Simpson Minilab PVF-C User manual

www.simpsongroup.com
Operating Instructions
Minilab
Model PVF-C
Accessories: Model
Transverse Strength Attachment PBV/M
Twin-Transverse Shear Strength Attachment PQS/M
Screening Device for Preparation Sample PES
Tensile Strength Device PZV/M
High Pressure Measuring Device PHD/M

www.simpsongroup.com
Type:
Minilab
Model:
PVF-C
Part No.:
592-820-650
Serial No.:
Name and address of manufacturer:
Simpson Technologies (Deutschland) GmbH
Roizheimer Strasse 180
53879 Euskirchen,
Germany
For other Simpson Technologies offices around the world and for our
contact information please visit us on the internet at
www.simpsongroup.com on the Contacts page.
This document is strictly confidential.
This document is protected under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries as an
unpublished work. This document contains information that is proprietary and confidential to
Simpson Technologies Corporation or its subsidiaries which shall not be disclosed outside or
duplicated, used or disclosed in whole or in part for any purpose other than to evaluate Simpson
Technologies for a proposed transaction. Any use or disclosure in whole or in part of this
information without the express written permission of Simpson Technologies Corporation is
prohibited.
© 2021 Simpson Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved.

Table of Contents
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 MiniLab i
Table of Contents
Introduction ........................................................................ 11
1.1 Application and Designated Use............................................1
1.2 Organizational Measures.......................................................2
Safety .................................................................................. 32
2.1 Safety Signs and Labels........................................................3
2.1.1 Safety Alert Symbols............................................................4
2.1.2 Safety Symbol Labels..........................................................5
2.2 Lockout and Tagout System Procedure.................................8
2.2.1 Lockout and Tagout Devices...............................................8
2.2.2 Glossary...............................................................................9
Short Description & Specifications ................................ 103
3.1 Application...........................................................................10
3.2 Description ..........................................................................10
3.3 Measurement Types............................................................11
3.4 Specifications, Dimensions and Weights (Approximate) ......13
3.5 Accessories.........................................................................14
3.5.1 Transverse Strength Attachment (Model PBV/M) .............14
3.5.2 Twin-Transverse Shear Strength Attachment (Model
PQS/M)..............................................................................14
3.5.3 Screening Device for Preparation Sample (Model PES)...15
3.5.4 Tensile Strength Device (Model PZV/M) ...........................15
3.5.5 High Pressure Measuring Device (Model PHD/M) ............16
Unpacking and Installation.............................................. 174
4.1 Unpacking ...........................................................................17

Table of Contents
ii MInilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
4.2 Components........................................................................18
4.3 Installation...........................................................................19
4.4 Electrical and Pneumatic Power Connection........................19
4.5 Connecting Power and Set-Up.............................................20
4.6 Airborne Noise Emission......................................................21
Commissioning ................................................................ 225
5.1 Adjustments.........................................................................22
5.1.1 Compressed Air Pressure..................................................22
5.1.2 Power.................................................................................22
5.2 Operating Component and Functions ..................................23
5.2.1 Operator Panel (OP)..........................................................23
5.3 Connecting External Devices...............................................24
5.3.1 Personal Computer (PC) ...................................................24
5.3.2 Printer ................................................................................25
Operating Instructions..................................................... 266
6.1 Menu Outline.......................................................................26
6.1.1 Measurements...................................................................26
6.1.2 Options...............................................................................27
6.1.3 Measurement Series..........................................................32
6.2 Operation.............................................................................33
6.2.1 Test Specimen Manufacture..............................................33
6.2.2 Compactability Measurement ............................................35
6.2.3 Compression Strength Measurement................................36
6.2.4 Splitting Strength Measurement ........................................37
6.2.5 Twin-Transverse Shear Strength Measurement (PQS/M).39

Table of Contents
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 MiniLab iii
6.2.6 Transverse Strength Measurement (PBV/M) ....................41
6.2.7 Tensile Strength Measurement (PZV/M)...........................43
6.2.8 High Pressure Measurement (PHD/M)..............................45
6.2.9 Permeability Measurement................................................47
6.2.10 Wet Tensile Strength Measurement..................................48
Maintenance and Calibration .......................................... 497
7.1 Daily Maintenance...............................................................49
7.2 Quarterly Maintenance (Every Three Months) .....................49
7.3 Calibration ...........................................................................50
Apparatus Layout............................................................. 528
Parts List / Ordering Parts / Returns .............................. 589
9.1 Spare Parts List...................................................................58
9.2 Ordering Replacement / Spare Parts...................................59
9.3 Return Goods Policy............................................................59
Decommissioning ............................................................ 6110

Table of Contents
iv MInilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
This Page Is Intentionally Blank.

