Operation Manual
Wet Digester B-440
096791 en
Table of contents
Table of contents
1 About this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.1 User qualification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 Proper use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3 Improper use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.4 Safety warnings and safety signs used in this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.5 Product safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5.1 General hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5.2 Warning labels on housing and assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.3 Personal protective equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.4 Built-in safety elements and measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.6 General safety rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.2 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.3 Materials used. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4 Description of function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.1 Functional principle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5 Putting into operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.1 Installation site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.3 Electrical connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.3.1 System behaviour at power outage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
6 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6.1 Operating controls and housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
6.2 Preparing for use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.2.1 Filling of the condensate trap (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.2.2 Installing the vitrified ceramic plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.2.3 Installing the glass hood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
6.3 Setting up application parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.4 How to perform a wet application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.5 Finishing an application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.3 Optimization principle for ashing programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
7 Maintenance and repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
7.1 Customer service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
7.2 General inspection and cleaning instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
7.2.1 Additional cleaning instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
7.2.2 Liquid ingress into the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
7.5 Reflector exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
8 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
8.1 Malfunctions and their remedy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
8.1.1 Heating performance test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
9 Shutdown, storage, transport and disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
9.1 Storage and transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
9.2 Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
3 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
Table of contents
10 Spare parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
10.1 Scope of application and delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
10.2 Spare parts, optional accessories and consumables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
11 Declarations and requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
11.1 FCC requirements (for USA and Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
11.2 Declaration of conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
4 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
1 About this manual
This manual describes the Wet Digester B-440 and provides all information required for its safe operation and to maintain it in good working order.
It is addressed to laboratory personnel and operators in particular.
Read this manual carefully before installing and running your system and note the safety precautions
in section 2 in particular. Store the manual in the immediate vicinity of the instrument, so that it can be
consulted at any time.
No technical modifications may be made to the instrument without the prior written agreement of
Buchi. Unauthorized modifications may affect the system safety or result in accidents. Technical data
are subject to change without notice.
NOTE
The symbols pertaining to safety (WARNINGS and ATTENTIONS) are explained in section 2.
1 About this manual
This manual is copyright. Information from it may not be reproduced, distributed or used for competitive purposes, nor made available to third parties. The manufacture of any component with the aid of
this manual without prior written agreement is also prohibited.
The English manual is the original language version and serves as basis for all translations into
other languages. If you need another language version of this manual, you can download available
versions at www.buchi.com.
5 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
2 Safety
This section introduces the safety concept of the instrument and contains general rules of behavior
and warnings from direct and indirect hazards concerning the use of the product.
For the users safety, all safety instructions and safety messages in the individual sections shall
be strictly observed and followed. Therefore, the manual must always be available to all persons
performing any tasks described herein.
2.1 User qualification
The instrument may only be used by laboratory personnel and other persons who on account of
training and professional experience know the potential dangers that can develop when operating the
instrument.
Untrained personnel, or persons who are currently being trained, require careful supervision by a
qualified person. This Operation Manual serves as a basis for training.
2 Safety
2.2 Proper use
The equipment is designed and built as laboratory equipment. It serves to heat up organic
compounds with acids/peroxides for the wet digestion applications. It is also capable to perform dry
ashing at high temperatures.
A Scrubber (e.g. Scrubber B-414) has to be connected to the glass hood to safely withdraw and
neutralize fumes which will emerge during digestion. In any case, all exhausts and fumes leaving the
system or assemblies such as the Scrubber have to be withdrawn instantly by a fume hood. This is
mandatory to remove all possibly hazardous substances (e.g. acid fumes) from the working area. The
ventilation system of the fume hood has to be equipped with safety measures such as outlet filters to
avoid contamination of the environment.
When the Wet Digester B-440 is used in combination with other instruments (e.g. Scrubber and fume
hood) all related manuals are to be fully observed.
2.3 Improper use
Any other use than the one stated above and any application that does not comply with the technical
data is considered to be improper use. Improper use can cause hazardous situations for the operator
and / or for the instrument and might cause consequential property damage.
The operator bears the sole risk for any damages or hazards caused by improper use!
In particular, the following uses shall not be permitted
Installation or use of the instrument in rooms, which require ex-protected instruments.s
Use of samples which can explode or ignite due to shocks, friction, heat or sparks.s
The use of spare parts or accessories other than those mentioned in these operating instructions.s
The equipment may not be operated using combustible substances.s
6 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
2.4 Safety warnings and safety signs used in this manual
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and NOTICE are standardized signal words for identifying levels of
hazards and risks related to personal injury and property damage. All signal words, which are related
to personal injury are accompanied by the general safety sign.
For your safety it is important to read and fully understand the table below with the different signal
words and their defi nitions!
Sign Signal word Defi nition Risk level
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
2 Safety
★★★★
WARNING
CAUTION
NOTICE
no
Supplementary safety information symbols may be placed in a rectangular panel on the left to the
signal word and the supplementary text (see example below).
Space for
supplementary
safety
information
symbols.
Table of supplementary safety information symbols
The reference list below incorporates all safety information symbols used in this manual and their
meaning.
Symbol Meaning
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result
in minor or moderate injury.
Indicates possible property damage, but no
practices related to personal injury.
!
SIGNAL WORD
Supplementary text, describing the kind and level of hazard / risk seriousness.
