Torbal AGCN100 User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Cautionary Notes and Precautions
1.1. Important Safety Warnings
1.2. HOT Parts and Surfaces
1.3. More Cautionary Notes and Precautions
2. Specifications
3. Introduction
3.1. Function of the Moisture Analyzer
3.2. Good Practices and General Rules
4. Keys, Display Indicators, Commands, and Abbreviations
5. Parts Description
6. Unpacking the Moisture Analyzer and Getting Started
7. Understanding the Functions, Parameters, and Modes
7.1. Methods of Terminating the Moisture Analysis
7.2. Understating Configuration Parameters
8. Configuration and Parameter Setting for Moisture Analysis
8.1. Mode
8.2. Calculation Formula
8.3. Drying Temperature
8.4. Sample Quantity
8.5. Sampling Interval
8.6. Drying Time
8.7. Saving the Configuration and Parameters
9. RAP Configuration
10. Preparing the Sample
10.1. Using a Glass Fibre Filter
11. Making a Moisture Analysis
12. Setting Drying Parameters for Unknown Samples
13. Loading Saved Parameters and Configuration
14. Report Printing
15. Testing the Analyzer with Sodium Tartrate Dihydrate
16. Weighing
16.1. Taring
16.2. Clearing the Tare
17. Parts Counting
17.1. Using a Custom Sample Size
17.2. Counting Based on a Known Individual Piece Weight
18. Calibration
19. Main Menu
19.1. Autotaring
19.2. RS232 Serial Port Configuration
19.3. Print Adjustment
19.4. Time and Date
19.5. Language
19.6. LCD Setting
20. Halogen Replacement and Maintenance of the Moisture Analyzer
21. Technical Information
22. Common Errors and Troubleshooting
23. Replacement Parts
24. Limited Warranty

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The TORBAL Moisture Analyzer is a sensitive and a delicate instrument that generates heat up to 160°C. Many
parts and surfaces of the moisture analyzer get extremely HOT. Always handle the analyzer with care and use
EXCESSIVE CAUTION when operating the moisture analyzer.
1.1. Important Safety Warnings
WARNING:
•Do not test flammables, explosives, or things that produce dangerous or
noxious vapors.
•Do not test unknown substances.
•Do not put anything on the perforated top cover of the unit.
•Do not pass anything over the top of the unit when drying is in progress.
Never pass fluids over the perforated cover (a spill can be disastrous).
•If a sample flames, first pull the power plug from the power outlet, then
extinguish the flame.
•Always assume the Drying Chamber is hot when you open the cover. As the
internal parts can retain heat, allow adequate time for cooling before
touching any of the internal surfaces.
•Never touch a halogen lamp unless you are about to replace it, and you are
sure it is both off and cool.
Chapter 1: Cautionary Notes

3
WARNING:
•If a mistake creates a dangerous situation, hit the STOP key and it will terminate the heating
immediately.
•Use caution when touching any of the parts that rise to high temperatures during testing. Wear
protective gloves when removing hot samples, even when using the pan handle (it can get very
hot).
•Use the cover handle to open and close the Drying Chamber.
•Always use forceps or needle-nose pliers to remove the hot disposable sample pan from the larger
permanent pan.
•When loading a new sample into the Drying Chamber using the pan handle, make sure the
disposable sample pan and sample are centered and that the sample has been leveled. The
maximum sample height must be less than 10 mm.
•Be sure the Analyzer is in an area with good air circulation (to diffuse the heat generated by the
Drying Chamber), relatively low (less than 85%) or controlled humidity (for accurate
measurements), and an ambient temperature between 18ºC and 30ºC.
Legal regulations forbid disposal of electronic
equipment in waste containers.
•Please return this device to the point of purchase or another company that
specializes in recycling of waste electronic components.

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1.2. HOT Parts and Surfaces
Many parts of the Moisture Analyzer get very HOT during use. Familiarize yourself with these internal parts
and always allow adequate time for cooling before touching or handling.

