Cygnus M5-C4P Operating Manual

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Cygnus 4+

Multi-Mode Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge

Operating Manual

Covers Gauge Model : M5-C4P

Doc No. M5-CYG4P-M-01_Iss5.doc

17 December 20 15

Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

M5-CYG4P-M-01_Iss5.doc

QUALITY POLICY STATEMENT

Cygnus Instruments’ mission is to be a premier supplier of niche test and measurement instruments. To achieve this we will:

Customers

• Be dedicated to customer satisfaction by listening to direct and indirect feedback regarding our performance and product requirements in general.

• Design state-of-the-art products that are robust, reliable, simple-touse and compliant with applicable industry and regulatory requirements.

• Provide products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations in terms of performance, reliability and safety.

Internal Systems

• Operate effective and safe working practices that comply with ISO 9001:2008 and EN ISO/IEC 80079-34 and other applicable regulatory and statutory requirements.

• Provide adequate resources to ensure product and service quality is maintained.

• Set, communicate and measure performance objectives and targets to promote continual improvement.

• Ensure employees are competent and involved in improvement and customer satisfaction matters.

Suppliers

• Use suppliers and subcontractors who share our passion for customer satisfaction and who consistently perform reliably.

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

Contents

1. Important Notice .............................................................. 8

2. Introduction ...................................................................... 9

Cygnus 4+ Thickness Gauge ....................................................9

Cygnus Instruments ............................................................. 10

Gauge Kit Contents ............................................................... 11

Basic Gauge Kit ................................................................... 11

Kit supplied with Single Element Probe .................................... 11

Kit supplied with Twin Element Probe ...................................... 11

3. Gauge Preparation .......................................................... 12

Fitting the Batteries ............................................................. 12

Connecting the Probe ........................................................... 13

Fitting the Neck Strap .......................................................... 14

4. Selecting the Right Probe ................................................ 15

Measuring Meta ls ................................................................. 15

Measurement Modes Explai ned and Compared ......................... 16

Multiple Echo Mode (ME) (Mode 3) ....................................... 16

Single Echo Mode (SE) (Mode 2) ......................................... 16

Echo-Echo Mode (EE) (Mode 3) ........................................... 17

Measuring Non-Steels .......................................................... 17

Measuring Non-Metals .......................................................... 18

Single Element Probes and Protective Membranes ..................... 18

Measuring Higher Tem peratures .......................................... 19

Summary of Cygnus Probes .................................................. 21

Twin Element probes ......................................................... 21

Single Element probes ....................................................... 21

The ‘Probe Type’ Code ....................................................... 22

5. Gauge Operation ............................................................. 23

Gauge Controls ................................................................... 23

Turning the Gauge On .......................................................... 24

Turning the Gauge Off .......................................................... 24

Automatic Power Off .......................................................... 24

Measurement S c reen V iews ................................................... 25

Status Information ............................................................... 26

Taking Thickness Measurements ............................................ 27

Zeroing the Probe (twin element probes) .............................. 27

Taking the Thickness Measurement...................................... 27

Echo Indicators in Multiple Echo Mode .................................. 28

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Measurement Stability Indication in SE & EE Modes ................ 29

Measuring Small Diameter Pipe & Tubes .................................. 30

Display Hold Function ........................................................... 30

Battery Life ......................................................................... 31

Battery Level .................................................................... 31

Low Battery Indication .......................................................... 32

6. Using the A-Scan Display ................................................ 33

Single Echo Mode ................................................................ 33

Measuring Over Corrosion Pits ............................................ 34

Echo-Echo Mode .................................................................. 35

Multiple Echo Mode .............................................................. 36

7. Calibration ...................................................................... 38

Why should I Calibrate my Thickness Gauge? ........................... 38

Calibration Options .............................................................. 39

Calibrating to a known thickness (Single or 1 Point) .................. 39

Two Point Calibration ........................................................... 41

Ladder Step Wedge ........................................................... 41

Two Point Calibration Procedure .......................................... 42

Probe Zero (twin element probes) .......................................... 44

Starting a Probe Zero from the Main Menu ............................ 45

Probe Zero Function .......................................................... 45

Setting the Velocity of Sound ................................................ 46

8. Gauge Setup ................................................................... 48

Menu Operation ................................................................... 48

Settings are Saved with the Probe Type .................................. 49

Inputting Numeric Values using the Navigation Keys ................. 50

Inputting Text using the Navigation Keys ................................ 50

Selecting the Probe Type ...................................................... 52

Automatic Probe Detection ................................................. 53

Measurement Un its .............................................................. 54

Resolution Setting ............................................................... 54

Limit Functions .................................................................... 55

Deep Coat Function (multiple ec ho mode) ............................... 58

9. Data Logging ................................................................... 61

Data Logging Features .......................................................... 61

Record Types ...................................................................... 62

Reference and Minimum Thicknesses ...................................... 62

Minimum Thickness Limit Alert ............................................ 62

Radia l Points ....................................................................... 62

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Measurement Co m m ent s ...................................................... 63

Loading Measurement Comments from a File ........................ 64

Grid Records ....................................................................... 64

Template Records ................................................................ 66

Data Logging Menu .............................................................. 66

Creating a new Record ......................................................... 66

Your Choices will be Saved for Next Time ............................. 68

Using a Template to Create a new Record................................ 69

User Field Input ................................................................ 69

Reviewing and Editing U s er Field Choices .............................. 69

Logging Thickness Measuremen t s ........................................... 70

Auto-Log Feature .............................................................. 71

Logging Obstructions and No-Readings ................................. 72

Changing Measurement Units whi l e D ata Logging................... 73

Re-taking the Last Measurement ............................................ 73

Stepping Backwards in the Record .......................................... 74

Adding Radial Points ............................................................ 75

Adding Measurement Comments ............................................ 77

Closing and Opening a Record ............................................... 78

Closing the Record ............................................................ 79

Opening a Record ............................................................. 79

Protecting a Record .............................................................. 80

Opening Protected Records ................................................. 82

Deleting Records ................................................................. 82

Deleting Individual Records ................................................ 83

Deleting All Records .......................................................... 84

Record Status ................................................................... 84

10. Data Logging Templates .............................................. 86

Templates .......................................................................... 86

Integrating with Microsoft Excel .......................................... 87

Measurement Points ............................................................. 87

User Fields ......................................................................... 88

User Field ‘List’ Type ......................................................... 88

11. Manual Gain Adjustment .............................................. 89

Manual Gain Mode ............................................................... 89

Turning on Manual Gain ..................................................... 89

Manual Gain Menu ............................................................ 90

Adjusting the Gain ............................................................ 91

Adjusting the Range .......................................................... 92

Measuring Below the Probes Minimum Thickness Specification . 93

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12. Setup Menu .................................................................. 94

A-Scan Range ..................................................................... 94

Automatic ........................................................................ 94

Manual ............................................................................ 94

Vibrate Feature ................................................................... 94

Brightness Setting ............................................................... 94

Power Off Setting ................................................................ 95

Auto-Log ............................................................................ 95

Comments .......................................................................... 95

Set Time and Set Date ......................................................... 96

13. General Points On Thickness Gauging .......................... 97

14. Troubleshooting ........................................................... 98

The Gauge will not Switch On ................................................ 98

Difficulty obtaining a Reading ................................................ 98

If Readings are Erratic or Unstable ......................................... 98

Tips for Optimising Battery Life .............................................. 98

15. Updating your Gauge ................................................. 100

Update Software ................................................................ 100

Gauge Firmware Files ......................................................... 100

16. Care and Servicing ..................................................... 101

Cleaning the Gauge ............................................................ 101

Batteries .......................................................................... 101

Environmental ................................................................... 101

Repairs ............................................................................ 101

Returning the Gauge for Servicing ........................................ 102

17. CygLink Computer Software ...................................... 103

Installing CygLink .............................................................. 104

Requirements ................................................................. 104

Upgrading ...................................................................... 104

Installing ....................................................................... 104

Connecting to the Gauge .................................................... 105

First time USB Connection ................................................ 105

Connecting the Gauge to CygLink f or t h e First Time ............. 106

Connecting to the Gauge Afterwards .................................. 107

Disconnecting from the Gauge .......................................... 107

Manual Connection Settings .............................................. 107

Status Bar ........................................................................ 107

Surveys ........................................................................... 108

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Creating a new Survey ..................................................... 108

Opening an Existing Survey .............................................. 109

Editing the Survey Info .................................................... 109

Managing the Survey ......................................................... 109

Sorting Survey Records ................................................... 109

Viewing Record Information .............................................. 110

Ref and Min Thickness ..................................................... 111

Protection State .............................................................. 112

Measurement Summary Stats ........................................... 112

Data Logger Records .......................................................... 112

Transferring Records from the Gauge ................................. 112

Viewing Thickness Measurements in a Record ...................... 114

Managing Measurements .................................................. 114

Viewing Measurement Information ..................................... 115

Adding Comments to Measurements .................................. 116

Viewing an A-Scan Graph ................................................. 117

Deleting all Records from the Gauge .................................. 118

Measurement Co m m ent List ................................................ 119

Material Veloc it y L is t .......................................................... 120

Creating a PDF Survey Report ............................................. 121

Exporting a Survey to a CSV File .......................................... 122

Templates ........................................................................ 123

Creating New Templates .................................................. 123

Editing Templates ........................................................... 124

Sending Templates to the Gauge ....................................... 127

Deleting Templates from the Gauge ................................... 128

Other Features .................................................................. 128

Setting the Time and Date on the Gauge ............................ 128

COM Port Numbers ............................................................ 128

Finding your COM Port Number ......................................... 128

18. Information ............................................................... 130

Technical Specifications ...................................................... 130

Table of Sound Velocities .................................................... 134

Reading Conversions ....................................................... 135

19. EU Declaration of Conformity ..................................... 136

20. Recycling and Disposal (EC Countries)....................... 137

21. Warranty Information ................................................ 138

22. Index ......................................................................... 139

Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

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The following important information must be read and gauges.

