Mercury Vapor Monitor
VM 3000
Operating Manual
English
Version 2.8
Manufacturer: Mercury Instruments GmbH
Liebigstrasse 5
85757 Karlsfeld/Germany
service@mercury-instruments.de
© 2012 by Mercury Instruments GmbH, Karlsfeld (Germany)
VM-3000
General information for safe operation
C A U T I O N:
While operating the VM-3000, parts of its interior are under high voltage
and UV-beams are produced inside. If safety regulations are ignored
physical and/or material damages could occur. Only qualified personal
should be allowed to operate the VM-3000. Following conditions for
correct function of the VM-3000 are to be held: careful and correct
storage, proficient operation and maintenance.
•
Do not operate instrument if it is damaged.
•
When connecting the VM-3000 to a power source please note the related
safety regulations.
•
The VM-3000 should be operated from the type of power source indicated on
the rating plate.
•
Make sure that plugs and power cord are not damaged.
•
Regulations for prevention of accidents are to be followed.
•
Before opening the VM-3000 disconnect it from the mains supply.
•
Repairs and maintenance on the opened and powered instrument should only
be carried out by trained personnel.
•
Operate the VM-3000 on a stable and dry surface. The interior of the VM3000 should never get moist or wet. In case it happens, consult an expert.
•
The VM-3000 is dedicated for the measurement of mercury concentration in
gases. Do regard the related dangers especially while operating with toxic
gases. Make sure that these parts of the instrument guiding the gas are not
damaged and that the gas is guided back to the source or into an absorber. If
explosive gases are measured or if measurements are made at places where
explosion is possible, please follow the specific safety instructions.
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CONTENT:
1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................................................5
1.1 FIELDS OF APPLICATION .....................................................................................................................................5
1.2 MEASURING PRINCIPLE ......................................................................................................................................7
2. PREPARATION FOR OPERATION ....................................................................................................................8
3. INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................................................8
3.1 ELECTRICAL POWER SUPPLY..............................................................................................................................8
3.2 BATTERY OPERATION .........................................................................................................................................9
3.2.1 Battery charger ............................................................................................................................................9
3.3 FUSES .................................................................................................................................................................11
3.4 OPERATION AND DISPLAY COMPONENTS .........................................................................................................11
3.5 CONNECTION OF THE ELECTRICAL OUTPUTS ..................................................................................................11
3.5.1 Analogue signal 4-20 mA ..........................................................................................................................11
3.5.2 Serial data output (USB or 9-pin DSUB) ..................................................................................................11
3.5.3 Connection of a printer..............................................................................................................................13
3.5.4 Status and external alarm output ..............................................................................................................13
3.5.5 Sample gas connection ..............................................................................................................................13
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ..........................................................................................................................14
4.1 START-UP MEASURING ......................................................................................................................................14
4.1.1 Display of mean values ..............................................................................................................................15
4.2 MAIN MENU ......................................................................................................................................................15
4.3 MANUAL ZERO ADJUSTMENT ...........................................................................................................................16
4.4 SETTING OF PARAMETERS ................................................................................................................................16
4.4.1 Setting of duration and repeat-interval of the automatic zeropoint adjustment .....................................17
4.4.2 Selection of concentration units (µg/m³ / ppb) .........................................................................................18
4.4.3 Selection of measuring range ....................................................................................................................18
4.4.4 Setting of alarm thresholds........................................................................................................................18
4.4.5 Setting of averaging times for mean values calculation ...........................................................................19
4.4.6 Printer menue ............................................................................................................................................19
4.4.6.1 Printer Mode ........................................................................................................................................19
4.4.6.3 Auto-Print-Interval, Print on Alarm .....................................................................................................20
4.4.7 Setting of response time .............................................................................................................................21
4.5 SERVICE MENU ..................................................................................................................................................21
4.5.1 Display of calibration factors list ..............................................................................................................22
4.5.2 Entering a new calibration factor .............................................................................................................23
4.5.3 Setting date and time .................................................................................................................................23
4.5.4 Device data ................................................................................................................................................24
4.5.5 Set Status ...................................................................................................................................................24
4.5.6 Portable Operation.....................................................................................................................................25
4.5.7 Conversion of Readings to Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP) Conditions ...............................25
4.5.8 Manual Functional Check of Status Contacts and Zero Valve................................................................26
4.6 ERROR MESSAGES ............................................................................................................................................27
4.6.1 Lamp ! .....................................................................................................................................................27
4.6.2 p-Sensor ! ..............................................................................................................................................27
5. DATA LOGGER FUNCTION ..............................................................................................................................28
5.1 SETTING THE LOGGING RATE ...........................................................................................................................28
5.2 ACTIVATING THE DATA LOGGER ......................................................................................................................28
5.4 SENDING LOGGED DATA TO A PC WITH THE HG-TRANSFER SOFTWARE .......................................................29
5.5 DELETE LOGGED DATA .....................................................................................................................................31
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6. MAINTENANCE....................................................................................................................................................32
6.1 PARTICLE FILTER..............................................................................................................................................32
6.2 REPLACEMENT OF THE CARBON CARTRIDGE FOR ZERO AIR ..........................................................................32
6.3 CARE AND MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................................................33
6.4 CALIBRATION CHECK WITH REFERENCE SCREEN ...........................................................................................33
6.5 ZERO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT ..............................................................................................................................34
7. TECHNICAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................35
7.1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS............................................................................................................................35
7.2 INFLUENCING EFFECTS .....................................................................................................................................35
7.3 STORAGE AND TRANSPORT ...............................................................................................................................35
7.4 SPARE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES ......................................................................................................................36
7.5 BLOCK DIAGRAM OF ELECTRICAL PARTS ........................................................................................................37
7.6 DIAGRAM OF COMPONENTS ..............................................................................................................................38
INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................................40
APPENDIX .................................................................................................................................................................42
EC-DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .............................................................................................................42
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VM-3000
1. General description
1.1 Fields of application
The VM-3000 serves for continuous measurement of the mercury concentration in gases like air,
nitrogen, argon, etc.