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1.3. More Cautionary Notes and Precautions
Correct location and proper environment has a significant impact on the accuracy of the weighing results of the
TORBAL Moisture Analyzer.
The optimal location for your unit:
•Stable, vibration-free base as horizontal as possible
•Away from direct sunlight
•Not exposed to high temperature variations
•Away from direct drafts
•Best location: stable bench away from direct drafts, doors, windows, radiators, and air conditioner vents.
CAUTION:
•The Analyzer is designed for indoor use only.
•Do not operate the unit in hazardous areas or conditions.
•Do not use the Analyzer in locations subject to high humidity or dust levels.
•Do not connect cables in ways other than those designated in this manual.
•Be sure to set the Analyzer on a firm, stable horizontal surface.
•Never stand on or lean on this product. Equipment may fall or collapse, causing
breakage and possible injury.
•Before moving the product, unplug it and unplug all cables connected to it.
•When storing, transporting, or returning the unit for service, always use the original
packaging.
WARNING:
•Never attempt to repair, disassemble, or modify the Analyzer yourself. Tampering
with the unit may result in injury and cause more damage to the equipment.
•Be sure to use the specified power source.
•Do not allow foreign matter to fall into the unit.
•If water or other liquid spills into the Analyzer, do not continue to use it. Unplug the
power cord immediately and contact technical support.

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Model
AGCN100 AGCN200
Maximum Capacity 50g 100g
Readability (d) 0.001g
Repeatability (Standard
Deviation) 0.001g
Linearity +/- 0.002g
Tare Range -50g -100g
Accuracy Class II
Calibration Weight 50g 100g
Operating Temperature +18C to +33C
Analyzer Resolution 0.01%
Moisture Measurement
Accuracy
0.1g to 5g = +/-0.3%
5g to 15g = +/-0.06%
> 15g = < +/-0.04%
Maximum Drying
Temperature 160°C
Sampling Time 1 sec. to 180 sec.
Maximum Drying Time 10 hours
Drying Power 250W
Halogen Size 118mm
Warm-up time Approximately 30 sec.
Pan Size 90mm
Drying Chamber
Dimensions 108mm x 20mm
Scale Dimensions 215mm x 345mm x 200mm
Unit Weight 7kg
Power 110VAC, 60Hz
Warranty 12 months
Cha
p
ter 2: S
p
ecifications

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3.1. Function of the Moisture Analyzer
•The primary function of the device is to make precise measurements that allow the user to determine the
moisture content of various materials using the principle of thermo-gravimetric analysis.
•The secondary functions is to use the device as a precision scale to make weight determinations, as well
as to use the combination of computer software and the weighing function to count parts.
3.2. Good Practices and General Rules
•Larger samples take longer to dry, but produce more accurate results. When accurate results are
required, try to stay in the 5 to 15 gram range. Use the Drying Chart feature to help in optimizing the
Sample Size, Drying Time, and Temperature.
•For uniformity of results, it is better to set the Drying Time for a little longer rather than shorter.
•Lower temperatures take longer, but produce more uniform results in many materials. This is especially
true if thermal decomposition is encountered in which added moisture is driven off as drying continues
because of decomposition.
•Prepare the sample properly. This includes: obtaining uniformity of initial weight, leveling the sample,
using a glass fiber disc with fluid samples or samples that produce fluids when heated, and avoiding
carbonization of the sample when possible (lower heat helps).
•Prepare the sample quickly and get it into analysis before its moisture content is altered by its
surroundings.
•The more samples tested, the better the statistical reliability of the results.
•If solvents are required, be very careful of the vapors produced—they can be flammable or even
explosive. Safety first!
•Keep the Analyzer clean, keep the area around the Analyzer clear, calibrate the weighing unit
periodically, and test the unit for moisture accuracy using the Sodium Tartrate Dihydrate chemical
standard whenever problems are suspected (or periodically).
•Above all, remember the Drying Chamber can run at high temperatures, so use caution whenever
opening the cover or handling sample pans. The internal surfaces retain heat for some time.
Chapter 3: Introduction