List of measures to avoid the herein described, hazard or hazardous situation.s
...s
...s
★★★☆
★★☆☆
★☆☆☆
(property damage only)
General warning
Electrical hazard
Heavy weight, avoid over exertion
Explosive gases, explosive environment
7 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
Symbol Meaning
Fire hazard
Harmful to life-forms
Hot item, hot surface
Device damage
2 Safety
Inhalation of substances
Chemical burns by corrosives
Fragile components
Wear laboratory coat
Wear protective goggles
Wear protective gloves
Additional user information
Paragraphs starting with NOTE transport helpful information for working with the device / software or
its supplementaries. NOTEs are not related to any kind of hazard or damage (see following example).
NOTE
Useful tips for the easy operation of the instrument / software.
8 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
2.5 Product safety
The Wet Digester B-440 has been designed and built in accordance with current state-of-the-art technology, at the time of development. Safety warnings in this manual (as described in section 2.4) serve
to make the user alert to and avoid hazardous situations emanating from residual dangers by giving
appropriate counter measures.
However, risks to users, property and the environment can arise when the instrument is damaged,
used carelessly or improperly.
2.5.1 General hazards
The following safety messages show hazards of general kind which may occur when handling the
instrument. The user shall observe all listed counter measures in order to achieve and maintain the
lowest possible level of hazard.
Additional warning messages can be found whenever actions and situations described in this manual
are related to situational hazards.
2 Safety
!
DANGER
Death or serious injuries by use in explosive environments.
Do not store or operate the instrument in explosive environmentss
Remove all sources of flammable vaporss
Do not store chemicals in the vicinity of the devices
Operate and maintain the device in a fume hood with sufficient ventilation to directly withdraw s
fumes
!
CAUTION
Risk of minor or moderate cuts by sharp edges.
Do not touch defective or broken glassware with bare handss
Do not touch thin metal edgess
Risk of instrument damage by liquids or mechanical shocks.
NOTICE
Do not spill liquids over the instrument or its componentss
Do not move the instrument when it is loaded with sample materials
Do not drop the instrument or its componentss
Keep external vibrations away from the instruments
Do not operate the instrument without insulation panels and reflectors
9 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
2.5.2 Warning labels on housing and assemblies
The following warning sticker(s) can be found on the housing or assemblies of the Wet Digester:
Symbol Meaning Location
Do not touch hot item, hot surface! Sticker / label, located at the glass hood
Wear protective goggles Sticker / label, located at the glass hood
Wear protective gloves Sticker / label, located at the glass hood
2 Safety
2.5.3 Personal protective equipment
Always wear personal protective equipment such as protective eye goggles, protective clothing and
gloves. The personal protective equipment must meet all requirements of all data sheets for the chemicals used. These instructions are an important part of the Wet Digester B-440 and must be made
available at all times to the operating personnel at the place where the equipment is deployed. This
also applies to additional language versions of these instructions, which can be reordered separately.
!
WARNING
Serious chemical burns by corrosives.
Observe all data sheets of the used chemicalss
Handle corrosives in well ventilated environments onlys
Always wear protective goggless
Always wear protective glovess
Always wear protective clothess
Do not use damaged glasswares
10 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
2.5.4 Built-in safety elements and measures
Buchi glassware design
All original Buchi digestion glassparts are made of high temperature and chemical resistant borosili-s
cate glass.
Acid fumes generated during digestion accumulate in the glass hoods
The fumes must be safely withdrawn from the glass hood by a Scrubber (e.g. Scrubber B-414) s
with sufficient suction flow.
Heater
The device is inherently safe due to its limited heating power. In case of a faulty heating circuit, the
device cannot overheat.
2.6 General safety rules
Responsibility of the operator
The head of the laboratory is responsible for training his/her personnel.
The operator shall inform the manufacturer without delay of any safety-related incidents which might
occur during operation of the instrument or its accessories. Legal regulations, such as local, state and
federal laws applying to the instrument or its accessories must be strictly followed.
2 Safety
Duty of maintenance and care
The operator is responsible for the proper condition of instrument. This includes maintenance, service
and repair jobs that are performed and on schedule by authorized personnel only.
Spare parts to be used
Use only genuine consumables and spare parts for maintenance to assure good system performance,
reliability and safety. Any modifications of spare parts or assemblies are only allowed with the prior
written permission of the manufacturer.
Modifications
Modifications to the instrument are only permitted after prior consultation and with the written approval
of the manufacturer. Modifications and upgrades shall only be carried out by an authorized Buchi technical engineer. The manufacturer will decline any claim resulting from unauthorized modifications.
11 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
3 Technical data
This section introduces the reader to the Wet Digester and its specifications. It contains the technical
data, requirements and performance data.
3.2 Technical data
Technical data
Power consumption max. 1200 W
Integrated power outlet socket for Srubber B-414 max. load 100 W
Temperature control range 0 – 600°C (working range starts at ambient temp.)
Connection voltage 220 – 240 VAC ± 10% (1P, N, G)
Input fuse (internal) T 100mA L 250 V
Frequency 50 / 60 Hz
IP degree of protection (two digits) IP 20
3 Technical data
Explanation of protection level:
2 Protection provided by the enclosure against access
to hazardous parts (e.g., electrical conductors,
moving parts) and the ingress of solid foreign objects
with a diameter of > 12,5 mm.
0 No protection of the equipment inside the enclosure
against harmful ingress of water.