Following applications are examples for the versatility of the VM-3000:
Measurement of mercury in laboratory room air of high schools and universities. Mercury
was used very often in the past for thermometers and barometers. Therefore such rooms where
practical exercises have been performed by students often show increased mercury
concentrations.
Measurement of mercury at working places where mercury is (or was) used. Such working
places may be dentists laboratories, thermometer manufacturers, fluorescence lamp
manufacturers, chlorine-alkali production plants, battery manufacturers.
Measurement of elemental mercury in flue or stack gas from combustion processes.
Commonly a cooler has to be placed before the gas is entering the VM-3000 to remove moisture
from the sample.
Measurement of mercury in recycling plants for mercury containing material like lamps,
batteries, filters and other components from natural gas industry.
Monitoring of mercury in laboratories where mercury is used for example in porosimeters or
diffusion pumps.
Measurement of mercury in gases for quality control (hydrogen, nitrogen, calibration gases)
Figure: VM-3000 in a field laboratory on top of the Teide volcano (Canary Islands)
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VM-3000
Figure: Mercury Monitoring System (MMS) for emission control of cellrooms in
chlorine-alkali plants
Applications for the VM-3000 (cont.)
As a highly sensitive mercury detector for research work
Survey of mercury in contaminated areas like abandoned plants which used mercury in
production processes.
Tracing of mercury spillage in
rooms.
Control of sanitation/
decontamination work
Geochemical applications (see
picture below)
Employment in the Mercury
Monitoring Systems (MMS) for
monitoring of mercury
concentrations at 2-48
measuring points.
Figure: tracing mercury spillage
with the VM-3000
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1.2 Measuring principle
Basis for determination of the mercury concentration is the resonance absorption of the Hgatoms at a wavelength of 253.7 nm. The sample gas is drawn through a 1 micron PTFE filter
into the optical cell by a membrane pump. The optical cell is entirely made of synthetic quartz
glass. Radiation of a mercury lamp passes through the cell and is measured by a solid state
detector. The attenuation of the UV light reaching the detector depends on the number of
mercury atoms in the optical cell. The internal computer performs the quantitative evaluation of
the mercury concentration in the sample in real-time. In order to get an extremely stable
baseline, the UV-light source is controlled by a reference beam and reference detector device. In
addition to this, the UV detectors of the VM-3000 are thermostatically controlled. Heating of the
optical cell (45 °C +/- 0.3 °C) makes the VM-3000 insensitive to water vapor.
Figure: Schematic diagram of the VM-3000
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VM-3000
2. Preparation for operation
The VM-3000 is unpacked and placed on a flat surface (e.g. table). The handle can be adjusted
in several steps in order to be used for carrying the VM-3000 or as a base to position it on a
bench.
3. Installation
3.1 Electrical power supply
The voltage of the power source has to be the same as the operation voltage indicated on the
rating plate of the VM-3000. One end of the included power cord has to be connected to the
power cord receptacle on the back of the VM-3000. The opposite end has to be plugged into an
appropriate power outlet. For operation turn on the VM-3000 by pushing the power
switch on the back plate to position I.
Figure: Rear panel of VM-3000
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3.2 Battery operation
The 12 Volt-version of the VM-3000 can be operated with mains as well as with 12V
rechargeable batteries. If „LOW BATTERY“ is indicated on the display the VM-3000 can still
operate a few minutes in order to give the operator some time to finish measuring and recharge
the batteries.
3.2.1 Battery charger
The charger ACS 410 is designed to quick charge the nickel-cadmium battery pack of the VM3000. Charging time of empty battery packs lasts approximately 10 hours.
Note that new battery packs or packs that have not been used for a longer period, in the beginning
only use part of their capacity.
Charging operation :
(a) Switch off the Mercury Vapor Monitor.
(b) Disconnect Mercury Vapor Monitor from mains power supply by pulling the power plug.
(c) Put primary plug of battery charger into wall socket.
(d) Connect the Mercury Vapor Monitor by means of the included cable observing correct
polarity;
in case of wrong connection the red LED will be continuously lit.
(e) Charging of the NiCd power packs will start automatically once being properly connected.
(f) Red LED will flash for about 10 seconds, battery contact detection - test phase.
Note: If the red LED keeps flashing after the test phase, check the polarity of the battery pack
(+/- switched). If polarity is right and the red LED keeps flashing after the test phase, the
battery pack is broken.
The test phase is followed by the charging procedure (red LED on). After termination of the
charging time the device will automatically switch over to impulse-trickle-charge. This is
indicated by a flashing green LED, red LED off.
