Ratek TH8500 User manual

Ratek TH8500 Programmable Immersion Heater Circulator - User Manual
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USER MANUAL
Programmable Immersion Heater Circulator
Model : TH8 00
ersion: 1.1 – 01/08/2015
English
www.ratek.com.au
www.ratek.com.auwww.ratek.com.au
www.ratek.com.au
60 Wadhurst Dve, Boronia, ictoria 3155, Australia - P: [phone] - F: [phone] - E: [e-mail]
© All Rights Reserved
Made in Australia, User Manual printed in Australia
Changes without prior notification reserved
Errors and omissions excepted.
User Manual TH8 00 – Programmable Immersion Heater Circulator

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Thank you
Thank you for purchasing a Ratek product.
This User Manual will assist you in the correct installation and operation of the Programmable Immersion Heater Circulator, as well as
explain the safety requirements for its use.
Important: Please read the contents of this User Manual before unpacking and operating the product.
Unpacking and Checking
Once you have read these instructions in full and understand the installation and safety requirements including those for unpacking the
carton, please carefully open the packing and slowly remove the product. Carefully inspect the condition of the product to ensure it has
not been damaged in transit. Any damage should be reported immediately to the responsible carrier. If the product is damaged in any
way, re-pack the product into the supplied packaging and notify the responsible carrier immediately.
Important: Do not operate the equipment if it has been damaged in any way. Any failures resulting through the use of a
damaged product will not be covered by the product warranty.
Carton Contents
Ensure that you have received all items outlined below before proceeding. If you have not received all components in the supplied
carton, please re-pack the carton and notify a Ratek Service representative immediately. Contact details are provided in the section of
this User Manual titled “Ratek Service Contact Information”
-TH8 00 Ratek Programmable Immersion Heater Circulator
-User Manual

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Table Of Contents Page
Cash Bo
INTENDED USE ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Suitable Articles For Use With This Immersion Heater Circulator................................................................................................................. 4
Unsuitable Articles For Use With This Immersion Heater Circulator ............................................................................................................. 4
Suitable Environments For The Immersion Heater Circulator....................................................................................................................... 4
General Operation.................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITY – SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 4
Conditions of Operation .......................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Safety Labels And Markings .................................................................................................................................................................... 5
PREPARATION ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Identification of Controls & Functions ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
Recommended Liquids............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Safety Warnings .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Safety Recommendations........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Preparation & Installation ..................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Unpacking and Installing........................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Filling The Water Bath .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Adjusting the Mounting Clamp............................................................................................................................................................... 12
Adjusting the Pump Flow Rate............................................................................................................................................................... 12
Attaching a Hose For External Pump-Out................................................................................................................................................ 13
Connecting Power................................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Switching On The Immersion Heater Circulator ....................................................................................................................................... 14
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS........................................................................................................................................................................ 1
Operating Modes ................................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Operating a Single Static Temperature................................................................................................................................................... 15
Operating a Ramping Profile .................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Setting the Over and Under Temperature Alarms .................................................................................................................................... 16
Loading/Un-Loading the Water Bath ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
Switching Off The Immersion Heater Circulator ....................................................................................................................................... 16
Over Temperature Safety Cutout........................................................................................................................................................... 16
Storing & Relocating ............................................................................................................................................................................ 16
ROUTINE CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE.................................................................................................................................................... 16
Cleaning.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Over-Temperature Safety Cutout Test.................................................................................................................................................... 16
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
DISPOSAL ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
EMC CONFORMITY..................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
RATEK SERVICE CONTACT INFORMATION.................................................................................................................................................... 16
TROUBLESHOOTING.................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
WARRANTY CONDITIONS........................................................................................................................................................................... 16

