3500 Service Manual - Micromeritics

Service Manual3Flex Analyzer

August 2013

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© Micromeritics Instrument Corporation, 2013. All rights reserved.

3Flex Service Manual Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Organization of the manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1Using This Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2

2. FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1Product Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2

Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

Instrument Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4Front Panel/Cabinetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6Side Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6

Upper Manifold Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7Analysis Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8

Sample and Po Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9Sample and Po Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10Heater/Fan Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11Vacuum Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11

Vacuum Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13Roughing/Backing Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14

Gas Inlet Subsystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15Pneumatic Valves and Manifold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16

Elevator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17System Schematic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-18Diagnostic Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-19Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20

Analysis Transducer Interface PCB, P/N: 350-17705-011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-20Card Cage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-21Power Distribution PCB, P/N: 350-17708-011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-22Heating Mantle Interface PCB, 350-17706-011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23Upper Backplane PCB, P/n: 350-17707-011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23

3. THE ANALYSIS SEQUENCE

Analysis Technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2Analysis Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

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Table of Contents 3Flex Service Manual

4. DOCUMENTATION AND SOFTWARE

Preinstallation Instructions and Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Operator Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2Mechanical and Electrical Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Service Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Operator Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

5. SERVICE PARTS

ii Aug 2013

3Flex Service Manual Organization of the manual

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

This service manual contains information and instructions for providing instrument service on the Micromeritics 3Flex Analyzer and is intended for use by Micromeritics' factory-trained and sup-ported service personnel.

Organization of the manual

The service manual is organized as follows:

Chapter 1 GENERAL INFORMATION

Provides information about the contents of the service manual.

Chapter 2 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

Provides a functional description of analyzer components.

Chapter 3 THE ANALYSIS SEQUENCE

Provides a description of the analysis sequence.

Chapter 4 DOCUMENTATION AND SOFTWARE

Provides links to documents applicable to the installation, operation, and servicing of the 3Flex.

Chapter 5 SERVICE PARTS

Contains a list of service replacement parts.

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Using This Manual 3Flex Service Manual

Using This Manual

This manual is most efficiently used from the Micromeritics web site. However, it can be down-loaded to a portable media device, such as a CD or a USB stick.

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3Flex Service Manual Overview

2. FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

This chapter describes the systems and components that comprise the 3Flex Analyzer. It includes graphics showing the location of major systems, modules, and components, as well as functional descriptions.

Overview

The 3Flex is an automated gas adsorption analyzer with three ports allowing up to three samples to be analyzed simultaneously. The core analytical engine is composed of an advanced vacuum system, a versatile analysis manifold, and sensitive pressure transducers on each analysis port. The basic configuration can be upgraded for vapor and chemisorption analyses and each port can be individually upgraded for high-quality micropore analyses with 10-torr and 0.1-torr transducers on each micropore port.

It also features a dedicated port for measuring the saturation pressure (P0) on a continuous basis. Surface areas as low as 0.01 m2/g can be measured using nitrogen and as low as 0.001 m2/g with the Krypton option. Up to 1000 data points can be collected allowing the observation of minute details of the isotherm.

Up to four analyzers can be operated with one computer. The system consists of the analyzer, an optional SmartPrep degasser for preparing samples, a dry diaphragm roughing vacuum pump, and a computer for entering analysis and report options.

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Product Features 3Flex Service Manual

Product Features

Hardware

• Narrowed and modified cabinet more similar in appearance to that of the ASAP 2020. Cabinet dimensions are 23D × 22W × 40H inches (58D x 56W x 102H centimeters).

• Up to four analyzers can be attached to one computer

• The vacuum system includes a turbo molecular pump mounted internally and a dry roughing pump external to the cabinet

• The sample port spacing is the same as that of the 3020, but rotated so that a single port is in front with two ports behind for easier access.

• Pneumatically operated air valves are metal VCR diaphragm valves with Kel-F seats and require 90-100 psi of house air to operate

• No rubber seals (plungers) in the main manifold portion of the instrument. The gas inlet manifold is the only part of the manifold that has rubber seals.