Overvoltage category II
Environmental conditions:
Pollution degree 2 (for indoor use only)
Temperature 5 – 40 °C
Altitude (above sea level) up to 2000 m
Humidity (curve parameter) Maximum relative humidity 80% up to 31 °C, then
decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at 40 °C
Dimensions in mm (W × D × H) 470 × 290 × 370
Net weight 12 kg
NOTE
Technical data of accessory instruments can be found in the respective operation manual!
12 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
3.3 Materials used
Materials used
Component Material designation Material code Hazardous substances
3 Technical data
Steel, powder-coated with
polyester-epoxide
Halogen bulb Heating element —
Aluminium Reflector AL —
Borosilicate glass 3.3 All glass parts DIN/ISO 3585 —
Vitrified ceramic Plate —
Housing 1.0330
—
13 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
4 Description of function
This section explains the basic working principle of the Wet Digester B-440. It also shows how the
instrument is structured and provides a general functional description of its assemblies.
4.1 Functional principle
The set-up with the optional condensate trap is suitable for all wet ashing operations (e.g. when using
sulphuric acid). The ratio between the weight of the sample / acids and the temperature program must
be selected in such a way that practically only gaseous products are produced by the reaction.
Digestion process overview
Acid vapor outlet
to Scrubber
4 Description of function
Activated
charcoal
Condensate trap
Corrugated
hose
Glass hood
Vitrifi ed
ceramic plate
Processing steps:
The infrared heating s generates high temperatures (up to 600 °C) to heat up the crucibles.
Inside the crucibles s the digestion process of the sample material takes place.
Hot fumes s rise into the glass hood and are safely withdrawn by the suction fl ow of the
Scrubber.
The digestion fumes can be highly corrosive and hazardous to life forms! The optional condensate s
trap can be interconnected between the glass hood and the scrubber to neutralize most of the
hazardous fumes in the fi rst place.
The activated charcoal must be kept in place within a sandwich layer of glass wool s at each end
of the condensate trap.
Every glass-to-glass connection must be secured by a clip s !
14 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
5 Putting into operation
This section describes how the instrument has to be installed. It also gives instructions for the initial
startup.
NOTE
Inspect the instrument for damage during unpacking. If necessary, prepare a status report immediately and inform customer and your local Buchi representative. Keep the original packaging for future
transportation.
5.1 Installation site
Put the instrument into a fume hood onto a clean, stable and horizontal surface. Consider the
maximum product dimensions and weight. Obtain the environmental conditions as described in
section 3.2, technical data.
Installation prerequisites and installation steps:
The fume hood must be equipped with a heat- and acid-resistant lining.s
Do not place any objects on top or below the instrument.s
The instrument must be installed with a safety clearance of not less than 30 cm to any other s
objects or walls to allow sufficient cooling.
Do not place containers, chemicals or other items behind the instrument.s
When using a Scrubber B-414 it must be placed on the s left side of the Wet digester B-440.
5 Putting into operation
NOTE
T o cut the power in case of an emergency by unplugging, the instruments or any other items s
must not block the mains plug!
Any s cooling of the Wet Digester can disturb the digestion process. When switched 'On',
the Scrubber B-414 cooling fan emits from the left side of the housing. Hence the Scrubber B-414
should not be installed on the right side of the Wet Digester.
!
DANGER
Death or serious injuries by use in explosive environments.
Do not store or operate the instrument in explosive environmentss
Remove all sources of flammable vaporss
Do not store chemicals in the vicinity of the devices
Install the device in a fume hood with sufficient ventilation to directly withdraw fumess
CAUTION
!
Risk of minor or moderate injury by heavy weight of the instrument.
Lift the instrument carefully and avoid over exertions
Do not drop the instrument or its transport boxs
Place the instrument on a stable, even and vibration-free surfaces
Keep limbs out of crushing zones
15 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
5.3 Electrical connections
After the installation procedure has been completed successfully, the power plug of the Wet Digester
can be connected to mains. The jumper cord should only be used to supply a Scrubber B-414 in line
to the Wet Digester.
The used mains circuit has to:
provide the voltage that is given on the type plate of the instrument.s
be able to handle the load of the connected instruments.s
be equipped with adequat fuses and electrical safety measures, in particular proper grounding.s
See also technical data of all components regarding the different minimum system requirements!
5 Putting into operation
Risk of instrument damage by wrong mains supply.
NOTE
Additional electrical safety measures such as residual current breakers may be necessary to s
meet local laws and regulations!
External power switches (e.g. emergency stop switches) must meet IEC 60947-1 and IEC s
60947-3 requirements. Such devices must be clearly labeled and accessible at any time.
External connections and extension lines must be provided with a grounded conductor lead s
(3-pole couplings, cord or plug equipment). All used power cords must meet the input power
requirements.
5.3.1 System behaviour at power outage
An on-going process cycle will automatically be continued in the event of a power outage of < 3 s
minutes.
A power outage of > 3 minutes will result in the process cycle being discontinued. The cycle must s
be restarted manually.
Notice
External mains supply must meet the voltage given on the type plates
Check for proper groundings
Exchange defective cabling instantlys
The max. load on the auxiliary power outlet socket must not exceed 100W!s
NOTE
In no case will the saved program data be lost.
16 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6 Operation
This section gives examples of typical instrument applications and instructions on how to operate the
instrument properly and safely. See also section 2.5 “Product safety” for general warnings.
