OfiTE 120-53 User manual

Static Gel Strength Measurement Device
Patent No. 9,612,232 - OFI Testing Equipment, Inc.
#120-53 - Low Pressure, 5,000 PSI
#120-58 - High Pressure, 20,000 PSI
Instruction Manual
Updated 6/21/2018
Ver. 9.0
OFI Testing Equipment, Inc.
11302 Steeplecrest Dr. · Houston, Texas · 77065 · U.S.A.
Tele: 832.320.7300 · Fax: [phone] · www.ote.com
©Copyright OFITE 2015

OFITE, 11302 Steeplecrest Dr., Houston, TX 77065 USA / Tel: [phone] / Fax: [phone] / www.ote.com 1
Intro..................................................................................................2
Description......................................................................................2
Features...........................................................................................2
Specications .................................................................................3
Components ...................................................................................3
Safety...............................................................................................5
Quick Start ......................................................................................6
Setup................................................................................................7
Hardware ....................................................................................7
Software......................................................................................8
Software ........................................................................................10
Temperature Prole Builder ......................................................14
Operation ..................................................................................15
Calibration Archives ..................................................................17
Operation ......................................................................................19
Cell Cap Assembly....................................................................19
SGSM Drag Check ...................................................................27
Preparing the Test Cell..............................................................28
Connecting the Cell...................................................................29
Starting the Test........................................................................31
Stopping the Test ......................................................................32
Evaluating Test Data.................................................................33
Removing the Test Cell.............................................................34
Maintenance .................................................................................35
Disassembling and Cleaning the Test Cell................................35
Changing a Fuse.......................................................................41
Appendix ......................................................................................42
Filling The Cell ..........................................................................42
Magnet Positioning ...................................................................43
Calibration - Old Style ...............................................................44
SGSM Cell Cap Assembly ........................................................45
Calibration - New Style .............................................................49
Maintenance Schedule .............................................................51
Multiple Instruments..................................................................52
Manual Temperature Control ...................................................53
Electrical System Grounding.....................................................56
Troubleshooting.........................................................................57
Diagrams - Drive Assembly.......................................................58
Diagrams - High Pressure Cell Assembly.................................59
Diagrams - Low Pressure Cell Assembly..................................60
Warranty and Return Policy ........................................................61
Table of
Contents

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Intro The Static Gel Strength Measurement (SGSM) device uses a vaned bob to
condition a cement slurry inside a pressurized test cell and measure static gel
strength at down-hole conditions. By directly measuring the forces required
to initiate movement in the sample, the SGSM provides an accurate way of
determining the static gel strength.
The High Pressure SGSM (#120-58) ts in a high-pressure UCA test cell.
This conguration is compatible with both the Single Cell UCA (#120-50) and
the Dual Cell UCA (#120-52).
The Low Pressure SGSM (#120-53) ts in a low-pressure UCA test cell. This
conguration is compatible with the Twin Cell UCA (#120-51).
In an SGSM test, a vaned bob is submerged in the cement. During the test,
the bob turns periodically and measures the static gel strength of the sample.
A computer running OFITE software graphs the data from both cells. This
data is available in real time on-screen and is also stored in an Excel®
spreadsheet for easy graphical viewing and printing.
- Mechanical measurement of static gel strength
- Conditions the cement in the test cell
- Data is available instantly on-screen and is automatically converted to
Excel®spreadsheet format
Description
Features

