USER MANUAL

MOISTURE ANALYZER

ATS and BTS series

Plik: 2011-04-06-BTS_ATS-150 BTS0002 GB

2 USER MANUAL

Content:
1. Security rules _________________________________________________________________ 3
2. Set__________________________________________________________________________ 3
3. Navigation – fast start ___________________________________________________________ 4
4. Moisture analyzer menu diagram __________________________________________________ 6
5. General description _____________________________________________________________ 7
6. Technical data _________________________________________________________________ 7
7. Keys and indicators _____________________________________________________________ 8
8. Preparation to work _____________________________________________________________ 9
9. Interfaces ___________________________________________________________________ 11
10. General working rules __________________________________________________________ 11
11. Description of thermogravimetric analysis ___________________________________________ 11
11.1 Infrared radiation source ________________________________________________________ 12
11.2 Infrared radiation drying description _______________________________________________ 12
11.3 Drawing and preparation of a sample ______________________________________________ 13
11.4 Tools requirements ____________________________________________________________ 13
11.5 Single-use pans ______________________________________________________________ 13
11.6 Placing a sample ______________________________________________________________ 14
11.7 Glass fibre filter _______________________________________________________________ 14
11.8 Practical notes________________________________________________________________ 14
12. Moisture analyzer start _________________________________________________________ 15
13. Drying parameters settings ______________________________________________________ 16
13.1 Setting drying temperature ______________________________________________________ 17
13.2 Calculation methods ___________________________________________________________ 17
13.4 Drying profiles ________________________________________________________________ 19
13.5 Moisture analyzer memory ______________________________________________________ 20
13.5.1 Saving settings _______________________________________________________________ 21
13.5.2 Loading saved settings_________________________________________________________ 21
13.6 Initial moisture analysis _________________________________________________________ 23
14. Proper moisture_______________________________________________________________ 25
15. Connecting to a printer or computer – drying report ___________________________________ 26
16. Moisture analyzer options _______________________________________________________ 28
17. Testing and calibration _________________________________________________________ 29
18. Moisture analyser as a balance___________________________________________________ 30
18.1 Units _______________________________________________________________________ 30
18.2 Auto-zeroing _________________________________________________________________ 31
18.3 Calibration ___________________________________________________________________ 32
19. Maintenance and repairs of small defects ___________________________________________ 34
Declaration of Conformity __________________________________________________________ 36
Appendix __________________________________________________________________________ 37
 USER MANUAL 3

1. Security rules

To avoid electrical shock or damage of the balance or

connected peripheral devices, it is necessary to follow
the security rules below.

• To feed the analyser use only mains socket with ground contact. A Fuse is
situated under the analyzer cover.
• During heating, the halogen heaters warm up to very high temperature. Avoid
touching the heaters as it may cause severe burns!
• Dryer chamber cover heats up to 40°C, but perforated cover at the top may heat up
over 60°C. Do not touch the cover top during drying as it may cause severe burns.
• All repairs and necessary regulations can be made by authorised personnel only.
• Do not use the analyser when its cover is opened.
• Do not use the analyser in explosive conditions.
• Do not use the analyser in high humidity.
• If the device seems not to operate properly, plug it out of the mains and do not use
it until checked by authorised service.
• Please return wasted device to the point of purchase or other company specialised
in recycling of wasted electronic components.

According to legal regulations it is forbidden to

dispose wasted electronic equipment in waste
containers.

2. Set
The full set user get is:
1. Moisture analyzer,
2. Pan shield, pan support, pan handle,
3. Single-use pans – 10 pcs.,
4. Power supply cord,
5. User manual,
6. Guarantee card
4 USER MANUAL

3. Navigation – fast start

After turning on the moisture analyzer, after autotests and tare, moisture analyzer
starts initial heating until the drying chamber heats up to 105°C. The moisture
analyzer is now ready to measure density with inscribed earlier heating parameters.
To set heating parameters use USER MENU and choose Drying settings.

To move cursor between menu

1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
positions use ↑ and ↓ key.
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default

USER MENU Entering chosen menu position is made

1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings by using → or ENTER key.
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
Return ←.
6. Settings default

DRYING SETTINGS
1. Drying temp. : 160 C
Entrance to parameters is made after
2. Mode
3. Calculation
: Time mode
: m0-m/m*100% choosing → or ENTER key.
4. Samples quantity. : 3
5. Sampling interv. : 1 sek
6. Drying time : 00:15:00s

Parameter value modification is made

DRYING SETTINGS
1. Drying temp. : 160 C by using ↑ and ↓ key, moving to
2. Mode : Time mode
3. Calculation
4. Samples quantity.
: m0-m/m*100%
: 3
another digit by → key.
5. Sampling interv.
6. Drying time
: 1 sek
: 00:15:00s Confirmation using ENTER key.
ENTER

DRYING SETTINGS
1. Drying temp.
2. Mode
: 160 C
: Time mode Selection of one of the available
3. Calculation : m0-m/m*100%
4. Samples quantity.
5. Sampling interv.
: 3
: 1 sek
parameter options is made by
6. Drying time : 00:15:00s
ENTER
→ and ← key.
Confirmation using ENTER.
 USER MANUAL 5

Moisture analyzer can work in one of two modes, changed by
key:

1) Drying (density measurement)

formula evaluation drying inscribed drying sample time

profile temperature

actual temperature

actual drying time

mass on pan

initial mass

closed (CSD)
/open(OPN)

