Retsch PM400 User manual

© Retsch GmbH, 42781 Haan, Retsch-Allee 1-5, Germany 26.03.2015 0001
Manual
Planetary Ball Mill PM400
Translation

2
Copyright
© Copyright by
Retsch GmbH
Haan, Retsch-Allee 1-5
D-42781 Haan
Federal Republic of Germany

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1Notes on the Operating Manual ............................................................................................................7
1.1 Explanations of the safety warnings.................................................................................................. 8
1.2 General safety instructions ................................................................................................................ 9
1.3 Repairs............................................................................................................................................. 10
2Confirmation .........................................................................................................................................11
3Transport, scope of delivery, installation..........................................................................................12
3.1 Packaging........................................................................................................................................ 12
3.2 Transport.......................................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 Temperature fluctuations and condensed water ............................................................................. 12
3.4 Conditions for the place of installation............................................................................................. 12
3.5 Installation of the machine............................................................................................................... 13
3.6 Type plate description...................................................................................................................... 13
3.7 Electrical connection........................................................................................................................ 13
3.8 Creating interface connection.......................................................................................................... 14
3.9 Transport.......................................................................................................................................... 15
3.10 Installation of the machine............................................................................................................... 17
3.11 Installation of the machine............................................................................................................... 17
4Technical data.......................................................................................................................................19
4.1 Use of the machine for the intended purpose.................................................................................. 19
4.2 Number of grinding stations............................................................................................................. 20
4.3 Receptacle volume.......................................................................................................................... 20
4.4 Feed size ......................................................................................................................................... 20
4.5 Rated power .................................................................................................................................... 20
4.6 Electrical connection........................................................................................................................ 20
4.7 Emissions......................................................................................................................................... 21
4.7.1 Noise levels.................................................................................................................................. 21
4.7.2 Measurement conditions.............................................................................................................. 21
4.8 Degree of protection ........................................................................................................................ 21
4.9 Protective equipment....................................................................................................................... 21
4.10 Dimensions and weight.................................................................................................................... 21
4.11 Required floor space........................................................................................................................ 21
5Operating the machine ........................................................................................................................22
5.1 Views of the Instrument................................................................................................................... 22
5.2 Overview table of the parts of the device ........................................................................................ 24
5.3 Operating elements and displays .................................................................................................... 25
5.4 Overview Table of the Operating Elements and the Display........................................................... 25
5.5 Opening the device.......................................................................................................................... 25
5.6 Closing the device ........................................................................................................................... 25
5.7 Emergency unlocking ...................................................................................................................... 26
5.8 Inserting the grinding jar .................................................................................................................. 27
5.8.1 Clamping bolt............................................................................................................................... 28
5.8.2 Inserting the grinding jar .............................................................................................................. 30
5.8.3 Inserting the clamping unit........................................................................................................... 31
5.8.4 Function of the locking sleeve ..................................................................................................... 31
5.9 Releasing the grinding jar clamping mechanism............................................................................. 32
5.10 Opening the grinding jar clamping mechanism with a counter wrench........................................... 32

