TSI Instruments 8026 Operation manual

Model 8026
Particle Generator
Operation and Service Manual
1980319, Revision E
August 2005
Respirator Fit Testing

Model 8026
Particle Generator
Operation and Service Manual
1980319, Revision E
August 2005
TSI Incorporated E-mail address:
500 Cardigan Road [email protected]
Shoreview, MN 55126 Web site:
USA http://www.tsi.com
U.S. INTERNATIONAL
Sales and Customer Service: Sales and Customer Service:
[phone] /[phone] (001 651) 490-2811
Fax: Fax:
[phone] (001 651) 490-3824

Copyright ©
TSI Incorporated / Revision E / 2000–2005 / All rights reserved.
Address
TSI Incorporated / 500 Cardigan Road / Shoreview, MN 55126 / USA
Fax No.
[phone]
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY (effective July 2000)
Seller warrants the goods sold hereunder, under normal use and service as described in the
operator's manual, shall be free from defects in workmanship and material for twelve (12)
months, or the length of time specified in the operator's manual, from the date of shipment to the
customer. This warranty period is inclusive of any statutory warranty. This limited warranty is
subject to the following exclusions:
a. Hot-wire or hot-film sensors used with research anemometers, and certain other
components when indicated in specifications, are warranted for 90 days from the date of
shipment.
b. Parts repaired or replaced as a result of repair services are warranted to be free from
defects in workmanship and material, under normal use, for 90 days from the date of
shipment.
c. Seller does not provide any warranty on finished goods manufactured by others or on any
fuses, batteries or other consumable materials. Only the original manufacturer's warranty
applies.
d. Unless specifically authorized in a separate writing by Seller, Seller makes no warranty
with respect to, and shall have no liability in connection with, goods which are
incorporated into other products or equipment, or which are modified by any person other
than Seller.
The foregoing is IN LIEU OF all other warranties and is subject to the LIMITATIONS stated
herein. NO OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR
PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY IS MADE.
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE USER OR
BUYER, AND THE LIMIT OF SELLER'S LIABILITY FOR ANY AND ALL LOSSES,
INJURIES, OR DAMAGES CONCERNING THE GOODS (INCLUDING CLAIMS BASED
ON CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE) SHALL
BE THE RETURN OF GOODS TO SELLER AND THE REFUND OF THE PURCHASE
PRICE, OR, AT THE OPTION OF SELLER, THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF THE
GOODS. IN NO EVENT SHALL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES. SELLER SHALL NOT BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR INSTALLATION, DISMANTLING OR REINSTALLATION COSTS
OR CHARGES. No Action, regardless of form, may be brought against Seller more than 12
months after a cause of action has accrued. The goods returned under warranty to Seller's
factory shall be at Buyer's risk of loss, and will be returned, if at all, at Seller's risk of loss.
Buyer and all users are deemed to have accepted this LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND
LIABILITY, which contains the complete and exclusive limited warranty of Seller. This
LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY may not be amended, modified or its terms
waived, except by writing signed by an Officer of Seller.
Service Policy
Knowing that inoperative or defective instruments are as detrimental to TSI as they are to our
customers, our service policy is designed to give prompt attention to any problems. If any
malfunction is discovered, please contact your nearest sales office or representative, or call TSI's
Customer Service department at [phone] (USA) or (001 651) 490-2811, International.

i
CONTENTS
SAFETY INFORMATION ....................................................................iii
Chapters
1. UNPACKING AND PARTS IDENTIFICATION ............................1
Unpacking the Particle Generator..............................................1
Parts Identification for the Particle Generator............................2
Replacement Parts and Supplies...............................................2
2. SETTING UP AND OPERATING THE MODEL 8026
PARTICLE GENERATOR ............................................................3
Introduction ................................................................................3
Selecting a Fit Testing Location.................................................3
Setting up the Model 8026 Particle Generator...........................4
Operating the Model 8026 Particle Generator...........................5
3. MAINTENANCE............................................................................7
Routine Maintenance.................................................................7
Cleaning the Atomizer Nozzle....................................................7
4. TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................9
Appendix
A. SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................11

ii
AVAILABLE APPLICATION NOTES
To obtain any of the Application Notes, contact TSI at:
U.S. [phone]/[phone], Fax: [phone]
International (001 651) 490-2811, Fax: [phone]
These Application Notes can also be found under TSI’s web site:
http://www.tsi.com

iii
SAFETY INFORMATION
The Model 8026 Particle Generator includes a high-temperature safety
switch. If the generator overheats, this switch shuts off the unit permanently,
and it must be returned to TSI for servicing.

iv

1
Chapter 1
Unpacking and Parts Identification
Unpacking the Particle Generator
Carefully unpack the Model 8026 Particle Generator and accessories from
the carrying case. Use the tables and illustrations below to make certain that
there are no missing components. Contact TSI immediately if anything is
missing or damaged.
Table 1-1: Model 8026 Particle Generator Component Parts
Quantity Item Description Part/Model
1 Particle generator 8026
1 Particle generator power cord 1303567
1 Package of 100 salt tablets 2918035
1 Model 8026 Particle Generator
Operation and Service Manual 1980319
Note: The Model 8026 Particle Generator is also sold as an accessory to
the Model 8095 N95-Companion to the PORTACOUNT. In this case,
the items listed in Table 1-1 are also listed in the N95-Companion
Operation and Service Manual.