• The vapor source connects to the P0 port

• The sample ports, dosing manifold, and Po tube each have a dedicated 1000-mmHg transducer to allow concurrent gas adsorption analysis. Any or all three sample ports can be upgraded in the factory/field to have dedicated 10- and 0.1-mmHg transducers to support micropore/krypton analysis

• Servo is digitally controlled and used during micropore analysis. This makes it capable of dosing small amounts of gas, essentially cutting hours off the time to run micropore analyses

• Cabinet is heated, insulated, and temperature-controlled to ensure accurate gas quanrtity measurement and pressure transducer reading stability

• The SmartPrep connects directly to the instrument using a null modem cable and does not require additional software (be sure to order 065/00035/00 for this configuration)

2-2 Aug 2013

3Flex Service Manual Product Features

Software

The software for the 3Flex is similar to that of the MicroActive application. Many of the dialogs have been changed to have a look and feel more consistent with the Windows 7 operating environment.

• Operates in Windows 32- or 64-bit operating environment

• Includes new MicroActive software, allowing interactive reporting

• File selection dialogs and navigation are more consistent with that of Windows 7

• Data from the 2020, 2420, and 3020 sample files can be imported to allow overlay plots and other comparisons to be generated

• Diagnostic tests included in software can be performed by the customer or service engineer

• Remote diagnostics via internet, allowing service engineer to access the instrument and perform diagnostics

• Dashboard providing analysis/system statistics

• A Show All Readings dialog available from the Diagnostics menu, allowing you to monitor all transducer readings, temperatures, and voltages

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Instrument Components 3Flex Service Manual

Instrument Components

The 3Flex Analyzer is comprised of these major components and modules:

• Cabinetry/Sample Chamber• Interior• Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)• Power Module

Front Panel/Cabinetry

Top Panel Provides access to the interior analysis module and its subassemblies. The top panel is molded from plastic and internally coated with a special conductive coating to prevent radio frequency interference.

Po tube Measures the saturation pressure.

Safety Shield brackets For attaching safety shield during analysis.

Top Panel

Elevator

Dewar

Sample Tubes

Safety shield bracket (one on each side)

Power indicator

Thermocouple connector

Mantle/Furnace power connector

Po Tube

Elevator reset

Safety Shield

Access panels

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3Flex Service Manual Instrument Components

Elevator Raises automatically when the analysis is started and lowers automatically upon completion.

Elevator reset Resets the elevator in case of failure. Elevator Circuit Breaker Open displays on the instrument schematic if the elevator requires a reset.

Mantle/Furnace connector

For connecting a heatring mantle or furnace.

Dewar The Dewar has a capacity of 3.2 L and life of 70 m hrs.

Sample Tubes Constructed of borosilicate glass to withstand the temperatures reached inside the Dewar or during degassing.

Power indicator Illuminated when instrument is on.

Access panels Provides access to the mantle, heater, and transformer circuit breakers.

Left side\ Contains the manifold heater and heating mantle breakers.

• The manifold heater breaker is 10 amps and plugs into J-22 on the Power Distribution PCB.

• The heating mantle breaker is 4 amps and plugs into J-23 on the Power Distribution PCB.

Right side Contains the turbo pump breaker. It is 4 amps and plugs into J-16 on the Power Distribution PCB.

Manifold Heater Heating Mantle

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Instrument Components 3Flex Service Manual

Rear Panel

The rear panel provides connections for gases, compressed air, the vacuum pump, and the power cord.

Side Panels

The side panels of the 3Flex contain the Ethernet connector, RS232 connector, and the On/Off switch, as well as access panels to circuit boards.

Vacuum pump connector

Gas inlets

Power cord connector

For connecting compressed air

Left side panel

Right side panel

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3Flex Service Manual Upper Manifold Assembly

Upper Manifold Assembly

Shown below is a graphical representation of the upper manifold assembly. Refer to the table below the graphic for component identification, as well as a link to additonal information for each componet.

This configuration may differ depending on whether the instrument has 1, 2, or 3 ports.