Features of the battery charger:
for NiCd and NiMH battery packs
capacity: 500 mAh to 5000 mAh
micro-controller controlled charging
battery test phase at the start of each charging cycle to detect broken battery packs
broken battery pack detection and charging current cut off
short circuit detection
electronic protection against reversed battery
battery charging at the start of the charging cycle is of no importance
automatic switching over to trickle charge
button for discharging automatically followed by charging
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To avoid memory effect (loss of capacity due to frequent partly discharging), you have to
discharge the battery pack every now and then. After the test phase, press the „PRESS” button
approximately 2 seconds (red LED flashing). After discharging and after a power interruption the
charger automatically switches over to charging.
LEDs:
Red LED flashing: battery contact detection (test phase)
Red LED on:
Green LED on:
battery pack reversed
battery pack broken or unsuitable amount of cells
discharging after pressing the PRESS button
Charging
Battery fully charged, trickle charge
Charging times:
Number of cells: 4-10
Capacity:
Charging time:
5000 mAh
approx. 10h
Safety:
Do not charge dry batteries. Danger of explosion!
Only charge rechargeable NiCd / NiMH battery packs.
Do not open the charger. Repairs may only be done by the manufacturer.
For indoor use only.
Environment:
Batteries are small chemical waste. Throw away broken or used up batteries in a special
container or hand them in at a recycling centre.
Technical specifications:
Operation on mains: 230 V~ (+-10%), 50Hz (Euro version)
Charging tension:
Charging current:
Discharge current:
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120 V~ (+-10%), 60Hz (US-version)
approx. 30V dc at no load, 4-18 Vdc at charge-/discharge function
700 mA +-10%
200 - 500 mA
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3.3 Fuses
The fuse compartment is located on the rear of the VM-3000 between the power cord receptacle
and the power switch. It can be opened with a small screw driver and contains two fuses.
CAUTION: Disconnect instrument from electrical mains
supply before opening the fuse compartment !
Fuse type:
The rating of the fuses to be used as spares depends on the operation voltage
indicated on the rating plate of the VM-3000:
230V operation voltage: fuse type T 400mA (time lag)
115V operation voltage: fuse type T 1.25 A (time lag)
3.4 Operation and display components
The VM-3000 features a waterproof IP 65 keypad and a graphic LCD with background
illumination for comfortable communication with the operator.
3.5 Connection of the electrical outputs
3.5.1 Analogue signal 4-20 mA
The socket for the analogue output signal is located on the rear panel of the VM-3000. To
transmit the signal the included cable is connected with BNC-plug to the socket marked with
"SIGNAL". Maximum load is 400 Ohm.
GND
+ 4 ... 20 mA
socket for signal output (BNC)
Figure: BNC socket for measurement signal
3.5.2 Serial data output (USB or 9-pin DSUB)
To connect the VM-3000 with a PC there are two possibilities provided: a USB-socket and a 9pin DSUB-socket on the rear panel of the instrument. The serial port of the PC has to be
connected to one of them with an appropriate cable (part No. 202-07 pins 2-3-5 are 1:1/ 20207a). The two ports are not activated simultaneously and there is a dip-switch inside the back
panel of the instrument (see fig. below) which allows to select either USB or RS232.
Factory setting is: USB activated. For being able to use this port you have to install the
USB-driver (CDM Driver) which you will find on the Hg-Transfer CD-ROM.
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All data are transferred as ASCII characters. They can be read by the PC with a terminal
program like Hyper Terminal or the HG-Transfer software which has been included with the
delivery of the instrument. Using the HG-Transfer software is explained in chapter 5.5.
Figure: Dip switch for selecting USB or RS 232
RS 232
5
9
Pin Nr.
1
6
5
3
2
GND
RxD
TxD
Figure: wiring of the RS 232 socket
The parameters used for serial data transfer are:
9600 baud / 8 data bit /stop bit 1 / no parity / flow control: none
The measurement actualises every second, and every 30 seconds status information is transferred.
Data format: XXXX.X;
Example: 1.0; 1.5; 3.4; 12.3; 11.5; 100.0; 1901.5;
Status is output as following characters: N= NORMAL; M= ERROR; A= ALARM
Example: 1.0; 1.5; 3.4;N; 12.3; 11.5; 100.0; 1901.5;
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3.5.3 Connection of a printer
To connect a printer (DOS-compatible) a 25-pin DSUB-socket is installed on the rear panel. If
the printer mode is activated, a periodical printout of mercury concentration and according data
like date and time is performed. The time intervals between two printouts can be set in the printer
menu.
Printer
13
1
25
Pin Nr.
14
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
PSTROBE D0
D1
D2
D3
D4
D5
D6
D7
11
18
BUSY DGND
Figure: parallel output socket for printer connection
3.5.4 Status and external alarm output
Operational status and alarm messages are available through potential free relay contacts.
The maximum load of the contacts is 80 V / 0.4 A.
Factory setting is: The contacts are open when active.
It is possible to change this setting in the software, see chapter 4.5, page 22, F4 – Set status.
STATUS
13
25
1
14
Pin Nr.
Status
2+ 14
Error
3+ 15
Zeroing
4+ 16
Alarm
3.5.5 Sample gas connection
The sample inlet is located in the centre of the particle filter at the front panel of the VM-3000.