1. Important Notice

understood by all users of Cygnus ultrasonic thickness

The correct use of Cygnus ultrasonic thickness gauges requires identification of the correct equipment for the specific application coupled with an appropriately trained and qualified operato r o r technician. The incorrect use of this equipment, along with its incorrect calibration, can result in serious financial loss due to damage to components, fac i l it ies, personal injury and even death.

Neither Cygnus Instruments nor any of its employees or representatives can be held respo n si ble for improper use of this equipment. Proper training, a complete understanding of ultrasonic wave propagation, thorough reading of this manual, proper transducer selection, correct zeroin g of the transducer, correct sound velocity, correct use of th e appropriate test blocks, proper cable length and proper couplant selection all play a factor in successful ultrasonic thickness gauging. Of critical importance is the process of complete and accurate calibration of the instrument.

This manual will provide instructions in the set up and operation of the thickness gauge. Additiona l factors that can affect the use of ultrasonic equipment are beyond t h e scope of this manual and to that end it is understood that the operator of this equipment is a well-trained inspector qualified by either their own organisation or another outside agency to the appropriate level of both theory and practical application of ultrasonics .

Therefore Cygnus Instruments recommends t h at users of its ultrasonic thickness gauges should be formally qualified to a minimum of UT “Level 1” (ASNT or PCN) which will provide approximately 40 hours of training.

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

2. Introduction

Cygnus 4+ Thickness Gauge

The Cygnus 4+ Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge is a rugged, handheld, battery-powered ins trument designed for high-reliability thickness measurements in harsh environments using ultrasound. It features a colour LCD display which can be easily read in most light situations including sunlight.

The gauge can be used with a choice of Ultrasonic Probes, selected to suit the material and thickness range to be measured.

The gauge can measure material thickness using three methods; Single Echo, Echo-Echo or Multiple Echo. Echo-Echo an d Multiple Echo allow measurements through su rface coatings which are ignored. An A-Scan display provides the user with information that can be used to visually verify the thickness measurem ent which can displayed in Metric (mm) or Imperial (inch) units.

A Data Logging function can save thickness measurements and AScans in to a record file which can then be transferred to a computer for analysis and report generation.

The gauge can easily be calibrated to a known thickness or to a known Velocity of Sound.

The gauge is able to operate accurately over a wide range of ambient temperatures and is environmentally sealed to IP67 for use in wet conditions.

The gauge is a solid-state electronic instrument which, under normal operating conditions, wil l give many years of active service.

Although designed for ease of operation the first time user should carefully read this manual to familiarise themselves with the features of the Gauge.

Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

M5-CYG4P-M-01_Iss5.doc

63 Jalan Pemimpin #05-01,

577219 Singapore.

Cygnus Instruments

Cygnus Instruments Limited, founded in 1983, were pioneers in the development of the Digital Ult rasonic Multiple-Echo Technique used for measurement through coatings. This has long been the standard required to ensure that accurate measurements are taken without the need to first zero the gauge or remove any coatings.

Our philosophy is to work closely with ea ch of our customers to provide a range of products spec i fically for each application. Cygnus Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges are designed to be simple to use and to withstand the harsh environments that they are intended for. We have built up an enviable reputation with our customers in over 45 countries around the world.

Cygnus House, 30 Prince of Wales Road,

Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1PW England.

Tel: +44 (0) 1305 265533 Fax: +44 (0) 1305 269960

www.cygnus-instruments.com sales@cygnus-instruments.com

CYGNUS Instruments Inc. CYGNUS Singapore (S) Pte. Ltd.

1993 Moreland Parkway, Suite 202.

Annapolis, Maryland 21401, USA.

Tel: +1 410 267 9771 Tel : +65 6252 5909

Fax: +1 410 268 2013 Fax : +65 6251 1318

www.cygnusinstruments.com www.cygnus-instruments.sg

sales@cygnusinstruments.com sales@cygnus-instruments.sg

Pemimpin Industrial Building.

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

Gauge Kit Contents

Basic Gauge Kit

1. Cygnus 4+ Gauge

2. Operating Manual (in side pouch)

3. Neck Strap (in side pouch)

4. Accessory Pouch, containing; 3 x AA Batteries, Blue Couplant Gel.

Kit supplied with Single Element Probe

1. Ultrasonic Probe

2. Moulded Probe Cable (in side pouch)

3. 15mm (or ½”) Steel Test Block

4. Spare Membranes

5. Membrane Key

6. Membrane Couplant

Kit supplied with Twin Element Probe

1. Ultrasonic Probe

2. Moulded Probe Cable (in side pouch)

3. Ladder Step Wedge, 4 Step.

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Press the bottom of the

The batteries are located

may leak out.

The gauge can be fitted with NiCad or NiMH rechargeable batteries but this may alter the specified operating time.

3. Gauge Preparation

The gauge is supplied ready to use out of the box. Just insert the batteries, connect the probe to th e gauge, turn on the power, calibrate and you are ready to begin taking thickness measurements.

Fitting the Batteries

The gauge requires 3 x AA/LR6/UM3 Ba t t eries. Cygnus supplies and recommends Duracell Alkaline batteries. The batter ies are located behind a cover on the rear of gauge. The hand strap can be separated by a push-but t on buckle to gain access to the ba t t ery cover. The battery cover is removed by pressing in with your thumb the at the base to release the clip.

battery cover to release the retaining clip and lift up the battery cover.

underneath. The gauge is protected

against electrical damage from incorrect battery insertion.

The battery compartment itself is sealed to contain any battery fluids that

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

To avoid damage from leaking batteries always remove the

not be covered by the warranty.

The connector is

batteries if the gauge will be unused for any length of time. If the batteries run flat they may leak acid into the battery

compartment and damage the electrical contacts. This would

Connecting the Probe

The Cygnus probe lead uses a c u stom made cable that offers superior flexibility and resistance t o oi l s and ultraviolet light. The cable will not stiffen after exposure to ultraviolet light.

The connector uses original Lemo connectors for reliability. The twin connectors are over-mounded to form a tough housing that will provide a long lasting probe cable

Depending on the type of probe supplied the probe end will have either a BNC or single Lemo 00 connector.

orientated with a ‘pip’ and can only be plugged in one-way around.

To release the connector simply pull back on the connector body. DO NOT pull the cable.

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Wire loop fitted to the The neck strap can then

Fitting the Neck Strap

The gauge is supplied with an adj u st able Neck Strap. The ends of the neck strap clip onto two wire loops fitted to the gauge. These wire loops are made from coated stainless steel.

gauge body. Simply pass the loop

through the hole in the gauge and back over the other end.

be clipped on to the loops.

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The gauge must be set for the probe connected to it, see Selecting the Probe Type on page 52.

Recommended..

Probe

Measurement Mode

Steels

Any

Non to Moderate

1 mm+

S5A

Multiple Echo

Steels

Any

Non to Moderate

2 mm+

S3C

Multiple Echo

Steels

Any

Non to Moderate

3 mm+

S2C

Multiple Echo

Steels

Any

Non to Moderate

3 mm+

(0.12”+)

S2D

Multiple Echo

Steels

Non

Non to Heavy

1 mm+

T7A

Single Echo

Steels

Non

Non to Heavy

2 mm+

T5B

Single Echo

Cast Iron

Non

Non to Moderate

3 mm+

T2C

Single Echo

When measuring in Multiple Echo mode the coating will be ignored and just the metal thickness measured.

4. Selecting the Right Probe

The performance of any thicknes s gauge, and its ability to get a reliable measurement depends on selecting the right ultrasonic probe for the application and conditions. Cygnus gauges are therefore offered with a selection of probes suitable for most thickness gauging applications.

The following section helps you se lect t h e right probe for the application.

Measuring Metals

Material Coating Corrosion Thickness

The table above shows that to be able to measure coated and uncoated steels with non to heavy corrosion ideally you will require at least two probes, in almost all applications this will be a S2C probe and a T5B probe.

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It is possible to use a Twin Elemen t ( T **) probe in Echo-

incorrect measurements.

Echo Mode to ignore thin paint coatings. However this method does not have the ability to verify measurements and without observing the A-Scan display it is possible to get

Measurement Modes Explained and Compared

Multiple Echo Mode (ME) (Mode 3)

Multiple Echo measurement mode is by far the most reliable and quickest method for thickness measurements, because it works by looking for three matched echoes it can verify the thickness measurement is valid. This method has been used in all Cygnus gauges since the late 1970s.

Multiple echo mode will ignore surface coatings (Through Coating mode), there is no need to remove the paint to take a measurement.

Also because it uses a single element (or single crystal) probe there are no errors due to the V-path of the ultrasound beam found in all twin element probes. This makes it simple to calibrate – two point calibrations are not required.

However because it requires three echoes to take a measurement, in heavily corroded steels there is often an insufficient number of echoes so measurements may not be possible.

Single Echo Mode (SE) (Mode 2)

Single Echo measurement mod e is most useful on heavily corroded metals where Multiple Echo fails. Because it only needs the first return echo to take a measurement it performs well on virtually all steel conditions.

However single echo mode will not ignore any surface coatings, so if you measure through a coating it will give an incorrectly metal thickness measurement . If the surface coating is very thin (0.2mm / 0.01”) paint you can make an allowance for this error, but thicker coatings introduce too much error to be practica l.

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Single echo measurements use a twin element (twin crystal) probe, because there are two elements angled to a focal po int there is a v-path error introduced. However this v-path error is mostly corrected by the gauge, and furthermore by performing a two point calibration.