Introduction 1
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 1
Introduction1
Congratulations, you have just purchased an extremely reliable sand
testing instrument that is backed by the professional technical support
and years of proven sand technology experience of Simpson
Technologies Corporation.
This laboratory equipment is constructed of quality materials and is
the result of unsurpassed craftsmanship. The Minilab should be
operated only when it is in perfect condition, in accordance with its
designed purpose and while being aware of possible hazards.
Observe the safety instructions in Section 2 and operating instructions
in Section 6.
1.1 Application and Designated Use
This device is intended exclusively for producing a foundry sand
sample or measuring the strength and compactability of foundry sands
mixed with chemical and clay binders. Usage of other materials may
be possible upon consultation with the technical service of Simpson
Technologies.
Any other application outside the intended usage will be regarded as
use not in accordance with its purpose, and, therefore, the
manufacturer/supplier will not be held liable for any damage that might
arise hereunder. The risk in this case will be exclusively that of the
user.

Introduction 1
2 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
1.2 Organizational Measures
The operating instructions should be readily available at the place of
operation. In addition to the operating instructions, the general legal
regulations or other mandatory rules for prevention of accidents and
environmental protection should be made known and be observed!
The personnel instructed to use this apparatus, before beginning
work, should have studied and fully understood these Operating
Instructions, in particular the “Safety” chapter.
No modifications, extensions or changes of design of the device that
would impact safety requirements should be put into effect without
prior consent of the supplier! Spare parts must conform to the
technical specifications defined by the manufacturer. This is always
guaranteed when using original spares.

Safety 2
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 3
Safety2
Before operating and/or performing maintenance or
repair on Simpson Technologies designed and/or
manufactured equipment, it is required that all
personnel have read and understood the entire
Operation Maintenance manual. If any questions
exist, you must contact your supervisor or Simpson
Technologies before taking further action.
If properly operated and maintained, you’re Simpson Technologies
supplied equipment can provide many years of dependable and safe
operation. Please follow all recommended safety, operating, and
maintenance instructions. Furthermore, the introduction of any non-
Simpson Technologies manufactured and/or approved parts to the
equipment may create a hazardous situation. Never alter the
equipment without prior consultation with Simpson Technologies.
DO NOT use this machine for purposes other than
that for which it is intended. Improper use could
result in death or serious injury.
2.1 Safety Signs and Labels
Simpson Technologies has incorporated the ANSI Z535.6/ISO 3864-
1-2 safety symbol only label format on all of its laboratory equipment.
The harmonized ANSI Z535.6 format became an established safety
label format since it not only fully meets the current ANSI Z535
standards, but also incorporates ISO 3864-2 symbols and hazard
severity panel and thus, can be used for both the U.S. and
international markets.

2 Safety
4 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
2.1.1 Safety Alert Symbols
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to
potential personal injury hazards. OBEY all safety
messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or
death.

Indicates an imminently hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
The safety alert symbol used without a signal word
to call attention to safety messages indicates a
potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could or may result in death or minor injury.
NOTICE indicates information used to address
practices not related to personal injuries but may
result in property damage.
This symbol indicates information containing important instructions
concerning the use of the machine or directions for further
procedures. Ignoring this information can lead to malfunction of the
machine.

Safety 2
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 5
2.1.2 Safety Symbol Labels
NO CHANGE OR PART SUBSTITUTIONS
(STC #998-4725)
This label is located on the left side of the panel enclosure above
the main switch.
No changes or part substitutions shall be made on this equipment
without consulting Simpson Technologies. Changes may compromise
safety features, resulting in a hazardous situation.
PINCH POINTS
(STC #998-4727)
This label is located on the Piston of the pneumatic cylinder.
With the service doors open, body parts may be crushed or cut
between the Piston and Minilab Base Plate from both intentional and
unintentional movement of the piston. Follow Lockout and Tagout
procedures before servicing and always ensure Protection Doors are
closed before testing.

2 Safety
6 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
AUTOMATED VERTICAL MOVEMENT
(STC #998-4728)
This label is located on the right service door next to the handle.
After power interruption, an automatic restart may occur. In this case,
the piston will move upward. Follow Lockout and Tagout procedures
before servicing.
ELECTRICAL POWER 230V
(STC #998-4732)
This label is located on the back side of the panel enclosure next to
the power connection inlet.
With the socket outlet connection removed, the electrical power
supply and electrical terminals are exposed. A hazardous voltage up
to 230V is present, can cause electric shock or burn and will result in
serious injury. Follow Lockout and Tagout procedures before
servicing.