It is possible to analyse ambient air by directly taking it into the sample inlet. The sample gas can
also be drawn from distance to the VM 3000 through a tubing. The VM-3000 has a standard
hose connector for tubing with 8 ... 10 mm inner diameter. A fitting for
4 mm (ID) / 6 mm (OD) tubing can be ordered (part No. 203-10). This is recommended for using
tubing with a length of more than one meter. Recommended materials are TYGON R 3603 (part
No. 201-03) or PFA (part No. 301-01) because of low permeability and minimum surface
effects.
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4. Operating instructions
4.1 Start-up measuring
After turning the VM-3000 on the mercury lamp is ignited and warmed up to operation
temperature. Following indications appear on the display first:
After the lamp has ignited and the instrument has
stabilized, which typically takes 3-15 minutes
(depending on the ambient temperature), an AutoZero is performed.
After the auto zero is finished, the VM 3000
automatically starts measuring.
Now on the display are shown:
actual absorption,
concentration in µg/Nm³ or in ppb (whatever has
been selected),
time left until the next zero point adjustment,
a bar graph visualising concentration of mercury.
The measuring mode will stay active until it is interrupted by double pressing the ESC-key.
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4.1.1 Display of mean values
If the F1 key is pressed while measuring, the
mean values over pre-set time intervals are
shown.
By pressing the ESC key the VM-3000 returns
to the measuring mode whereas after pressing the
F1 key the averaging times can be edited.
After editing you can return to the measuring
mode by pressing the ESC key.
4.2 Main Menu
If the ESC key is double pressed during measurement, the main menu will be displayed.
From this menu following operating functions like measurement or zero adjustment can be
chosen, or the sub menus for parameter setting or service can be selected.
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4.3 Manual zero adjustment
If F2 is pressed in the main menu (see chapter
4.1) the zero point adjustment is started.
During zero point adjustment an internal pinch
valve cuts off the sample flow and filtered air is
drawn through the optical cell.
CAUTION:
Performing zero adjustment, the mean of measurements during the last
second will be set as new baseline. If the zero adjustment procedure is interrupted
(double press of ESC) but there is still sample gas in the optical cell the zero adjustment
may be incorrect.
4.4 Setting of parameters
To get to the "Set Parameters" menu, F2 has to be pressed in the main menu (see chapter 4.1).
By pressing the arrow-symbol you can turn to page two of the parameter menu:
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4.4.1 Setting of duration and repeat-interval of the automatic zeropoint adjustment
Press F1 Zero Duration/Interval on page 1 of the parameter menu:
F1 is for setting the duration
F2 is for setting the time interval between
two automatic zero point adjustments.
A typical setting for portable use at low measuring range is shown in above figure.
If Zero Interval is set to "0" the automatic zero adjustment is not active.
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4.4.2 Selection of concentration units (µg/m³ / ppb)
Press F2- Select conc. Unit on page 1 of the parameter menu:
F1: selection of µg/Nm³
F2: selection of ppb
4.4.3 Selection of measuring range
Press F3 -Select Range on page 1 of the parameter menu.
One of three measuring ranges can be
selected by pressing F1.
4.4.4 Setting of alarm thresholds
Press F4 Set Alarm Thresholds on page 1 of the parameter menu:
By pressing F1/ F2/ F3 up to three alarm
thresholds can be set.
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4.4.5 Setting of averaging times for mean values calculation
Press F1 Mean Values on page 2 of the "Set parameters" menu. While measuring the
VM-3000 files the mean values for the pre-set time intervals. These can be retrieved during
measuring and also printed out by a connected printer.
By pressing F1/F2/F3 up to three
time intervals can be entered for
determination of the mean values.
4.4.6 Printer menue
The printer menu will appear, if F2 Enter on page 2 of the parameter menu is pressed.
If you have connected a PC and uses the
software Hg-Transfer you can record all
measured values immediately. You can
change interval-parameters in the
software ( see chapter 5.4, page 29, HgTransfer).
4.4.6.1 Printer Mode
When you connect a printer, you have to change the interface setting from serial (default setting
from factory) to parallel first by pressing F4 Printer Mode.
4.4.6.2 Print actual settings
The actual parameters will be printed by
pressing the F1 key.
When you connect a PC and use our
software Hg-Transfer (see pages 29ff) you
can also transfer the actual settings by
pressing the F1 key. Be sure that the
printer mode is set to serial!
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4.4.6.3 Auto-Print-Interval, Print on Alarm
The following printer settings will only be completed if a printer is on-line:
Setting of auto-print interval: Press F2 Auto-Print Interval.
The automatic printout of the measurements will be completed periodically in the set time
interval. If zero is entered , no print will succeed (printer = OFF).
Print only in case of alarm: Press F3 Print on Alarm. If „ON“ is displayed printing of the
measurements will succeed in one-minute-intervals as long as the alarm threshold is exceeded.
Figure: Printout showing date, time, mercury concentration, 2-minutes mean, 10-minutes
mean, 20-minutes mean
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4.4.7 Setting of response time
Press F3- Response Time on page 2 of the parameter menu.
By pressing F1- Response Time a time constant between 0 and 9 seconds can be entered. The
measuring signal will be smoothened by this time factor.
4.5 Service menu
Press F4- Service in the main menu (see chapter 4.2) to get into the Service mode.