2) Weighing (mass measurement)

scale stabilization mark mass indication

6 USER MANUAL

4. Moisture analyzer menu diagram

Program version: BTS002

1. Drying settings 1. Drying temp.

2. Memory settings 2. Mode
3. Drying options 3. Calculation
4. Drying raport 4. Samples quantity
5. Configuration 5. Sampling interv.
6. Settings default 6. Drying time
7. Exit 7. Drying profile
8. Settings storing
9. Exit

1. Memory locat.

1. Average
2. Drying chart
3. Transmission
4. Exit

1. Product name
2. Operator
3. Remarks
4. Print settings 1. Date
5. Exit 2. Time
3. Nr
4. Name
5. Drying temp.
6. Profile
7. Mode
8. Method
1. Units 9. Finished
2. Auto-zeroing 10. Initial weight
3. Interface 11. Final weight
4. LCD settings 12. Drying time
5. Language 13. Sampling int.
6. Time&Date 14. Moisture
7. Keyboard 15. Quantity
8. Defaults 16. Average
9. Calibration 17. Remarks
10. Info 18. Performance
11. Exit 19. Signature
 USER MANUAL 7

5. General description
Moisture analyzers ATS and BTS are designed for fast and precise moisture
determination of a sample based on mass loss during heating process.
Drying proces parameters are set by user on the basis of law norms, available
chemical-physics data or they are matched experimentally. Parameters table for
typical materials is contained in the A appendix.
Moisture analyzers are designed to work in food industry, construction materials
industry, biotechnology, pharmacy, environment protection and others. Main field
of use is quality control.

6. Technical data

Supply protection: fuse WTA-T 3,15A 250V

8 USER MANUAL

7. Keys and indicators

I/ - on / off (standby),

MENU - enter to menu,

CLR - deleting operation,

- switching modes drying/ weighing,
← - navigation key,
START - measurement start (drying),
↑ - navigation key,
STOP - natychmiastowe zakończenie suszenia,
↓ - navigation key,
- printout (transmission) of the result,
→ - navigation key,
ENTER - confirmation / option choice,
→T← - tare (zeroing) scale,
Indicator - signalling stabilization of measurement result,
 USER MANUAL 9

8. Preparation to work
During heating, the halogen heaters 1 warm up to very high
temperature. When drying chamber is opened avoid touching the
heaters as it may cause severe burns or damage the heaters!

Dryer chamber cover 3 heats up to 40°C, but perforated cover may

heat up over 60°C. Do not touch the top cover during drying as it
may cause severe burns!
10 USER MANUAL

1. Take all contents out of a package: the moisture analyser and packed separately:
the tin pan shield, single use pans, the pan handle and the pan support. It is
recommended to keep the original scale package in order to transport the
balance safely in future.
2. Place the balance on a stable ground not affected by mechanical vibrations and
airflows.
3. Level the balance with rotating legs 9 so that the air bubble in water-level 10 at
the back of the balance is in the middle and the moisture analyser rests on all
four legs.
4. Open the drying chamber 3 by lifting it by a grip at the front. Insert the window
13 into chamber cover, edges of the window should be located in the latch
grooves 14 (push the window until You hear a “click” from all four latches).
5. Put drying chamber floor board 12 on four position pegs in moisture analyzer
cover. Put covering plate 4 on three distance pegs 8. Put carefully pan mandrel 5
into scale mechanism hole.
6. Put on empty single-use pan 7 on grip 6 and using the grip place the single pan
on scale’s carrying pan (grip ring 6 will be located inside the plate but due to
longer diameter it will not rest on carrying pan 5).
7. Close the moisture analyzer chamber 3 and connect the scale to 230V supply.
8. This will start moisture analyzer autotests and after stabilization zero indication
will show up. Moisture analyzer will start initial heating signalled by a proper
communicate on the screen. After initial heating moisture analyzer is ready to
work.

When temperature during initial heating exceeds 105°C or heating

time is longer than 1 minute, terminate initial heating with CLR
key and check if the temperature sensor 2 works properly
and if both halogen heaters light 1 (see chapter 15).
In case any defect occurs contact an authorised service point.

9. Moisture analyzer shouldn’t be used to weigh ferromagnetic materials due to

deterioration of measurement precision.

The fuse 11 is available after cover opening and putting out floor
board 12. During damaged fuse exchange use a fuse with
parameters presented in technical data (ch. 6). Using other fuse
may cause electrical shock.
 USER MANUAL 11

9. Interfaces
The moisture analyser is equipped with RS23C interface to connect a printer or a
computer and with PS2 port to connect an external computer keyboard.

RS232C USB PS2

1
6
Clock
2
RxD (receive) 7 6 5
TxD (transmission) 3 4 3
8 2 1
4 +5V mass
9
5
mass
Data
housing

10. General working rules

During transportation remove the pan, the pan support and the pan
shield and place it in a separate package..