Twin element probes requ ire “zeroing” at regular inter vals, especially if the am b ient t em perature is changing.

To overcome some of the drawbacks of Single Echo measurements the gauge has an A-Scan display that can be used to visually verify the thickness measu rements are sensible and therefore reliable. See section Using the A-Scan Display on page 33.

Echo-Echo Mode (EE) (Mode 3)

Echo-Echo mode uses a twin element probe, but measures between the first two echoes. This method is intended to ignore any thin surface coatings whilst still using a twin elem en t probe.

Echo-echo mode is not able to verify its measurements unlike Multiple echo mode, therefo re it is liable to give incorre ct readings.

But as the Cygnus 4

gauge has an A-Scan display you can use

this to visually decide if the measurement given is correct. Echo-echo mode must therefore b e used with caution, and only on

thin paint surface coatings (less than 0.5mm). It is recommended a Single Echo measurement should also be made to help verify the measurement makes sense (the Single Echo measurement should always be slightly thicker due to the coating thickness).

Measuring Non-Steels

The gauge will measure the fo l lo wing non-steels;

• Aluminium alloys

• Copper and Brass alloys

• Titanium

Use the same rules as steels when selecting a suitable probe. The gauge will ideally be re-calibrated to suit the metal being

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measured, or the standard velocity of sound for that material would be entered into the gauge.

Measuring Non-Metals

You can measure certain types of plastics with the gauge using a twin element probe and the gauge set to Single Echo measurement mode. Generally the harder the plastic the better, soft materials like rubber or TPEs tend to absorb too much ultrasound so only thin samples can be measured.

Engineering plastics like Acetal, Tufset (Polyurethane), Nylon and High-density polyethylene (HDPE) can be measured successfully.

Rotationally Moulded pa r ts can generally be measured successfully.

• You must use Single Echo mode to measure plastics.

• You must generally use a low frequency probe (i.e. T2C) to

measure plastics, but this will d epend on the properties of the material.

• Any material with a closed-cell construction cannot be measured.

• Any material with internal voi ds, air bubbles or honeycomb cannot be measured.

Typically these materials cannot be measured with the gauge;

• Concrete

• Wood

• Thermal insu la t ion mater ials

• Foams

• Composites

Single Element Probes and Protective Mem branes

All Cygnus single element probes h ave a soft face and are therefore fitt ed with a Polyurethane Membrane which provides

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Check the membrane regular ly as it is important the membrane is changed as soon as it shows any signs of wear.

Probe Body

Locking Ring

Polyurethane Membrane

Knurled Ring

better contact on rough surfa ces and protects the probe face from wear, prolonging the life of the probe.

Single Element Probe Membrane Parts.

Single Element Probe Membrane Locking Key

Measuring Higher Temperatures

The polyurethane membranes fitted to the s ingle e lement probes are suitable for measuring surface temperatures up to 75°C. For measuring higher temperatures Teflon Membranes are available and suitable for surface temperat ures up to 150°C. Contact Cygnus instruments to order Teflon membranes.

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Unscrew the Knurled Ring from the

Use the Membrane Key to unscrew

discarded.

Place a new membran e into th e end

Screw the Locking Ring back inside

Place a few drops of Membrane

Screw the Knurled Ring back onto

Knurled Ring down.

You should see the membrane has a very thin film of couplant between

bubbles.

Changing the Protective Membrane on Single element Probes

end of the Probe.

the Locking Ring from inside the Knurled Ring. The old membrane can then be removed and

of the Knurled Ring ensuring it locates in the groove.

the Knurled Ring and tighten with the Membrane K ey.

Couplant on to the probe face.

the probe. Use your thumb to squeeze the couplant from under the membrane as you tighten the

itself and the probe face with no air

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

T2C

12mm

2 MHz

3 to 250 mm

0.12 to 10”

Attenuative materials Cast irons, plastics

T5B

8mm

5 MHz

2 to 200 mm

0.08 to 8”

General purpose Most metals

T7A

5mm

7.5 MHz

1 to 50 mm

0.04 to 2”

Thin metals

S2C

13mm

2.25 MHz

3 to 250 mm

General purpose probe suitable

Coated metals

S2D

19mm

2.25 MHz

3 to 250 mm

As S2C but has longer focal

on thicker materials

S3C

13mm

3.5 MHz

2 to 150 mm

Coated metals

S5C

13mm

5.0 MHz

1 to 50 mm

Coated metals

S5A

6mm

5.0 MHz

1 to 50 mm

Small diameter tubes Coated metals

Summary of Cygnus Probes

Twin Element probes

Probe

Type

Size Frequency

Single Element probes

Probe

Type

Size Frequency

Range in

Steel

(SE Mode)

Range in

Steel

Typical Uses

for most applications that can use Multiple Echo measurement.

0.75”

0.12 to 10”

point (33 mm) and narrower beam so may perform better

Thin metals

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Size

D 19mm

The ‘Probe Type’ Code

Single or Twin

Crystal

Frequency in MHz

A 6mm B 8mm

C 13mm

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

Probe

Power Select

Navigation

5. Gauge Operation

Gauge Controls

End view of gauge

Connections

Keys

Key

Keys

Front view of gauge

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Press the Power key

Cygnus Instruments Logo is displayed

The gauge details are displayed;

The gauge is ready to use

Press & Hold the Power key,

The display shows ‘power-off’ and

Turning the Gauge On

Model Serial Number Version Number Run Time

Turning the Gauge Off

the gauge turns off.

Automatic Power Off

By default the gauge will turn off automatically after 5 minutes of in activity.

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Use the Left and Right

Basic Screen

A-Scan Screen

Taking thickness measurements or accessing the menu will reset the activity timer back to zero.

You can change the activity time value the Setup menu, see Power Off Setting on page 95.

Measurement Screen Views

The gauge has three measurement screens that can be quickly changed using the left and right navigation keys. These screens offer three views to suit the situation.

navigation keys to move between the th ree screens

Just shows a large thickness measurement value.

Show the thickness measurement and a live A-Scan display of the ultrasound signals received.

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Data Logging Screen

Battery

Level

Measurement

Mode

Deep Coat

Function

Velocity, or ‘Calibrated’

Probe Type

When data logging is active this screen shows details of logged measurements.

Status Information

At the top of the display is an area that shows information about the gauge’s status;

• Battery Level

• Velocity of Sound value / Calibra tion Status

• Probe Type

• Measurement Mo de

• Deep Coat Function

Probe Type; when the probe is connected the background colour is green, when disconnected it is grey.

Measurement Mo d es;

ME Multiple Echo EE Echo-echo SE Single Echo

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Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

It is recommended to frequently perform a Probe Zero especially if conditions such as temperature are changing.

Remove all scale, rust, dirt or loose

Apply ultrasonic couplant to the test

Place the probe-face on the clean,

The gauge will display a thickness

Multiple Echo mode).

Taking Thickness Measurements

Taking ultrasonic thickness measurements is a straight forwar d process that involves first making sure the surface is clean and prepared, applying an ultrasonic couplant gel then placing the probe on the surface and observing the display for the measurement.

Zeroing the Probe (twin element probes)

When a twin element probe is connected to the gauge (and the gauge is set to the correct probe) you must first perform a Probe Zero before you can begin takin g measurements. For instructions see Probe Zero Function on page 45.

Taking the Thickness Measurement

coatings and brush the test area clean.

surface.

lubricated test surface and make firm contact applying gentle pressure.

measurement. (Or an indication of Echo Strength if no

valid measurement has been found in

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1 Bar Flashing:

1 steady + 1 Bar Flashing:

2 steady + 1 Bar Flashing:

3 steady + 1 Bar Flashing:

Echo Indicators in Multiple Echo Mode

Should the gauge be unable to detect a stable multiple echo signal it displays an Echo indication to help the operator locate a suitable position.

No echoes detected

Only 1 echo detected

Only 2 echoes detected

3 echoes detected but they are not matched

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Initial measurements will be

If the measurement remains stable

To help obtain a multiple echo reading the operator should continue to move the probe around to locate a suitable reflector , using a slight rocking motion.

Measurement Stability Indication in SE & EE Modes

To help indicate when a Single Echo or Echo-Echo measure ment is stable – and thus probably reliable – the gauge changes the thickness measurement number colour from Red to Green when the measurement has been stable for 2 consecutive seconds.

When measuring using Single Echo or Ech o-Echo mode once you have a measurement keep the p robe still and wait for the gauge to signal a “stable reading”.

If the ultrasound signal is poor or erratic then the thickness value may remain red – thus indicating the measurement may not be reliable.

displayed as red numbers.

for 2 consecutive seconds then the measurement will change to green.

Stable is defined as; the thickness measurement changing no more than + or - the Resolution setting.

Example.

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The dividing line on the face of the probe should be at

A thickness measurement is

Pipe

Probe Face

Probe Face Division is at

The Resolution is set to 0.05mm, therefor the thickness measurement must not change by more than +0.05mm or

-0.05mm for 2 seconds or more to be “stable”.

Measuring Small Diameter Pipe & Tubes

When measuring small diameter pipe and tubes with a twin element probe, 75mm (3”) or u n der, you must ensure the face of the probe is correctly aligned to th e curvature of the pipe otherwise measurements may be inaccurate.

right angles to the length of the pipe.

Display Hold Function

The thickness measurement can be ‘Held’ or frozen by simply pressing the X/Cancel key while in any measurement screen.

displayed

right angles to the pipe

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Press the X/Cancel key to hold the

Press the X/Cancel key to un-hold

Battery almost full

thickness measurement. The measurement value now has

a light blue border to indicate it’s held or froze.

the thickness measurement.