Chapter 1
2
Parts Identification for the Particle Generator
Figure 1-1 identifies the parts of the Model 8026 Particle Generator. Please
become familiar with these components before proceeding.
Figure 1-1
Replacement Parts and Supplies
The following items are sold by TSI as replacement parts and supplies for
the Model 8026 Particle Generator.
Table 1-2: Replacement Parts and Supplies
Quantity Item Description Part/Model
1 Package of 100 salt tablets 2918035
1 Storage lid for reservoir 2002030
1 Power cord (North America) 1303567
1 Atomizer assembly 2401041
Particle
Generator
Reservoir
Power Cord

3
Chapter 2
Setting Up and Operating the Model 8026
Particle Generator
Introduction
The Model 8026 Particle Generator is intended to provide a supplementary
particle source when performing quantitative respirator fit tests using the
TSI PORTACOUNT Plus respirator Fit Tester and the N95-Companion to the
PORTACOUNT. The following setup and operating instructions presume this
intended usage.
This does not preclude, however, using the Model 8026 Particle Generator
for other applications where you desire to generate a moderate concentration
of poly-disperse particles. Some general notes on alternate uses for the
Model 8026 are found at the end of this chapter.
Before setting up the Model 8026 Particle Generator, it is important to select
a suitable location for fit testing.
Selecting a Fit Testing Location
The Model 8026 Particle Generator produces particles which supplement the
naturally occurring particles in the air. When using the N95-Companion to
the PORTACOUNT, TSI requires that you operate the Model 8026 in order to
provide sufficient particle concentration. The particle generator may also be
used with the PORTACOUNT Plus if you are unable to obtain the minimum
particle concentration (1000 pt/cc).
For the generator to function properly, you must operate the generator and
conduct the fit tests in an enclosed area. A medium-sized conference room
normally is a suitable location. The particle generator does not function
efficiently in an open cubicle area or a very large conference room.

Chapter 2
4
Setting up the Model 8026 Particle Generator
The particle generator supplements the naturally occurring particles in the
room environment. Follow the steps below to set up the particle generator:
1. Fill the reservoir jar with clean tap water to the fill line. It is helpful use
hot water to help the salt tablet dissolve more quickly.
Figure 2-1
2. Drop one salt tablet into the reservoir. Each tablet contains 1.0 grams of
salt. Break the tablet before dropping it into the water to dissolve it
more quickly.
3. Place the temporary cover tightly on the reservoir and shake it gently to
dissolve the salt tablet.
4. Once the solution is mixed, remove the temporary cover and screw the
reservoir onto the particle generator. See Figure 2-1.
5. Place the particle generator on the floor in a corner of the testing room.
Make sure the ventilation louvers on the back and bottom of the
generator are not obstructed, as this could cause the instrument to
overheat.
Caution
!Do not place the Particle Generator on the table or
benchtop. Vibrations from the internal compressor may
cause the generator to move across the table. If left
unattended, the generator could fall on the floor resulting
in damage to the instrument.
Fill line

Setting Up and Operating the Model 8026 Particle Generator 5
6. Plug the female end of the power cord into the receptacle on the back of
the particle generator. Plug the male end into a grounded wall outlet and
turn on the power to the generator. The power switch is located next to
the power cord receptacle. See Figure 2-2.
Figure 2-2
You must run the particle generator in the testing room, with the door
closed, for at least 10 minutes before you begin fit testing to allow the
particle count to stabilize. You must operate the generator in an upright
position at all times, and leave it running until all fit tests for the day are
complete.
One reservoir full of salt solution will last from 8 to 16 hours, depending on
the generator setting. You can save and re-use the solution if you wish.
However, do not mix old solution with fresh solution. If you need to mix
new solution, first discard whatever remains in the reservoir.
If you wish to re-use the solution, be sure to detach the reservoir from the
generator, cover it tightly with the temporary cover, and store it in its
designated space inside the carrying case.
Caution
!Never attempt to store the particle generator in the
carrying case with a full or partially-filled reservoir
attached, as the solution will leak out and damage the
generator and/or carrying case.
Operating the Model 8026 Particle Generator
The Model 8026 particle generator operates without intervention once you
turn on the power. However, you can adjust the output to increase particle
concentration.
Power switch
Power cord