A 10-Torr manifold transducer See also Sample and Po Transducers on page 2-10B 0-1-Torr transducersC 10-Torr transducersD 1000-Torr manifold transducerE Po port button-head transducerF Sample ports button-head transducersG Dual transducer PCBs See also Analysis Transducer Interface PCB, P/N:

350-17705-011 on page 2-20H Heater assemblyI Gas inlets See also Gas Inlet Subsystem on page 2-15J Turbo pump See also Vacuum Subsystem on page 2-13K Po port See also Sample and Po Ports on page 2-9L Sample Ports

A

IK

BC

D

J

FE

G

H

BB

CC

L

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Analysis Subsystem 3Flex Service Manual

Analysis Subsystem

The analysis subsystem includes the analysis manifold, the sample ports, the P0 port, and the vacuum gauge. All, except the vacuum gauge, are located in the heated, insulated portion of the upper cabinet and mounted on a 1 and 1/4-in. aluminum plate. The vacuum gauge is located below the plate in the unheated portion of the cabinet (see Vacuum Gauge on page 2-11). Pneumatically actuated, hard-seal valves and VCR connections are used to provide enhanced vacuum integrity.

There are four RTDs located in the analysis subsystem:

• Ambient temperature RTD: stainless steel, located outside the cabinet to the right and 1 inch forward of the right front panel

• Dosing Manifold Temperature RTD: in a centrally located block connected to the analysis manifold plumbing

• Port RTD: located in the sample port mounting block on the top of the base plate

• Heater RTD: attached to the resistive heater element

Sample Ports Po Port

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3Flex Service Manual Analysis Subsystem

Sample and Po Ports

The sample port fittings are anchored in place to ensure accurate position and orientation, and to provide a thermal barrier. The P0 port fitting is attached similarly. The sample port spacing is the same as the 3020; however, placing of the ports has been altered. A single port is placed in front with the other two behind for easier access to all three ports. The ports also are extended further below the upper cabinet base plate for easier operator access and better thermal isolation.

Each sample port has a 20-m frit to prevent sample from entering and clogging the system. The P0 port is used for continuous saturation pressure measurement.

The gaskets used in the sample and P0 ports are silver-plated, VCR 316 SS. The gasket for the sample port contains a filter, while the one for the P0 port is ridged and snaps into place.

Po port

Sample Ports

Used for Chemi Option

Sample port gasket Po port gasket

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Sample and Po Transducers

All instruments have 1000-Torr on all three sample ports and the Po port.1-port Micropore units: Sample Port 2 has 10 and 0.1 transducers2-port Micropore units: Sample Ports 1 and 2 have 10 and 0.1 transducers3-port Micropore units: All Sample Ports have 1000-, 10-, and 0.1-Torr transducers

1000-Torr button-head transducers (Sample Ports)

1000-Torr button-head transducer (Po Port)

0.1-Torr transducers (3)

10-Torr transducers (3)

10-Torr Manifold transducer


1000-Torr button-head transducers (Sample Ports)

1000-Torr button-head transducer (Po Port)

0.1-Torr transducers (3)

10-Torr transducers (3)



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3Flex Service Manual Analysis Subsystem

Heater/Fan Assembly

The upper manifold resides in a heated, insulated, temperature-controlled cabinet. The heater/fan assembly is located at the upper right side just in front of the dual transducer PCBs. It controls and maintains the temperature to 45 C, 0.05 C.

Vacuum Gauge

The Pirani-Cold Cathode dual vacuum gauge is connected to the embedded controller via RS-232 for control and status communication.. and is located below the insulated portion of the analysis subsystem. It reads down to E-8 mmHg and switches from Pirani to Cold Cathode somewhere around 4 or 5 E-4.

Vacuum valve

Aug 2013 2-11


The vacuum valve (7) should be kept closed when dosing gas in the manifold to maintain cleanliness of the gauge. Open Valve 7 only when the system is under vacuum.

Right-click on the vacuum gauge reading to view vacuum gauge details (you must be in Service Test mode). The combined reading is what you see displayed on the schematic.

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3Flex Service Manual Vacuum Subsystem

Vacuum Subsystem

The vacuum sybsystem includes a turbo (high vacuum) pump, roughing/backing pump (located externally), and the plumbing required to connect them to the analysis and gas inlet subsystems. This includes a pneumatic valve connecting the gas inlet manifold to the vacuum system.

The turbo pump is mounted inside the instrument cabinet just below the upper cabinet base plate. It is connected to the vacuum gauge, and gas inlet manifold with 1/2-in. tubing. A fan provides cooling air across the turbo and vents out the back panel.

Right-click on the Vacuum icon (on instrument schematic) to view details of the turbo pump (you must be in Service Test mode). For example, if you suspect the vacuum is not as good as it should be, information in this dialog could help you to determine if it is the pump or not. The pump reading should be 1498 to 1500 rps.