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5.11 Power failure during grinding........................................................................................................... 33
5.12 Mahlbehälterauswahl für unterschiedlichen Probenmaterialien...................................................... 33
5.13 Sample quantity............................................................................................................................... 33
5.13.1 Guides for material quantity and balls ..................................................................................... 34
5.14 Ultrafine grinding.............................................................................................................................. 34
5.15 Stacking the grinding jars ................................................................................................................ 34
5.15.1 Stacking 50ml grinding jars...................................................................................................... 34
5.15.2 Stacking grinding jars smaller than 50ml................................................................................. 35
5.16 Handling grinding jars...................................................................................................................... 35
5.16.1 Carrying and gripping .............................................................................................................. 35
5.16.2 Anti-rotation device.................................................................................................................. 35
5.16.3 Heating the grinding jars.......................................................................................................... 35
5.17 Grinding jar –identification.............................................................................................................. 36
5.18 Grinding jar cleaning........................................................................................................................ 36
5.18.1 Drying the grinding jars............................................................................................................ 36
5.19 Closing the grinding jar.................................................................................................................... 37
6Display and operation..........................................................................................................................39
6.1 Symbols in the Display Unit............................................................................................................. 39
6.2 Display unit –operation of the device.............................................................................................. 40
6.2.1 Adjustment options using the display menu ................................................................................ 40
6.2.2 Navigating between operating modes ......................................................................................... 40
6.3 Direct access to the language menu ............................................................................................... 40
6.4 Menu structure................................................................................................................................. 42
6.5 Operating modes ............................................................................................................................. 42
6.5.1 Manual operation......................................................................................................................... 42
6.5.2 Program 01 to 10......................................................................................................................... 42
6.5.3 Basic settings............................................................................................................................... 42
6.6 Manual operation............................................................................................................................. 43
6.6.1 Grinding time................................................................................................................................ 43
6.6.2 Speed........................................................................................................................................... 43
6.6.3 Interval......................................................................................................................................... 43
6.6.4 Direction reversal......................................................................................................................... 43
6.6.5 Pause time................................................................................................................................... 43
6.6.6 Save parameters ......................................................................................................................... 43
6.6.7 Start in.......................................................................................................................................... 44
6.7 Programs ......................................................................................................................................... 44
6.7.1 Change program.......................................................................................................................... 44
6.7.2 Delete program............................................................................................................................ 44
6.8 Basic settings................................................................................................................................... 44
6.8.1 Automatic opening....................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.2 Language..................................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.3 Brightness.................................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.4 Date ............................................................................................................................................. 45
6.8.5 Time............................................................................................................................................. 45
6.8.6 Acoustic warning signal ............................................................................................................... 45
6.8.7 Service......................................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.7.1 Operating hours................................................................................................................... 45

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6.8.7.2 Software version of display.................................................................................................. 45
6.8.7.3 Software version of the controller........................................................................................ 45
6.8.7.4 Update software................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.7.4.1 Display........................................................................................................................... 45
6.8.7.4.2 Controller ....................................................................................................................... 46
6.8.8 Safety notice................................................................................................................................ 46
7Fault messages.....................................................................................................................................47
8Cleaning, wear and service .................................................................................................................48
8.1 Service .............................................................................................................................................. 48
8.1.1 Servicing the clamping unit.......................................................................................................... 49
8.1.2 Wear to the bases of the clamping unit ....................................................................................... 49
8.1.3 Rubber washer on the pressure plate ......................................................................................... 50
8.1.4 Wear to latching bracket.............................................................................................................. 50
8.2 Replacing the machine fuses............................................................................................................ 50
8.3 Returning for service and maintenance ............................................................................................ 51
9Disposal.................................................................................................................................................53
10 Index ......................................................................................................................................................54
Appendix .................................................................................................................................. following page

Notes on the Operating Manual
7
1 Notes on the Operating Manual
This operating manual is a technical guide on how to operate the device safely and
it contains all the information required for the areas specified in the table of
contents. This technical documentation is a reference and instruction manual. The
individual chapters are complete in themselves.
Familiarity (of the respective target groups defined according to area) with the
relevant chapters is a precondition for the safe and appropriate use of the device.
This operating manual does not contain any repair instructions. If faults arise or
repairs are necessary, please contact your supplier or get in touch with Retsch
GmbH directly.
Application technology information relating to samples to be processed is not
included but can be read on the Internet on the respective device’s page at
www.retsch.com.
Changes
Subject to technical changes.
Copyright
Disclosure or reproduction of this documentation, use and disclosure of its contents
are only permitted with the express permission of Retsch GmbH.
Infringements will result in damage compensation liability.