The Wet Digester is also capable to perform ashing at high temperatures. However, wet digestions often require aggressive acids at high temperatures for processing which are hazardous to life
forms. There is also a potential risk of fi re when working with easily fl ammable substances in the Wet
Digester.
!
WARNING
Death or serious burns by fl ammable sample materials.
Do not overheat the sample materialss
Do not cover any part of the device during operation or when device is hots
Ensure fi re extinguishing material is appropriate for chemicals in uses
Avoid condensation of fl ammable substances at the glass hoods
6 Operation
WARNING
!
Risk of fi re and serious or moderate burns when touching hot housing parts.
Always install upper and lower check plates at both sides of the heating chambers
Use the handle to lift the glass hoods
Use a tongs to handle the crucibless
Do not cover any part of the device during operation or when device it hots
!
CAUTION
Risk of burns by hot machine parts and glassware.
Do not touch hot parts or surfacess
Let the system and inserted glassware cool down safelys
Do not move the instrument or parts of it when hots
17 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6.1 Operating controls and housing
Front side
6 Operation
Glass hood (in closed condition)
On-/Off switch (lights green when instrument is switched on)
Operating panel with various parameter displays
Crucibles seated in vitrified ceramic plate
Handle to open and close the glass hood
Glass connector to condensation trap or Scrubber
Buttons
Button Functionality
START / CONT.
Button to start or continue an active application.
This button is equipped with a green indicator light!
STOP
Stop button to pause or abort an active application.
18 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
Buttons cont.
6 Operation
SELECT
SELECT
UP
DOWN
LEFT SELECT BUTTON:
Activate and sequentially jump between displays.
Activated displays will blink for 10 seconds until falling back into deselected
status automatically.
RIGHT SELECT BUTTON:
Select program 1 – 9.
Button to increase the value of an activated display.
Button to decrease the value of an activated display.
Displays
Display Indicated value and range
STEP
Steps within a program.
...
TIME [min.]
TEMPERATURE [°C]
PROGRAM
At programming:
Duration of selected step (0 – 240 minutes).
At active / paused application:
Total time of all steps of the running application + blinking dot.
At programming:
Temperature setpoint of selected step (0 °C – 600 °C).
At active application:
Actual temperature value of the running application (starting at ambient temperature).
At programming / at active application:
Shows the currently selected program.
...
19 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
Rear side
6 Operation
Condensate trap, installed at the housing brackets
FPM / FKM hose to Scrubber
Mains power input socket
Mains power output socket to Scrubber (max. load 100W)
Corrugated hose (with hose clamps) between glass hood and condensate trap
20 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6.2 Preparing for use
During the preparation process, handling with strong acid and other potentially dangerous substances
will be inevitable. Thus, all steps must be performed under safe laboratory conditions!
Prerequisites
All parts must be clean and free of damage.s
To achieve a reliable and reproducible digestion result, the quality of sample material and additives s
(e.g. acids) must be free of impurities and of adequate amount.
6.2.1 Filling of the condensate trap (optional)
Fill condensate trap with activated charcoal granules. Use glass wool as a barrier for the charcoal. To
prevent the glass wool causing a blockage, the glass wool should only be inserted very loosely!
6 Operation
Activated charcoal filling
Glass wool layers
NOTE
Activated charcoal is available on the open market by various companies. A granule size of approx.
2.5 mm is convenient.
Installation of the condensate trap (optional)
Install both elbow connectors at the ends of the condensate trap. Join each connector with a clamp
and place the trap with the tube connections upwards into the bracket at the rear side of the digester
housing.
NOTE
When no condensate trap is needed, the Scrubber must be directly connected to the glass hood.
21 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6.2.2 Installing the vitrified ceramic plate
To prevent the crucibles from jamming, every aperture of the plate must be equipped with at least s
2 spacing clips.
Place the vitrified ceramic plate on the heating dish. Install the vitrified ceramic plate with the s
smooth surface facing upwards!
6 Operation
Risk of ceramic plate and crucible stress cracks by heat.
NOTE
A set of 3 spacing clips is optimal for perfect balance and positioning of the crucibles.
NOTICE
Mount at least two spacing clips at every apertures
Exchange corroded spacing clipss
Do not use damaged partss
22 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6.2.3 Installing the glass hood
Place the glass hood into the two retaining cams and fix it in place by means of the counterpin. Be
careful not to overtighten and crack the glass hood!
6 Operation
Subsequently mount the elbow connector at the outlet of the glass hood and secure it with a clamp.
Now the corrugated hose can be installed. Use hose clamps to secure the hose and check for proper
seating!
Open and close the glass hood to verify proper functionality.
CAUTION
!
Risk of minor or moderate cuts when handling damaged glass parts.
Handle glass parts with cares
Visually inspect every glass part before mountings
Do not operate with damaged partss
Do not touch cracks or bits of broken glass with bare handss
NOTE
Due to its corrugated surface the hose can accumulate condensated liquids (e.g. acid) after use.
Always secure the hose with hose clamps! Mind operation instructions in the following sections for
safe handling.
Inform service if the hinge of the glass hood handle does not provide sufficient friction to stabilize the
glasshood when opened!
23 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6.3 Setting up application parameters
Internal program storage
The B-440 is capable of storing 9 application methods in its program storage.s
Each program has 5 steps with individual parameter pairs of time and temperature.s
Parameter name Range
Programs 1 – 9
Steps 1 – 5
Temperature ambient – 600 °C
Time (per "STEP") 0 – 240 minutes
Setting up PROGRAMs and STEPs
Switch "ON" the Wet Digester. s
๗After the bootprocess ( 4 seconds) the instrument will be operational.