After entering the code 321 [ENT], you have access to the service mode:
F1
Calibration
F2
Set Date / Time
F3
Device Data
F4
Set Status
ESC <<< Back
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4.5.1 Display of calibration factors list
The actual calibration factor and all previously entered calibration factors can be recalled in form
of a list on the display.
After pressing F1- Calibration in the service mode, following page will appear.
The actual calibration factor is marked by an arrow.
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4.5.2 Entering a new calibration factor
CAUTION:
Every alteration of the calibration factor influences the
measurements. Therefore the calibration factor should only be
changed after previous determination with a suitable calibration gas
source (e.g. Mercury Calibrator MC-3000 by Mercury Instruments).
Each VM-3000 has been calibrated before delivery. Every two years a professional calibration
check is recommended. According to regulations applied on a special application more frequent
re-calibration may be necessary.
ATTENTION: If parts of the VM-3000 in contact with sample gas are contaminated
with active substances like sulphur, an immediate calibration check is recommended.
After pressing F1- Calibration and
pressing F1 again, a new calibration
factor can be entered.
4.5.3 Setting date and time
Press F2- Set Date/Time in the service menu.
Press F1 to edit date
Press F2 to edit time
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4.5.4 Device data
By pressing F3-Device data you get information about the operational hours, the actual voltage
of the lamp and the stored software version.
The standard operation range of lamp voltage is 3.0 – 9.0 V
Operational Hours:
Lamp Voltage:
Software-Version:
425
h
4.3
V
3.02
Copyright: Mercury Instruments GmbH
IMT Innovative Messtechnik GmbH
ESC <<< Back
4.5.5 Set Status
If you press F4-Set Status, you can change the setting of the relay contacts for the output status
signals.
F1
Alarm Status
active opened
F2
Malfunc Status
active opened
F3
Zero Status
active opened
F4
External Zero
off
ESC <<< Back
It is also possible to give an external signal for doing a zero adjustment by setting F4-External
Zero to ON. Default setting is Off.
If the setting is ON, you can give a signal for performing a zero adjustment from any device
outside the VM-3000 by closing contact pins 7 and 19 of the 25-pol. DSUB-Plug on the
backside of the VM-3000. A suitable connection cable with a ready-for-use DSUB-plug on one
side and 2-pole cable on the other side is available as spare (part-no. 202-10)
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4.5.6 Portable Operation
For some applications like indoor screening of mercury contamination it is useful to select
Portable Mode.
Select Service Mode (see chapter 4.4)
Enter Service Code 3 2 1
Go to page 2
Press F2 - Portable Mode
Press ESC to leave the Service Mode
If Portable Mode has been activated, the last measurement is frozen during Auto Zero. The
performance of an Auto Zero is indicated on the screen.
Recommendation: If the instrument is used in Portable Mode, the Auto Zero Interval should
be set to ca. 0.5 minutes. Thus zero drift which may be caused by temperature changes is
compensated.
4.5.7 Conversion of Readings to Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP) Conditions
In some cases the user wants to read the mercury concentrations based on mass per standard
cubic meter.
A pressure sensor is installed close to the outlet of the optical cell and a separate temperature
sensor on the backside of the photometer, to allow conversion of the readings to standard
temperature and pressure (STP) conditions.
The actual pressure and temperature readings are displayed in the service mode window (see
chapter 4.5.8).
After selecting F3 – pT-correction you can activate (ON) or deactivate (OFF) the pT-correction
function.
If for some reasons the PT-correction factors have been deleted (for example after an EPROM
has been replaced or after the buffer battery of the microprocessor has been replaced), it may be
necessary to restore them.
Enter Service Code 3 2 1 + ENTER
Go to page 2
Select F4- Set Pressure Cal. Data
After pressing F1- Set gradient you can enter the gradient (practically you use the same
value as noted in the instruments calibration certificate)
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After pressing F2- Set constant you can enter the offset (practically you use the same value
as noted in the instruments calibration certificate)
Press ESC to leave the Service Mode.
4.5.8 Manual Functional Check of Status Contacts and Zero Valve
The status contacts and the operation of the zero valve can be checked manually.
Select Service Mode (see chapter 4.4)
Enter Service Code 9 8 7 + Enter
Select the wanted function by pressing the 1 – 5 keys
Press ESC to leave the Service Mode
Status
Valve
1
Off
4
Zero
Off
5
Reserve
Off
2
Alarm
Off
3
Malfunction
Off
Pressure:
TSample:
958 mbar
21 °C
ESC <<< Back
Read sample pressure and temperature:
In this window also the values for pressure and temperature of the sample are displayed (see also
chapter 4.5.7).
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VM-3000
4.6 Error Messages
4.6.1 Lamp !
The installed electrodeless mercury lamp is monitored permanently. If its performance drops
under a certain limit (lamp voltage >8.5 V) the warning „LAMP!” indicates that the lamp should
be replaced within the next days.
4.6.2 p-Sensor !
This error message can only be displayed if the pT-correction is ON (see chapter 4.5.5).
This error message is displayed if the pressure measured by the pressure sensor is either <500
mbar or if the pressure is > 1200 mbar. There can be following causes for this:
(a) the calibration of the pressure sensor has been lost, check calibration parameters of the
pressure sensor in the service mode (see chapter 4.5.5).