1. Distribute a sample all over the pan. A sample surface should not touch
temperature sensor placed above the pan.
2. The balance is equipped with the tare equal to its range. To tare the balance
press →T← key. Writing the tare does not extend measuring range, but only
subtracts the tare value from a load placed on the pan. To make weight control
easier and to avoid range overdrawing, the balance is equipped with weight
indicator (graduated in percentages).
3. Do not overload the balance more then 20% of maximum load (Max).
4. The mechanism of the balance is a precise device sensitive to mechanical
strokes and shocks. Do not press the pan with a hand.
11. Description of thermogravimetric analysis
This section gives some practical details about moisture analysis using infrared
radiation for reliable results and easier use of moisture analyser. The description is
based on a pre-production experience and customers’ suggestions.
12 USER MANUAL

Moisture in substances is an essential quality factor of technical and economical

importance.
Methods of determining moisture may be grouped in two main categories: absolute
and deductive.
Absolute methods are based on simple relations, e.g. weight decline during drying.
Thermogravimetric analysis used in AXIS moisture analyser is an example of this
method.
Deductive (indirect) methods measure physical quantity related with moisture, e.g.
electromagnetic waves absorption, electrical conductance, acoustic wave speed.
Some of these methods, unlike thermogravimetric analysis, enable to determine
water content.
Thermogravimetry - lat. thermo – heat, gravi – weight, metry – method
Thermogravimetric analysis – a process of determination of a substance mass
decline as a result of heat-up. The sample is weighed before and after heating-up,
the difference is calculated in relation to initial weight or final weight (dry mass).
Moisture in substances
Thermogravimetric analysis includes all ingredients evaporating from substances
during heating-up, which results in weight decrease.
In result of the above, determining of moisture content in substances is not equal
water content. Beside water, moisture consists of all other volatile matter: fats,
alcohol, aromas, organic dissolvent and other substances resultant as en effect of
thermal decomposition.
Thermogravimetric analysis does not distinguish water from other volatile matters.
Infrared radiation drying is more effective than traditional methods (e.g. in an
oven) as the radiation deeply penetrates the substance, which shortens drying time.

11.1 Infrared radiation source

ADS series moisture analyser uses 2 halogen heaters (rated power 200W,
l=118mm) in serial connection as a radiation source. The heaters emit also visible
radiation, which does not affect drying process.

11.2 Infrared radiation drying description

Sample drying is a result of absorption of infrared radiation, which results in
sample temperature increase and evaporation of volatile matters.
Infrared radiation penetrates surface layers, the depth depends on penetrability of a
sample (different in various substances). Part of radiation is reflected by the sample
surface. Penetrated layers absorb the radiation and convert its energy into heat.
Emitted heat propagates inside the sample. Effectiveness of the propagation
depends on thermal conductivity of the sample. The better the conductivity, the
faster drying process and volatile matter evaporation. During drying process
 USER MANUAL 13

sample parameters change, its thermal conductivity decreases so there is a risk of

burning the sample. Some parameters may be estimated “by sight”, e.g. smooth
and light surfaces reflect radiation better. This must be taken into account when
setting drying parameters.
11.3 Drawing and preparation of a sample
As sample of given substance must be representative, drawing and preparing a
sample is very important process as it affects repeatability of measurements. The
most common method of homogenizing a sample is mixing. The other method is to
draw few samples from different but specific points in a substance and calculate an
average value. Another – to draw few samples from different points in a substance,
mix them and draw a sample from the mixed samples.
Sampling method depends on the object of a research. For quality purpose many
representative samples are analysed. In production control it is enough to assure
sampling repeatability, which enables to study a tendency.
While preparing and drawing, it is important that the sample does not absorb
moisture from the environment – it is advised that operation time is as short as
possible.
If it is necessary to analyse more than one sample at the same time, the samples
should be closed in plastic bags or other isolated containers. Give attention that
samples must not lose moisture inside the container (the container should not
consist of to much air, the moisture condensed on the sides of the container should
be mixed with the sample again).
11.4 Tools requirements
Tools and instruments used in preparation process may affect measurement
accuracy, so it is advised not to use tools that transmit heat, as it makes the sample
lose moisture before analysis.
Use only special mills and pestles.
In case of liquids with consisting of solid materials use a glass mixer, a spoon or a
magnetic mixer.

11.5 Single-use pans

To analyse the moisture, put a sample on a single-use pan and place it in the dryer
chamber.
Using non-reusable pan helps to avoid false results by remains of previous
samples.
10 single use pans are provided with the moisture analyser. Any quantity may be
delivered on demand.
14 USER MANUAL

11.6 Placing a sample

A sample should be placed uniformly all over the pan, so that heat propagates
equally all over the sample and dries whole sample effectively and quickly without
leaving “wet” places.

Correct Incorrect

Attention:
Due to temperature sensor localisation, max sample height is 10mm.
When substance ply is too thick, surface layers will be heated too much and
internal – not enough. This may result in burning the sample or surface
incrustation, which will make drying process difficult and measuring result false.
A sample should be placed in uniformed layers 2÷5mm thick, weighing 5÷15g,
depending on a substance.
11.7 Glass fibre filter
When drying liquids, pastes or substances that may melt or loose liquid during
drying, it is advised to use glass fibre filters.
Filters ensure equal liquid distribution or, in case solid materials, avoiding burning
a sample.
11.8 Practical notes
Put a sample on the pan as quickly as possible to avoid losing moisture.
Temperature inside the chamber is much higher than outside, so the sample may
evaporate partly before measurement begins, which will result in a false result.
When analysing the same substance quantity in successive measurements, use the
same tools to put a sample to be sure that samples are each time of the same size.
Before putting a sample, tare a single-use pan and take it out of the chamber. Right
after putting a sample on the pan, place it inside the analyser chamber, close the
chamber and press START.
Be sure that no dirt sticks under the pan, as it may increase sample weight and
result in false values.
 USER MANUAL 15

12. Moisture analyzer start

After switching-on the moisture analyser proceeds with self-tests.
Model Program version
CPU
EEPROM
A/D
TEMP_1
TEMP_2
HEATER

Next the moisture analyzer is taring (- - - - - -). After taring initial heating starts in
order to create proper conditions inside drying chamber.

