claim with the carrier.
nMicromeritics will NOT file a claim for shipping damage.
nDo not discard shipping boxes and containers until installation is complete. If space is avail-
able, it is recommended that shipping containers be saved for future use in the event of return
to factory for repair.
2 Pre-installation Instructions
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2 Pre-installation Instructions
ANALYZER SPACE
An unobstructed lab work space that will accommodate the following specifications is needed:
Height
Width
Depth
Weight
112 cm (44 in.)
57.25 cm (23 in.)
61 cm (24 in.)
84 kg (185 lbs)
Analyzer
Width 96.5 cm (38 in.) Approx.
Computer and Printer
1 square ft (0.1 square m) for each gas cylinder
needed for installation. For standard
installations, the cylinders must be within 6ft
(2m) of the instrument.
Gas Supply
Height
Width
Depth
17 (7 in.) Approx.
15 cm (6 in.) Approx.
31 cm (12 in.) Approx.
External Vacuum Pump
Width
Depth
50 cm (20 in.) Approx.
40 cm (16 in.) Approx.
Degas Unit (optional accessory)
Physisorption
Chemisorption
2 - 2 Flex Series Pre-installation Instructions and Checklist
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INSTALLATION CONFIGURATION
Standard installation requires the use of 1/8 in. copper or stainless steel gas supply lines, located
in the instrument accessories kit.
A nonstandard installation will be created if another gas supply line is used or if the gas cylinders
cannot be placed within 6 ft (2 m) of the analyzer. There may be additional costs associated with a
nonstandard installation. Please contact the Micromeritics Service Department at 1-770-662-3666
to discuss a nonstandard installation.
COMPUTER SYSTEM
We recommend purchasing the computer system from Micromeritics. Micromeritics thoroughly
tests operating systems with the Micromeritics applications and offer technical support and
maintenance for the computers we provide. For analyzers not installed by Micromeritics, please
note:
nThe labor and expense costs associated with delays traceable to a computer sys-
tem not purchased from Micromeritics are not part of a standard installation.
nMicromeritics is not responsible for providing assistance for the connection to a
company network or LIMS.
nDuring installation, Administrator rights will be required to make changes to the Eth-
ernet settings. If access cannot be granted to the Service Technician, an
ITrepresentative must be readily available to make these changes or additional
charges may apply.
Installation Configuration
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2 Pre-installation Instructions
Operating System
Windows 7 Professional or higher operating system is
recommended for the best user experience. For 21 CFR Part 11
environments, Windows 10 Professional or Windows 10 Enterprise
or higher is required.
Desktop Installation
Required
The application should not be installed on a network drive with
shared access. Multiple users cannot operate the application at the
same time.
10 Base T or 100 Base T
Ethernet Port
If the computer is to be connected to a network, two Ethernet ports
are required. If more than one Ethernet based unit is connected to
the same computer, an Ethernet switch will also be required. If a
Smart VacPrep is to be used, an Ethernet switch is required.
Read/Write Permissions
All users of the application will need Read/Write permission to all
directories and subdirectories where the application is installed.
For 21 CFR Part 11 environments, permission may be limited to
the installation directory.
Drives USBport
Computer Requirements
Due to continuous improvements, specifications are subject to change without notice.
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ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
POWER
The Flex is designed to operate with a universal input power supply (100/115/230VAC) at 50/60
Hz. Noise-free power of the correct voltage and frequency, with a safety earth ground, should be
available through a standard wall receptacle. The power outlet should be able to supply 15 amps
@ 100 or 115VAC ±10% or 7.5 amps @ 230VAC ±10%. These requirements can be checked by
using a circuit analyzer (available at most hardware or electronic supply houses) or a multimeter.
There should also be sufficient outlets for the analyzer, SmartVacPrep (if purchased), dry
roughing pump, computer, monitor, printer, and any other peripheral devices.
The instrument should be connected to a switch which meets relevant requirements of IEC 60947-
3 or a circuit breaker which meets the relevant requirements of IEC 60947-2.
The analyzer and peripheral devices must be installed on their own dedicated power
line. Other devices — such as motors, generators, or ovens — should not be placed
on the same power line.
Replacement power supply cords must be rated for the specifications stated above.
TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
Temperature and humidity must be controlled to within:
nTemperature: 10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F) operating; 0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F) nonoperating
nHumidity:20 to 80% relative, non-condensing
Do Not:
nAllow room temperature or humidity to exceed limits.
nInstall the analyzer where it is exposed to direct sunlight.
nLocate the analyzer near air conditioning or heating vents.
Environmental Factors
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2 Pre-installation Instructions
GAS SUPPLY
For physisorption, the analyzer requires dry gas to operate its valves. Dry com-
pressed air is recommended; however, a cylinder of dry compressed air or nitrogen
can be used. This gas line, from either house air or a portable compressor, must have
the pressure set to 100 psi.
For chemisorption, the analyzer requires dry gas to operate its valves. Dry com-
pressed air is recommended; however a portable compressor can be used with a
chemisorption unit. This gas line must be set to 100 psi. Using a cylinder of gas (air or
nitrogen) is not recommended because it will drain the cylinder of gas in a short period
of time.
The analyzer requires dry gas to operate its valves. Dry compressed air is recom-
mended; however, a cylinder of dry compressed air or nitrogen can be used. This gas
line, from either house air or a portable compressor, must have the pressure set to
100 psi.
A pneumatic filter assembly is supplied in the accessories kit and is needed if clean, dry
compressed air is not available. The filter assembly connects to the back of the analyzer using
tubing and a 1/4 in. Swage fitting. The connection from the filter assembly to the air supply comes
assembled with a 1/4 in. fitting; however, a 1/8 in. fitting is also provided.
The filter assembly must be mounted as shown to work properly. The black drain plugs on the
bottom of the bowls must be pointed toward the floor.
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GAS CYLINDERS AND GAS SUPPLY LINES
nSee Gas for Analyzer Test on page2 - 11 for the analytical gases needed during install-
ation. Gas cylinders must be placed within 6 ft (2 m) of the analyzer inlet valves
nThe customer is required to ensure the purity of gases.
nIt is required that the 1/8 in. × 6 ft (2 m) single piece copper gas line in the analyzer accessories
kit is used. Stainless steel gas lines are available from Micromeritics for use with gases that are
not compatible with copper.
Gas lines not supplied by Micromeritics will not be installed by Micromeritics Service
Personnel.
Gas supply lines made of materials other than copper or stainless steel may cause
operational problems.
nDo not use gas cylinders with less than 500 psig (3549 kPag) pressure.
nDo not use any other gas lines to connect the gas supply to the analyzer except those supplied
in the accessories kit. Use of other gas lines will result in a nonstandard installation. See Install-
ation Configuration on page2 - 3.
nDo not use gas purifiers; they can cause operational problems. Oxygen traps are preferred.
Gas Supply
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2 Pre-installation Instructions
GAS SUPPLY HARDWARE
Micromeritics recommends the gas regulators to be used with the analyzer be purchased from
Micromeritics. The regulators Micromeritics provides have been carefully evaluated and tested to
provide superior performance.
For Chemisorption Only - A vent line for the vacuum pump and analyzer is required.
The vacuum line must exhaust to a vent hood or to the outside of the building.
If purchased from a source other than Micromeritics, please keep in mind that many commercially
available gas regulators lack key features which are required for gas adsorption measurements.
These vital criteria must be met:
nCleanliness. Clean regulators designed specifically for high-vacuum service are required.
Other regulators often contain elastomeric material or oils which can contaminate the gas.
nHigh stability. Excess pressure at the gas inlet ports to the analyzer can interfere with accur-
ate gas dosing and flow rates. The combined change in the outlet pressure from the gas reg-
ulator, as the gas cylinder pressure decreases or as the flow rate stops, should not change
more than 5 psig (34.4 kPag) from the selected setting. When the analyzer is idle for an exten-
ded period of time, such as 8 to 10 hours, this same stability of gas delivery pressures should
be achieved.
nRange of pressure. The regulator output must operate from 0 to 30 psig (207 kPag).
nSuitable sub-assemblies. The regulator must have a shutoff or outlet isolation valve com-
patible with 1/8 in. or 1/4 in. Swagelok compression fittings.
To purchase regulators from Micromeritics, contact your local Micromeritics Sales
Representative.
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