Select a program via the right "SELECT" button (below "PROGRAM" display).s
Press the left "SELECT" button (below "STEP" display) repeatingly to switch through every s
"TIME" / "TEMP" parameter of each "STEP" in a loop.
๗The "STEP" display shows the selected step (1—5 ).
๗The corresponding "TIME" / "TEMP" display will flash for 10 seconds and switch to "STEP" level 1
without button action.
To change either the heating time or temperature of a step, use the "UP" and "DOWN" buttons s
while the respective display flashes.
๗As soon as the display stops flashing, the value is being stored.
6 Operation
NOTE
Some application methods do not require a full set of 5 steps. To disable a "STEP", set its "TIME " s
to 0.
During a running application, programming is not possible.s
6.4 How to perform a wet application
Digestion fumes can be hazardous and must be neutralized by a Scrubber or a condensate
trap / Scrubber combination. Fumes which may escape during operation must be safely withdrawn by
a fume hood! Wear personal protective equipment, see section 2.5 for general safety information!
!
WARNING
Death or serious poisoning by contact or incorporation of harmful substances and fumes at use.
Before operation, check the instrument for correct assemblings
Rinse condensate trap, hoses and connectors before uses
Before operation inspect sealing surfaces and tubes for good condition and tightnesss
Secure all hoses with hose clampss
Exchange worn out or defective parts immediatelys
Only operate the instrument in a fume hoods
Directly withdraw released gases and gaseous substances by a Scrubbers
Dispose of condensate in tubings and glassware safely after uses
Do not inhale digestion fumess
24 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6 Operation
NOTE
Do not use coated tongs! Most coatings will melt at contact with hot crucibles! Close unused positions with empty crucibles for evenly heat distribution and to reach high temperatures!
Starting an application
Activate the fume hood.s
Use the crucible tongs to insert the crucibles into the openings of the ceramic plate.s
Close the glass hood and check all suction hoses and connections for proper seating.s
Switch "ON" the Wet Digester. s
๓ If connected to the rear side power socket of the Wet Digester, the Scrubber starts up simultaneously. If not, switch "OFF" the digester and check the power cord of the Scrubber. The power
switch of the Scrubber must be in "ON" position!
OR
If the Scrubber is not connected to the power socket at the Wet Digester rear side, switch "ON" s
the Scrubber manually!
Select a "PROGRAM". If necessary, adjust the digestion parameters (see section 6.3).s
Press the "START / CONT." button to start the digestion. A green light at the button indicates an s
active digestion.
๗The "STEP" display shows the actual step level.
๗The "TIME" display shows the actual digestion duration as a total of all programmed
"STEP"- times in minutes. A fl ashing dot indicates the active countdown.
๗The "TEMP [°C]" display shows the actual digestion temperature.
Pausing or aborting an application
To pause an active application press the "STOP" button once. The countdown indicator in the "TIME"
display and the green light of the "START / CONT." will fl ash simultaneously.
Press the "START / CONT." button to continue the application process.s
Press the "STOP" button again to abort the application and to reset the timer countdown.s
6.5 Finishing an application
Due to high process temperatures there is a risk of burns by hot surfaces. Do not touch any hot
surface (e.g. glass hood, vitrifi ed ceramic plate and crucibles) without appropriate safety measures!
If consistent with the application in process, it is recommended to let the Wet Digester and the
samples cool down below 40 °C (safe temperature range) fi rst.
The fume hood must be active to withdraw any fumes that might escape when opening the glass
hood.
WARNING
!
Risk of dangerous or moderate burns when handling hot parts and sample tubes.
Do not touch any hot partss
Use the handle to lift the glass hoods
Use a tongs to handle the crucibless
25 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
6 Operation
After the application:
Use the handle to safely lift the glass hood.s
Use the crucible tongs to remove the crucibles. The crucibles can be slippery! Ensure safe grip s
before taking out the crucible of the ceramic plate completely!
Place hot crucibles on a acid- and fireproof surface only.s
Switch "OFF" the Wet Digester and the Scrubber.s
Clean all accessories that have been in use. s
๗ Optional: Dispose of the filling of the condensate trap if the activated charcoal is exhausted (e.g.
shows signs of a high moisture content).
Caution
!
Risk of moderate chemical burns by splashing acid or peroxide drops.
Carefully unplug the suction hose connectorss
Wipe off any liquid drops from the suction hose(s) and the condensate traps
Wear safety goggless
Wear safety glovess
6.3 Optimization principle for ashing programs
The various molecule structures make it impossible to develop a general-purpose wet or dry ashing
procedure for all substances. Each substance has its own ashing kinetics and therefore its own profile
of the decomposition temperature.
Observe the following rules to optimize a wet ashing program
Added acids or peroxides at wet ashing tend to boil over at high start-up temperatures. Thus, carbon-
ization often requires gradually heating stages.
If the sample contains water, evaporate it during the first step by heating the sample at approx. s
120°C for a sufficient time.
After carbonization, the heating can be increased to up to 600 °C for ashing. Intermediate tempera-s
ture steps might be necessary at different ashing-reaction stages.
Note
The temperature inside the crucible will be slightly lower than the selected heating temperature. The
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NOTE
If the sample is heated to too high temperature too quickly, it may ignite or be propelled out of the
crucible.