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=105°C tp= 10s

T= 32.23°C
m=0.000g

INITIAL HEATING …

Initial heating should warm the drying chamber up to 105°C within 1 minute.
When temperature during initial heating exceeds 105°C or heating time is longer
than 1 minute, terminate initial heating with STOP key and check if the analyser is
not damaged (see chapter 15).
After initial heating is completed (or terminated), the device displays the following
information:.

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=105°C tp= 10s

T = 32.23°C
t =0:00:00s
m= 0.000g
m0= 0.000g
0.00 %
CSD 00:02:00s

Legend:
m0-m/m0*100% - formula used to calculate the moisture
Ts – defined drying temperature
ts – defined drying time
T – current temperature in the drying chamber
m – current weight,
t – current drying time
m0 – initial weight
16 USER MANUAL

- Graphical marking of drying profile

CSD – closed cover indication
(centrally in lower line) – inscribed drying time

13. Drying parameters settings

In order to achieve proper density measurement results following parameters
should be set:
- Drying temperature (to 160oC),
- Mode : time mode (ends after inscribed time) or short mode (ends after fulfilling
drying criterion),
- Calculation method – humidity calculation formula,
- Samples quantity (only for short mode),
- Sampling interval – interval between successive mass measurements (1÷180s.),
- Drying time (1s.÷10h) (in short mode it’s the maximal drying time),
- Drying profile (standard, slow, step or fast),
- Settings storing– number of place in memory (1÷10), where the setting will be
stored.
In case of choosing short mode additionally set:
- Samples quantity (2, 3, 4 or 5) – the decisive quantity concerning drying ending.

During setting parameters use navigation keys and ENTER key according to
description in Navigation.

In order to save settings (also after turning off the scale from supply), use Exit
option after making all changes.
 USER MANUAL 17

13.1 Setting drying temperature

During setting drying temperaturę set successively values of individual digits.

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit

DRYING SETTINGS
1. Drying temp. : 60°C
2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Samplingkowania: DRYING SETTINGS 10s
6. Drying timeenia : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profileil suszenia......:
1. Drying temp. : wolny 20°C
8. Settings storing ustawień :
2. Mode : 1 short mode
Exit 3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity :
DRYING SETTINGS
2 samples
5. Samplingkowania: 10s
1. Drying temp. : 160°C
6. Drying timeenia
2. Mode : 0:00:10s
: short mode
7. Drying profileil suszenia......: wolny
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
8. Settings storing ustawień : 1
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
Exit
5. Samplingkowania: 10s
6. Drying timeenia : DRYING
0:00:10sSETTINGS
7. Drying profilei .: wolny
8. Settings storing : 1. Temp. suszenia 1 : 120°C
Exit 2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : slow
8. Settings storing : 1
Exit
 18 USER MANUAL

13.2 Calculation methods

Humidity may be calculated upon the basis of various mathematic formulas,

defined in balance – drier as Calculation method:

1. Relative humidity, defined in relation to initial mass

w [%] = m0-m/m0*100% ,

where m0 – initial mass, m- current mass

2. Relative humidity, defined in relation to current mass
w [%] = m0-m/m*100% ,
3. Percent current mass content in sample
w [%] = m/ m0*100% .

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default DRYING SETTINGS
7. Exit
1. Temp. suszenia : 120°C
2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
DRYING SETTINGS
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile 1. :Temp. suszenia
slow : 120°C
8. Settings storing :
2. Mode 1 : short mode
Exit 3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
DRYING SETTINGS
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : Temp.
1. slow
suszenia : 120°C
8. Settings storing : Mode 1
2. : short mode
Exit 3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : slow
8. Settings storing : 1
Exit
 USER MANUAL 19

13.3 Drier working modes, drying time, sample time

During the balance – drier operation sampling of the mass on the pan takes place.
Sampling time is set by the user, according to drying process speed. As a result of
sampling the current humidity value is calculated and displayed. Measurement is
finished depending on selected Drying mode:
1. In Time mode total humidity measurement time (Drying time) is defined by the
user,
2. In Short mode humidity measurement is finished, when drying is stopped and
differences of a few successive mass samples are smaller than threshold value
(2 mg). Amount of successive samples taken into consideration is defined as
Samples quantity. Measurement is finished when Drying time is exceeded at the
latest.

Stop
m <2mg

>2mg

Start Ts
Qualifying amount t
(3 samples)

Drying chart in Short mode for Samples quantity = 3.

When choosing time mode only drying time and for example 10 times shorter
sample time is needed to start. In Short mode additionally Samples quantity is
needed and Samples interval should be carefully calculated – end of drying is
based on this parameter(and on Samples quantity).