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Intended Use
This Immersion Heater Circulator is intended for the purpose of heating water in a laboratory water bath or inside other containers
designed for the purpose. The operator may load a suitable article into the water bath for the purpose of controlled temperature
application. The Immersion Heater Circulator is intended for use with tap water or filtered water only, as well as suitable additives
where required as outlined in this User Manual.
The Immersion Heater Circulator is not intended for use with any medium other than those outlined in this User Manual. The Immersion
Heater Circulator is not intended to provide direct contact between the medium (water) and an unprotected medical, food, biological or
medico-techno item. In all cases the item should be enclosed in a suitable vessel as described below to protect it from coming into
contact with the Immersion Heater Circulator.
Suitable Articles For Use With This Immersion Heater Circulator
•Plastic or glass laboratory test tubes that are sealed, waterproof and rated to withstand the intended temperature.
•Plastic or stainless steel laboratory test tube racks that are rated to withstand the intended temperature.
• An example of a suitable article would be a sealed plastic laboratory centrifuge tube filled with blood.
Unsuitable Articles For Use With This Immersion Heater Circulator
•Any item where the article is not waterproof or may result in its contents coming into contact with the Immersion Heater
Circulator or the heating medium (water).
•Any item that is not rated to withstand the intended temperature.
• An example of an unsuitable article would be an exposed piece of animal or plant matter.
Suitable Environments For The Immersion Heater Circulator
The Immersion Heater Circulator is intended for use in a clean laboratory environment only where adequate ventilation, a good
power supply and provisions for routine cleaning are available. The Immersion Heater Circulator should not be used outdoors or
in dirty, dusty, steamy, humid or windy environments. The acceptable operating conditions are outlined further in this User
Manual.
General Operation
•The Immersion Heater Circulator is mounted onto a suitable laboratory water bath or other rigid water container using
the adjustable mounting clamp, retort mounting boss or water bath bridge plate.
•The water bath or vessel is filled with water following the safety guidelines contained within this User Manual.
•The Immersion Heater Circulator is plugged into an appropriate power source. It is powered by an alternating current
power supply with protective earth and with the appropriate receptacle, rated voltage and frequency for the country of
its intended use. Further details on power requirements are outlined in this User Manual.
•A suitable article (as defined above) is placed inside the water bath or vessel.
•The Immersion Heater Circulator is operated via a combination of front and rear panel buttons and switches consisting of
a power switch, temperature control buttons and menu buttons. These controls allow the operator to set a required
water temperature as well as over and under temperature alarm set points..
•The Immersion Heater Circulator should be operated strictly in accordance with the Operating Instructions outlined
further in this User Manual.
Operator Responsibility – Safety Considerations
When operated in strict accordance with this User Manual, plus routine cleaning and maintenance being carried out, the product shall
provide safe operation for the operator. The operator should be aware of the following before installing and operating the product :
Conditions of Operation
*Note: The term “operator” referred to in this User Manual is the primary person who has been tasked to install, maintain
and train in the usage of this equipment. Other personnel shall be referred to as “Users”.

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•The operator shall be aware that the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if the equipment is used with
accessories not provided or recommended by the manufacturer, is modified in any way or is used in a manner not
specified by the manufacturer.
•The operator is responsible for ensuring all users of the product are qualified to do so, and are well versed in common
safety concepts. The product should only be operated by an adult who has read and understood this User Manual
provided in the appropriate language in its entirety.
•Any user must be informed by the responsible operator of any potential hazards that may arise through the use of this
equipment in the course of their work, including any local environmental hazards not related directly to the Immersion
Heater Circulator. They should also be able to demonstrate that they understand any preventative safety measures in
operation prior to operating the equipment.
•The operator shall agree to accept responsibility for the use of the equipment in accordance with this User Manual, and
be fully aware that the equipment is designed for commercial use.
•It is assumed that the user and operator have had experience in a commercial environment, and had appropriate training
in how to perform their work safely in accordance with any local operational health and safety regulations. The operator
and all users should be well versed in local emergency procedures as per the workplace safety regulations in effect.
•Avoid any direct impact with any surface of the equipment, including the casing, cover panel, element, pump or control
panel.
•Important: Do not use any sharp or pointed metal objects anywhere near the equipment, in particular the control panel.
•Avoid using the equipment near any other vibrating equipment or source of excessive vibration.
•Ensure the equipment is cleaned and maintained in accordance with this User Manual.
•Ensure that all original safety warning labels are in an adequate, legible condition and are firmly affixed to the equipment
before using the product.
•Plug the equipment directly into a wall power outlet. Do not plug the equipment into a multi-socket adapter of any kind.
•The equipment is intended for operation in a controlled electromagnetic environment. Avoid the use of transmitting
devices (e.g. cellular or mobile telephones) near the equipment whilst operating. A minimum distance of 2 Metres from
the product is recommended for any transmitting device.
•Important: The equipment must only be installed and operated in well ventilated areas. The unit is not intended for use
in explosive atmospheres, in confined spaces or inside any other piece of laboratory equipment such as humidity cabinets
or incubators.
•The allowed operating environment must be between 5° Celsius and 40° Celsius ambient air temperature. Be aware that
the ambient air temperature will limit the minimum controllable water temperature. The ambient air temperature must be
at least 7° Celsius lower than the desired controllable water temperature.
•The maximum allowed relative humidity of the operating environment is 80%.
•The equipment should not be stored in direct sunlight, near chemicals, or other contaminants.
•If any of these safety recommendations cannot be achieved or the equipment has been damaged in any way, the
equipment should not be installed or operated.
•Important : If you have any concerns or questions relating to operator or user safety, please contact the appropriate
Ratek Customer Service department before installing and operating the unit. Contact details are provided in this User
Manual.
Safety Labels And Markings
The equipment is provided with safety caution labels. An explanation of each caution label is provided below. It is the
responsibility of the operator and user to fully understand the meaning of these warning labels prior to operating the
equipment.
Very Important: Particular care should be taken when working near the heating element at the bottom of the Immersion
Heater Circulator. At all times during operation the supplied safety guard MUST REMAIN FITTED to the Immersion Heater
Circulator to avoid possible burns or scalds from the heating element.
The operator or user must also take extreme care when the bath is working at temperatures above 0° C as steam will be
present and can cause scalding.