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Key Primary Function Secondary Function
I/Ø Power On and Power Off -
ÅÆT Tare – used to tare the weighing pan N/A
Æ0ÅN/A N/A
ENTER ÆEnter – used to accept and confirm
commands N/A
MENU Menu – used to access the main menu Number “9” key
CLR Clear – used to clear and cancel
operation N/A
< > ^ Navigation Keys – used to navigate
through the menus N/A
Å
Æ
Mode Return – used to switch between moisture
analysis and weighing modes Number “0” key
[ÆData Transfer – used to print data to a
printer or transfer data to a PC via the
RS232 communication port Number “7” key
▼N/A Number “8” key
F1 START Number “1” key
F2 SET Number “2” key
F3 STAT Number “3” key
F4 MEM Number “4” key
F5 STOP Number “5” key
Display Indicator Description
T The current temperature in the drying chamber
m Current weight
t Current drying time
m0 Initial weight
Ts Defined drying temperature
ts Defined drying time
AUT Autotaring
Command or Abbreviation Description
Drying temp. Drying Temperature
Sampling Interv. Sampling Interval
Meas Number Measurement Number
Chapter 4: Keys, Display Indicators, Commands, and Abbreviations

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Part No. Description:
1 Halogen Lamps
2 Temperature Sensor
3 Drying Chamber
4 Pan Shield
5 Pan Support
6 Pan Handle
7 Disposable Pan
8 Pan Shield Posts
9 Adjustable Legs
10 Level Indicator
Chapter 5: Parts Description

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1. Carefully remove the Moisture Analyzer and all its components from the packaging and place
them on a stable base where the unit will not be affected by any mechanical vibrations or air
movements.
2. After removing the Pan Shield (4), Pan Support (5), and Pan Handle (6) from their packaging,
open the Drying Chamber (3) and carefully install the Pan Shield (4) on the three Pan Shield Posts
(8).
3. Once the Pan Shield is installed on the shield posts, gently insert the Pan Support (5) into the
opening of the Analyzer’s mechanism.
4. After installing the Pan Support, place a Disposable Pan (7) on the Pan Handle (6), then place it on
the Pan Support so that the handle rests on the Pan Shield without touching the Pan Support.
5. After installing all pan components, close the Drying Chamber and level the Analyzer by adjusting
the leveling feet until the level indicator shows the “air bubble” is in the center position of the
sight glass. The level indicator is located on the rear left side of the unit.
6. After leveling the scale, plug the power supply cable into the power supply socket (Marked 110V)
located in the rear of the Analyzer.
7. Make sure the drying chamber is closed, and then plug the power cable into the wall outlet.
8. When the cable is plugged into the wall outlet, the Analyzer will turn “ON” automatically,
initialize itself, and perform Initial Heating. The Initial Heating is designed to drive any residual
moisture from the heating chamber. The internal temperature is raised to 105°C and held there for
a preset time period
9. Upon completion of the power-up sequence, the unit comes up in the Moisture Analyzer Mode and
is then ready to be used.
WARNING: Please be careful and remember the drying chamber has been heated and will
retain heat for some time.
Chapter 6: Unpacking the Moisture Analyzer and Getting Started

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7.1. Methods of Terminating the Moisture Analysis
There are 3 methods for terminating a moisture analysis:
1. Time Mode - drying is terminated when a set “Drying Time” is reached.
2. Short Mode (See graph below) – drying is terminated when the mass loss between
successive samples (Sample Quantity) is smaller than the threshold value of 2mg.
3. Manual – drying is terminated when F5 STOP is pressed.
Chapter 7: Understanding the Functions, Parameters, and Modes