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings DRYING SETTINGS
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport 1. Drying temperature : 120°C
5. Configuration 2. Mode : short mode
6. Settings default 3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
7. Exit 4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : slow
8. Settings storing : 1
Exit
20 USER MANUAL

13.4 Drying profiles

Drying profile will be used to optimization of drying process by accommodation a

process to physical properties of sample material. Oxidized materials or thickening
on the surface need slow or step profile. Resistant materials can use fast profile .
The choice of profile and his parameters should be a result of experience with
examinated material.
DRYING SETTINGS
1. Drying temperature : 120°C
2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples After choosing a profile set proper
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s parameters for example t1 and T1.
7. Drying profile : standard
8. Settings storing : 1 Attention: Final drying
Exit
temperaturę is inscribed only in
Standard profile or in Drying
DRYING PROFILE
setting (main menu).
Drying profile : <standard>
T=120°C T
Exit
120°C

DRYING PROFILE t

Drying profile : <slow>

t1=100s T
Exit
120°C

t1

DRYING PROFILE
Drying profile : <step>
t1=100s T
T1=60°C
t2=100s 120°C
T2=90°C
Exit t1 t2
t

DRYING PROFILE
Drying profile : <fast>
t1=100s T1
T1=140°C T
Exit 120°C

t1
t
 USER MANUAL 21

13.5 Moisture analyzer memory

The moisture analyser enables to save 10 different drying settings. Saved settings
are kept in the memory even after unplugging balance from the mains.

13.5.1 Saving settings

In order to store a few settings follow the instructions below:

Set the necessary drying settings (as mentioned earlier), choose Settings storing
and choose memory cell, where the sets will be saved.

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default DRYING SETTINGS
7. Exit
2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : standard
8. Settings storing : 1
Exit

DRYING SETTINGS
2. Mode : short mode
3. Calculation : m0-m/m0*100%
4. Samples quantity : 2 samples
5. Sampling : 10s
6. Drying time : 0:00:10s
7. Drying profile : standard
8. Settings storing : 1
Exit

DRYING SETTINGS

Save settings?

NO
YES

DRYING SETTINGS

Saving . . .
22 USER MANUAL

13.5.2 Loading saved settings

In order to call earlier settings saved in memory, You enter the menu and choose
option Memory settings and choose memory cell number where settings where
earlier made.

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit MEMORY SETTINGS

Memory locat.: <1>

Settings:

Time mode Ts = 45°C

m0-m/m0*100% ts = 0:05:45s
IK = wyłączone tp = 10s
MEMORY SETTINGS

Memory locat.: <1>

Settings:

Time mode Ts = 45°C

m0-m/m0*100% ts = 0:05:45s
IK = wyłączone tp = 10s
 USER MANUAL 23

13.6 Initial moisture analysis

To determine optimal drying parameters for unknown sample, it is recommended
to perform initial measurement with activated drying chart displaying. To do this,
set the following drying parameters (see Drying parameters setting):
- Operation Mode: Time mode
- Calculation method: m0-m/m0*100%
- Drying temperature:
organic substances: 80 - 120 0C
inorganic substances: 140 - 160 0C
- Samples quantity: do not set
- Sampling interval: 1 second
- Drying time: set time, after which the sample will be definitely dried
More information regarding temperature and drying time in A appendix.
To activate displaying of drying chart, which will be visible on the display instead
of humidity indication, perform the following actions:

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit

DRYING OPTIONS
1. Average
2. Drying chart
3. Transmission
4. Exit

Tare the moisture analyzer with empty single-use pan (→T← key).
Put a sample of examinated material on single-use pan, put it into drying chamber
and press START key.
24 USER MANUAL

After measurement a drying graph will show up:

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C ts= 0:10:00s

T = 118.34°C 30%
t =0:00:00s
m= 1.020g
m0= 1.020g

Observing drying process chart it is possible to evaluate its course and define time
required for complete drying. The chart shows 160 time samples on the X axis (for
longer times chart is scaled to 360 samples, 720, etc.) and humidity value
according to selected formula on the Y axis (chart is automatically scaled to 10%,
30%, 50%, etc.). Selecting 1 s of sampling time allows for more precise chart.
Achieved chart allows for initial settings selection for main measurement. Drying
temperature should be selected according to dries material type, so the drying is
performed quickly and sample does not change colour. Material drying moment is
visible on the chart as drying characteristic bending. As Drying time for main
humidity measurement select time from the beginning to chart “flattening”. As the
time axis is not described on the chart, use “evaluation with high margin”. Too
short drying time does not allow to achieve precise humidity measurement results.
In case of Short mode, in main measurement select Sampling time, which allows to
include approx. 10 samples in time of characteristic bending. If drying is finished
too quickly, increase Samples quantity or Sampling time.

Notes:
1. Before main measurement remember about deactivating of chart displaying.
2. To improve operation it is possible to use Promas software (available on
demand), which generates precise drying chart.
 USER MANUAL 25

14. Proper moisture

Before measurement carefully prepare the sample (as described in chapter
Description of Thermogravimetric Analysis) and set correct drying parameters (see
the diagram in chapter 11.6, description of the way of settting is in 11.4)..