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Caution Labels Definition
Colours: Black on a yellow background
The Immersion Heater Circulator is powered by an alternating current power
supply sufficient to cause harm if contact with the electrical supply is made.
Under no circumstances should any part of the equipment be opened, un-
screwed, loosened or disassembled whilst power is applied to the unit. Only
authorized service agents are permitted to remove covers. This label is fitted by
the manufacturer and must not be removed under any circumstances.
Colours: Black on a yellow background
The Immersion Heater Circulator is fitted with a removable guard which protects
against contact with the heating element. This guard MUST REMAIN FITTED at all
times during operation. Under no circumstances should the heating element be
touched whilst in operation. This label is fitted by the manufacturer and must not
be removed under any circumstances.
Colours: Black on a yellow background
The Immersion Heater Circulator is designed for heating water to temperatures
that can cause burns or scalding. Use extreme caution when working near hot
water or steam to avoid injury. Under no circumstances should the heating
element be touched whilst in operation. This label is fitted by the manufacturer
and must not be removed under any circumstances.

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Preparation
You must take the time to familiarize yourself completely with the following operating procedures before installing or operating the
Immersion Heater Circulator in order to achieve the best performance and maximum attainable user safety.
Identification of Controls & Functions
The figure below indicates all key controls and components of the Immersion Heater Circulator with their corresponding numerical
element labeled.
Figure 1

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Recommended Liquids
Care should be taken when selecting the most appropriate heating medium for use with the Immersion Heater Circulator to ensure
optimum performance and user safety. Please refer to the table below as a guide :
Primary Temp Range °C Recommended Medium Comments
-30 ~ 50 50% water, 50% laboratory ethylene
glycol
Use a lid to reduce the dilution of the medium caused by
condensing water vapour from the air.
0 ~ 30
0 ~ 100
80% water, 20% laboratory ethylene
glycol
Laboratory ethylene glycol will prevent freezing at 0°C and
reduce evaporation at 100°C and as such is a good all purpose
heating medium. Use a lid to reduce the dilution of the medium
caused by condensing water vapour from the air.
Recommended over water alone for most applications
between 0° and 100°C
5 ~ 60 Water Water alone is suitable for most low temperature applications,
however laboratory ethylene glycol should be used if working
above 60°C to reduce evaporation, reduce the chance of
scalding by steam and help maintain temperature stability. At
temperatures approaching 100°C the temperature stability
will be affected due to localised boiling if laboratory ethylene
glycol is not used . The units should not be used to boil
water.
Safety Warnings
Throughout this User Manual, specific warnings will be supplied which relate to the current operation being referred to. These warnings
are supplied in addition to the main warning labels affixed to the product and the key points outlined in the section of this User Manual
titled ‘Operator Responsibility – Safety Considerations’.
A graphical symbol as pictured below will be used next to each warning with accompanying text, the danger level for each is described
below :
CAUTION
Indicates a possibly dangerous situation which may result in serious injury or threat to life as a result of scalding or
burns if the situation is not avoided.
CAUTION
Indicates a possibly highly dangerous situation which may result in serious injury or threat to life as a result of
electric shock if the situation is not avoided.
CAUTION
Indicates a possibly harmful situation which may result in injury or damage to product or property if the situation is
not avoided.
Safety Recommendations
The following safety recommendations must be followed to prevent damage or injury. In addition to these safety recommendations,
it is assumed that the user and operator have had experience in a commercial environment, and had appropriate training in how to
perform their work safely in accordance with any local operational health and safety regulations. The operator and all users should
be well versed in local emergency procedures as per the workplace safety regulations in effect.