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Components
Size:
- High Pressure SGSM (with cell): 20" tall × 6" diameter (51 × 15 cm)
- Low Pressure SGSM (with cell): 18.25" tall × 6" diameter (46 × 15 cm)
- SGSM Electronics Box: 8" × 3" × 10" (20 × 8 × 25 cm)
Weight:
- High Pressure SGSM (with cell): 49.4 lb (22.4 kg)
- Low Pressure SGSM (with cell): 46 lb (20.1 kg)
- SGSM Electronics Box: 1.2 lb (544 g)
Equipment:
- The High Pressure SGSM (#120-58) requires either a Single Cell UCA
(#120-50) or a Dual Cell UCA (#120-52)
- The Low Pressure SGSM (#120-53) requires a Twin Cell UCA
(#120-51)
Power Requirements:
- 100 - 240 Volt, 50 – 60 Hz, 2 Amp, Fuse: T 2.0A L 250V
Computer:
- Windows XP or higher
- RS-232 Serial Port (or Serial to USB Adapter)
- Minimum Screen Resolution: 1280 × 680
Environmental Conditions:
- For indoor use only
- Maximum Altitude: 6,562 ft (2,000 m)
- Temperature: 41° - 104°F (5° –40°C)
- Maximum Relative Humidity: 80% for temperatures up to 88°F (31°C)
decreasing linearly to 50% at 104°F (40°C)
Only use replacement parts that have been supplied by OFITE
#120-53-25 LPT Cable
#120-53-80 Electronics Box
#120-53-81 Wrench, Combination,   "
#120-58-005 Drive Assembly (See diagram on page 58 for parts list)
#120-58-07 Wrench, Allen,   "
#120-58-08 Calibration Stand
#120-58-16 Wrench, Strap, 5"
#120-75-9 Weight Hanger
#120-75-10 Weight Set
#122-073 Fuse, 2 Amp, 5 mm × 20 mm
#122-075-1 Fuse, 8 Amp, 5 mm × 20 mm
#130-79-15 Serial Cable
#152-37 Power Cord, 115 Volt, USA,
#220-10A-EURO Power Cable, European
#220-15A-USA Power Cable, USA
High Pressure SGSM:
#120-50-018 Fill Gauge
#120-209 Thermocouple Assembly
#120-58-006 High Pressure Cell Assembly (See diagram on page 59
for parts list)
Specications

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Low Pressure SGSM:
#120-51-020 Thermocouple Assembly
#120-53-006 Low Pressure Cell Assembly (See diagram on page 60
for parts list)
#120-51-021 Fill Gauge
Optional:
#120-53-SP Spare Parts Kit for Low Pressure SGSM:
#120-53-01 Vane Assembly
#120-53-06 Magnet Shaft Assembly
#120-53-23 Diaphragm, Qty: 2
#120-53-31 O-ring, Qty: 5
#120-53-32 O-ring, Qty: 5
#120-53-33 Tension Spring, Qty: 2
#120-53-38 Retaining Ring, Internal, Qty: 2
#120-53-42 Bushing Graphite, Qty: 20
#120-53-43 Filter, 7 Micron Element Kit
#120-53-58 Backup Ring, Upper, Qty: 2
#120-53-59 Backup Ring, Lower, Qty: 2
#120-58-05 Retaining Ring, External, Qty: 2
#123-011 O-ring for Test Cell, Qty: 5
#120-58-SP Spare Parts Kit for High Pressure SGSM:
#120-50-026 Retaining Ring, External, Qty: 2
#120-50-027-1 Seal Ring, Qty: 2
#120-53-01 Vane Assembly
#120-53-041 Bearing
#120-53-31 O-ring, Qty: 5
#120-53-32 O-ring, Qty: 5
#120-53-33 Tension Spring, Qty: 2
#120-53-42 Bushing Graphite, Qty: 20
#120-53-58 Backup Ring, Upper, Qty: 2
#120-53-59 Backup Ring, Lower, Qty: 2
#120-53-82 Retaining Ring, External, Qty: 2
#120-58-05 Retaining Ring, External, Qty: 2
#120-58-23 Diaphragm
#120-58-38 Retaining Ring, Internal, Qty: 2
#123-011 O-ring for Test Cell, Qty: 5

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Safety
Explanation of Symbols
Caution: Risk of Danger - This symbol directs the operator to consult the
instruction manual for safety related warnings. (ISO-7000-0434)
Whenever this symbol is used on the equipment, the user must
consult the manual to determine the nature of the hazard and any
actions which have to be taken.
Hot: This symbol indicates that a surface may be hot to the touch.
Shock Hazard: This symbol indicates a risk of electrical shock.
Note: This symbol will indicate important notes and helpful hints for the
operation of the equipment.
Tip: This symbol is used to identify operational information and best
practices to obtain the most reliable data.
Caution: Note - This symbol is used to indicate statements in the manual
which warn against actions which may cause damage to the equipment
during routine service or maintenance.