Notes on the Operating Manual
8
1.1 Explanations of the safety warnings
In this Operating Manual we give you the following safety warnings
Serious injury may result from failing to heed these safety warnings. We give you
the following warnings and corresponding content.
WARNING
Type of danger / personal injury
Source of danger
–Possible consequences if the dangers are not observed.
•Instructions on how the dangers are to be avoided.
We also use the following signal word box in the text or in the instructions on action
to be taken:
WARNING
Moderate or mild injury may result from failing to heed these safety warnings.
We give you the following warnings and corresponding content.
CAUTION
Type of danger / personal injury
Source of danger
–Possible consequences if the dangers are not observed.
•Instructions on how the dangers are to be avoided.
We also use the following signal word box in the text or in the instructions on action
to be taken:
CAUTION
In the event of possible property damage we inform you with the word
“Instructions” and the corresponding content.
NOTICE
Nature of the property damage
Source of property damage
–Possible consequences if the instructions are not observed.
•Instructions on how the dangers are to be avoided.
We also use the following signal word in the text or in the instructions on action to
be taken:
NOTICE

Notes on the Operating Manual
9
1.2 General safety instructions
CAUTION
Read the Operating Manual
Non-observance of these operating instructions
–The non-observance of these operating instructions can
result in personal injuries.
•Read the operating manual before using the device.
•We use the adjacent symbol to draw attention to the
necessity of knowing the contents of this operating
manual.
Target group : All persons concerned with the machine in any form
This machine is a modern, high performance product from Retsch GmbH and
complies with the state of the art. Operational safety is given if the machine is
handled for the intended purpose and attention is given to this technical
documentation.
You, as the owner/managing operator of the machine, must ensure that the people
entrusted with working on the machine:
•have noted and understood all the regulations regarding safety,
•are familiar before starting work with all the operating instructions and
specifications for the target group relevant for them,
•have easy access always to the technical documentation for this machine,
•and that new personnel before starting work on the machine are familiarised
with the safe handling of the machine and its use for its intended purpose,
either by verbal instructions from a competent person and/or by means of
this technical documentation.
Improper operation can result in personal injuries and material damage. You are
responsible for your own safety and that of your employees.
Make sure that no unauthorised person has access to the machine.
CAUTION
Changes to the machine
–Changes to the machine may lead to personal injury.
•Do not make any change to the machine and use spare parts and
accessories that have been approved by Retsch exclusively.
NOTICE
Changes to the machine
–The conformity declared by Retsch with the European Directives will lose
its validity.
–You lose all warranty claims.
•Do not make any change to the machine and use spare parts and
accessories that have been approved by Retsch exclusively.

Notes on the Operating Manual
10
Reperaturen
1.3 Repairs
This operating manual does not contain any repair instructions. For your own
safety, repairs may only be carried out by Retsch GmbH or an authorized
representative or by Retsch service engineers.
In that case please inform:
The Retsch representative in your country
Your supplier
Retsch GmbH directly
Your Service Address:

Confirmation
11
Bestätigung
2 Confirmation
This operating manual contains essential instructions for operating and maintaining
the device which must be strictly observed. It is essential that they be read by the
operator and by the qualified staff responsible for the device before the device is
commissioned. This operating manual must be available and accessible at the
place of use at all times.
The user of the device herewith confirms to the managing operator (owner) that
(s)he has received sufficient instructions about the operation and maintenance of
the system. The user has received the operating manual, has read and taken note
of its contents and consequently has all the information required for safe operation
and is sufficiently familiar with the device.
As the owner/managing operator you should for your own protection have your
employees confirm that they have received the instructions about the operation of
the machine.
I have read and taken note of the contents of all chapters in this operating
manual as well as all safety instructions and warnings.
User
Surname, first name (block letters)
Position in the company
Signature
Service technician or operator
Surname, first name (block letters)
Position in the company
Place, date and signature