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CAUTION
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment
may be impaired.
CAUTION
The equipment must only be used with a protective earth power socket. The earth contact provides protection to
the user and the equipment. If you do not have a protective earth power socket, or you are unsure as to whether
you have a protective earth power socket, do not connect the equipment. In such cases you should consult your
workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff to determine if a protective earth power socket is available.
A surge protected power outlet is strongly recommended as it provides some protection for the equipment
in areas of poor electrical quality as well as providing some protection against lightning strikes. The
equipment should be operated on a good, reliable supply of power at all times.
Note: The Immersion Heater Circulator should not be operated on the same electrical circuit as other high voltage
household appliances such as fridges, clothes dryers, washing machines or other continuous operation high voltage
devices. These types of devices can create power fluctuations that are undesirable for electrically sensitive
equipment. Consult your workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff if you are unsure.
CAUTION
The Immersion Heater Circulator is intended for use with tap water or filtered water only. De-ionized or distilled
water can cause corrosion. Recommended water additives are outlined further in this User Manual. Use with any
other medium is not permitted.
The use of flammable liquids may cause serious injury or danger to life.
CAUTION
Always work above the level of the Immersion Heater Circulator to avoid spillage of dangerously hot water. At no
point should the user, operator, animal or any other perishable object be situated directly beneath the Immersion
Heater Circulator or water bath.
-ALWAYS wear protective eyewear when working with hot liquids.
-ALWAYS place the water bath on a strong, even, dry, flat waterproof surface which is made of inflammable
material. Placing the Immersion Heater Circulator on an unstable water bath could cause hot water to spill.
-ALWAYS turn off the mains power switch when the unit is not in operation and turn off the mains power
supply at the outlet.
-ALWAYS turn off the mains power switch and unplug the equipment from the mains power supply outlet
before emptying the water bath or moving the equipment.
-ALWAYS be careful of water condensation above or near the Immersion Heater Circulator and ensure at all
times that the condensation cannot come in contact with the Immersion Heater Circulator control panel or
mains power lead. Ensure benches are kept dry at all times.
-ALWAYS operate the Immersion Heater Circulator in a well ventilated area with adequate clearance around
the Immersion Heater Circulator as indicated.
-ALWAYS be careful of steam and avoid making contact.
-NEVER operate the Immersion Heater Circulator without water in the water bath.
-NEVER empty the water bath while it contains hot water. Always allow the water to cool to ambient room
temperature before emptying.
-NEVER operate the equipment if you believe it is damaged in any way.
-NEVER operate the Immersion Heater Circulator if the mains power supply cable is damaged in any way
-NEVER use any sharp or metal objects near the Immersion Heater Circulator control panel.
-NEVER lift the Immersion Heater Circulator if you have an existing injury that impairs your ability to lift.

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Preparation & Installation
The Immersion Heater Circulator should be installed and operated in strict accordance with the following instructions.
CAUTION
The Immersion Heater Circulator is not for use in explosive atmospheres as there is a risk of fire, explosion, burns or
scalding present under these conditions.
CAUTION
Be careful when lifting and observe your local operational health and safety requirements for lifting before unpacking
the carton.
Unpacking and Installing
-Carefully remove all packaging material from the Immersion Heater Circulator, as well as the supplied User
Manual and any other supplied accessories.
-Carefully inspect the Immersion Heater Circulator, mains power lead and all packaging for any signs of damage. If
any signs of damage are present, do not install or operate the equipment. Contact the supplier of your
equipment if you have a received a damaged product.
-Ensure the water bath to be used is empty, clean and dry and has a suitable area to accommodate the
Immersion Heater Circulator.
-Ensure that there is a minimum unobstructed distance of 300 millimetres between the left, right and rear panels
of the Immersion Heater Circulator and any other object or wall.
-Ensure that there is a minimum unobstructed distance of 1 metre above the top of the water bath to allow for
adequate ventilation and for steam to dissipate.
-Ensure that there is a suitable mains power supply outlet within reach of the supplied mains power lead without
placing any strain whatsoever on the lead, socket or plug. The Immersion Heater Circulator should not be
plugged into any double-adapter, power board, or power point splitter of any kind but instead directly into a
correctly earthed wall mounted power socket.
-Ensure that there is a minimum unobstructed distance of 1 metre in front of the Immersion Heater Circulator to
allow adequate room for the user to maintain a safe operating distance of 300 millimetres.
-Place the Immersion Heater Circulator in an upright position with the adjustable clamp over the side wall of the
water bath whilst supporting the front of the unit.
-If the clamp requires adjustment to suit the side wall of the water bath, refer to the section of this User Manual
titled “Adjusting the Mounting Clamp”.
-Slowly tighten the clamp screw to secure the unit to the side wall of the water bath, do not over-tighten.
CAUTION
The Immersion Heater Circulator is designed for the purpose of heating immersed plastic or glass sealed laboratory
test tubes, flasks or bottles suitable for use at the water temperature selected by the operator.
The contents of these test tubes is the sole responsibility of the user or operator, and the use of corrosive,
flammable, combustible, hazardous, environmentally unsafe or otherwise dangerous materials within the immersed
container is done so at the risk and liability of the user or operator.