Battery Life

The gauge will operate continuously for approximately 10 hrs when fitted with Duracell Alkaline 1500 mA/hr batteries.

Battery Level

A battery level graphic is displayed at the top left position of the display (arrowed);

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Battery about 1/2 full

Battery low

Low battery indication

Flat Battery message

Low Battery Indication

The gauge will perio dically f la sh a r ed Lo w Battery warning sign when the batteries have approximately 1 hour of use remaining.

When the batteries are exhausted the gauge will display a Flat Battery message for 5 seconds then turn off automatically.

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This A-Scan shows a good clear

Good Signal

6. Using the A-Scan Display

To help ensure reliable measurements in Single Echo and EchoEcho measurements the gauge has an A-Scan display that can be used to visually verify the thickn ess measurements are sensible and therefore reliable. With some practice any user can quickly and easily use the A-Scan to decide if the measurement is correct.

To view the A-Scan display use the Left and Right navigation keys to switch between the measurement screen views (see Measurement S c reen V iews on page 25).

The A-Scan display shows the actual ultrasound echo pulses as received by the gauge; these echo pulses are used by the gauge to determine the thickness measurement if possible.

The gauge works by generating a short pulse of ultrasound that is coupled into the object you are measuring. This pulse then travels through the object and is reflected back to the probe as an echo by either the back-wall of the object and/or any internal flaws or corrosion pits. When the echo pulse hits the probe surface a signal is received by the gauge, this signal is shown on the A-scan display as an echo peak, the taller the peak the stringer the signal.

Single Echo Mode

The A-Scan display is very useful when measuring in Single Echo modes, as there is no verification of the thickness measurement observing the A-Scan display will help the user verify the echo detected is the correct one – the back-wall echo.

ultrasound signal. There is a well-defined back-wall echo

and the arrow is correctly placed. The measurement value of 1 2.7 is stable

when green in colour.

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This A-Scan shows a very weak

fails then try another position.

You should be careful not to attempt t o t ake a single echo

ultrasound signal. There is no clear correct back-wall echo

and the gauge is unable to determ in e a thickness measurement.

You should try moving the probe to find a better reflector, first rotate the probe to see if that gets a measurement, if that

Measuring Over Corrosion Pits

thickness measurement when there is a void or corrosion pit

Weak Signal

directly underneath the probe face as the gauge may incorrectly measure the depth of the couplant.

Large Corrosion Pit s.

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This A-Scan shows an incorrect

Corroded Metal

Couplant

Probe

Avoid Measuring Directly Over Corrosion Pits.

Pit

The A-Scan display can assist you - you will see an unclear ultrasound signal with unclear back wall reflections.

measurement that may be from measuring couplant inside a pit .

Echo-Echo Mode

Like Single Echo mode the A-Scan can be very useful when taking measurement through coatin g u sing Echo-Echo mode. Echo-Echo mode measures thickness by measuring the time between two consecutive echo signals, in ideal conditions this is a good reliable method of thickness measurement thorough coating, but when corrosion starts to degrade the echoes the gauge could measure between two incorrect echoes and give a wrong reading. Here the

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This A-Scan shows an unclear Echo-Echo

then another location.

The gauge measures between the se two echo

A-Scan can assist, by observing the echo signals you can decide of the thickness measurement given makes sense and is reliable.

signals to calculate the thickness. This is a good clear signal so the measurement is reliable.

The two purple arrows mark th e points the gauge has measured between.

measurement. The echoes are scattered and although

the gauge has given a thickness measurement of 5.5mm it ma y no t be accurate. Try first rotating the probe

Multiple Echo Mode

Although Multiple Echo mode has the benefit if providing “echo matched” verified thickness measurements and can be used reliably without observing the A-S can display, the A-Scan display can sometimes help where measurements are difficult or suspect.

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This A-Scan shows a good Multiple-Echo

This A-Scan shows a Multiple-Echo

This A-Scan shows no Multiple-Echo

SE or EE mode.

measurement on a new steel sample. The echo signals are distinct a n d clear.

The three purple arrows mark t he positions the gauge used for the thickness measurement.

measurement from a corroded steel sample.

The three echo signals have been picked out ok, but there is less clarity ar ou n d echo 2 and 3.

measurement. The echo signals are all over th e display,

there are no distinct echoes for the gauge to pick out. You should move the probe to another location, or t ry using

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7. Calibration

Why should I Calibrate my Thickness Gauge?

Ultrasonic thickness gauges measure time in order to measure the thickness of the material being tested. It relies on the principal that sound travels through a material at a constant velocity or speed. If you can accurately measure the time it takes to travel through a material and you know its velocity then you can calculate its thickness;

Thickness = time x velocity

Modern thickness gauge are easily capable of measuring time accurately to 10 Nano seconds (0.000,000,01 second) so this is considered to be more than sufficiently accurate.

This means the accuracy of any thickness gauge measurement relies principally on the velocity being correct for the material being measured.

There are tables listing the velocity of most common metals and materials, but these velocities are only “typical” values. For example Mild Steel has a typical velocity of 5920 m/s – but in practice when measuring a variety of mild steel samples the velocity can range anywhere from 5860 to 5980 m/s.

This means if you want to achi eve the most accurate thickness measurements you must calibrate your thickness gauge to a sample of the same material you will be testing – and a sample that you can accurately measure the thickness of with a Vernier or micrometer.

Your measurements are only as good as your calibration

Instructions for calibrating the gauge can be found on page 39 onwards.

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Accurately measure the

25.40

Calibration Options

The Gauge is supplied tested and calibrated. The Gauge will have been calibrated to measure thickness through steel (grade S355JO) with a velocity of sound of 5920 m/s.

Either a 15mm or 1/2” Test Block is supplied with the kit so the Gauge can be quickly checked for correct operation. Note, this test block is not intended to be used for calibration of the Gauge.

The best way to calibrate the Gauge is to Calibrate using a Known Thickness using a sample of the material you intend to measure. This method determines the velocity of sound for the material sample, which will always be more accurate than using a ‘general’ velocity value. For calibration instructions see page 39.

If there is no test sample available the Gauge can be calibrated by

Setting the Velocity of Sound directly. A table on page 134

at the back of this manual lists common ma t erials and their velocity of sound value. For calibration instructions see page

40.

A third method is to leave the Gauge set to its factory-preset value for Steel [5920 m/s or 0.2332 in/us], and then use a Conversion Factor from the table of velocities on page 134

Calibrating to a known thickness (Single or 1 Point)

This method of calibrating the gauge is more accurate than using a standard velocity value as the gauge calculates the velocity of sound for the sample material.

You can use this calibration method for all measurement modes.

thickness of your sample material.

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Place the Probe on the sample

Access the Menu and scroll down

While holding the probe firmly

...use the Up and Down keys to

When done press the OK/Select

Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

and verify the gauge can get a thickness value.

to the ‘Calibration’ group. Then scroll right to the ‘1 Point Cal’ item.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘1 Point Cal’ function

on the sample and while a steady thickness measurement is displayed..

adjust the thickness to the required value.

key to save the calibration. A Calibration Saved message wil l be shown.

without saving the calibration.

When a Calibration has been made a ‘1PC’ indictor is displayed at the top of the measurement screen in the status area (1PC = Single Point Calibration).

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To achieve maximum accuracy in Single Echo mode

Typically a Ladder Step Wedge is

‘1PC’ Indicator

Two Point Calibration

The Two Point Calibration option is only available in Single Echo and Echo-Echo modes.

Two point calibration allows the gauge to be calibrated against two reference thicknesses of the same material, one at the minimum (thin) thickness range the other at the maximum (thick) thickness range.

you must perform a Two Point Calibration – your measurement is only as good as your calibration.

When performing a two point calibration both sample thicknesses should be made from the same material. The temperature of the sample material should be the c lo se to t he temperature of the material to be meas ur ed .

The gauge will automatically compensate for v-path error in addition to either single or two point calibrations.

Ladder Step Wedge

used to calibrate the probe and gauge for Steel. The ladder step wedge has 4 or 5 different thicknesses typically ranging from

2.5 mm to 20.0 mm. You would typically choose to calibrate using the 2.5 and 20 mm thicknesses.

Ladder Step Wedges

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Assuming you have a step

Wipe clean the step wedge then

Place the Probe on the sample

Access the Menu and scroll down

Start with the Thick sample –

20.00

2.50

Two Point Calibration Procedure

wedge of known thicknesses

add some fresh couplant to the step wedge

and verify the gauge can get a thickness value.

to the ‘Calibration’ group. Then scroll right to the ‘2 Point Cal’ item.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘2 Point Cal’ screen

Maximum thickness.

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While holding the probe firmly

When the correct measurement key

Next measure the Thin sample –

While holding the probe firmly

10.

When the correct measurement key

on the thick sample and while a steady thickness measurement is displayed..

...use the Up and Down Select keys to adjust the thickness to the required value.

is displayed press the OK/Select

Minimum thickness.

on the thin sample and while a steady thickness measurement is displayed..

...use the Up and Down Select keys to adjust the thickness to the required value.

is displayed press the OK/Select

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11.

The 3rd screen lets you check the

12.

When done press the OK/Select

Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

It is recommended to frequently perform a Probe Zero

calibration is correct my checking a few different measurements on the step wedge.

key to save the calibration. A Calibration Saved message wil l be shown.

without saving the calibration.

Probe Zero (twin element probes)

Twin element probes must be zeroed to compensate for any wear or operating temperature changes. The gauge will always perform a Probe Zero when first turned on or when a twin element probe is connected.

If the probe gets significantly war mer during use this can cause a shift in the zero position and thus introduce small errors in the thickness measurement. Typically a 20° C change in te mperature the measurements can shift by 0 .1 mm.

especially if conditions such as temperature are changing.