Turbo pump

Gas Inlets

Six more inlets added here when Chemi option is installed.

Vacuum gauge

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Vacuum Subsystem 3Flex Service Manual

.

Roughing/Backing Pump

The roughing/backing pump is located outside the instrument cabinet, making it easier to service.

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3Flex Service Manual Gas Inlet Subsystem

Gas Inlet Subsystem

The Gas Inlet manifold provides six gas inlet ports (12 when Chemi option is installed) at the rear of the instrument, a servo valve connected to the dosing manifold, and a vacuum valve connected to the vacuum subsystem. The inlets have dust filters (frits) to prevent particles from entering the valve system.

The servo valve is stainless steel and similar to the one used in the 2480.

Direct control of the servo valve voltage is provided via a DAC at the hardware/software interface instead of the previously used analog comparator to the manifold pressure transducer signal.

You can use the servo valve to manually backfill the analysis manifold or a sample port.

Servo valve

Gas Inlet manifold

Six more inlets added here when Chemi option is installed.

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Gas Inlet Subsystem 3Flex Service Manual

Pneumatic Valves and Manifold

The 3Flex uses pneumatically operated air valves. They are metal VCR diaphragm valves with Kel-F seats and require 90-100 psi of house air to operate. The pneumatic valve actuator assembly is located in the lower portion of the cabinet.

When the pneumatic valve actuator(s) receives a signal to open the valve(s), it sends air to the appropriate valve(s).

Valve Actuators

From Actuator

To Valve

Enlarged view of

pneumatic assembly

Air supply

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3Flex Service Manual Elevator

Elevator

The elevator module consists of a stepper motor controller/driver, a stepper motor, three sensors, drive shaft, guides, and mechanical support blocks, framework, and cabling. The elevator is designed so that it can be connected to a power source (+24 VDC) and to a controller via RS-232, and operated independent of any system. There are no PCB assemblies associated with this elevator design.

The three sensors detect upper-bound travel, home position, and over-travel in the downward position. the upper-bound position sensor location is adjustable for different travel-length applications. .

The elevator is capable of lifting a full Dewar of liquid nitrogen (approximately 37 lbs). It moves slowly to prevent spilling and is shielded to prevent the operator.

In normal operation, the elevator moves between home and EOT-up positions. It can be stopped at intermediate positions using manual control.

Proximity sensors (3)

Left side of assembly (from rear of unit)

Right side of assembly (from rear of unit)

Stepper motor

Drive controlstepper

Dewar tray

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System Schematic 3Flex Service Manual

System Schematic

The schematic diagram in the 3Flex software displays the following:

Schematic valves are as follows:

All instruments have 1000-Torr on all three ports.1-port Micropore units: Port 2 has 10 and 0.1 transducers2-port Micropore units: Ports 1 and 2 have 10 and 0.1 transducers3-port Micropore units: All ports have three transducers

• Valves and their current states• Pressure reading from the transducers• Temperature readings

• Sample and Po ports• Location and status of the elevator• During operation, status of the analysis

1 thru 3 Sample ports 7 Vacuum isolation

4 Po port 8 Gas inlet vacuum

5 Servo supply 11 thru 16 Gas inlets

6 Manifold vacuum Unmarked Servo valve

Green = open

White = closed (when in Manual Mode, yellow = closed)

Temperature

Po port transducer reading

Vacuum gauge reading

readings

Sample port transducer readings

Manifold transducer reading

Elevator

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3Flex Service Manual Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic Tests

The 3Flex software includes Diagnostic tests (or service tests) that can be run by the customer if an unusual problem occurs. Many things in the 3Flex system are constantly monitored by the software.

If your customer calls you with a problem, have them:

1. Obtain a screen capture of the All Readings dialog.

2. Select Unit 1 > Diagnostics > Save Files for Problem Diagnosis to display this dialog.

3. Use the Add button to attach the log file, the screen capture, and any other pertinent files.

4. Complete the information requested and follow the instructions to submit the files.

Information on diagnostic tests and how to submit them are explained in Chapter 7 of the 3Flex operator’s manual.