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ALWAYS be 100% sure of the contents of your containers, the expected behavior once heated and the applicable
safety measures that should be employed when handling such substances.
ALWAYS ensure your containers are firmly sealed and there is no chance of the sample leaking into the water bath .
ALWAYS use plastic, stainless-steel or plastic powder-coated tubes racks and accessories in the water bath . This
will assist to prevent corrosion and thus help to extend the useful life of the Immersion Heater Circulator.
CAUTION
Poor water quality can lead to corrosion of the Immersion Heater Circulator even though it is constructed from high
quality stainless steel, and eventually lead to a potentially hazardous situation. The Immersion Heater Circulator is
intended for use with tap water or filtered water only.
Depending on local conditions, the water supply may be ferrous or overly chlorinated. Both of these conditions may
lead to corrosion if used with the Immersion Heater Circulator.
Distilled or de-ionized water may lead to corrosion if used with the Immersion Heater Circulator.
Use of any liquid medium other than that recommended above will void the product warranty.
Contact the supplier of your Immersion Heater Circulator before filling the water bath if you are unsure of your
water supply.
CAUTION
Before filling the water bath, ensure the mains power supply outlet is switched off and that the mains lead to the
Immersion Heater Circulator is unplugged from the mains power supply outlet.
The nature of pouring water is unpredictable and should be done carefully away from any electrical supply to avoid
the risk of electric shock.
Filling The Water Bath
CAUTION
Always fill the water bath in a safe manner following the manufacturer’s guidelines where possible. It is important
that power to the Immersion Heater Circulator is switched off at the mains outlet before filling the water bath to
avoid possible electric shock.
CAUTION
Do not over-fill the water bath. If the bath is over-filled, water may spill out and create a hazardous situation if it
comes near an electrical current.
The minimum water depth is 120 millimetres below the bath rim.
The maximum water depth is 20 millimetres below the bath rim.
If the water level falls below this minimum level during operation, the Immersion Heater Circulator will cut power to
the heating element and the alarm will sound. If this occurs, the unit should be powered off, disconnected from the
mains electrical supply and the water level topped up with cold water. Be aware that this may result in the rapid
decrease in the water temperature and the effect of this in relation to the current procedure being carried out must

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be considered.
No liability will be accepted if in the normal course of operation the contents of the containers being heated are
damaged due to insufficient water levels or inappropriate temperatures being applied as a result of re-filling.
Adjusting the Mounting Clamp
The Immersion Heater Circulator features an adjustable clamp that allows the unit to be mounted on water baths
and tanks with side walls varying from 1mm to 64mm wide. Before adjusting the clamp, ensure the equipment is
disconnected from the mains power supply and the element is cold. The adjustment is performed in 2 steps as
illustrated below. Step 1 – Turn the unit upside down and gently rest it on the lid on a non-scratch surface. Using a
phillips head screwdriver, loosen the 2 clamp screws as illustrated below with half a turn anti-clockwise. The clamp
bracket can now slide in and out to the required depth as required. Once the depth has been set, re-tighten the 2
clamp screws by gently tightening in a clockwise direction. Step 2 – Once the unit is placed on the bath, gently
tighten the thumb-screw by turning in a clockwise direction until the unit is secured to the bath.
Step 1 – Use a phillips head screwdriver to adjust the clamp depth Step 2 – Use the thumb-screw to tighten against the bath
Adjusting the Pump Flow Rate
The Immersion Heater Circulator pump features an adjustable flow rate to suit a variety of different tank sizes.
Decreasing the flow rate will generally reduce temperature uniformity within the bath and should be considered prior
to adjustment. For most applications the pump should be left at maximum flow rate to ensure good temperature
uniformity within the bath and maximize control stability.
Before adjusting the flow rate, ensure the equipment is disconnected from the mains power supply and the element
is cold. The adjustment is performed by simply rotating the pump adjustment throttle on the under-side of the pump
head as below. The throttle may be set to any position from fully open to fully closed to achieve the desired flow rate.

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Pump adjusted to minimum flow rate Pump adjusted to maximum flow rate
Attaching a Hose For External Pump-Out
The Immersion Heater Circulator pump features two outlets that can be fitted with a suitable hose to allow water to
be pumped out of the bath, either for external re-circulation purposes or to assist in emptying large water baths. For
most applications, only one hose should be fitted, allowing the other outlet to circulate water in the bath to maintain
temperature uniformity within the tank. If both outlets are used, temperature uniformity in the bath will be reduced
and should be considered as part of your application.
Before attaching a hose, ensure the equipment is disconnected from the mains power supply and the element is cold.
The diameter of the pump outlet fitting is 9.5mm. Use a suitable hose with an internal diameter of approximately 9 to
9.5mm to maintain a snug fit on the outlet, with an outer diameter no larger than 15mm. Silicon hose is
recommended for most applications. Simply push the hose over either outlet until it touches the guard, a hose clamp
may be used if required however this is not normally necessary if using the correct size hose.
Hose attached for external pump-out
Connecting Power
CAUTION
The equipment must only be used with a protective earth power socket. The earth contact provides protection to
the user and the equipment. If you do not have a protective earth power socket, or you are unsure as to whether
you have a protective earth power socket, do not connect the equipment. In such cases you should consult your
workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff to determine if a protective earth power socket is available.
The mains power supply must be rated to match the power requirement as identified on the product identification
label on the rear panel. This is normally expressed in the format of oltage Range and Frequency. A surge protected
power outlet is strongly recommended as it provides some protection for the equipment in areas of poor
electrical quality as well as providing some protection against lightning strikes. The equipment should be