See also Zeroing the Probe (twin element probes) on page 27.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Display shows the Zero Probe

Press the OK/Select key to

Starting a Probe Zero from the Main Menu

to the ‘Probe’ group. Then scroll right to the ‘Zero’ item.

Press the Ok/Select key to start the ‘Zero’ function

Probe Zero Function

message. Important - Wipe any couplant

from the probe face

proceed The gauge measures the probe

zero point… ..this takes about 2 seconds.

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If the Probe Zero fails a message

Probe Zero process.

If you perform a Calibration the Velocity of Sound will be set

will be d is p layed.

• Check the probe has not been unplugged or the cable is damaged/faulty.

• The probe face must be clean and in the air.

• Are you using a non- Cygnus probe?

You must un-plug the probe, then plug it back in to re-try the

Setting the Velocity of Sound

The gauge uses the Velocity of Sound value to calculate the material thickness value. It is therefore i mportant the velocity value is set correctly for the mat erial being measured.

for you during the calibration – so you don’t need to adjust it afterwards.

You can manually set the velocity of sound value if required; normally you would do this if;

• You can’t perform a cal ibration

• You want to use the same velocity setting as last time

• You want to use a velocity from a material list

A list of velocity of sound values for common material can be found on page 134.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

If there has been a previous

Use the Up and Down keys to

When done press the OK/Select

Or press the X/Cancel key to exit without saving.

to the ‘Calibration’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Velocity’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Velocity’’ function

Calibration a message will warn that changing the velocity w i l l alter the calibration;

Press the OK/Select key to continue, or X/Cancel to abort.

adjust the velocity value as required

Use the Left and Right keys to highlight the digit to change.

key to save the changes.

When the velocity has been manually set the value is displayed at the top of the measurement screen in the status area.

Velocity of Sound value ‘5920 m/s’

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Press the Menu key,

the Main Menu is displayed

Use the four Navigation keys to

Use the Up and Down keys to

Press the Right key to move to

8. Gauge Setup

Menu Operation

scroll around the Main Menu

select a group in the left column..

the items in that group in the right column.

Then use the Up and Down keys to select from the right column

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If you want to change or select

button

Then use the Navigation keys to

Press the green Ok/Select key to

Or press the red X/Cancel key to

Press the Left key to go back to

12.

To exit the menu press the Menu

the item currently displayed simply press the green Ok/Select

highlight the required setting or option

save your choice

abort

the main group if you want to make another selection

or red X/Cancel key once.

Settings are Saved with the Probe Type

Certain gauge settings are saved against the probe type. This allows each probe type to have different settings that will be recalled when that pro be is re-connected and the probe type is correctly set. The following settings are saved with each probe type;

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The units digit is highlighted.

Pressing the Left key will move

this value only.

Pressing the Left key will move

change this value only.

Pressing the Left key will move

change this value only.

• Units

• Resolution

• Velocity of sound

• Calibration

• Deep Coat

Inputting Numeric Values using the Navigation Keys

Some menu functions require the user to input a numeric value using the navigation keys. This is done ‘digit’ as a time, using the Left and Right keys to select the digit, then the Up and Down keys to change the highlighted digits va lu e.

Pressing Up or Down will change the units value only.

the highlight to the tens digit. Pressing Up or Down will change

the highlight to the hundreds digit. Pressing Up or Down will

the highlight to the thousands digit. Pressing Up or Down will

Inputting Text using the Navigatio n Keys

Some functions may require alphanumeric text to be input into the gauge. This is done using a special alphanumeric entry screen and the navigation keys.

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The screen is divided into ‘virtual’

enter the character or perfor m t he function.

To enter the word CYGNUS you

There are ‘keys’ for

When you have entered your

keys like a QWERTY keyboard. You move the Blue highlight

around using the 4 navigation keys.

Then press the Ok/Select key to

would move the blue highlight from Ok to ‘C’ then press the Ok/Select key, then move to the ‘Y’…

Delete last = Del Space = Spc Clear all = Clr Move = ◄ ► Toggle case = ▲

word just move the highlight to the green ‘Ok’ at the bottom and press the Ok/Select key.

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The Probe Type must be set to match the probe connected to measure accurately if at all.

Access the Menu and scroll down

Selecting the Probe Type

the gauge. If the wrong probe is s elected the gauge will not

The gauge can Auto Detect certain types of probes when they ar e first connected to the gauge, or you can manually select the probe from a list.

These probes can be Auto Detected; T2C, T5B, T7A & S2C These probes must be selected manually; S3C, S5A & S5C The Probe Type is displayed is displayed at the top of the

measurement screen in the status area. When a probe is connected the background is green. When no probe is detected the background is grey.

S2C Probe Selected and Connected

S2C Probe Selected but NOT Connected

to the ‘Probe’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Probe Type’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Probe Type’ function

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Use the Up and Down keys to

Press the OK/Select key to save. Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

Remember settings and calibrat i on is saved with each probe

calibrate each time.

select the Probe Ty pe req u ire d

without saving.

type. So if you change the probe t ype you may find a setting has changed – this is normal.

The reason settings are saved with each probe type is so you can swap probes during a survey without having to re-

Automatic Probe Detection

The Automatic Probe Detection feature works by listening to how the probe behaves when it is first plugged in. For that reason the probe MUST BE in the air and not coupled to a surface when plugging in or turning on the gauge.

When Probe Type set to Auto and a probe is connected the gauge will try and determine the probe type – this will be displayed at the top of the screen on the ri ght .

S2C Probe Selected and Connected

Observe this probe type displayed and check it matches the probe connected to the gauge.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Use the Up and Down keys to

Press the OK/Select key to save. Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

If the gauge fails to correct ly det ect the probe type then you must select if manually from the list of probes. See Selecting the Probe Type on page 52.

Measurement Units

The Gauge can display thickness measurements in either Metric (mm) or Imper ial (inch). Changing the measurement units will not affect the calibration.

to the ‘Measurement’ group . Then scroll right and select ‘Units’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Units’ function

switch from mm to Inch

without saving.

Resolution Setting

The gauge can display thickness measurements in three resolution settings:

• 0.1 mm 0.005 inch All Modes

• 0.05 mm 0.002 inch All Modes

• 0.01 mm 0.001 inch SE and EE Modes only

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Use the Up and Down keys to

Press the OK/Select key to save. Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

without saving.

For general metal corrosion measurement the 0.1 mm resolution setting is recommended.

To change the Resolution setting:

to the ‘Measurement’ group . Then scroll right and select ‘Resolution’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Resolution’ function

select the required Resolution

Limit Functions

The gauge has a Limit function t hat can be used to;

• Give visual indication of measurements between minimum, reference and maximum limits.

• Vibrate Alert the operator if measurements are o utside the minimum or maximum limits

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Limits are setup;

bar positioned at the Reference point.

The Limit function can be turne d ON or OFF as required and the Vibrate Alert can be enabled as required.

There are three Limit measurement values you can set;

• Minimum Limit – this is the lowest t h i ckness measurement, measurements under this value will cause an Alert

• Reference Limit – this is the ‘correct’ thickness value, or when corrosion monitoring this is usually set to the thickness of the steel/material when it was new.

• Maximum Limit – this is the highest thickness measu rement, measurements over this value will cause an Alert. This limit is optional and can be set to zero.

When Limits are enabled the measurement screen displays a horizontal bar-graph showing the limits and the current measurement in relation to these limits. The colour of the bar also changes from light green to dark green to red as the measurement moves from the reference value to the minimum or maximum limits.

Thickness Measurement = Reference = Light Green Bar.

Limit Example

Minimum = 5.00 mm Reference = 10.00 mm Maximum = 20.00 mm

The thickness measurement is 10.05 mm so the bar-graph shows a green

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Now the thickness measurement is

Now the thickness measurement i s

operator if enabled.

8.05 mm so the bar-graph shows a dark green bar positioned left of the Reference point.

5.10 mm so the bar-graph shows a red bar positioned at the Minimum point.

20.00 mm so the bar-graph shows a red bar positioned at the Maximum point.

25.45 mm so the bar-graph shows a red bar positioned past the Maximum point.

This exceeds the Maximum limit so will cause a Vibrate Alert to the

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Use the Up and Down keys to

Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

Use the Up and Down keys to

Use the navigation keys to

Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

to the ‘Limits’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Limits’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Limits’ function

turn Limits On or Off…

Press the OK/Select key to save. without saving.

select the Minimum, Reference, Maximum or Vibrate settings

Press the Ok/Select key to open the selected item

change the setting..

Press the OK/Select key to save. without saving.

Deep Coat Function (multiple echo mode)

With the Deep Coat turned Off and in multiple echo (ME) mode the gauge can measure through most protective coatings up to 3 mm (0.11”) thick when using a S2C type probe. Coatings like paint, anti-foul, hard plastics and epoxy sh ould present no problems as

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Turn Deep Coat Off when NOT measuring through thick coatings otherwise this may cause inaccurate measurements.

Access the Menu and scroll down

Use the Up and Down keys to

Press the OK/Select key to save. Or press the X/Cancel key to exit

long as they have not de-laminated/de-bonded from the metal surface.

With Deep Coat turned On this will allow the gauge to measure through coatings over 3mm (0.11”) thick up to a maximum of around 20 mm (0.78”) depending on the properties of the coating material.

Measuring through thick coatings is ultimately limited by how well the coating material allows the ultrasound to pass through, soft coatings like rubber or bitumen d on ’t transmit ultrasound very well.

Using Deep Coat will not affect the calibration.

to the ‘Measurement’ group . Then scroll right and select ‘Deep Coat’.

Press the Ok/Select key to open the ‘Deep Coat’ option

select Deep Coat On or Off

without saving.