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7.2. Understanding Configuration Parameters
Mode (Default Setting: m0 – m/m0 * 100%)
Three formulas are available for performing moisture analysis:
1. W [%] = m0 – m/m0 * 100%, where moisture is determined in relation to initial weight
2. W [%] = m – m/m * 100%, where moisture is determined in relation to current weight
3. W [%] = m/m0* 100%, where current weight is determined as a percentage of sample weight
Where: m0= initial (wet) weight, m = current weight, and W [%] = moisture as a %
Drying Temperature: This parameter is used to define the maximum drying temperature for a sample.
Once the temperature is defined, it will be held constant for the duration of the drying time.
Sample Quantity: In the Short Mode this parameter is used in conjunction with the Sampling Interval
parameter to have the analysis terminated when the successive weight measurements (samples) do not differ by
more than 2mg. When setting this parameter, the Analyzer will begin to take the set number of samples
(sample quantity) and compare the weight result of each. When the weight of the samples does not differ by
more than 2mg, the analysis will stop. This configuration method is particularly helpful when an adequate
Drying Time of the sample is uncertain. If the change between samples is less than 2mg, we can assume the
sample has been dried and the analysis can be stopped.
Sampling Interval: In the Short Mode this parameter is used in conjunction with the Sample Quantity
parameter. It defines the time interval between sampling. The maximum Sampling Interval is 180 seconds. This
parameter can also be also used in the Time Mode for monitoring the moisture loss as well as for statistical
functions such as the Drying Chart, or to print and record the sample weights. (See Chapter 10. STAT
Configuration).
Rule of Thumb for the Short Mode: Higher number of samples and longer time intervals result in a more
accurate estimate for the total drying time of the sample, as well as the end result.
Drying Time: This parameter is used to set the length of the drying in order to complete the analysis in the
Time Mode. When the Drying Time is reached, the analysis will stop.

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1. If the Analyzer is in weighing mode, press the MODE RETURN key and enter the Moisture Analysis
Mode.
2. Press the SET (2) key to enter the Moisture Analyzer main menu. Configuration parameters will be
displayed: Mode, Drying Temp, Samples Quantity, Sampling Interval, Drying Time, and Save
Parameters.
8.1. Mode
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Mode and press the ENTER key.
2. The current mode will be displayed. Use the “<>” navigation key to alternate between the Time Mode
and the Short Mode. Once a desired mode is displayed, press the ENTER key to confirm the selection.
Short Mode – the analysis will be terminated automatically when the loss in moisture between the
samples taken during the analysis is less than 2mg. This mode requires that the Sample Quantity
(Section 8.4) and the Sampling Interval (Section 8.5) are defined.
Time Mode – the analysis is terminated when the defined Drying Time (Section 8.6) is reached.
Chapter 8: Configuration and Parameter Setting for Moisture Analysis

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8.2. Calculation Formula
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Calculation and press the ENTER key.
2. The current moisture analysis formula will be displayed. Use the “<>” navigation key to alternate
between formulas. Once a desired formula is displayed, press the ENTER key to confirm the selection.
Where m0= initial (wet) weight, m = current weight, and W [%] = moisture as a %:
1. W [%] = m0 – m/m0 * 100%, where moisture is determined in relation to initial weight
2. W {%} = m – m/m * 100%, where moisture is determined in relation to current weight
3. W [%] = m/m0* 100%, where current weight is determined as a percentage of sample weight
8.3. Drying Temperature
1. Use the “<>” navigation keys to select Drying Temp and press the ENTER key.
2. Use the Numeric keys to enter the desired Drying Temperature in degrees Celsius. The maximum
temperature is 160°C.

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3. Once the temperature has been entered, press the ENTER key to confirm the selection.
Note: A table of materials with their recommended Drying Time and sample weight is included in this
manual.
8.4. Sample Quantity
Note: This parameter must be set when using the analyzer in the Short Mode. See the Notes and
Parameter descriptions in Section 7.2.
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Samples Quantity and press the ENTER key.
2. Use the “<>” navigation keys again to select the desired number of samples to be taken. The choices
are: OFF, 2 samples, 3 samples, 4 samples, and 5 samples. Once the desired selection has been
made, press the ENTER key confirm the selection.