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Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) 3Flex Service Manual

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Analysis Transducer Interface PCB, P/N: 350-17705-011

The two Analysis Transducer ADC PCBs are identical and responsible for controlling most functions throughout the analysis module. This includes actions performed by the gas inlet, dosing, and sample manifolds. All transducer and temperature readings from the upper portion of the instrument go through this board and are changed from Analog to Digital. The analysis transducer interface board is partially enclosed by a metal barrier to protect its components from radio frequency interference. It is mounted on the Upper Backplane PCB (P/N: 350-17707-011) at the top of the instrument.

Analysis Transducer Interface PCBs

Facing the instrument, the analysis transducer PCBs are located on the upper right side.

Side view

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3Flex Service Manual Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Card Cage

The card cage is the main assembly of electrical systems and the connection between those systems and other components inside and outside of the instrument. The card cage is comprised of the Backplane, CPU, Valve/LED driver, and ADC interface PCBs.

BackplaneP/N: 350-17701-011

Carries the necessary signals and DC power to and from the boards in the card cage.

CPUP/N: 003-17642-011

Controls interface functions with the computer. This board is the same one used in the 3020, 2480, 5120, and 5205. Application software is loaded into this PCB. This board is in the third slot from left to right.

Valve/LED DriverP/N: 350/17702/011

Generates control signals for valve drivers. This board also stores all PCB IDs, and instrument calibration information. Finally, it has the necessary RS-232 channels for serial communications and connections for ethernet and vacuum gauge. The valve/LED board is in the first slot from left to right.

ADC Interface PCBP/N: 350-17703-011

Provides all digital control signals.

The digital interface board is in the second slot from left to right.

1 - Valve/LED Driver, RS232 PCB

2 - ADC Interface PCB

3 - CPU PCB

These boards all plug into the Backplane board (not shown).

1

32

Access to the card cage assembly is located on the left side of the analyzer.

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Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) 3Flex Service Manual

Power Distribution PCB, P/N: 350-17708-011

Provides power for all system components. It is located on the Power tray (below the turbo pump) accessed from the rear panel of the analyzer.

Power Distribution PCB

Turbo pump

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3Flex Service Manual Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Heating Mantle Interface PCB, 350-17706-011

Controls all heating mantle, chemisorption mantle, and temperatures. This PCB is located to the left of the Power Tray and is accessed through the rear panel of the analyzer.

Upper Backplane PCB, P/n: 350-17707-011

The Upper Backplane PCB serves as an intermediate backplane for interfacing to the dual, identical transducer boards (see Analysis Transducer Interface PCB, P/N: 350-17705-011 on page 2-20).

Aug 2013 2-23

3Flex Service Manual Analysis Sequence

3. THE ANALYSIS SEQUENCE

The analysis sequence describes what is taking place throughout the instrument during an analysis. The instrument schematic, shown below, will be used to show the state of the system components during the various phases of an analysis.

The state of a valve is indicated by the icon color.

Green = open

White = closed (when in Manual Mode, yellow = closed)

Sample tubes

ElevatorPo tube

Manifold transducer

Sample transducers

Gas inlet ports

Temperaturereadings

Po transducer

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Analysis Sequence 3Flex Service Manual

The valves in the schematic are described below.

Analysis Technique

The 3Flex Analyzer uses physical adsorption and capillary condensation principles to obtain information about the surface area and porosity of a solid material. The analytical technique is simple: a sample contained in an evacuated sample tube is cooled (typically) to cryogenic temperature, then is exposed to analysis gas at a series of precisely controlled pressures. With each incremental pressure increase, the number of gas molecules adsorbed on the surface increases. The equilibrated pressure (P) is compared to the saturation pressure (Po) and their relative pressure ratio (P/Po) is recorded along with the quantity of gas adsorbed by the sample at each equilibrated pressure.

As adsorption proceeds, the thickness of the adsorbed film increases. Any micropores in the surface are filled first, then the free surface becomes completely covered, and finally the larger pores are filled by capillary condensation. The process may continue to the point of bulk condensation of the analysis gas. Then, the desorption process may begin in which pressure systematically is reduced resulting in liberation of the adsorbed molecules. As with the adsorption process, the changing quantity of gas on the solid surface at each decreasing equilibrium pressure is quantified. These two sets of data describe the adsorption and desorption isotherms. Analysis of the shape of the isotherms yields information about the surface and internal pore characteristics of the material.