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When Deep Coat is turned On a ‘DC’ indicator will be displayed in the status area at the top of the measurement screen.

DC = Deep Coat is ON.

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The Cygnus 4+ gauge just offers Basic data logging features

requires an ‘enabler file’ that can be ordered from Cygnus.

Basic

Full

Linear Records

●

Auto-Log Feature

●

Protect Record

●

Grid Records

●

Templates

●

Radia l Points

●

Measurement Co m m ent s

●

9. Data Logging

The Cygnus 4+ gauge has a comprehens ive Data Logging feature that allows thickness measurements and A-Scans to be saved in a data logging Record. These Records can be quickly created by the user so the measurements can be organised in separate records according to the survey being carried out. Records can later be transferred to a computer for viewing, analysis and report generation or export to a CSV file.

The process of data logging is simply;

1. Create a new Record

2. Log your thickness measurements - pressing the Ok key to save each thickness measurement

3. Complete the Record when all the measurements have been taken – the record is safely saved on th e removable SD card

Data Logging Features

as normal. However the gauge can easily be field-upgraded to Full data

logging features should you decide you need more functionality. The upgrade can be done any time and just

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Record Types

There are three record ty pes available;

1. Linear – this is simply a list of thickness measurements saved in the order they are taken.

2. Grid – this arranges the thickness measurements into a row and column grid layout. You can c h oose f rom 16 different grid patterns.

3. Template – this uses a custom template to specify how many thickness measurements are required along with optional additional information such as serial numbers or lists.

Reference and Minimum Thicknesses

Each record can have an optional Reference and Minimum thickness value set. When logging measurements these limits are used to colour the measurement values and in the case of the minimum limit alert the user if the measurement is under tha t limit.

1. Ref. Thk. – This is the Reference Thickness value for th e whole record. If you are surveying steel that was 12mm thick when new then this would be your reference thickness.

2. Min. Thk. – This is the Minimum Thickness value for the whole record. If you take any measurements under this value they will be coloured Red to highlight them.

Minimum Thickness Limit Alert

When logging thickness measurements if a logged measurement falls under the Min. Thk. limit a double-vibrate alert is produced to alert the user.

Radial Points

(Only available with Full data logging) Both Linear and Grid Records can have a set of Radial Points

added to any logged thickness measurement to further detail an

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8 additional radial

plate

area of interest or heavy corrosion. The user can add up to 12 additional thickness measurements around the principal measurement in a ‘clock-face’ pattern.

For example, when logging thickness measurements on a pipe, tank or plate it is sometimes necessary to add additional measurement points radially around a badly corroded or thin area to detail the extent of the thinn i n g or corrosion.

measurement points.

See Adding Comments to Measurements on page 116.

Measurement Comments

Each measurement point can optionally have comments added to it. There is a list of 8 pre-set comments each of u p to 24 characters in length. By having a list of pre-set comments the user can quickly add comments by just selected the ones that are appropriate, this also standardises the information you want recording.

Typical comments for a corrosion survey could be;

1. Pitted Surface

2. Corrosion Blister

3. Corrosion Pin-holes

4. Delamination

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You can load a new set of

5. Coating damaged

6. Heavy corrosion

7. Repair Patch

8. Holed

See Adding Comments to Measurements on page 116.

Loading Measurement Comments from a File

measurement comments from a file on the SD card. The file must be named ‘commentlist.txt’ and contain a list of up to 8 text comments each up to 24 characters in length.

You can use Microsoft to create a list of comments, then save the file as a Text file;

Grid Records

(Only available with Full data logging) Grid Records are used to organise thickness measurements across

a two dimensional grid. The grid can be applied to flat plate or

Excel

cylinders alike.

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Horizontal surveying

Vertical surveying

8.6

8.5

8.4

8.7

8.6

8.7

8.5

8.6

8.5

8.4

8.3

8.5

8.7

8.6

8.5

8.4

8.5

8.4

Columns across 1..50

Rows

Down

1..100

You can also choose which direction measurements will be taken, there are 16 patterns available;

When a Grid Record is created the measurement point names are assigned as follows:

1. R1C1

2. R1C2

3. R1C3 etc.

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Record Closed

Record Open

The maximum number of rows and columns is 50 columns and 100 rows (5000 points).

Template Record s

(Only available with Full data logging) Templates are created with CygLink and de scribe the whole

thickness measurement survey, defining each measurement po int along with a name, reference thickness, minimum thickness and destination cell in a spreadsheet. Additional information can also be specified with 40 User Fields that can be used to prompt the user when each Record begins. Templates are normally created to cover a specific type of survey and the actual Template would be

distributed to all the Cygnus 6 company.

gauges in use within your

Read more about Templates in Data Logging Templates on page 86

Data Logging Menu

The Data Logging menu is conveniently at the top of the main menu list, the items listed on the right hand side will depend on whether a Record is open or closed.

Creating a new Record

When you create a new record to contain your thickness measurements there are a few options you may need to edit, these will depend on the type of Record you select;

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Use the Up and Down keys to

1. Record Type – choose from Linear, Grid or Template

2. Name – the gauge will automatically create a file name based on the date and time (format is ‘ddmmyyhhmmss’). You can keep this filename or input a name of your own

3. Template – (Template on ly) name of the Template to use

4. Points – (Linear only) number of thickness measurements expected

5. Columns – (Grid only) number of columns required

6. Rows – (Grid only) number of ro ws r equired

7. Direction - (Grid only) grid measurement pattern, there are 16 to choose from

8. Ref. Thk – Reference thickness

9. Min. Thk – Minimum thickness

10. Surveyor –(optional) name of the surveyor

11. Location –(optional) location of the survey

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘New’.

Press the √ key to open the function

scroll down through the New Record list.

To set the highlighted item press the √ key.

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Example. Setting the number of

When all the items are set as

You can now start logging

At the bottom of the screen

Number of Points Taken/Total

measurement points to take in a Linear record.

required move the highlight down to the ‘Create’ item and press the √ key.

thickness measurements. The measurement screen will be

moved to the Data Logging view.

details of the record are displayed;

Record Type (Lin) Name of the Record

Your Choices will be Saved for Next Time

All the items listed in the New Record list will be saved and presented nex t time you create a new Reco rd (except the Name). This means you can quickly create identical records without having to re-input data each time.

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Here the User Field is requesting

Using a Template to Create a new Record

(Only available with Full data logging) When you create a Template Record you must also select a

Template to use. This Template defines the number of measurement points, their names, the measurement units, the velocity of sound and also may contain up to 40 user-defined data fields to capture text, numeric, date or list information from the user.

The process of starting a new Record from a Template is identical to starting a Linea r o r Grid Record, except you may be prompted for User Field information after the Record is created.

User Field Input

User Fields can prompt for Alphanumeric, Numeric, Date, List or Yes/No input from the user.

a Numeric Entry called “Serial No”.

The user would set the numer ic value and press the √ key to proceed.

selection from a List called “Condition”.

The user would select an item and press the √ key to procee d.

Reviewing and Editing User Field Choices

You will be prompted for User Field information when starting a new Record based on a Template. If you decide you need to

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Access the Menu and scroll down

The User Fields will be

Review User Fields screen.

With a thickness measurement

modify these choices you can a ccess the User Fields from the menu.

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘User Fields’.

Press the √ key to open the screen

displayed; you can select using the Up and Down keys, then press the √ key to edit the values.

Press the X key to exit the

Logging Thickness Measurements

To Log a thickness measureme n t you simply press the √ key when a thickness value is displayed. You can do this in ANY of the three measurement screens.

displayed press the √ key once…

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…the thickness measurement is

The ‘number of records’

added to the list, in this example it’s at ‘P1’ as it’s the first measurement.

indication changes colour to l ight blue for a second after wards to indicate the measurement has just been logged ok.

Auto-Log Feature

The gauge has an Auto-Log feature that will automatically log thickness measurements when the measurement remains sta ble for two seconds. This means the operator can log measurements using one hand.

See Auto-Log on page 95 to turn the Auto-Log feature On or Off.

The Auto-Log sequence is as fo l lo ws;

1. Place the probe on the surface and obtain a measurement

2. Hold the probe still to ensure the measurement remains stable..

3. After 2 seconds of stable measurement the value will be Auto-Logged

4. Remove the probe from the surface and wait until the ‘number of records’ indication turns from blue to grey before taking the next measurement, this is about 1 second.

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With NO thickness measurement

Obstruction

plate

8.6

8.5

OBS

8.7

8.6

8.7

8.5

OBS

8.5

8.4

NOR

8.5

OBS

8.6

NOR

8.4

8.5

OBS

8.4

Measurement points

Measurement point

Logging Obstructions and No-Readings

When surveying there may be measurement points that a re inaccessible due to an object bein g in the way or there may be points where thickness readings can’t be obtained (due to excessive corrosion and thinning for example). The Gauge allows the user to record either a No-Reading or Obstructed measurement point as required

preventing access to measurement points.

logged as No-reading (NOR)

displayed press the √ key once… Then choose No Reading or

Obstructed using the √ and Cancel keys.

logged as Obstructed (OBS)

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…the tag is added to the list, in

in this example its Obstructed

this example its No Reading ‘NR’ at ‘P4’

‘Obs’ at ‘P5’

Changing Measurement Units while Data Logging

When a Record is active you will be unable to change the measurement units. This is because each record can only contain measurements of the same units. If you try and change the measurement units you will get this message;

Re-taking the Last Measurement

If you make a mistake and need to Re-Take the last measurement the Retake Last menu item will do this quickly.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

The last measurement point has record.

Assume you have logged 4

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Retake Last’.