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Quick Start 1. Set up the software with the desired parameters (see page 8).
2. Prepare the cell caps and cell body.
3. Assemble the bottom cell cap. See page 19.
4. Install the bottom cell cap to the bottom of the cell body. See page 20.
5. Assemble the top cell cap. See page 21.
6. Assemble the SGSM shaft assembly and install it to the top cell cap.
See page 24.
7. Install the top cell cap to the cell assembly.
8. Install the test cell to the cabinet.
9. Connect the SGSM head to the shaft assembly and run a drag check.
See page 27.
10. Mix the slurry and ll the cell. See page 28.
11. Connect water supply line, thermocouple, and transducer to the test cell.
See page 29.
12. Run the test. See page 31.
13. Allow test cell to cool down. See page 34.
14. Evaluate the test data. See page 33.
15. Remove test cell.
16. Disassemble and clean the cement from the test cell. See page 35.
17. Clean and inspect all of the test cell components.

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PC
UCA
RS-232
Single UCA or Dual UCA
Data
Hub
PC
Data
Hub
S
G
S
M
S
G
S
M
UCA
Cell 1Cell 2
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
LPTLPT
Dual SGSM
PC
Data
Hub
S
G
S
M
UCA RS-232
RS-232RS-232
LPT
Single SGSM
PC
Data
Hub
S
G
S
M
UCA
Cell 1Cell 2
RS-232
RS-232RS-232
LPT
UCA/SGSM
Setup
Hardware
1. Carefully remove the instrument from the crate and place it on a at,
stable surface. Make sure to allow for adequate air ow around the unit,
especially near the vents on the sides.
To ensure personal safety, always use proper lifting techniques.
Position the unit so that the user can quickly disconnect plugs in case of
an emergency.
2. Connect the equipment to the computer. Each test conguration requires
a different set of connections to the computer.
-Single UCA or Dual UCA - Connect the UCA to a PC with the
supplied serial cable.
-Single SGSM or UCA/SGSM - Connect the PC and the UCA unit
to the SGSM Data Hub with the supplied serial cables. Connect the
SGSM to the Data Hub with the supplied LPT cable.
When using only the UCA/SGSM software on a dual cell instrument,
always connect the SGSM to Cell 2.
When using the Single UCA or Single SGSM software with a Dual Cell
or Twin Cell UCA, always run the test on Cell 1.
-Dual SGSM - Each SGSM has a Data Hub. Connect each SGSM to
its Data Hub using the supplied LPT cables. Connect the rst Data
Hub to the UCA unit using a serial cable. Connect both Data Hubs to
the computer with serial cables.
Make sure all SGSM electrical connections have been made before
attempting to turn on the SGSM box as this may cause damage to
internal electrical components.
3. Turn the “Main Power” switch on once fully connected to the UCA and PC.

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Setup
Software
Before you begin your test, you must prepare the PC to record the data. Five
software applications have been included with your instrument:
-Single SGSM - For running an SGSM test on a Single-Cell UCA
-UCA and SGSM - For running a UCA and SGSM on a Dual-Cell UCA
-Dual SGSM - For running two SGSM tests on a Dual-Cell UCA
1. Turn on the PC, UCA, and SGSM Electronics Box.
2. Open the software by double-clicking the icon on the desktop.
3. Click Utilities → Setup.
“COM Port” - The COM port the device is connected to. The Dual SGSM
software will ask for two COM ports.
“Temp Unit” - °F or °C
“Pressure” - PSI or MPa
The pressure reading is only on the High Pressure 20,000 PSI SGSM
units (#120-58).
“Gel Strength” - Gel strength units (Dyne/cm2, lb/100 ft2, Pa., lb/ft2)
“Unit #” - Identies the unit generating the graph. This eld is helpful
when multiple units are generating graphs.
“Archive Path” - The location to save the data les
“Logo Path” - Select a logo (.JPG format) to print on the graph at the
end of the test.
“Bob Height” - The height of the bob in millimeters
“Bob Diameter” - The diameter of the bob in millimeters