Chapter 2
6
Adjusting the Particle Generator Output
The Model 8026 is set in the factory to a normal operating pressure.
This will produce an aerosol output concentration that is
appropriate for most environments. If higher counts are needed, you
can increase the output by turning the output adjustment screw 1/2
turn clockwise. If necessary, you can adjust the output further by
making additional turns of the output adjustment screw. See Figure
2-3.
Figure 2-3
To restore the output to the factory setting, turn the screw
completely clockwise to maximize the aerosol flow. Then, make
three (3) complete counterclockwise turns. The screw should turn
easily. Do not force it.
Alternate Uses for the Particle Generator
The Model 8026 Particle Generator may be used as a generalized
source of poly-disperse particles in an environment. When used for
other applications, the following precautions must be observed:
•The output of the generator may be directed to a specific
location by attaching a short ¼” ID tube to the output located
on the top.
•The tubing must be kept as short as possible, no longer than
24”. The tubing creates a pressure drop which will severely
limit the generator output.
•The adjustment screw may be used to increase the generator
output to the maximum to compensate for the particle loss.
Output
A
djustment
Screw Increase

7
Chapter 3
Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
The Model 8026 Particle Generator requires very little maintenance.
Cleanliness is the single most important maintenance requirement. To ensure
trouble-free operation of the generator, do the following:
•Use compressed air to blow out accumulated salt from inside the
generator case. Blow air into the louvers located on the back of the
generator to clean salt from the cooling fan. Blow air into the bottom of
the generator through the cooling louvers.
Caution
!This cleaning maintenance step is critical to maintaining
trouble-free operation of the generator.
•Wipe up any salt solution spills immediately.
•Periodically wipe down the outside surface of the generator using a
damp cloth.
•After each use, shut off the generator, remove the salt solution reservoir,
and then switch the generator back on for 40 seconds. This will purge
salt solution from the unit and reduce contamination of the carrying
case.
No other routine periodic maintenance is required. If you notice a decrease
in output, you may need to clean the atomizer nozzle. Follow the procedure
below.
Cleaning the Atomizer Nozzle
1. Turn the particle generator off. Remove the salt solution reservoir.
2. Disassemble the atomizer jet assembly following the order indicated in
Figure 3-1. The retainer that holds the parts of the jet together can be
difficult to remove. If necessary, use a pliers to pull down on the tab
with a gentle rocking motion. The jet assembly incorporates a small
O-ring. Set it in a safe place.

Chapter 3
8
Figure 3-1
3. Use mild soap and warm water to clean the jet assembly parts. Examine
the orifice for plugging. Rinse a second time if necessary. Either use
clean compressed air to dry the parts, or air dry them.
Note: The orifice is easily damaged. Do not insert anything in the orifice
in an attempt to clean it.
4. Reassemble and install the atomizer jet, making sure you replace the
O-rings. When you replace the retainer, make sure it is pushed in
completely.
5. Attach the draw tube.
6. Test the generator for proper operation (output) using tap water.
Retainer
1
3
4
5
2

9
Chapter 4
Troubleshooting
This chapter describes the symptoms, possible causes and recommended
solutions for common problems encountered with the Model 8026 Particle
Generator.
Some common problems you may encounter include:
Symptom Possible Cause Corrective Action
Low particle
counts The particle generator is
not running.
___________________
The salt solution is mixed
incorrectly.
___________________
The salt solution reservoir
is low or empty.
___________________
The atomizer head on the
particle generator is
clogged.
___________________
The particle generator
pressure is set too low.
Turn on the power to the
particle generator.
___________________
Refer to the mixing
instructions in Chapter 2.
___________________
Mix a new batch of
solution and fill the
reservoir.
___________________
Clean the atomizer head.
Refer to the maintenance
procedure in the previous
chapter.
___________________
Adjust the pressure to a
higher setting, as
necessary. Refer to the
procedure in Chapter 2.
Low particle
counts
(cont.)
The testing room is
inappropriate.
•It is too large
•It is not a closed room
•It has too high an air
exchange rate
If the room is too large or
not closed, select another
location. If the air
exchange rate is too high,
increase the output of the
particle generator.
No aerosol
output The compressor does not
start when turned on. (Red
light comes on okay).
Return the generator to TSI
for servicing.

Chapter 4
10

11
Appendix A
Specifications
The Model 8026 Particle Generator specifications are as follows.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Size ......................................... 10 in. x 4 in. x 5.25 in.
(25.4 cm x 10.1 cm x 13.3 cm)
Weight..................................... 2.75 lb (1.25 kg)
Generated Particle Statistics
(using 2% NaCl solution in
distilled water)
Count median diameter
(CMD) .................................
Geometric standard
deviation (GSD)....................
0.04 micrometers (nominal)
2.2 (nominal)
Operating Voltage.................. 115 or 230 VAC (check label on unit)
Warranty................................. One year on workmanship and materials