Press the √ key to select

now been removed from the

Stepping Backwards in the Record

If you need to step backwards in t h e record and re-take the measurement points from that point then use the Step Back menu item.

measurements (C1, C2, C3 & C4) but need to go back to the second measurement (C2) and re-take from that point.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

A view of the Record’s

Press Cancel to abort.

You can start logging

colour (C2).

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Step Back’.

Press the √ key to select

measurement points is displayed; you can use the navigation keys to move back to the required point (C2) in the record. The selected point is highlighted purple (arrowed).

Press √ to select.

measurements from that po int. Note. Subsequent measurement

will be overwritten. The next position that will be

logged into is filled Yellow in

Adding Radial Points

(Only available with Full data logging) You can only add Radial Points to a thickness measurement you

have just logged. So you must have logged at least 1 thickness measurement in the current Record before adding Radial Points.

You cannot add Radial Points to a Template Record.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Press the √ key again to confirm

Set the number of Radial Points

The Measurement Screen now

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Add Radials’.

Press the √ key to select

- this can be any number from 4 to 12

Press the √ key to continue

shows the Radial Point view There will be empty white boxes

arranged around the Parent measurement..

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..these boxes will fill clockwise

When the last Radial Point has

Access the Menu and scroll down

with the Radial Points measurements as they get logged

been logged the screen will revert back to the normal data logging view.

A small ‘R’ is added to the measurement point to show it has Radial Points added.

Adding Measurement Comments

You can add comments to ANY mea su rement point in the current Record, this includ es Radial Points also .

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Comment’.

Press the √ key to select

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Use the Up and Down keys to

cancel.

In the measurement screen any

cell.

When Reviewing a Record any

select the measurement point you want to add Comments to, then press the √ key.

select the required comment, Use the Left and Right keys to

Select or Clear the comment – a solid black box means the comment is Selected.

When you hav e selected the required comments press the √ key to save and exit, or the X to

measurement points that have comments will have a ‘C’ displayed in the measurement

measurement point with a ‘C’ (having comments) these comments can also be disp layed.

Closing and Opening a Record

You can close the record and stop data logging at any time and continue to use the gauge as normal. Then later open the record again and resume where you left it.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

Data logging has been stopped

of the screen bar shows “Off”

Access the Menu and scroll down

Closing the Record

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Close.

Press the √ key to select

and the record has been closed. The record details at the bottom

Opening a Record

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Open’.

Press the √ key to select

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Select the Record to open, the

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

The record has been opened and

Once you protect a record then you will be unable to un-

using a computer.

most recent is at the top of the list.

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

data logging record has been resumed.

Protecting a Record

If you want to Protect a record f rom being deleted or modified then you can use the Protect Record feature. Once protected records cannot be deleted from the gauge and they cannot be reopened and amended or changed.

protect the record from the gauge. You can however remove the SD card and deleted the record files fro m the SD card

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Access the Menu and scroll down

You will see a list of all the

Use the navigation keys to select

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Protect’.

Press the √ key to select

records stored on the gauges SD card listed in newest first order.

the record to protect, and then press the √ key.

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Confirm again by pressing t he √

The selected record has now

will appear next to any protected

Once deleted records cannot be restored – there is no undo function.

key.

been protected. When the record list is shown in the future a ‘P’

records.

Opening Protected Records

If you open a protected record then you will not be able to make changes to the record, you will only be able to review the records contents.

Deleting Records

You have two options for deleting Records from the gauges SD card; deleting each Record at a ti me, or deleting all Records at once.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

You will see a list of all the

Use the navigation keys to select

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

The selected record has now

Deleting Individual Records

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Delete’.

Press the √ key to select

records stored on the gauges SD card listed in newest first order.

the record to delete, and then press the √ key.

been deleted.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

Confirm by pressing the √ key.

Confirm again by pressing the √

All unprotected records will hav e

Continue by pressing the √ key.

Access the Menu and scroll down

Deleting All Records

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Delete All’.

Press the √ key to select

key.

been deleted from the SD card. A message will inform how many

records have been deleted.

Record Status

The Data Logging menu has a Status item at the bottom. This screen will display the status of the current Record.

to the ‘Data Logging’ group. Then scroll right and select ‘Status’.

Press the √ key to select

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Depending on the Record type

of Points can also be increased.

you will see various items listed. Some items such as Ref Thk and

Min Thk can be changed. For Linear Records the number

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Record for

Template

Many Records created from one

10. Data Logging Templates

Templates

(Only available with Full data logging) Templates allow structured data logging of thickness

measurements when repeatedly surveying identical or similar objects. A Templates is first creat ed using CygLink then the Template is transferred to ea ch Gauge ready for use.

Templates contain the following;

1. A name and description

2. Measurement units and velocity of sound

3. A list of thickness Measurement Points with minimum and

reference thicknesses.

4. User Fields (optional)

5. Spreadsheet cell locations (optional)

The user can then create many new data logger Records using a single Template which specifies how the survey is carried out.

‘Tank’

Tank #01

common Template which specifies content and format.

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Template

Record(s)

Gauge

XLT File

New Excel

Finished

Integrating with Microsoft Excel

Cygnus offer an Excel Add-In tool that can be used to directly extract the thickness measurement data from the data logger files stored on the SD card in the gauge.

The data in a Record produced from a Template can be inserted

into an Excel

Spreadsheet - so each piece of data has an optional destination cell reference – this is the spreadsheet cell the data will be co pied int o, i. e . c e l l ‘ D 1 2 ’ .

An XLT file (Excel

Template) can also be specified to be used as a template for the Excel document produced. So a company report, as an XLT file, can be used to create each new blank report document that will then receive the thickness measurement and other data collected by the Gauge.

on SD card

Report

Measurement Points

Templates contain measurement points for each thickness measurement required. Each measurement point consists of a “Name”, a “Reference Thickne ss”, a “Minimum Thickness”, a “Cel l Reference” and the “Thickness Measurement ” itself.

The “Reference” and “Minimum Thickness” are optional, but when included they allow wastage calculations in reports and minimum alarm alerts when measuring.

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User Fields

Templates can contain up to 40 User Fields which can be used to collect extra information from the Gauge user when they start a new Record from a template.

Each User Field can prompt for the following types of data;

1. Alphanumeric i.e. “ABC123”

2. Number i.e. “24501”

3. Date (dd-mm-yyyy) i.e. “21-07-2008”

4. List i.e. “Red, Blue, Yellow, Green.. ”

5. Boolean i.e. “Open” or “Closed”

Each User Field has: a ‘Name’ field, this is used to prompt the Gauge user to enter in informat io n , a n d a ‘Value’ field to hold the information. An optional ‘Cell Ref.’ field to specify where the Value should be inserted in the spreadsheet.

For example;

If the User Field Type = Alphanumeric If the User Field Name = ‘Vessel Name’ If the User Field Cell Ref = ‘Sheet 1!E20’

When the Gauge user starts a new record they will be prompted to enter in a ‘Vessel Name’.

The vessel name the user types in will be stored against the ‘Vessel Name’ field and be included in the report data.

As the ‘cell ref.’ was also specified the vessel name will be inserted into the spreadsheet report into cell ‘E20’ on ‘Sheet 1’.

User Field ‘List’ Type

When the User Field type is set to List you must provide a list of text choices that will be presented to the gauge user. This list can contain up to 40 items each of 16 characters in length.

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The gauge will default back to Automatic Gain mode when the gauge is turned on or the probe is changed.

When in manual gain mode the Basic measurement screen is disabled as the A-scan screen sh ould be observed.

Access the Menu and scroll down

11. Manual Gain Adjustment

The gauge will normally operate in automatic gain mode and this will be suitable for virtually every measuring scenario. The automatic gain mode has been designed to find the optimum gain setting during the measurement process and is imperceptible to the operator. It is therefore only recommended to use manual gain mode if you have suitable ultrasonic training and experience and understand the consequences to the measurement if the gain is set incorrectly.

Manual Gain Mode

When the gauge is in manual gain mode the operator can manually adjust either the Gain or A-scan Range using the Up and Down keys during measurement.

The Gain value is in dB can be adjusted in 1 dB steps with each ⇧ or ⇩ key press.

Turning on Manual Gain

to the ‘Measurement’ group . Then scroll right and select ‘Gain Mode’.

Press the √ key to select

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Press the √ key to select

When Manual gain mode is informing how the Gain or Range

[MG] is displayed in blue at the

Use the ⇩ key to se lect Man u al gain mode.

Or select Automatic to turn off manual gain mode.

selected a messag e is displayed is adjusted. Press the √ key to continue.

top to show Manual Gain mode is active.

The Gain setting is shown in blue to show it is active [60]

Manual Gain Menu

When in manual gain mode a small ‘quick menu’ is first displayed at the bottom of the screen when the Menu key is pressed, this allows quick selection of Gain, Range or Menu.

A tick is displayed next to Ga in or Range to indicate which will be adjusted when the ⇧ or ⇩ keys are pressed.

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Pressing the Menu key displays

Pressing the Menu key again will normal.

Use the Left and Right keys to

The Gain is set to 37 dB.

gain to get a 100% high signal.

the Manual Gain menu as the bottom of the screen.

The √ shows that Gain adjustment is currently selected.

go straight to the Main Menu as

navigate bet ween Menu, Gain and Range. The selected item will be highlighted in blue.

Use the √ key to select. Use the X key to cancel.

Adjusting the Gain

Press the Menu key and check that Gain is ticked – select it if it isn’t. Then in the measurement screen with the A-scan displayed

use the ⇧ or ⇩ keys to adjust the gain as required.

The A-Scan shows a back wall echo signal around 50% height but there is a thickness value.

Ideally you would increase the

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The Gain is set to 42 dB.

The Gain is set to 55 dB.

signal.

When Range is selected the

The A-Scan shows a back wall echo signal around 100% height and there is a thickness value.