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“Conditioning Speed” - The speed (RPM) for conditioning the cement
slurry prior to the SGSM test.
The recommended conditioning speed is 30 RPM. This is equivalent
(based on surface area) to conditioning at 150 RPM in a pressurized
consistometer.
“Conditioning Time” - This is the amount of time the SGSM will
condition the cement before it begins measuring gel strength. This value
must be at least 2 minutes in order to give the SGSM time to establish a
zero offset.
After the Conditioning Time, the SGSM will periodically measure gel
strength based on the “Test Speed”, “Test Time”, and “Wait Time” elds.
“Test Speed” - The speed (RPM) the bob will turn to break the gel and
measure the gel strength of the cement.
“Test Time” - The amount of time the bob will turn while measuring gel
strength.
“Wait Time” - The amount of time the bob will pause between gel
strength measurement periods.
“Strength #1”, Strength #2”, ... “Strength #5” - Enter a gel strength
value in each of these elds. When the cement reaches that gel strength,
the software will record the elapsed time and print it on the graph.
“Print to Printer” - When this option is on, a graph of the test results will
automatically print to the printer when a test is complete.

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Software Each software application has a set of tabs that are specic to the test
conguration (Single SGSM, Dual SGSM, or UCA/SGSM).
The SGSM Info (single) or Cell 1 Info/Cell 2 Info (dual) tabs show the
current SGSM test conguration and a graph of the temperature prole.
Test Started Heater Engaged
The heater light only turns on when the temperature of a test is being
controlled by the software. If a test is being run manually by the Eurotherm,
then the heater indicator will not turn on.

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The SGSM Chart shows a graph for an SGSM test while the test is running.
“Elapsed Time” - Time since the test began (HR:MM:SS)
“State Time” - Elapsed time of the current state.
“SGSM State” - The current state of the SGSM test.
Mixing - The bob is mixing the cement. The speed is set by the
“Conditioning Speed” eld in the Setup screen.
Wait - After conditioning the cement, the motor stops for 6 seconds to
allow the uid to reach a steady state.
Pre Zero - Before performing the zero operation, the software turns
the bob one full revolution to overcome any initial drag.
Zero - Before starting the test, the software turns the bob one full
revolution and records the amount of drag in the system. It uses these
values to compensate for the drag during a test.
Stop - The bob is stopped between measurements. The bob will be
stopped for the amount of time specied in the “SGSM Wait Time”
eld on the Setup screen.

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Measure - The bob is turning and measuring gel strength. The
measurement will last for the amount of time specied in “SGSM Test
Time” on the Setup screen.
“Temperature” - Temperature within the test cell. (°F or °C, depending on
the settings in the Setup screen)
“Pressure” - Pressure within the test cell. (PSI or MPa, depending on the
settings in the Setup screen)
The pressure reading is only on the High Pressure 20,000 PSI SGSM
units (#120-58).
“Current Reading” - The current gel strength measurement. This eld
will show the current gel strength if the SGSM State is in “Measure” or in
“Stop”. (Units depend on the settings in the Setup screen.)
“Last Gel Strength” - The last calculated gel strength of the sample. (Units
depend on the settings in the Setup screen.)
The Dashboard shows graphs for both cells along with current test data.
Dual cell units only.

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All charts in the UCA and SGSM software can be manually scaled to
show more or less detail. To manually scale a chart:
1. Right-click on the X or Y axis and uncheck
“AutoScale X” or “AutoScale Y”.
2. Double-click the minimum value on the axis. Type in
a new value.
3. Double-click the maximum value on the axis. Type in
a new value.
4. The chart will now only display values between the
new minimum and maximum.
The Log Data tab shows the logged data for both cells.

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Software
Temperature Prole
Builder
The SGSM Software includes a Temperature Prole Builder. Here a custom
temperature prole can be created for a test.
If preferred, a temperature prole can be built manually using the Eurotherm
controls. Select “MANUAL” from the “Temperature Prole List” on the Cell
Info tab. Refer to page 53 for instructions on programming the Eurotherm.
1. Select “Temperatures Prole Builder” from the “Utilities” menu.
2. Either select a test to edit from the list on the left-hand side of the screen,
or click “New Test” to build a new test.
3. Enter a test name.
4. Click the “Add” button to add a step. As you add steps, the graph below
will change to reect the new prole. There are three Step Types:
a. Hold - This will hold the current temperature for a set number of
minutes. You will be prompted for the hold time.
b. Ramp - This will increase the temperature up to the target in a set
number of minutes. You will be prompted for the ramp time and target
temperature.
c. Step - This will increase the temperature up to the target as fast as
possible. You will be prompted for the target temperature.
5. To edit an existing step, double click the step in the step list. Click OK
when done.
6. Click the “OK” button to exit the Temperature Prole Builder. The new
Temperature Prole will now appear in the “Temperature Prole List” in
the “Cell 1 Info” tab.
To setup the ramp temperature, double click on the Temperature box to open
the window below. Edit the elds as needed and click “OK”.