26 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
7 Maintenance and repairs
This section gives instructions on maintenance work to be performed in order to keep the instrument in a good and safe working condition. All maintenance and repair work requiring the opening or
removal of the instrument housing must be carried out by trained service personnel and only with the
tools provided for this purpose.
NOTE
Use only genuine consumables and spare parts for any maintenance and repair work in order to
assure warranty and continued system performance. Any modifications of the Wet Digester or parts
of it need prior written permission of the manufacturer.
WARNING
!
Death or serious burns by electric current.
Switch off the instrument, disconnect the power cord and prevent unintentional restart before s
touching the heating elements
Do not spill liquids over the devices
7 Maintenance and repairs
Risk of minor or moderate cuts when handling damaged glass parts.
Risk of housing and instrument damage by liquids and detergents.
7.1 Customer service
Only authorized service personnel are allowed to open up the housing and /or perform repair work on
the instrument which is not described in this manual. Authorization requires a comprehensive technical
training and knowledge of possible dangers which might arise when working at the instrument. Such
training and knowledge can only be provided by Buchi.
!
CAUTION
Handle glass parts with cares
Visually inspect every glass part for good condition before mountings
Do not operate with damaged partss
Do not touch cracks or bits of broken glass with bare handss
NOTICE
Do not spill liquids over the instrument or parts of its
Wipe off any liquids instantlys
Use ethanol or soapy water as detergents
For sticky residues, use thin acid for cleaning the inner surface of the hoods
Addresses of official Buchi customer service offices are given on the Buchi website under:
www.buchi.com. If malfunctions occur on your instrument or you have technical questions or application problems, contact one of these offices.
The customer service offers the following:
Spare part deliverys
Repairss
Technical advices
27 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
7.2 General inspection and cleaning instructions
Check the housing for visible defects (switches, plugs, enclosure etc.) and clean it regularly under safe
conditions with a damp cloth. Wipe off any splashes of aggressive chemicals immediately using a
damp cloth in order to avoid any damage being caused to the plastic coating on the housing.
Cleaning under safe conditions
Switch off the Wet Digester and unplug the power cord. s
๓ Let the system cool down completely!
Perform cleaning actionss
After each use:
Check the glass components for damage (e.g. stars, cracks or blind spots). Exchange defective s
parts immediately.
Clean the glass hood and vitrified ceramic plate with water.s
Separate glassware joints from each other.s
Do not grease ground-glass joints under any circumstance.s
7 Maintenance and repairs
WARNING
!
Death or serious burns by electric current at cleaning.
Switch off the instruments
Disconnect the power cord and prevent unintentional restarts
Wait until the instrument is completely dry before reconneting to mainss
All parts must be completely dried before the system can be connected to mains again!
7.2.1 Additional cleaning instructions
Condensate trap
The activated charcoal does not have to be cleaned or changed until the glass wool at the inlet has
clearly changed colour or has become sticky. However, it is generally sufficient just to change the dirty
glass wool.
Extraction hose
The extraction hose(s) can be rinsed through with water or ethanol. Cleaning using an ultrasonic bath
is also suitable.
Crucibles
Do not rapidly cool down hot crucibles or any other hot glass or ceramic parts e.g. with cold water.
The resulting temperature shock might lead to tension and cracks in the material.
Glass components and sealing surfaces
Clean the glass components after each working process to prolong their lifetime. The glass assem-
blies can be taken out and cleaned manually with water and a commercial cleaning agent (e.g. mild
28 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
7 Maintenance and repairs
soap solution) or in an ultrasonic bath. Visibly check for damages at all the glass components and
sealing surfaces subsequently.
Risk of sealing damage by lubricants or sharp objects.
7.2.2 Liquid ingress into the instrument
In case of liquid ingress into the housing the instrument is not safe to use anymore. Follow the instructions below to limit possible damage and safely bring the instrument into operable condition again.
Switch off the Wet Digester and unplug the power cord.s
Use a long forceps to dab liquid off the outer housing parts. Wear safety gloves!s
๓ Let the system cool down completely!
Use a long forceps to dab residual liquid off the heating chamber.s
Wear cut- and acid-safe gloves to wipe out the chamber with dry cloth.s
Use a long forceps to clean the chamber(s) with a wet damp cloth. Let the chamber dry subse-s
quently!
๓ Call service! Do not reconnect the system to mains!
NOTICE
Do not lubricate sealingss
Do not bring sealings in contact with sharp objectss
Use ethanol or soapy water as detergent onlys
!
Death or serious burns by electric current.
All parts must be completely dried before the system can be checked by a service technician!
An electrical safety test and a functional test must be performed before the system can be used again.
7.5 Reflector exchange
Components may only be changed when the equipment has cooled down completely.
The equipment must be disconnected from all mains sources before any components are changed.
Electrical and electronic components may only be changed by appropriately qualified personnel.
Preparations
Switch off the Wet Digester and unplug the power cord.s
๓ Let the system cool down completely!
Carefully remove the vitrified ceramic plate.s
Take out the upper check plates.s
WARNING
Switch off the instruments
Disconnect the power cord and prevent unintentional restarts
29 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
7 Maintenance and repairs
Push a fi xation clip to free one side of the heating element with one hand. At its ceramic insulation, s
carefully lift the heating element slightly (!) above the holder. The heating element must not collide
with the ceramic tube of the temperature sensor!