Safety 2
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 7
ELECTRICAL POWER
(STC #596-296-020)
This label is located inside the panel enclosure on the right side,
above the manometer.
With the panel enclosure door open, the electrical power supply and
electrical terminals are exposed. A hazardous voltage is present, can
cause electric shock or burn and will result in serious injury. Follow
Lockout and Tagout procedures before servicing.
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL SERVICE MANUAL
INSTRUCTIONS
(STC #998-4731)
This label is located on the left side of the panel enclosure above the
main switch.
Before operating and/or performing any maintenance or repair on
Simpson Technologies designed and/or manufactured equipment, it is
required that all personnel read and understand the entire Operating
Instructions manual. All protective guards and covers shall be installed
and all doors closed before operating the equipment. If any questions
remain unanswered, you must contact your supervisor or Simpson
Technologies before taking further action. Follow Lockout and
Tagout procedures before servicing.

2 Safety
8 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
2.2 Lockout and Tagout System Procedure
Whenever performing any type of maintenance or
repair, whether in the form of cleaning, inspection,
adjustment, mechanical or electrical maintenance,
the equipment must be rendered into Zero
Mechanical State (ZMS).
Prior to maintenance (routine or otherwise) or repair of equipment, a
safety procedure should be established and maintained. This
procedure should include: training of all personnel involved with the
equipment; identification and labeling of all equipment which is
interlocked mechanically, electrically, through hydraulics, pneumatics,
levers, gravity or otherwise; and a listing of the established lockout
procedures posted on each piece of equipment.
“Lockout and Tagout” refers to specific practices and procedures to
safeguard personnel from the unexpected energizing of machinery
and equipment, or the release of hazardous energy during service o
maintenance activities. This requires, in part, that a designated
individual turns off and disconnects the machinery or equipment from
its energy source(s) before performing service or maintenance, and
that the authorized employee(s) lock or tag the energy-isolating
device(s) to prevent the release of hazardous energy and take steps
to verify that the energy has been isolated effectively.
2.2.1 Lockout and Tagout Devices
When attached to an energy-isolating device, both lockout and tagout
devices are tools used to help protect personnel from hazardous
energy. The lockout device provides protection by holding the energy-
isolating device in a safe position, thus preventing the machine or
equipment from becoming energized. The tagout device does so by
identifying the energy-isolating device as a source of potential danger.
It indicates that the energy-isolating device and the equipment being
controlled may not be operated until the tagout device is removed.

Safety 2
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 9
2.2.2 Glossary
Authorized Person(s) - Personnel who have been designated by
his/her department to perform maintenance or service on a piece or
pieces of equipment, machinery or system. These individuals are
qualified to perform the work through proper training on the
Lockout/Tagout procedures for the equipment, machinery or system.
Lockout - The placement of a Tagout device on an energy-isolating
device, in accordance with an established procedure, to indicate that
the energy isolating device and the equipment being controlled may
not be operated until the Tagout device is removed.
Lockout Device - Any device that uses positive methods, such as a
lock (either key or combination type), to hold an energy-isolating
device in a safe position, thereby preventing the energizing of
machinery or equipment. When properly installed, a blank flange or
bolted slip blind are considered equivalent to lockout devices.
Tagout - The placement of a Tagout device on an energy-isolating
device, in accordance with an established procedure, to indicate that
the energy isolating device and the equipment being controlled may
not be operated until the Tagout device is removed.
Tagout Device - Any prominent warning device, such as a tag and a
means of attachment, which can be securely fastened to an energy
isolating device in accordance with an established procedure. The tag
indicates that the machine or equipment to which it is attached is not
to be operated until the Tagout device is removed in accordance with
the energy control procedure.
Zero Mechanical State - The mechanical potential energy of all
portions of the equipment or machine is set so that the opening of
pipes, tubes or hoses, and the actuation of any valve, lever or button,
will not produce a movement which could cause injury.