Valve(s) Description

1 through 3 Sample ports

4 Po port

5 Servo valve

6 Manifold vacuum

7 Isolation

8 Vacuum

10 Reference volume (Service mode only)

11 Analysis gas port (Nitrogen)

12 Helium port

13 thru 16 Additional analysis gas ports

Unmarked Servo

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Analysis Sequence

1. Create and save up to three sample files for use during an analysis.

2. Place a plug in any port that is not being used for analysis.

3. Prepare samples to be analyzed. This may include weighing the sample and degassing the sample.

4. Load sample tubes in their respective ports and fill the Dewar.

5. Select Unit [n] > Sample Analysis > Browse to load the newly created sample file for each port.

6. Click Start to begin the analysis.

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7. The system begins to evacuate the manifold at a rate and time specified in the sample file.

8. All valves close, then the N2 valve opens and the Po tube is filled to the target pressure.

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9. A pre-helium evacuation begins.

10. A series of manifold dosings and port equilibrations begin to take place on each port to prepare for analysis under cryogenic conditions. Helium warm free space is measured. Then the elevator is raised to measure cold free space.

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11. Helium is evacuated from the samples and the Dewar is lowered if specified in the sample file.

12. Samples are evacuated for the amount of time specified in the sample file.

13. The Po tube is dosed and allowed to equilibrate.

14. If the pressure does not change measurably, the Psat measurement is taken. If the pressure does change measurably, another dose may be required.

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15. You can view the instrument schematic by selecting Instrument Schematic from the View drop-down list.

16. After evacuation, the instrument starts dosing to the set point specified in the sample file and continues until the specified number of data points have been collected. Data points are displayed in a graph as they are collected.

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3Flex Service Manual Preinstallation Instructions and Checklist

4. DOCUMENTATION AND SOFTWARE

This chapter contains links to the documents applicable for the installation, operation, and servicing of the 3Flex analyzer, as well as to a copy of the demo software.

Preinstallation Instructions and Checklist

This document helps to ensure that the customer has prepared the laboratory for installation of the instrument and that the supplies, equipment, and personnel are available for installation.

• Preinstallation Instructions and Checklist, P/N: 350-42870-01

Installation

The 3Flex is installed by a qualified Micromeritics service representative.

• Installation Instructions and Checklist, P/N: 350-42870-02

Operator Training

The Operator Training Checklist is used in conjunction with the operator’s manual and software to train the person(s) who will be operating the analyzer.

• Operator Training Checklist, P/N: 350-42870-03

Maintenance

The documents listed below are included in Service PM kits, which may be purchased by the user for proper maintenance of his analyzer. Use of these PM plans also help to prolong the life of the analyzer.

• Maintenance Schedule, P/N: 350-42890-00

• Scheduled Maintenance Checklist, P/N: 350-42891-00 (not available)

• Scheduled Maintenance Procedures, P/N: 350-42892-00 (not available)

• As-Found Datasheet, P/N: 350-42893-00

• Calibration Certificate, P/N: 350-42894-00

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http://www.micromeritics.com/Repository/Files/350-42870-01.pdf






Calibration 3Flex Service Manual

Calibration

This calibration and test procedure is the one used in Micromeritics’ Final Assembly Department. It is provided as a reference so that you will be familiar with the calibration procedures and instrument tests that are performed on the instrument during manufacture.

The methods used at the factory may differ from the methods documented in the Maintenance docu-ments. Use the established service calibration and test procedure unless otherwise directed by a Micromeritics Service Managers or Service Specialist.

• Product Calibration Procedure, P/N: 350-34000-76

Mechanical and Electrical Drawings

These drawings show assemblies in detail. Some parts listed in these prints may be available only as an assembly or in a kit. Do not provide copies of these drawings to a customer.

Mechanical

Refer to the following table for a list of the mechanical prints. Double-click on the part number to view the print.

Print Number Description

350-34000-00 Semi-final assembly

350-34001-00 Chassis assembly

350-34002-00 Card Cage

350-34003-00 Power tray assembly

350-34004-00 Base manifold assembly

350-34005-00 Elevator assembly

350-34006-00 Vacuum system assembly

350-34007-00 Pneumatic manifold

350-34008-00 Vacuum gauge assembly

350-34009-00 Cabinet heater assembly

350-34012-00 Inlet manifold assembly

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3Flex Service Manual Service Training

Electrical

Refer to the following table for a list of the electrical drawings. Double-click on the part number to view the print.