(b) the pressure of the sample at the location where it is measured (at outlet of the optical
cell) is out of the allowed range. Check sample path upstream the pump for plugging and
check, if there is flow restriction in the sample feed which may lead to low pressure;
check also if there is overpressure at sample feed.
(c) the pressure sensor is not working correctly and has to be replaced. This may be the case
if (a) and (b) have been checked and are OK.
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VM-3000
5. Data Logger Function
The VM-3000 is available with a data logger function (as an option). Up to 15000 measurements
can be stored in the RAM of the VM-3000. This enables the user to register up to 4 hours of
measuring time if a logging rate of 1 second is set (respectively 40 hours of measuring if a
logging rate of 10 seconds is set). The logging function has to be activated after the instrument
has been switched on (see 5.2).
5.1 Setting the logging rate
Jump to the Set Parameters menu (cf. 4.3 of manual).
Go to page 2 of Set Parameters menu by pressing the▼-key
Press F4- Logger Mode. The Logger Menu appears.
Press F2- Logging Rate (1-999 sec)
Enter the desired logging rate. Values from 1 sec to 999 seconds are allowed.
All previously stored data are cleared if the logging rate is changed !
5.2 Activating the data logger
After the VM-3000 has been turned on the instrument automatically performs an Auto Zero and
jumps into the measuring mode. For logging of data the data logger has to be activated.
•
Go to the Logger Mode menu as described under 5.1.
•
Press F1- Logger on/off to activate/deactivate the logger.
The data logger is automatically deactivated after power has been turned off. It is also
deactivated if 15000 measurements are stored in the RAM.
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VM-3000
5.3 Start logging of measurement data
After the data logger has been activated the measurement data are automatically logged whenever
the measurement mode is active. The status of the logger is indicated on the display (ON/OFF).
5.4 Sending logged data to a PC with the Hg-Transfer Software
Calibration and analysis data are sent via serial output of the VM-3000 to a connected computer
using the Hg-Transfer software (comes with the instrument). The Hg-Transfer software has to
be installed on the connected computer before data are transferred. Data can be displayed, stored
(as .txt file or EXCEL® file) and printed.
Two sockets are available on the instrument back panel (see also chapter 3.5.2): a 9-pin D-Sub
socket for connecting the VM-3000 to a COM-port of the PC and a USB socket for connecting
the VM-3000 to a USB port of the PC.
If USB connection is used you have to install a USB driver (CDM Driver which comes with the
Hg-Transfer software) on your PC first. The USB-driver is on the CD-ROM with the HgTransfer software.
Figure:
Hg-Transfer software main screen.
Under „Port Settings“
you can select the port of your computer
used for connection with the VM-3000 and
the communication parameters.
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VM-3000
By choosing „Configuration“ you can choose the type of analyzer:
VM = VM-3000.
You can enter a number to determine how
many values will be discarded before a
value is shown and saved.
Transferring of the data from the VM-3000 to the PC is commenced by clicking onto
the start icon.
During measuring there is a continuous transfer of readings with a frequency depending on the
set value in the configuration menu (select number of measuring values to show and to save).
The following datas are shown:
Measured Value; measured value…..
and every 30 sec there is a signal
indicating the status:
Z = zero adjustment,
N= normal operation
When there are already logged data stored in the VM-3000, the whole log-file can be sent to the
PC using the Hg-Transfer-Software.
The following data are transferred and
shown:
Date; Time; Logging rate; Measured value
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VM-3000
The values displayed in the Hg-Transfer window can be stored with the Save Logfile
command (EXCEL® format).
With the Save Continuously command results of a running measurement are
continuously stored (EXCEL® format).
With pressing About (i) you can
check which version of hg-TransferSoftware you are using.
With choosing Exit you are leaving the Hg-Transfer software.
5.5 Delete logged data
Select the Logger Mode as described under 5.1.
Press F4- clear logdata.
Now all measurement data stored in the RAM are deleted.
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VM-3000
6. Maintenance
6.1 Particle filter
Under normal operation conditions, the sample gas particle filter has to be inspected regularly. If
a deposit of particulate matter is visible, the filter membrane has to be replaced. Expected time
interval for a filter replacement is 1 ... 6 months when normal room air is measured. For filter
replacement carefully screw out the front part of the filter holder. Remove sealing ring and filter
membrane. Insert spare filter membrane that the slick side faces towards the user and away from
the instrument. Insert sealing ring and screw in front part of the filter holder. Make sure
everything is gas tight.
Figure: particle filter replacement
6.2 Replacement of the carbon cartridge for zero air
The internal carbon cartridge of the VM-3000 should be replaced annually.
Replacement of carbon cartridge:
Place the instrument on a flat surface with its rear panel facing to you. Then loosen the two
screws on the back of the VM-3000 and remove the top of the case by pulling it towards you.
The carbon cartridge is now visible and can be removed from its holding clamps. To replace the
carbon cartridge the hose has to be pulled off.
Figure: replacement of activated carbon cartridge
pull out cartridge
and remove tubing
3
photometer unit
top view
unscrew with
3mm Allen key
1
remove top
2
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VM-3000
6.3 Care and maintenance
•
The VM-3000 should be maintained regularly once a year. Following service work has to be
done: Replacement of the pinch valve tubing (part No. 203-12), check of the optical cell
and of the internal tubing for visible deposits.