3 Short Description & Specifications
10 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
Short Description & Specifications3
3.1 Application
The Minilab, Model PVF-C, is a multi-purpose instrument used to
determine strength properties of clay and/or chemically bonded
foundry sand specimens. The instrument may be used to create a
50mm x 50mm cylindrical test specimen and determine several sand
properties through various tests. (Note: the properties of Minilab sand
specimens are different than those of rammed sand specimens. The
compressive strengths of rammed and squeezed sand cannot be
compared on a 1:1 basis.) A vertically-moving piston applies pressure
on a sand specimen until failure. The force data is then displayed on a
digital operator panel on the front of the instrument.
3.2 Description
The Minilab, Model PVF-C, is capable of running many different sand
strength tests with additional fixtures and accessories that are easy to
connect to the instrument. These tests include green sand
compactability, compression strength, splitting strength, twin-
transverse shear strength, core transverse (bending) strength, and
others.
After placing the sand specimen in the strength accessory, the
operator selects the desired test and the piston places pressure on
the sand specimen until it breaks. The digital display panel shows the
strength value in N/cm2(various strength resolutions are specified by
test on the following pages). The machine may be calibrated as
necessary using spring forces and piston displacement. (See section
7.3)

Short Description & Specifications 3
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 11
3.3 Measurement Types
Compactability
Resolution: 0.1%
Test Specimen
Resolution: 0.1mm
Compression Strength
Resolution: 0.1 N/cm2
Twin-Transverse Shear
Strength
Resolution: 0.1 N/cm2
Splitting Strength
Resolution: 0.1 N/cm2

3 Short Description & Specifications
12 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
In addition to these standard test types, the following values may be
recorded on the Minilab when the corresponding device is connected.
Value Type
Device
Resolution (N/cm2)
Wet Tensile Strength
PNZ
0.001
Permeability
PED
1 unit
Tensile Strength
Test Tool
0.1
High Pressure
Test Tool
1
Transverse Strength
Resolution: 1 N/cm2

Short Description & Specifications 3
man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2 Minilab 13
3.4 Specifications, Dimensions and Weights (Approximate)
Specifications
Minilab
Length
830 mm (32.6 in)
Width
400 mm (15.7 in)
Height
250 mm (9.8 in)
Weight
56 kg (123.4 lbs.)
Power
230 V - 50 Hz
Air Compressed
Min. 5 bar
Max. 10 bar
Test Selection
Accessory
Standard Range
Max. Range
Force
-
3000 N
5000 N
Compression Strength
-
153 N/cm2
255 N/cm2
Splitting Strength
-
120 N/cm2
200 N/cm2
Twin-Transverse Shear
Strength
PQS/M
76.4 N/cm2
127 N/cm2
Core Transverse Strength
PBV/M
6006 N/cm2
10009 N/cm2
Core Tensile Strength
PZV/M
598 N/cm2
996 N/cm2
High Compression
Strength
PHD/M
917 N/cm2
1528 N/cm2
Component
PVF-C
PLC (Programmable Logic Control)
Siemens CPU 313C
CP 340 RS232C
Power supply unit PSU100S AC
120/230V; 24V DC/2.5A
Display
Siemens Simatic HMI KP400
Comfort
Path Measurement
Transmetra path sensor
Path sensor amplifier Phönix
Load Measurement
Force absorber HBM 5kN
Force measurement amplifier
HBM AE101
Pneumatic Measurement
Festo pneumatic cylinder
Festo pneumatic valve

3 Short Description & Specifications
14 Minilab man-CH-PVF-C-V17-2
3.5 Accessories
3.5.1 Transverse Strength Attachment (Model PBV/M)
This accessory is mounted on the Minilab, Model PVF-C, and is used
to determine the transverse strength of standard core sand transverse
specimens. With the PBV/M Base Plate mounted on the Minilab, a
transverse specimen is placed on the two Base Bolts and force is
applied at the center, initiating a bending force.
3.5.2 Twin-Transverse Shear Strength Attachment (Model PQS/M)
This accessory is mounted on the Minilab, Model PVF-C, and is used
to determine the shear strength of clay bonded molding sands. With
the PQS/M Base Plate mounted on the Minilab, a standard sand
specimen of 50 mm x 50 mm is placed on the two Support Plates with
its radial surface against the curved edge of each plate. The Shear
Unit comes down with the Piston and instigates a shear force at two
locations along the vertical plane.
Specifications
Transverse Strength
Attachment
Length
ca. 190 mm (7.48 in.)
Width
ca. 50 mm (1.97 in.)
Height
ca. 65 mm (2.56 in.)
Weight
ca. 0.58 kg (1.28 lb.)
Specifications
Twin-Transverse
Shear Strength
Attachment
Length
ca. 100 mm (3.93 in.)
Width
ca. 55 mm (2.17 in.)
Height
ca. 52 mm (2.05 in.)
Weight
ca. 0.98 kg (2.16 lb.)