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
12
3 Transport, scope of delivery, installation
3.1 Packaging
The packaging has been adapted to the mode of transport. It complies with the
generally applicable packaging guidelines.
NOTICE
Storage of packaging
–In the event of a complaint or return, your warranty claims may be
endangered if the packaging is inadequate or the machine has not been
secured correctly.
•Please keep the packaging for the duration of the warranty period.
3.2 Transport
NOTICE
Transport
–Mechanical or electronic components may be damaged.
•The machine may not be knocked, shaken or thrown during
transport.
NOTICE
H0014
Complaints
–The forwarding agent and Retsch GmbH must be notified immediately in
the event of transport damage. It is otherwise possible that subsequent
complaints will not be recognised.
•Notify your forwarding agent and Retsch GmbH within 24h
3.3 Temperature fluctuations and condensed water
NOTICE
Temperature fluctuations
The machine may be subject to strong temperature fluctuations during transport
(e.g. aircraft transport)
–The resultant condensed water may damage electronic components.
•Protect the machine from condensed water.
3.4 Conditions for the place of installation
Ambient temperature: 5°C to 40°C

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
13
NOTICE
Ambient temperature
–Electronic and mechanical components may be damaged and the
performance data alter to an unknown extent.
•Do not exceed or fall below the permitted temperature range of the
machine (5°C to 40°C / ambient temperature).
3.5 Installation of the machine
Installation height: maximum 2000 m above sea level
3.6 Type plate description
Fig. 1: Type plate lettering
1 Device designation
2 Year of production
3 Part number
4 Serial number
5 Manufacturer’s address
6 CE marking
7 Disposal label
8 Bar code
9 Power version
10 Mains frequency
11 Capacity
12 Amperage
13 Number of fuses
14 Fuse type and fuse strength
In the case of questions please provide the device designation (1) or the part
number (3) and the serial number (4) of the device.
3.7 Electrical connection
WARNING
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0
1
1
1
2
1
4
1
3

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
14
When connecting the power cable to the mains supply, use an external fusethat
complies with the regulations applicable to the place of installation .
•Please check the type plate for details on the necessary voltage and
frequency for the device.
•Make sure the levels agree with the existing mains power supply.
•Use the supplied connection cable to connect the device to the mains power
supply.
•Make sure that the voltage and frequency of your mains connection
corresponds to that on the type plate of the RS200.
–The mains connection must be fused to at least 16A
–An electrical connection without protective earth PE is not permitted.
The drive of the device is equipped with a frequency converter . In order to satisfy
the EMC Directive , this is fitted with a mains filter and shielded cables to the
motor. If your mains connection includes a residual current protection device, the
suppressor capacitor wiring of the frequency converter when this is switched on (it
is switched on by closing the grinding chamber hood) can lead to accidental
triggering of the residual current protection device without any error being present
on the device or in the mains installation.
In accordance with the state of the art, selective all current sensitive residual
current protection devices are recommended for such cases. The tripping current
must be sufficiently dimensioned because capacitive compensating current
(shielded cable, mains filter) which only occurs for a short time can easily lead to
accidental triggering.
In certain circumstances it may be necessary to operate the device without a
residual current protection device. It is then necessary, however, to check that this
does not contravene the local regulations of the electricity company or other
institutions and the applicable standards.
3.8 Creating interface connection
Fig.
1
: Serial interface
–When updating the device control or display software, a connection with the
PC is established using the RS232 interface (SC).
NOTICE
The interface cables must not be longer than 2.5m. Longer cables can lead to
faults in data transmission.
SC

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
15
3.9 Transport
WARNING
Serious personal injury
Falling loads
–The appliance is very heavy and can therefore cause serious personal
injuries if it falls down.
•Lifting above head height is not permissible!
NOTICE
Transport
–Mechanical or electronic components may be damaged.
•The machine may not be knocked, shaken or thrown during
transport.
NOTICE
Transport safeguard
–Components may be damaged.
•Operate the machine only without the transport safeguard or
transport the machine only with transport safeguard.
Fig.
2
: Unscrewing the transport lock from the transport pallet
The device is secured to the transport pallet by the transport lock and four nuts.
•Use a 13mm spanner to unscrew the four nuts.