•
If the VM-3000 is in permanent operation the membrane pump should be replaced every
two years.
6.4 Calibration check with reference screen
This test is for check of the calibration stability of the instrument. Instead of using calibration
gas a simple reference screen with known absorbance is brought into the light path.
CAUTION:
for this test the instruments top cover has to be opened during the
instrument is powered. There is danger of electric shock and physical
damage if parts under high voltage are touched. This test may be
performed by personnel only who is trained and qualified for work at
opened electric equipment.
Following steps have to be followed:
a) bring instrument into a dry room and place it on a dry and stable surface (table).
a) switch on instrument and allow to warm up for min. 30 minutes.
c) perform zero adjustment.
d) open top cover (see chapter 6.2) of the instrument and place test screen (available as an
accessory, part no. # 202-15) into the gap between lamp and optical cell or between UV detector
and optical cell. Touch screen only on the labelled side, take care that the screen surface does not
get dirty.
e) put the top cover onto the instrument to prevent light from entering into the instruments
interior.
f) take reading of the absorbance value on the instruments display on the front panel.
g) switch off power and disconnect from mains.
h) remove test screen and mount top cover again.
The reading of the Absorbance value during the screen is positioned in the light path of the
photometer should be 0,4075 +/- 0,050. If the reading is out of this range, contact the service for
check.
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VM-3000
Test Screen
Test Sc reen
Figure: positioning of screen into the gap between optical cell and detector
6.5 Zero offset adjustment
In some cases it may be observed that the reading of zero air is not zero even after a zero
adjustment has been performed. In this case the zero offset may be re-adjusted. For this the
service menu is selected and as service code 4 5 6 ENT is entered (see chapter 4.5).
Now the Device Adjustment menu is displayed.
Note: for the following steps the analyzer has to be free of mercury, this can be done by
measuring mercury free air or by installing a zero cartridge at Sample IN and allow to measure
for 15-30 minutes. After this the Device Adjustment procedure can be started by pressing
F1- Start Adjustment.
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VM-3000
7. Technical information
7.1 Technical specifications
Instrument type
Manufacturer
Measuring component
Measurement principle
Wavelength
UV-source
Method of stabilising
Optical cell
Cell temperature
Measuring ranges
Sensitivity
Sample gas flow
Analogue output
Binary outputs
Digital outputs
Electrical power consumption
Power supply
Dimensions
Weight
19" rack mount version
Mercury Vapor Monitor VM-3000
Mercury Instruments
Mercury vapor Hg°
Atom absorption
253,7 nm
electrodeless mercury discharge lamp
optically with reference beam; thermally
entirely of fused silica Suprasil, l= 230 mm
45 °C (+/- 0.3 °C) thermostatically
controlled
0.1 - 100; 0.1 - 1000; 0.1 - 2000 [µg/m³]
0 - 10; 0 - 100; 0 - 200 ppb
ca. 0.1 [µg/m³]
ca. 70 - 90 l/h
Hg concentration in real time; 4 - 20 mA
Malfunction; zeroing; alarm
Serial (RS 232) for PC connection, parallel
(Centronics) for printer connection
max. ca. 40 W
230 VAC / 50 Hz ; 115 VAC / 60 Hz
(option) ; 12 V DC (option)
45 x 15 x 35 cm (WxHxD) photometer unit
24 x 48 x 27 cm (WxHxD) reaction unit
ca. 7 kg
option, for installation in 19" racks
7.2 Influencing effects
Operating temperature
Sample temperature max.
Operating humidity
Sample gas humidity, max.
CE approval
0 °C ... 40 °C
65 °C
ca. 90 % max. R.H.
dew point < 65 °C
according to 89/336/EEC and
73/23/EEC
7.3 Storage and transport
The interior of the VM- 3000 should be kept save from moisture and hard shocks. Vibrations
caused by transport in a car or an airplane do not harm the VM-3000.
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VM-3000
7.4 Spare parts and accessories
ID
Item Description
201-03m Tygon tubing, 4/7,
internal tubing for photometer or sample tubing
201-04 Activated Carbon Filter
filled with sulphurized activated carbon
201-11 Y-piece, glass, for the connection tubes between pinch valve and optical cell
201-12 Tubing-reduction (PTFE), pinch valve
202-05 Membrane Filter
PTFE, 47 mm diameter, 1µ, pack of 25 pcs.
202-06 Signal cable
with BNC plug, l= 180 cm
202-07 PC connection cable
to transfer Data to a PC via RS 232 port
202-10 Gold Filter Cartridge
for testing of nonspecific readings
202-15 Reference Screen
for Calibration test
203-01 Membrane pump
complete pump
203-02 Optical cell
l= 230 mm, completely made of synthetic fused silica (Suprasil)
203-03 Pinch valve
complete unit, 2 valves unit
203-05 LC-Display
203-12 Tubing for the pinch valve
203-60 Filter holder, clear plastic holds 47 mm diameter filters
203-61 UV Lamp, electrodeless spare lamp bulb
301-02 Sample tubing
FEP 4 x 6 mm, low memory effect, recommended for lengths > 10 m
301-10 Buffer battery for RAM, Li-battery
301-11 4-20 mA-IC with cooler
301-12 Battery charger ASC 410
203-10 Fitting, for connection of a 4 mm (ID) x 6 mm OD) sample tubing to the sample
inlet filter
202-07 PC connection cable
202-08 Printer connection cable
350-01a Rechargeable battery pack, 12 V, for ca. 4-5 h operation, complete with ICcontrolled charger, charge / discharge function
300-04 Data logger function
300-05 Sampling probe (wand) for field testing, stainless steel, complete with
3 m tubing
401-00 MC-3000 Mercury Calibrator. Calibration gas generator for elemental mercury
vapor
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13.06.2012
G
F
E
D
C
1
2
Valve
Pump
2
1
2
PT100
3
3
9
UV-Det.