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C tp= 1sek Place an empty single-use pan and

T = 80.23°C
tare the balance with →T← key.
t =0:00:00s The indication should be m=0,00g.
m= 1.020g Open the drying chamber and
m0= 1.020g
CSD 00:02:00s
0.00 % using the pan handle place the
single-use pan with the sample on
the pan support. Close the
chamber.
START

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C tp= 1sek Start the measurement choosing

T = 80.23°C START key.
t =0:00:00s In the lower line the time left to
m= 1.020g
m0= 1.020g
0.00 % end the measurement and
successive measurement number is
CSD 00:01:29s nr drying/sample displayed. Drying in progress is
signalised with alternating
SAMPLE / DRYING communicate.

m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C tp= 1sek

Wait until END communicate
appears. Now read the result.
T = 80.23°C
t =0:00:00s
m= 1.020g
m0= 1.020g
1.00 %
CSD 00:01:29s end

Attention: No STB communicate and m0 sign in negative, marks acceptance of

unstable initial mass value m0, caused by pressing the pan to chamber wall or by
too fast sample drying, which can cause to measurement failures.
26 USER MANUAL

15. Connecting to a printer or computer – drying report

When drying process is finished measurement result can be send to printer or a
computer via RS232C interface after using key.
Measuring data can be also completed with text information. To enter text
descriptions user can use moisture analyzer keys or connect a computer keyboard
to PS2 port at the back of the device. Using computer keyboard enables to control
all scale functions.
Using navigation keys and ENTER key choose Drying chart and disable or enable
printing and displaying the chart. Set necessary options: Product name, Operator
and with the connected computer keyboard enter text information for printed
report( maximally 19 signs). The set of available signs is presented on next site.
Option Remarks is designed to inscribe bigger amount of text.

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit DRYING REPORT
1. Product name :
2. Operator :
3. Remarks
4. Print settings
5. Exit
PRINTOUT
1. Date
2. Time
3. Nr
4. Name
5. Drying temp.
6. Profile
7. Mode
8. Method
9. Finished
10. Initial weight
11. Final weight
12. Drying time
13. Sampling int.
14. Moisture
15. Quantity
16. Average
17. Remarks
18. Performance
Wyjście
 USER MANUAL 27

A set of characters available using the keyboard while you use Product name,
Operator or Remarks:

1 . , ’ ? ! ” - ( ) @ / : _ ; + & % * = < > $ [ ] { }\ ~ ^ ‘ # |

2ABCabc
3DEFdef
4GHIghi
5JKLjkl
6MNOmno
7PGRSpgrs
8TUVtuv
9WXYZwxyz
0 space

Erasing the mark and move the cursor to the left: the navigation key <.

To print the drying report press key.

Drying started:
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -
Date:
Time.:

Drying parameters
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -
Product
Drying temperature :
Mode :
Calculation :
Finished :

Initial weight :
Final weight :
Drying time :
Sampling interval: :
Moisture :

REMARKS:

The analysis proceeded by:

Signature ....................................

It is possible to set necessary serial port parameter values (8bit, 1stop, no parity,
4800bps). To use RS232C Settings option press
key (weighing mode) and pres
MENU key.
28 USER MANUAL

16. Moisture analyzer options

Moisture analyzer options:

- average from series of humidity measurements displaying,

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration DRYING OPTIONS
6. Settings default
7. Exit 1. Average
2. Drying chart
3. Transmission
4. Exit m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C tp= 1sek
T = 80.23°C
t =0:00:00s
m= 1.020g
m0= 1.020g
CSD 00:02:00s Σ 000 X= 0.00%

- Drying chart displaying

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options DRYING OPTIONS
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration 1. Average
6. Settings default 2. Drying chart
7. Exit 3. Transmission
4. Exit
m0-m/m0*100% Ts=120°C ts= 0:10:00s
T = 118.34°C 30%
t =0:00:00s
m= 1.020g
m0= 1.020g

- transmission of all mass (samples) measurements by serial port (possibility to

print or to save on computer using PROMAS program).
 USER MANUAL 29

17. Testing and calibration

To check the weighing function of balance – drier, switch it to the simple weighing
(
key) and check it by putting precisely weighed object, e.g. calibration weight
F2 (OIML), equal to device measurement range. In case of any inaccuracies
perform the balance calibration. It is performed by activating the calibration
function, available in special functions menu, and putting the calibration weight on
the pan according to indications on the display (see Sensitivity calibration
function).
Control of humidity measurement precision requires use of standard substance –
disodium tartrate (di-Sodium tartrate dihydrate C4H4Na2O6*H2O). For the control
use 5 g sample, setting: step mode, calculations method: m/ m0*100% ,
temperature 150oC, sampling time 10 s, samples amount 4 and drying time
00:15:00s.
The result should be contained in range 15.61 – 15.71%.
 30 USER MANUAL

18. Moisture analyser as a balance

The moisture analyser may be also used as a normal balance. To switch between
analyser / weighing mode press
key.
During moisture analyzer work as a normal balance essential influence on
measurement result has the proper setting of moisture analyzer level (level
indicator is at the back of the device) and precise balance calibration. Setting
balance level is important after each putting moisture analyzer into new place .
During normal weighing Menu key opens directly Configuration window, where
the Units option is available, Auto-zeroing, scale calibration and default settings.

18.1 Units

In order to change the unit used in balance and moisture analyzer use MENU key, in
Configuration window (User Menu window shows up when the normal weighing
mode is off).

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options CONFIGURATION
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration 1. Units
6. Settings default 2. Auto-zeroing
7. Exit 3. Interface
4. LCD settings CONFIGURATION
5. Language
6. Time&date Carat [ct]
7. Keyboard Miligram [mg]
8. Defaults Gram [g]
9. Calibration
Kilogram [kg]
10. Info
Exit Pound [lb]
Ounce [oz]
Ounce troy [ozt]
Grain [gr]
Pennyweight [dwt]
Newton [N]
Exit

Choice of unit is made using navigation keys and ENTER key.