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
16
Fig.
3
: Removing the transport lock from the device
Four bolts secure the transport lock underneath the device.
•Use a 13mm spanner to unscrew the four bolts.
Fig.
4
: Mounting the transport screws
The device should only be lifted and transported using the 4 transport screws (TS)
provided. Net weight approx. 210 kg
TS

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
17
Fig.
5
: Attaching the hoist
3.10 Installation of the machine
Fig.
6
: Locking the transport rollers
•Place the device on a firm surface.
Please refer to the “Technical Data” chapter for further parameters.
The device must be locked before it is put into operation.
•Press the locking lever (FH) of the two front rollers down.
3.11 Installation of the machine
Installation height: maximum 2000 m above sea level
FH
31.5 inches
31.5 inches

Transport, scope of delivery, installation
18
NOTE
Installation
–Depending on the operating status of the mill, there may be slight
vibrations.
•Place the mill on an even, flat and balanced supporting surface only.
The supporting surface must be stable and must not vibrate.
NOTICE
Installation of the machine
–It must be possible to disconnet the machine from the mains at any time.
•Install the machine such that the connection for the mains cable is
easily accessible.

Technical data
19
4 Technical data
4.1 Use of the machine for the intended purpose
CAUTION
1.V0004
Risk of explosion or fire
Changing sample properties
–Consider that the properties and therefore also the hazardousness of your
sample can change during the grinding process.
•Do not use any substances in this device which carry the risk of
explosion or fire.
CAUTION
Risk of explosion or fire
–On account of its design, the device is not suitable for use in hazardous
(potentially explosive) atmospheres.
•Do not operate the device in a hazardous atmosphere.
CAUTION
Danger of personal injury
Dangerous nature of the sample
–Depending on the dangerous nature of your sample, take the
necessary measures to rule out any danger to persons.
•Observe the safety guidelines and datasheets of your
sample material.
Target group: Operating companies, operators
Machine type designation: PM400
Retsch ball mills are used to grind and mix soft, medium hard and extremely hard,
brittle and fibrous materials. Dry and wet grinding are possible. Minerals, ores,
alloys, chemicals, glass, ceramics, parts of plants, soil, sewage sludge, house or
industrial waste and many other substances can be ground simply, quickly and
without loss. The ball mills are used successfully in almost all areas of industry
and research. This applies in particular where there are high demands in terms of
hygiene, speed, fineness and reproducibility.
NOTICE
Area of use of the machine
–This machine is a laboratory machine designed for 8-hour single-shift
operation.
•This machine may not be used as a production machine nor is it
intended for continuous operation.

Technical data
20
4.2 Number of grinding stations
2 or 4 depending on the model
The grinding stations must be operated with the identical grinding jars and with the
same weight during each grinding process.
NOTICE
H0068
Strong vibration and loud noise
Uneven load
–The device can produce very high levels of vibrations and noise when
loading is uneven.
•Always use 2 or 4 grinding jars opposite each other.
•When using 2 grinding jars, the two free grinding stations must be
secured using a clamping bolt and a lead frame.
•The grinding stations must be operated with the identical grinding
jars and with the same weight during each grinding process.
•Switch the device off immediately if there are high levels of vibration
and noise, and check the number and net weight of the jars.
4.3 Receptacle volume
Up to 4 times 300ml, depending on the grinding jar volume.
4.4 Feed size
Up to <10 mm, however this depends on the material.
4.5 Rated power
1500W
Make sure that the voltage and frequency of your mains connection correspond to
that on the type plate of the device. The mains connection must be fused to at
least 16A .
4.6 Electrical connection
WARNING
When connecting the power cable to the mains supply, use an external fusethat
complies with the regulations applicable to the place of installation .
•Please check the type plate for details on the necessary voltage and
frequency for the device.
•Make sure the levels agree with the existing mains power supply.
•Use the supplied connection cable to connect the device to the mains power
supply.