This is the optimum setting.

The A-Scan shows a back wall echo signal which goes off the screen, there are also other earlier smaller echoes that are becoming significant. The thickness measurement is still ok however.

Ideally you would reduce the gain down to get a 100% high

Adjusting the Range

Press the Menu key and check that Range is ticked – select it if it isn’t. Then in the measurement screen with the A-scan displayed

use the ⇧ or ⇩ keys to adjust the Range as required.

range value is highligh ted blue. Here the range is set to 20mm

[20]

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This should only be attempted by experienced operators with a good understanding of ultrasound principals.

Use the ⇧ or ⇩ keys to adjust the value.

Here it’s set to 40mm [40]

Measuring Below the Probes Minimum Thickness Specification

The minimum thickness measurement specified for the Twin Element probes is valid for when Automatic Gain Mode is selected

- this is the default gain mode when the gauge is turned on. By manually adjusting the gain and observing the A-Scan display it

may be possible to measure less than the minimum specified thickness.

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Access the Menu and scroll down

12. Setup Menu

The Setup group is found at the bottom of the menu, it holds various gauge setup options.

to the ‘Setup’ group. Then scroll right to select the required item

Press the Ok/Select key to open the highlighted item.

A-Scan Range

The A-Scan range setting sets ho w the A-Scan X axis scale is set. This can be either Manually or Au tomatically.

Automatic

When set to Automatic (Auto) th e X scale is set using the measured thickness value and the measurement mode. This means when measuring a range if thicknesses the A-Scan range will always be set so you can observe the required number of echoes.

Manual

When set to Manual (Man) you can set the A-Scan range to any value between 5 mm and 1000 mm (0.2” and 39”).

Vibrate Feature

The Vibrate feature will vibra te the gauge when a verified thickness measurement is fou n d to alert the user. You can use this menu item to turn this On or Off as required.

Brightness Setting

The display brightness can be set Manually or Automatically using the ambient light level sensor.

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Higher brightness will consume more power so reduce the

In Automatic mode the brightnes s is You can choose from three power-

Power Save Modes.

battery life. To maximum the battery life choose the lowest brightness that still allows you to read the display.

dimmed when in dark conditions and increased when in bright light conditions.

In Manual mode you can adjust t h e brightness over 20 levels, 0 is the lowest level.

Power Off Setting

Manual Brightness Setting.

saving settings, these determine how long before the gauge will dim the display and ultimately turn off when the gauge is inactive (inactive = no key presses and no thickness measurements).

Auto-Log

When Data Logging the Auto-Log feature will automatically ‘log’ the current thickness measurement when it has remained stable for 2 seconds. This setting turns the Auto-Log feature On or Off as required.

Comments

(Only available with Full data logging) The Data Logger includes a feature where users can select

Comments to add to logged thickness measurements, they can have up to 8 pre-set comments to choose from. This setting allows you to edit the list of Comments.

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Use the Up and Down keys to

screen.

select the comment. Press the Ok/Select key to edit

the comment text. Press the X/Cancel key to save

the comments and exit this

Set Time and Set Date

These two items allow the user to set the gauges Time and Date. The time and date are used by the Data Logger.

Set Time and Date Screens.

Set Time and Set Date

These two items allow the user to set the gauges Time and Date. The time and date are used by the Data Logger.

Set Time and Date Screens.

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13. General Points On Thickness Gauging

On very rough surfaces and especially if both sides are badly corroded, it is often necessary to move the probe around to locate a back wall reflector. Sometimes a slight rocking movement can help find reflectors which are otherwise impossible.

Badly corroded sections can also be soa ked with a light lubricating oil to improve ultrasound coupling t h rou gh t o the good material.

On heavily corroded steel the use of a Chipping Hammer is recomm ended to dislodge and loose or delaminated layers, the surface can also be ‘prepar ed’ by the action of the hammer’s edge removing any uneven surfaces.

A Carbide Scraper can also help to prepare the surface and remove any loose rust or debris.

Good quality hammers and scrapers are available from Cygnus.

Always ensure that there is plenty of couplant present for good contact, but beware that on a pitted surface the Gauge may just measure the couplant-filled pit, always avoid measuring directly over external pits.

Beware that in extreme condition s or if the plate is of poor quality and contains many inclusions th e ultrasound will be scattered to such an extent that measure ment may not be possible.

Beware that the multiple-echo technique will not work if the front and back surfaces of the material being measured are not close to parallel. Also note that long narrow bars cannot be gauged along their length with the multiple-echo method.

The Gauge should not be used near arc-welding equipment, as this affects its performance.

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14. Troubleshooting

The Gauge will not Switch On

• Are the batteries exhausted?

• Check the batteries are inserted correctly.

Difficulty obtaining a Reading

• Check that the Probe lead is properly connected to both Probe and Gauge.

• Check the gauge is set for the probe connected.

• Check the condition of the lead, replace if necessary.

• Check the Probe and its mem brane are properly assembled (if

a single element probe).

• On heavily corroded areas this is often a problem, try and take measurements in adjacent areas of the same material.

• Check the Gauge and Probe together on a test block, if there is still no reading the Gauge may require servicing.

If Readings are Erratic or Unstable

• Check that the Probe-lead is properly connected to both Probe and Gauge.

• Check that the Probe and its membrane are correctly assembled with sufficient coup lant between the probe face and membrane (if a single elemen t probe).

• Check the Probe Type is suitable for the probable min imu m thickness of the material being measured. Probe frequencies too low cause doubling and tripling of the actual thickness.

Tips for Optimising Battery Life

• Couplant left on the probe face will stop the gaug e entering low power saving mode – so wipe cou plant off the probe face between measurement sessions .

• Turning down the backlight brightness will extend battery life.

• Turn Bluetooth off if you are not using it.

M5-CYG4P-M-01_Iss5.doc

Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

• When measuring on very heavily corroded metal with single element probes the gauge uses more power searching for a multiple echo match – this can significantly reduce battery life. So if you are frequently measuring on very heavy corrosion consider using a twin e l ement probe as this will require less power to get measurements.

Cygnus 4+ Operating Manual

M5-CYG4P-M-01_Iss5.doc

15. Updating your Gauge

As part of our policy of ongoing development and product improvement Cygnus may issue f irmware updates for your model of gauge. The firmware on the gauge can be easily updated by the user using update software downloaded from the Cygnus website.

Before updating your gauge note the model and serial number of the gauge (see Turning the Gauge On on page 24). You can then check on the Cygnus website if your gauge has the latest firmware version, and if not proceed to download the update software.

You can check for the latest gauge firmware on the Cygnus website [ http://www.cygnus-instruments.com

]. Navigate to Support -> Downloads -> Technical Software and look for a PDF document called ‘M5 Surface Gauge Firmware Version Info’ view this document to find the latest version for your gauge along with any changes made. Note you will need to create an account to access this section of the website.

Update Software

To update a gauge you must first download and install the ‘Cygnus M5 Surface Gauge Updater’ software. This is availa ble from the Cygnus website in the Support -> Downloads -> Technical Software section. There is a PDF document with instructions available.

Gauge Firmware Files

You must download the appropr iate Gauge Firmware file for the model of gauge, there are three to choose from; Cygnus 2/2

Cygnus 4/4

or Cygnus 6+ PRO.

Once downloaded the gauge can be easily updates via the USB cable connecting the gauge to the computer. The whole process takes about 2 minutes. There is a PDF document with detailed instructions available on the webs it e.

100

Cygnus M5-C4P Operating Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

1. Important Notice

2. Introduction

Cygnus 4+ Thickness Gauge

Cygnus Instruments

Gauge Kit Contents

Basic Gauge Kit

Kit supplied with Single Element Probe

Kit supplied with Twin Element Probe

3. Gauge Preparation

Fitting the Batteries

Connecting the Probe

Fitting the Neck Strap

4. Selecting the Right Probe

Measuring Metals

Measurement Modes Explained and Compared

Multiple Echo Mode (ME) (Mode 3)

Single Echo Mode (SE) (Mode 2)

Echo-Echo Mode (EE) (Mode 3)

Measuring Non-Steels

Measuring Non-Metals

Single Element Probes and Protective Mem branes

Measuring Higher Temperatures

Changing the Protective Membrane on Single element Probes

Summary of Cygnus Probes

Twin Element probes

Single Element probes

The ‘Probe Type’ Code

5. Gauge Operation

Gauge Controls

Turning the Gauge On

Turning the Gauge Off

Automatic Power Off

Measurement Screen Views

Status Information

Taking Thickness Measurements

Zeroing the Probe (twin element probes)

Taking the Thickness Measurement

Echo Indicators in Multiple Echo Mode

Measurement Stability Indication in SE & EE Modes

Measuring Small Diameter Pipe & Tubes

Display Hold Function

Battery Life

Battery Level

Low battery indication

6. Using the A-Scan Display

Single Echo Mode

Measuring Over Corrosion Pits

Echo-Echo Mode

Multiple Echo Mode

7. Calibration

Why should I Calibrate my Thickness Gauge?

Calibration Options

Calibrating to a known thickness (Single or 1 Point)

Two Point Calibration

Ladder Step Wedge

Two Point Calibration Procedure

Probe Zero (twin element probes)

Starting a Probe Zero from the Main Menu

Probe Zero Function

Setting the Velocity of Sound

8. Gauge Setup

Menu Operation

Settings are Saved with the Probe Type

Inputting Numeric Values using the Navigation Keys

Inputting Text using the Navigatio n Keys

Selecting the Probe Type

Automatic Probe Detection

Measurement Units

Resolution Setting

Limit Functions

Limit Example

Deep Coat Function (multiple echo mode)

9. Data Logging

Data Logging Features

Record Types

Reference and Minimum Thicknesses