ST
B
2
ST12
ST13
ST SV1
Printer
Status
ST 3
Interface
STPT
4
6
9pol.
ST
ST12
5
6
Mercury instruments GmbH, Fax: +49-8131-505722
Tag
bearb. 28.09.11
gepr.
Name Norm
Keypad
Display
Microcontroller
MT25
P-Sensor
2
Name
Keck
UV Lamp
I: 4-20mA
U: 0-4096mV
battery-version
Backplane
ST4
ST5
40
5
ST15
4
Ausg. Änder. Tag
STC3
ST2
ST9
ST1
USB
RS232
Optical cell heating
4
ST7
VM-3000_E-V-2.8.doc
ST6
A
1
pri
VM - 3000
Blockschaltbilder
Diagramm
Trafo
for heating of
optical cell
ST
2
7
8
8
3pol.
40
Trafo
Power Supply
File: electrical diagram v3.cdr
sec
9
7
230Vac
ST
2pol.
ST
2
230Vac /
110Vac
1
3
12V
Batterypack
9
Battery-version
2
Batt.- plug:
1 Charger
2 GND
3 ext. Battery
9
G
F
E
D
C
B
A
VM-3000
7.5 Block diagram of electrical parts
Page 37 of 42
VM-3000
7.6 Diagram of components
Fig: interior view of the photometer
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VM-3000
fig: part numbers
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VM-3000
Index
F
A
accessories
alarm thresholds
application
Auto Zero
parameters
Auto-Print Interval
38
18
5
17
20
9
9
39
35
23
22
34
18
13
11
13
24
D
data logger
activating
Data Logger
delete data
send data to PC (Hg-Transfer)
Data Logger Function
date and time
setting
Declaration of Conformity
Diagram of components
duration
of auto zero
VM-3000_E-V-2.8.doc
General description
Installation
interval
of auto zero
logged data
send to PC
logging
start of
logging rate
seting of
5
8
17
Main Menu
Maintenance
mean values
display of
measuring
start up
Measuring principle
measuring range
O
30
31
27
of averaging times
adjustment
output
4-20 mA signal
RS232
23
44
40
28
28
27
M
27
15
34
15
14
7
18
19
11
11
P
17
E
EC-Declaration
electrical parts
Error Messages
G
L
C
Calibration check
calibration factor
enter new
calibration factors list
carbon cartridge
replacement
concentration units
connection
sample gas
Connection
electrical output
printer
Conversion of Readings to Standard Temperature
and Pressure (STP) Conditions
11
I
B
Battery charger
Battery operation
Block diagram
Fuses
44
39
26
parameters
setting
Particle filter
replacement
Portable Operation
power supply
Preparation for operation
13.06.2012
16
34
24, 25
8
8
Page 40 of 42
VM-3000
Print on Alarm
printer
connection
printer settings
20
13
20
R
reference screen
response time
setting
read
Service menu
Spare parts
specifications
Standard Temperature and Pressure
Start-up
Status output
25
22
38
37
24
14
13
35
T
21
Technical specifications
37
S
Z
Safety information
Sample gas
sample pressure and temperature
VM-3000_E-V-2.8.doc
2
13
zero adjustment
manually
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16
Page 41 of 42
VM-3000
APPENDIX
EC-Declaration of Conformity
The Company:
Declares that the product:
Intended purpose:
Mercury Instruments GmbH
Liebigstrasse 5
D-85757 Karlsfeld
Germany
VM-3000 Mercury Analyzer
Automatic measurement of mercury at trace
concentration levels in air and other gases
conforms with the basic requirements of the relevant EC directives.
A conformity assessment method as provided in the directives has been executed.
The following harmonized standards were applied:
CENELENC EN 50 081-1 : 1992
CENELENC EN 50 081-2 : 1993
CENELENC EN 50 082-2 : 1995
CENELENC EN 55 011 : 1991
CENELENC EN 55 011 : 1991
CENELENC EN 61000-3-2 : 1998
CENELENC EN 61000-3-3 : 1996
CENELENC EN 61 000-4-2 : 1995
CENELENC EN 61 000-4-4 : 1995
CENELENC EN 61 000-4-3 : 1996
CENELENC EN 61 000-4-6 : 1996
CENELENC ENV 50 204 : 1995
The tests regarding above standards have been conducted by Intertek Deutschland GmbH,
Kaufbeuren/Germany (Test Reports Nr. 97KFE163/98-01-14 and 00KFE1188/00-11-21).
The test documents are available for inspection.
This declaration is submitted by:
Karlsfeld, 22nd June, 2007
VM-3000_E-V-2.8.doc
Dr. Alfred Sauerer
(CEO)
13.06.2012
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