Service Training

Service Training is provided to service personnel so that they can become familiar with the TriStar sys-tem. Click the link below to view a syllabus of the training class.

• Service Training (not available)

Operator Manual

A printed operator’s manual is not shipped with the 3Flex analyzer unless requested on the order. Access to an electronic copy is available on the Help menu.

• 3Flex Operator’s Manual, P/N 350-42800-01

Print Number Description

003-17642-011 CPU PCB

350-17701-011 Backplane PCB

350-17701-511 Backplane schematic

350-17702-011 Valve and LED Driver RS-232 PCB

350-17702-511 Valve and LED Driver RS-232 PCB schematic

350-17703-011 ADC interface PCB

350-17703-511 ADC interface PCB schematic

350-17705-011 Transducer ADC interface PCB

350-17705-511 Transducer ADC interface schematic

350-17706-011 Mantle interface PCB

350-17706-511 Mantle interface schematic

350-17708-011 Power distribution PCB

350-17708-511 Power distribution schematic

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Software 3Flex Service Manual

Software

Click the link below to access a demo version of the 3Flex software.

• 3Flex software

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http://www.micromeritics.com/Repository/SecureFiles/3Flex_3500_v1.zip

3Flex Service Manual Service Parts

5. SERVICE PARTS

This section contains a list of repair parts.

Part Number Description

003/20656/05 Cable, M/F 15-pin 2.5 ft, straight

350/63815/00 Cable, RTD 1000 Ohms, 3 wire, 6P MMI, SS

350/63816/21 Cable, RTD, 1000 Ohms, 3 wire, 6P MMI, 21 in.



350/60820/00 Cable, Fan 24 VDC

350/63809/00 Cable, MKS transducer

248/60802/36 Cable, Servo Valve 0.030 SST

004/22601/06 Valve, Diaphragm-sealed, 1/4 in. Male

004/25040/05 Gasket, 1/4 VCR, SS, Retainer assembly

004/25040/06 Gasket, 1/2 VCR, SS, Retainer assembly

004/27070/00 Frit, 20 m, 1/4 VCR

260/25873/00 Plug, sample port (MS)

350/17705/011 PCB, Transducer ADC

350/17708/011 PCB, Power Distribution

350/17702/011 PCB, Valve and LED DRV-RS-232

350/17703/011 PCB, ADC Interface

350/17706/011 PCB, Mantle Interface

003/17642/011 PCB Assembly, CPU DSP-ISA

003/51150/00 Breaker, 2 pole 15 A

003/56139/00 Transformer, international dual, 115 V

511/60820/00 Fan assembly, 24 V

003/40065/01 Power supply, Quad universal

003/55630/01 Transducer, 0-15 psia, VCR-4 24.6 in.

003/55639/00 Transducer, 1000 Torr

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Service Parts 3Flex Service Manual

Part Number Description

003/55630/03 Transducer, Vacuum Cold Cathode

004/22601/06 Valve Diaphragm sealed, 1/4 in., Male

004/25341/23 Fitting, 1/2 VCR cap

003/22022/00 Controller stepper drive

003/35632/00 Motor, Stepper 1.8 degree

003/45066/00 Relay, SS, 5 A 3-60 VDC

003/51211/00 Circuit Breaker, 4 A 250 V

003/55618/01 Sensor Proximity Inductive

350/34007/00 Pneumatic Manifold assembly

004/25163/00 Valve, Solenoid 4-port

004/62002/05 Valve, Solenoid, 24 VDC 2-way without base

350/63817/02 Heater assembly, 120 VAC

350/63817/03 Heater Relay assembly

004/16844/00 Reference material, Micropore Zeolite

004/16821/00 Reference material, Silica Alumina SA, PV8.58204

004/25013/02 O-ring, -013 70 Duro Viton, Brown

004/25079/06 O-ring, 8.5 mm x 1.5 mm, Viton, Brown

350/25833/00 Nut, Sample Tube, 9 mm and 12 mm

004/25341/26 Sample Port Plug, Male, for port volume calibrations

350/25843/00 Ferrule, Sample tube, 12 mm

350/25843/01 Ferrule, Sample tube, 9 mm

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Documents

3500 Service Manual - Micromeritics