 USER MANUAL 31

18.2 Auto-zeroing

Auto-zeroing function causes that the close to zero indication will be corrected
automatically and when the pan is unbiased zero indication will be hold
independently even when environment conditions change (temperature, air density
etc).

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit
CONFIGURATION
1. Units
2. Auto-zeroing
3. Interface
4. LCD settings AUTO-ZEROING
5. Language
6. Time&date 1. Status: OFF
7. Keyboard 2. Exit
8. Defaults
9. Calibration AUTO-ZEROING
10. Info
Exit 1. Status: <ON> <OFF>
2. Exit

In order to turn on Auto-zeroing function use navigation keys and ENTER key,
choose Status ON.
 32 USER MANUAL

18.3 Calibration

Calibration with external weight standard should be performed in case indications

exceed permissible error (for example more than 5 graduation overflow). To scale
calibration use weight standard presented in technical data table (or more precise).
Depending on the value of gravity acceleration the producer sets the scale to
specific location of use.
If the location of use change the scale should be calibrated once again

Attention: Scale sensitivity error doesn’t cause directly humidity error thanks to
percentage calculation formula.

In order to calibrate the balance use MENU key and Configuration option, and then
Calibration.

USER MENU
1. Drying settings
2. Memory settings
3. Drying options
4. Drying raport
5. Configuration
6. Settings default
7. Exit

CONFIGURATION
1. Units
2. Auto-zeroing
3. Interface CALIBRATION
4. LCD settings
5. Language 1. Calibration:
6. Time&date 2. Load : 100g
7. Keyboard 3. Exit
8. Defaults
9. Calibration CALIBRATION
10. Info
Exit 1. Calibration:
2. Load : <20g><50g><100g><...>
3. Exit

Load enables to inscribe standard mass value that will be used to calibrate. User
can choose from few values or inscribe his own value.
 USER MANUAL 33

After setting the standard of mass prepare single-use pan, put the standard and
choose Calibration option by pressing ENTER.
CONFIGURATION
1. Units
2. Auto-zeroing
3. Interface
4. LCD settings
5. Language
6. Time&date
7. Keyboard
8. Defaults
9. Calibration
10. Info
Exit
CALIBRATION
1. Calibration:
2. Load : 100g
3. Exit

CALIBRATION
Please wait ...

CALIBRATION
Taring

CALIBRATION
Put load Put the standard of mass
on the pan.

CALIBRATION
Please wait ...

Displaying standard of
mass value means that
100.000g the calibration is done.
34 USER MANUAL

19. Maintenance and repairs of small defects

1. A moisture analyser should be kept clean.
2. Take care that no dirt gets between the casing and the pan. If found any,
remove the pan (lift it up), remove dirt and then replace the pan.
3. In case of improper operation caused by a short-lasting power supply decay,
unplug the balance from the mains and then plug it again after few seconds.
4. It is forbidden to make any repairs by unauthorised persons.
5. To repair the scale, please contact an authorised service centre. Balances can be
sent for repair as messenger delivery only in original package, if not, there is a
risk of damaging the balance and loosing guarantee.
Measuring problems:
Problem Solution
Reduce temperature
A sample burns down Use glass fibre filter on the top of the sample
Reduce sample quantity and distribute it uniformly
Increase temperature
Drying lasts too long
Reduce sample mass
A sample loses weight Take out the pan and put a sample outside the
before measurement chamber

A sample is liquid or paste Use glass fibre filter

A sample does not consist

Enlarge a sample
of enough volatile matters
 USER MANUAL 35

Troubleshooting:
Display indication Possible cause Remedy
Initial heating Ts The temperature sensor is Contact an authorised service
temperature exceeds damaged. point.
105°C, the sensor does
not react when touched
with a finger
Initial heating Ts The heater is damaged. Replace the heater.
temperature does not
reach 105°C,
the halogen heater(s)
do not light.
"Test ..." Auto-tests in progress / electronic wait for 1 minute
unit damage
"----" The balance is during zeroing wait for 1 minute
/ mechanical damage check if the balance is placed on
stable ground, not affected by
vibrations
„Tare range exceeded” Tare key pressed during zero Balance indications must be
indication different than zero
„Zeroing range Permissible zeroing range was Remove the load from the pan
exceeded” exceeded
„Weighing range Permissible weighing range Reduce the load
exceeded” (Max +9e) was exceeded
„Measuring range Upper limit of analog-digital Remove the load from the pan
exceeded (+)” transducer measuring range was
exceeded
„Measuring range Lower limit of analog-digital Check if there are all necessary
exceeded (-)” transducer measuring range was pan elements
exceeded
36 USER MANUAL

Declaration of Conformity
We:

AXIS Spółka z o.o. 80-125 Gdańsk, ul.Kartuska 375B, Poland

confirm with all responsibility that moisture analysers:

ATS60, ATS120, ATS210 oraz BTS110 i BTS100D

marked with CE mark comply with the following:

1. EN 61010-1 standard Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement, control and laboratory use. General requirements harmonized
with the directive 73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive).
2. EN 55022:2000 standard Limits and methods of measurement of radio
disturbance characteristics of information technology equipment and
IEC 61000-4-3 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 4-3: Testing and
measurement techniques - Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic field
immunity test, harmonised with the Council Directive 89/336/EEC.

Additional information
Conformity evaluation for the Council Directive 73/23/EWG and 89/336/EWG
was carried out by Research Laboratory of Electrotechnology Institute Division
Gdańsk, accredited by Polish Centre for Accreditation.