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operated on a good, reliable supply of power at all times.
Note: The Immersion Heater Circulator should not be operated on the same electrical circuit as other high voltage
household appliances such as fridges, clothes dryers, washing machines or other continuous operation high voltage
devices. These types of devices can create power fluctuations that are undesirable for electrically sensitive
equipment. Consult your workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff if you are unsure.
IMPORTANT : Use of an incorrect power supply will void the product warranty. If you are unsure about the
rating of your power supply, consult your workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff to
determine if your power supply is suitable for use with this product before connecting the power lead.
CAUTION
Regularly check the mains power lead condition over the life of the product, and do not operate the equipment if you
suspect there is damage to any part of the equipment or the mains power lead.
Do not operate the equipment if you suspect the power lead has been stretched, over-extended or damaged in any
way.
-Insert the plug end of the mains power supply lead firmly into a properly rated, protective earthed wall
mounted power supply outlet.
-If there are double-adapters or oversized DC power packs causing obstruction of the mains power lead plug,
these should first be removed.
-Ensuring your hands are dry, switch on the power on the mains power supply outlet.
Switching On The Immersion Heater Circulator
CAUTION
Ensure you have filled the water bath to at least the minimum required level before switching on power. Failure to do
so may create a hazardous situation that can cause burns, scalding and create a fire risk.
-Before switching on the immersion heater circulator, determine the temperature you wish to operate the bath at.
-If you wish to heat your containers from ambient temperature, you should load the bath prior to switching on the
unit. See the section titled “Loading the Water Bath” below.
-If you wish to add your containers to warm or hot water, this should be done with extreme care once the
temperature of the water bath has stabilized.
-Once you are ready to begin heating the water, switch the Mains Power Switch to the position marked with a
vertical line. The Power On/Off indicator will light green to indicate the heating system is active. The Device Ready
Indicator will light blue once the control system has begun startup.
-If the last set temperature is greater than the current water temperature, the Heating Element Indicator will
light green and either flash to indicate intermittent heating or remain lit constantly to indicate constant heating.
CAUTION
Once the Heating Element Indicator is lit, the heating element is active and the surface of the element will remain
extremely hot whilst heating and for many minutes even after power to the unit has been disconnected. Once the
Heating Element Indicator has lit, under no circumstances should you place any part of your body near the heating
element. The residual heat of the element creates a hazardous situation sufficient to cause burns or scalding if
contact with the element is made.

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Operating Instructions
Operating Modes
The TH8500 features 2 main operating modes allowing the user to either set and maintain a single temperature, or
to run advanced temperature ramping via user definable profiles.
-To operate and maintain a single temperature, refer to the section of this User Manual titled “Operating a
Single Static Temperature”.
-To enter and run a program with more than one set point or temperature ramp, refer to the section of this
User Manual titled “Operating a Ramping Profile”.
CAUTION
If the temperature of the water in the water bath is critical to your application, ensure the Immersion Heater
Circulator is left for at least 10 minutes to stabilize after the temperature has reached the set-point before you
insert your containers and samples into the water. erify the water temperature using a thermometer.
Temperature stability is affected by water bath size, ambient temperature, position of the pump outlets, lid usage
and the heating medium. All of these factors should be considered to achieve best results.
CAUTION
Temperatures above 50 degrees are sufficient to cause steam and are also capable of causing burns or scalding.
Exercise extreme care paying particular attention to steam and splashing of water when the Immersion Heater
Circulator is operating at these high temperatures, particularly whilst loading and unloading, containers, racks or
accessories. ALWAYS use appropriate tools (such as silicon insulated tongs) to lower such containers into the
water to avoid your hands coming into contact with hot water.
Operating a Single Static Temperature
-The Current Temperature/Parameter Display indicates the current water temperature in the bath.
-By default, the Set Temperature/Parameter Display indicates the desired set temperature.
-If the unit has just been powered on, the default operating mode is Static, indicated as in the operating
mode menu.
-If the unit has been operated in another mode, first change the operating mode as below :
-Press until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press until is displayed in the Set Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Hold for seconds then release to commit the changes to the operating mode. The current and
set temperatures will now be displayed.
-To adjust the set temperature press or to increase or decrease the temperature accordingly.
-If the set temperature is greater than the current water temperature, the Heating Element Indicator will light up
and either flash to indicate intermittent heating or remain lit constantly to indicate constant heating.
-Once the water temperature nears the set point, the temperature control circuit will start to intermittently
engage the element to reduce the rate of heating.