Repeat the previous action at the second holder to completely free the heating element.s
Carefully put the heating element out of the heating chamber. Mind the limitating cable length — s
do not pull with force! Do not touch the glass of the heating element!
Taking out the old refl ector
Squeeze the refl ector suffi ciently to pass the thin ceramic tube at the refl ectors cut-out when s
removing it. Carefully avoid knocking or braking the sensor tube! Dispose of the refl ector.
Take out the lower check plates.s
Wear acid-safe gloves to wipe out the chamber with wet damp cloth.s
Reinstall the lower check plates.s
Installing a new refl ector
Remove the protective foil of the new refl ector. Be careful not to leave fi ngerprints on the refl ective s
(inner) side!
Align the cut out at the front side of the refl ector to the temperature sensor tube. Keep the s
refl ector rear side upright and slightly (!) sqeeze it to just pass the temperature sensor tube with
the cut out. Do not overbend the refl ectors material! The hold-down cams must securely keep the
refl ector in position.
Reinstall the heating element. Take care with proper routing of the cables!s
Reinstall the upper check plates.s
Check proper seating of all parts before reconnecting the device to mains!
WARNING
!
Risk of fi re and dangerous or moderate burns when touching overheated housing parts.
Always install upper and lower check plates at both sides of the heating chambers
Use the handle to lift the glass hoods
Use a tongs to handle the crucibless
Do not cover any part of the device during operation or when device it hots
Risk of heating element damage by lubricants, sharp objects and fi ngerprints.
NOTICE
Do not put any lubricate on the heating elements
Do not let the heating element collide with other objectss
Do not touch the glass of the heating element, avoid fi ngerprintss
Wear protective glovess
30 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
8 Troubleshooting
This section helps to resume operation after a problem has occurred with the instrument which does
not require special technical training. It lists possible occurrences, their probable causes and suggests
how to remedy the problem.
The troubleshooting table below lists possible malfunctions and errors of the instrument. The operator
is enabled to correct some of those problems or errors by him/herself. For this, appropriate corrective
measures are listed in the column “Remedy”.
8.1 Malfunctions and their remedy
Malfunctions and their remedy
Malfunction Possible cause Remedy
Heating performance low Blind reflector or worn out
heating lamp (see section 8.1.1)
LED display does not illuminate Onboard fuse or electronic
malfunction
Heating lamp does not warm up Bulb faulty Call service for exchange
E2, E4, E5, E6,E7, E8, E9 Electronic malfunction Call service for repair
8 Troubleshooting
Exchange reflector or call service for
bulb exchange
Call service for repair
Malfunctions or errors which are not listed in the table are to be corrected by a Buchi trained technical
engineer who has access to the official service manuals. In this case, please refer to your local Buchi
customer service agent.
8.1.1 Heating performance test
Exchange the reflector if a temperature of 530 °C can no longer be achieved at the bottom inside the
crucibles. To check this, a Tempilstick® with a melting point of 530 °C can be used.
NOTE
If the reflector exchange does not increase the system performance sufficiently, call service for a
heating bulb exchange!
31 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
9 Shutdown, storage, transport and disposal
9 Shutdown, storage, transport and disposal
This section instructs how to shut down and to pack the instrument for storage or transport. Specifications for storage and shipping conditions can also be found listed here.
!
WARNING
Death or serious poisoning by contact or incorporation of harmful substances.
Wear safety goggless
Wear safety glovess
Wear a laboratory coats
Clean the instrument and all accessories thoroughly to remove possibly dangerous substancess
Do not clean dusty parts with compressed airs
Store the instrument and its accessories at a dry place in its original packagings
9.1 Storage and transport
Switch off the instrument and remove the power cord. To disassemble the Wet Digester B-440 follow
the installation instructions in section 5 in reverse order. Clean the instrument thoroughly! Remove all
liquids and dusty residues before packaging the instrument.
9.2 Disposal
For instrument disposal in an environmentally friendly manner, a list of materials is given in
section 3.3. This helps to ensure that the components can be separated and recycled correctly by a
specialist for disposal.
For disposal of liquids and consumables such as catalyst or acid, see data sheets of these chemicals!
You have to follow valid regional and local laws concerning disposal. For help, please contact your
local authorities!
NOTE
When returning the instrument to the manufacturer for repair work, please copy and complete the
health and safety clearance form on the following page and enclose it with the instrument.
32 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
9 Shutdown, storage, transport and disposal
Health and Safety Clearance
Declaration concerning safety, potential hazards and safe disposal of waste.
For the safety and health of our staff, laws and regulations regarding the handling of
dangerous goods, occupational health and safety regulations, safety at work laws and
regulations regarding safe disposal of waste (e.g. chemical waste, chemical residues
or solvents) require that this form must be completed, signed and enclosed to every
return shipment of equipment or defective parts.
Instruments or parts will not be accepted if this declaration is not present.
Equipment
Model: Part/Instrument no.:
1.A Declaration for non dangerous goods
We assure that the returned equipment:
is unused and new.
has not been exposed to toxic, corrosive, biologically active, explosive, radioactive
or other dangerous matters. No hazard emanates from the device!
is free of contamination (e.g.that chemicals, solvents or residues of pumped media
have been drained prior to shipment). No hazard emanates from the device!