Gdańsk, 15.02.2011 r.

Per pro Director of AXIS Ltd:

Production Manager Jan Kończak

_________________
Signature
 USER MANUAL 37

Appendix

Drying parameters for different substances (examples)

Initial weight Temperature

No Substance Preparation Analysing time (min)
(g) (°C)
1. Acrylate seal 3 mix a sample 9
2.
3. Granulated sugar 3 90 3
4. Icing sugar 5 130 20
5. Butter 2 140 tear up a foil 4
6. Margarine 2 160 4
7. Ketchup 2 120 18
8. Mustard 3 80 19
9.
10. Peanuts 3 100 grind into thick powder 6
11. Nuts in shells 3 100 grind into thick powder 4
12. Nuts 2 100 grind into thick powder 4
13. Peanuts 3 100 grind into thick powder 4
14.
15.
16. Cheese 2 160 13
17. Cottage cheese 6 140 mix a sample
18. Cottage cheese (rural) 1 130 mix a sample 8
19. Mozzarella cheese 2 160 11
20. Melted cheese 3 160 5
21.
22. Dry beans 3-4 105 grind a sample 5
23. Bean 5 150 grind a sample 10
24. Pea 4 135 grind for 30 sec. 8
25. Dry peas 5-7 110 grind a sample for 10 sec. 10
26. Dry carrot 5.5-6 120 grind a sample 3
27. Dry corn 5-7 110 grind a sample 10
28. Dry potato pieces 3 130 divide a mass 6
29. Lentil 4 135 grind a sample for 30 sec. 6
30. Corn starch 2 160 5
31. Oily seeds 3-4 90 grind a sample for 1 min 8
32. Rice 4 105 grind a sample for 30 sec. 13
33. Rye 5 150 grind a sample 12
34. Beetroot 5 150 grind a sample 9
35. Sesame seeds 3 130 8
36. Soya-bean flour 5 95 5
37. Sunflower seeds 4 100 grind a sample for 2 min 4
38. Cotton seeds 3-4 110 grind a sample for 1 min. 6
39. Wheat flour 6 130
40. Wheat flakes 4 150 grind a sample 7
41. Water to flour 2-3 90 10
42. Plastic rag 1 160 4
43. Natural rag 1 160 14
44.
45. Feeding stuff 3-4 150 6
46. Pig feeding stuff 4-5 160 mix a sample 21
47.
48. Coffee 2 150 8
49. Instant coffee 5 mix a sample 10
50. Coffee seeds 4 120 grind a sample for 1 min. 8
51. Cocoa 3 105 4
grind a sample for
52. Cocoa seeds 4-5 130 8
powder
53. Chocolate 2 103 10
54. Grinded chocolate 2-3 90 10
55. Almonds with caramel 4 80 grind into thick powder 5
56. Normal almonds 3 100 grind into thick powder 5
57. Almonds 3 100 grind into thick powder 5
58.
59. Tobacco 2 100 tear up into pieces 16
60.
61. Multivitamin bars 3 115 grind into thick powder 3
62. Mint pastilles 3 90 grind into thick powder 3
38 USER MANUAL
63. Sticks 3-4 75 grind into powder 9
64.
65. Skimmed milk 5 110 mix a sample
66. Skimmed milk powder 5 90 6
67. Fat milk powder 5 100 6
68. Whole milk 5 110 mix a sample
69.
70.
71. Concentrated orange juice 2-3 115 mix a sample 13
72.
73. Dry chicken excrements 4 140 8
74.
75. Soap 3 120 pinch some pieces 6
76. Starch derivatives 3 150 12
77. Starch glue 2 100 mix a sample 9
78. Detergent 2 160 12
79.
80. Textile 1 85 separate fibres 3.6
81. Materials for bricks 7 160 distribute a sample 20
82. Silicon sand 10-14 160 1.9
83. Dolomite 10-12 160 6
84. Loess soil 3 160 cut into small pieces 15
85. Ceramics clay 3 160 cut into thin slices 9
86. Limestone 12-14 160 5
87. Glass powder 8-10 160 5
88. River water 4 160 mix a sample 20
89.
90. Active coal 10 80 10
91. Coal powder 4 160 4
92. Natural chalk 8 160 2
93. Granulated acryl 10-15 80 12
94. Acryl ester 2 mix a sample 19
95.
96. Cellulose matter 2 130 tear up into pieces 5
97. Photo paper 2 150 tear up in 1 cm2 pieces 6
98. Dialyse membrane 1 80 cut into thin slices 2
99.
100. Drawing ink 2 120 10
101. Toner 3-4 40
102. Powder paint 2 120 4
103.
104. Dialyse membrane 0.5-0.7 80 cut into thin slices 2
105. Leak stopper 3 160 7
106. Glue dissolvent 2 140 10
107.
108. Latex 1-2 160 5
109. Natural latex 2 160 mix a sample 6
110. Balsam 1 130 8
111. Soda bihydrate 2 160 12
112. Ultramid 10 60 10
113. Silicon gel 10 115 5
114. Macrolon 10-12 80 15
115. Plexiglas 6N 10 70 10
116. Polypropylene 13 130 9
117. Polypropylene 3 120 2
118. Polystyrene solution 2 120 9
119. Polystyrene 10 80 10
120.
121. Dissolvent 2 155 mix a sample 8
122. Resin dissolvent 2 160 mix a sample 6
123.