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8.5. Sampling Interval
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Sampling Interval and press ENTER.
2. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired Sampling Interval in seconds. The maximum time is 180
seconds. Once the desired Time Interval has been entered, press the ENTER key to confirm the
entry.
8.6. Drying Time
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Drying Time and press the ENTER key. Drying Time is
specified in the following format: hh/mm/ss.
2. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired drying time. Press the ENTER key to advance between
fields.
3. Once the desired time has been entered, press the ENTER key to confirm the entry.

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8.7. Saving the Configuration and Parameters
A configuration of parameters can be saved in the analyzer’s internal memory. Up to 10 different
configurations can be saved. To save a configuration for future use, follow the step below:
1. Use the “<>” navigation key to select Save Parameters and press the ENTER key.
2. Use the navigation keys to select the memory location in which you want to store the present set of
parameters
3. Press ENTER to store the parameters in the selected location.

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To enter Statistical Configuration, press the F2 key (STAT). The following STAT options will be
displayed:
•Drying chart – the Drying Chart is especially useful during initial testing of new materials; however, it
should be turned OFF during routine analysis. It is very helpful in defining parameters such as drying
temperature, sampling interval, and drying time, as the shape of the drying cycle is clearly displayed.
•Product name – this setting allows the User to assign a name of the product or sample being analyzed.
The name will be printed on the Drying Report printout (maximum 20 characters total).
•Executive – this setting allows the User to assign a name of the person performing the analysis. The
name will appear on the Drying Report printout (maximum 20 characters total).
•Notes – this setting allows the User to enter important notes that may be required for the analysis. The
notes will appear on the Drying Report printout (maximum 240 characters total).
•Transmission – when turned ON, this function sends the sample weight to the printer port at the end of
each sampling interval. This function can be very useful during initial sample evaluations or for sending
data to an external computer for more detailed analysis.
To set and configure the Functions, follow the steps below:
1. Use the Navigation keys to select a STAT function you would like to configure.
2. Once the function is selected, press the ENTER key.
Chapter 9: RAP Configuration

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3. For the Drying Chart and Statistics parameters, use the navigation keys to toggle between ON and
OFF. Once the function has been enabled or disabled, press the ENTER key to save and confirm the
selection.
4. For Product Name, Executive, and Notes parameters, it is recommended you use an external
keyboard which can be connected to the PS2 keyboard port located in the rear of the Analyzer.
Once the data has been entered, select Exit and press the Enter key to save the data and return to the
analysis mode.

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1. A sample of a given substance must be representative. Drawing and preparing a sample is a very
important process as it may affect the repeatability of measurements. The most common method of
homogenizing a sample is mixing. Another method is to draw a few samples from different but
specific points in a substance and calculate an average value, or to draw a few samples from
different points in a substance, mix them, and draw a sample from the mixture.
Note: The sampling method depends on the type of research being performed. In quality control,
usually many representative samples are analyzed. In production control, it is enough to confirm
sampling repeatability.
2. When preparing a sample, it is important the sample does not absorb moisture from the surrounding
environment – thus preparation time should be as short as possible.
Note: If it is necessary to analyze more than one sample at the same time, the samples should be
placed in separate hermetically sealed plastic bags or containers. Make sure the sample does not lose
moisture while it is inside the container (the container or plastic bag should not have much air in it).
3. Tools and instruments used in the preparation process may affect measurement accuracy. Do not
use tools that transmit heat as this can cause the sample to lose moisture before the actual analysis.
Use only special grinders and mixing instruments. When drawing a sample from a liquid consisting
of solid materials, use a glass mixer, spoon, or magnetic mixer.
4. To analyze moisture content, place the sample on the disposable pan provided with the unit and
place it in the dryer chamber. Using disposable pans helps to avoid the false results that may be
caused by the residue left from previous samples.
5. A sample should be always thin and distributed uniformly throughout the pan so that the heat
penetrates equally all over the sample and dries the entire sample effectively.
`
Chapter 10: Preparing the Sample
Correct Incorrect Incorrect