1.B Declaration for dangerous goods
Exhaustive list of dangerous substances the equipment has been exposed to:
Chemical, substance Danger classification
We assure that:
all hazardous substances (e.g. toxic, corrosive, biologically active, explosive,
radioactive etc.) which have been processed or been in contact with the equipment
are listed above.
the equipment has been cleaned, decontaminated and is free of transmissible
agents such as hazardous fungi, bacteria, viruses etc. If sterilization is applicable,
all in- and outlets of the equipment have been properly sealed the process.
2. Final Declaration
We hereby declare that:
- we know all about the substances which have been in contact with the equipment
and all questions have been answered correctly.
- we have taken all measures to prevent potential risks that might emanate from the
delivered equipment.
- this document will be attached clearly visible and securely to the outside of the
transport box.
Company name or stamp:
Place, date:
Name (print), job title (print):
Signature:
Health and Safety Clearance_20081110_KESS.doc_20081110 Version 1.0 Page 1/1
33 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
10 Spare parts
This section lists spare parts, accessories and options including their ordering information.
Only order spare parts and consumables from Buchi to maintain the warranty status and to assure
best performance and reliability of the system and affected components. Any modifications to the
spare parts used are only allowed with the prior written permission of the manufacturer.
Always state the product designation, instrument serial and part numbers for warranty clearance when
ordering spare parts!
10.1 Scope of application and delivery
All system configurations come with a limited set of accessories as a starter kit. Within a system family,
additionally available accessories (see table "Ceramic plates and crucibles") can be used to easily
reconfigure your system.
The scope of delivery depends on the ordered system configuration and can be checked according to
the individual delivery note and the listed order numbers.
10 Spare parts
Starter package
Content
Item Quantity /length Order no.
Glass hood 1 × 036081
Connection to glass hood 1 × 036076
Condensation trap, cpl. 1 × 036119
Viton tubes 12/8 1 m 020136
Corrugated hose 1 × 026096
Crucible tongs 1 × 034184
Fixation clips for glass
connections
Spacer clips, bag (20 pcs.) 1 × 026968
Glass wool 1 × 033701
Mains cable 1 × Country-
Operating instructions 1 × Country-
3 × 003275
specific
specific
34 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
10 Spare parts
Ceramic plates and crucibles
Vitrifi ed ceramic plate Ceramic crucibles
Order number Sample positions Opening sizes Ensure number of sample positions matches order quantity
4 6 39 mm 48 mm 56 mm 20 ml 49 ml 90 ml
026661
036676
026663
NOTE
Contact your local Buchi representative for customized vitrifi ed ceramic plates to meet other crucible
sizes than offered above.
For additional information about the listed products, see www.buchi.com or contact your local dealer.
ss
ss
ss
026936
10.2 Spare parts, optional accessories and consumables
Spare parts
Description Order no.
Mains cable, CH-type 10021
Mains cable, DE-type 10029
Mains cable, GB-type 17833
Mains cable, US-type 33756
Mains cable, AU-type 17834
036675
026938
Operation Manual, German 096790
Operation Manual, English 096791
Operation Manual, French 096792
Operation Manual, Italian 096793
Operation Manual, Spanish 096794
Condensate trap cpl. 036119
35 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
10 Spare parts
Spare parts
Condensate trap, tube without connectors 036080
Glass hood 036081
Refl ector 026924
Vitrifi ed ceramic plate, 39 mm opening size 026661
Vitrifi ed ceramic plate, 48 mm opening size 036676
Vitrifi ed ceramic plate, 56 mm opening size 026663
Other opening sizes can be requested!
Crucible, 20 ml 026936
Crucible, 49 ml 036675
Crucible, 90 ml 026938
36 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
10 Spare parts
Spare parts
Description Order no.
20×
Set of clips (20 pcs.) 026968
Corrugated hose with clamps, 380 mm 11056574
FPM, FKM hose, 1 m, 12/8˝ 020136
Upper check plate 026690
37 mm
26 mm
Lower check plate 026894
37 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
10 Spare parts
Optional parts
Description Order no.
Scrubber B-414 with condenser, 230V 037882
Scrubber B-414 with condenser, 120V 037883
Scrubber B-414 with condenser, 100V 037884
Condensate bottle 4L for Scrubber B-414 048668
38 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
11 Declarations and requirements
11.1 FCC requirements (for USA and Canada)
English:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to both Part 15 of the FCC Rules and the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case
the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Français:
Cet appareil a été testé et s'est avéré conforme aux limites prévues pour les appareils numériques
de classe A et à la partie 15 des réglementations FCC ainsi qu’à la réglementation des interférences
radio du Canadian Department of Communications. Ces limites sont destinées à fournir une protection adéquate contre les interférences néfastes lorsque l’appareil est utilisé dans un environnement
commercial.
Cet appareil génère, utilise et peut irradier une énergie à fréquence radioélectrique, il est en outre
susceptible d’engendrer des interférences avec les communications radio, s’il n’est pas installé et
utilisé conformément aux instructions du mode d’emploi. L’utilisation de cet appareil dans les zones
résidentielles peut causer des interférences néfastes, auquel cas l’exploitant sera amené à prendre les
dispositions utiles pour palier aux interférences à ses propres frais.
11 Declarations and requirements
39 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
11.2 Declaration of conformity
11 Declarations and requirements
40 B-440 Operation Manual, Version D
BÜCHI Labortechnik AG
CH-9230
T +41 71 394 63 63
F +41 71 394 65 65
Flawil 1 / Switzerland
www.buchi.com Quality in your hands
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