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Software
Operation
Once the temperature prole is built, select Operate → Load SGSM 1 Info/
Load SGSM 2 Info. Here you can enter all the necessary test information in
advance, before preparing the cement sample.
Most of these elds are optional. The information in them will display in the
data le at the end of the test. Select the desired prole before the test.
Multiple
Conditioning
Final
Strength
The following elds are required:
Test Name - Each test must have a unique test name. The software uses
this eld to name the data le.
Slurry Density - Slurry density can be entered but it will not be calculated
unless it is a UCA test.
Cement Density - Cement density can be entered but it will not be
calculated unless it is a UCA test.

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When Multiple Conditioning function is checked OFF, “Gel Strength 5”, will
prompt the software to record the value, turn on the alarm, and stop the test.
Multiple Conditioning Turned OFF
Multiple Conditioning Turned ON
Multiple Conditioning - When this option is turned ON, the software will
measure gel strength periodically until the cement reaches the value in the
“Strength #5” eld entered in the setup screen. Then it will condition the
cement for the time period specied in the “Conditioning Time” eld on the
Main Setup screen. This cycle will continue until the gel strength reaches the
value in the “Final Strength” eld on the Test Info Setup screen. Once the gel
strength reaches the “Final Strength, the alarm will sound and the test will end.
This value is used for all conditioning periods when “Multiple Conditioning” is
on. If no value is specied, the default is 30 minutes.

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Software
Calibration Archives
The SGSM software stores all calibration data from prior calibrations. To view
data from a previous calibration, select “Load Cell Calibration Archive” from
the “Utilities” menu. A list of previous calibrations will appear in a window to
the left. Click on a calibration record and export to view the data.
2014 Month11Day06_Time1002.cal
2014 Month11Day06_Time1014.cal
2014 Month11Day10_Time0949.cal
2014 Month11Day13_Time1433.cal
2014 Month11Day18_Time1557.cal
2014 Month11Day19_Time1251.cal
2014 Month11Day21_Time1445.cal
2014 Month11Day24_Time0726.cal
2014 Month12Day03_Time1324.cal
2014 Month12Day03_Time1333.cal
2014 Month12Day03_Time1338.cal
2014 Month12Day22_Time0757.cal
4.849
1.000
11.229

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From this screen you can view and export the data to the PC in an Excel
document. Select a calibration and click Export. A “Choose or Enter Path of
File” window will open. Enter a le name and save it as a “.dat” document.
The “.dat” document will create a text le which will allow the user to open it
with text le or as an Excel le.
File Name
File Type

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Operation
Cell Cap Assembly
The cell body and both cell caps were manufactured and pressure tested
together. All three pieces are serialized. Before assembling the test cell, make
sure all three pieces have the same serial number.
For a complete diagram of the test cell, refer to pages 59 and 60.
Bottom Cap Assembly
1. Inspect the transducer port to make sure that it is clean and free of debris.
Dried transducer couplant can accumulate on the sides and bottom of the
port. This couplant must be cleaned from the port as well.
2. Tighten the jaws of the vice on the ats of the cell cap with the threads
facing up.
3. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature grease to the surface of the bottom
cell cap that meets with the cement. Wipe off any excess grease.
4. For the High Pressure SGSM, install the seal ring (#120-50-027-1)
with the narrow side pointed towards the threads and place the o-ring
(#123-011) on top of it.
For the Low Pressure SGSM, simply place an o-ring in the o-ring groove
on the bottom cell cap. The bottom cell cap does not require a seal ring.
5. Apply more high temperature grease to the seal ring and o-ring.
The o-ring should be inspected for signs of degradation before installing a
new o-ring.
Metal Seal Ring
(Cross Section)
O-ring
Seal Ring
High Pressure SGSM Low Pressure SGSM
O-ring