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-For best results, a Ratek insulated water bath should be used, as well as a lid to reduce evaporation and heat
loss.
- Note: It is normal for the temperature to exceed the set point slightly whilst the temperature in the bath
stabilizes. The bath temperature will drop back down to the set temperature and then the proportional
temperature control will attempt to maintain the set temperature.
Operating a Ramping Profile
The TH8500 has the ability to store up to 9 “Profiles”. A profile is a collection of temperature set-points and/or
dwell (idle) periods that you wish the controller to achieve during unattended operation. For example, you may wish
the temperature controller to reach 37° operation, hold this temperature for one hour and then ramp the
temperature up over the next 30 minutes to 50° and then hold that temperature for 2 hours. The 37° and 50°
targets are referred to as “Program Segments”.
Each profile may contain multiple segments, however the 9 profiles are broken into 3 types, each of which has a
different segment storage capacity as below. You should choose an appropriate profile number based on the
maximum number of segments your profile will require.
Profile Numbers Maximum Number of Segments
1 thru 4 16
5 thru 7 32
8 and 9 64
-To configure and store a profile, first determine the most suitable profile number based on the table above.
-For each “Segment” you wish to program, you will be prompted to configure the following parameters (depending
on the segment type (SGTY) not all parameters will be applicable).
- The holdback band in °C. If the holdback feature is enabled and the current temperature
falls outside the band of the desired temperature (deviation from the set point), the unit will enter
holdback mode until the current temperature is back inside the holdback band.
- The starting set point temperature for the profile in °C. This can only be configured for
segment zero (0). This temperature will serve as the initial set point value for the profile and
ramping will be calculated relative to this set point. To ensure the actual bath temperature
matches the starting temperature of the profile, before running the profile set the desired starting
set point in static mode and allow the bath to stabilise.
- The unit of measurement for the ramp rate :
- Hours & Minutes
- Minutes & Seconds
- °C Per Minute
- °C Per Hour
- The unit of measurement for the dwell period :
- Hours & Minutes

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- Minutes & Seconds
– The segment number to assign to the current parameters :
Profiles 1 thru 4 : 0 – 15 (16 segments)
Profiles 5 thru 7 : 0 – 31 (32 segments)
Profiles 8 and 9 : 0 – 63 (64 segments)
– The segment type. For a traditional ramp/dwell scenario, this parameter is most
commonly set to Ramp or Dwell. The available segment types are :
- Perform a ramp to the temperature set at
- Dwell at the current set point for the period set at
- Jump to a segment specified at in the same profile
- End the profile
- The final set point to end the profile on for an “end” type segment. This temperature will
be maintained indefinitely at the end of the program until the controller is returned to static mode
or the profile is re-run.
- For “end” type segments, enter the number of times the profile should be
repeated/cycled.
- The target set point in °C for a “ramp” type segment.
- Time duration or ramp rate for a “ramp” type segment, entered in units specified at
- Always set to 0000
- The holdback type indicates how the controller should react if the current temperature
is not in line with the desired ramp. For example, the heating required to achieve a certain ramp
rate in the current water bath may not be achievable :
- Do not use holdback. The unit will ignore any temperature
lag
- Hold the profile if the current temperature falls below the
desired set point by more than the holdback band at
- Hold the profile if the current temperature deviates above the
desired set point by more than the holdback band at
- Hold the profile if the current temperature deviates above
or below the desired set point by more than the holdback band at
– The dwell time for a “dwell” type segment, entered in units specified at
- The segment number to jump to for a “jump” type segment

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- Repeat number of cycles for the “jump” and “end” segment types.
- The final set point for the “end” segment
-Note: To assist in the setup of your profile, it is recommended that you first record all applicable parameters
above for each segment that you wish to program (either on paper or in a spreadsheet) and then simulate what
the profile should achieve. Once you have established the correct profile parameters, they can then be entered
into the controller and tested.
-Once you are ready to enter the profile parameters :
-Press until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press or to select the desired profile number that you wish to edit.
-Press to begin cycling through the profile parameters above.
-Use or to adjust the value for each parameter you wish to edit.
-Press to proceed through all applicable parameters above.
-Once a complete segment has been entered, you may proceed to the next segment by selecting
and entering the segment number you wish to edit. Pressing then allows you to configure parameters
for the selected segment.
Note: Press + simultaneously to move backwards through the profile parameters.
-Once you finished entering your profile parameters, push to exit the profile menu and return to the
normal static operating mode.
To Run a Program
Important: Test the profile you have programmed by running it completely before performing a live run.
-Whilst in static mode, press to select the profile number and segment from which you wish to start
running. For example, to run profile 1 from the beginning, enter “P1.00” which represents profile 1,
segment 0. To start profile 2 from the beginning, enter “P2.00” and so forth. To start from mid-way
through the profile, enter the segment number after the decimal point. For example “P2.03” to start
from segment 3 of profile 2.
-Press until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press until is displayed in the Set Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Hold for seconds then release to commit the changes to the operating mode. The Program –
Running Indicator will now light and the selected profile will commence running.
-The set temperature will automatically vary in accordance with your programmed profile and the
controller will attempt to match the actual temperature.
-Once the profile has ended, press + simultaneously to restore the controller to static operating
mode.

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To End the Program
-Press until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press until is displayed in the Set Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Hold for seconds then release to commit the changes to the operating mode. The current and
set temperatures will now be displayed in static mode.
Important – Do NOT set the operating mode to as you will be locked out of the menu system. The off mode
is used for service only. Use the mode for manual operation. In the case where you have accidentally set
the mode to and the controls cannot be accessed, press + simultaneously to restore the
controller to static operating mode.
Important: Once the program has ended, if the Program – Running Indicator and Program – Hold Mode Indicator
are flashing simultaneously, press and together to return the controller back to static operating mode.
Setting the Over and Under Temperature Alarms
The TH8500 is equipped with an over-temperature audible and visible alarm, as well as a visible under-temperature
alarm. Both alarms are configurable by the user.
The alarms are configured as deviation alarms whereby they operate relative to the desired set point. If the current
temperature deviates from the set temperature by the margin configured by the user, the alarm will activate.
*Note: The under temperature alarm will only activate once the current temperature has reached the initial desired
set point, this is by design.
To configure the alarm set points :
-Press repeatedly until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press or to set the desired deviation for the over-temperature alarm.
Important : The over-temperature alarm should be entered as a positive value.
-Press repeatedly until is displayed in the Current Temperature/Parameter Display.
-Press or to set the desired deviation for the under-temperature alarm.
Important : The under temperature alarm should be entered as a negative value.
- Press to exit the menu. The current and set temperatures will be displayed.
Loading/Un-Loading the Water Bath
CAUTION
NE ER place your hands near the heating element whilst the Immersion Heater Circulator is heating as serious burns
and scalding could result.
ALWAYS use appropriate tools (such as silicon insulated tongs) to load and unload items from the water to avoid
your hands coming into contact with hot water or the heating element.

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CAUTION
If using the bath with a lid, be careful when lifting the lid as steam may be present.
ALWAYS remove the lid at arm’s length with your face away from the bath.
ALWAYS use a safety glove when removing the lid as the lid may be hot enough to cause burns or other injury.
NE ER remove the lid with your face directly over the bath. Steam may be present and burns or injury could result.
Be careful when working with hot items removed from the bath as burns or scalding may occur if contact occurs.
Always wear eye protection when loading or unloading items from a hot water bath.
Do not use explosive or volatile containers with this Immersion Heater Circulator.
Ensure all containers remain tightly sealed at all times whilst loading and unloading the water bath.
Only use containers suitable for the water temperature selected.
-When loading, use appropriate tools (such as silicon insulated tongs) to slowly place the required rack, container
or accessory into the bath. Ensure the item will not tip over and will not float. If containers will not stand securely
or will float, a suitable rack or tray should be used which will prevent the container from floating or tipping over.
-When unloading, use appropriate tools (such as silicon insulated tongs) to slowly remove the items and place
them onto a water-proof and heat-proof surface.
-Continue to load or unload your containers, racks or accessories until complete.
Switching Off The Immersion Heater Circulator
-Switch the Mains Power Switch to the position marked with a circle. The Power On/Off indicator will go dark.
CAUTION
Although the heating system may now be inactive, the residual heat in the heating element may be sufficient to
cause serious burns or scalding.
The residual water temperature may also be sufficient to cause burns or scalding.
Allow at least 10 minutes after switching off the heating system to allow the heating element to cool.
Allow the water temperature to reach ambient room temperature before proceeding to empty the water bath.
Unplug the Immersion Heater Circulator from the mains power supply outlet and remove it from the water bath
before emptying. Consult the water bath user manual for instructions on safely emptying the bath.
Over Temperature Safety Cutout
The Immersion Heater Circulator features a manually reset over-temperature safety cutout which cuts power to the
heating element in cases where the heating element has become too hot as a result of an insufficient water level
being maintained in the bath or an unsuitable heating medium has been used.
When the cutout activates, a small click sound may be heard.
Depending on the quality of the water being used, an unpleasant smell may also be noticed as a result of the