Environmental Express CURRENT User Manual
HotBlock™ Digestion System
Operation & Instruction Manual
Call 800.343.5319 or 843.881.6560 • www.environmentalexpress.com
Copyright Environmental Express, Inc, August 2012
HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Contents
Dear Valued Customer,
Thank you for purchasing a
HotBlock™ Digestion System from
Environmental Express.
We pride ourselves on
providing innovative
products designed
to improve accuracy,
efciency, and safety
in your laboratory. Please take some
time to read your product manual
before using your HotBlock™.
As always, our Technical Sales
and Technical Support Teams are
available to assist with any questions
you have regarding our products.
Best Regards,
Al Jurgela
Chief Executive Ofcer
Environmental Express, Inc.
Contents
General Information
Warranty and Repair Policy 1
Declaration of Conformity 2
About Your HotBlock™
50mL HotBlock™ Specications 3
15mL HotBlock™ Specications 4
100mL HotBlock™ Specications 4
Getting Started
HotBlock™ Information and Markings 5
Unpacking and Installation 6
HotBlock™ Temperature Information 7
Potential Hazards and Maintenence 8
Care and Maintenance of Your HotBlock™
Circuitry Diagram 9
HotBlock™ Replacement Parts 10
Troubleshooting Your Block 11-13
Adaptation of EPA Methods for Use with Your HotBlock™
EPA Approval Letter 14
Method 200.2, Revision 2.8 15-16
Method 200.7 17-18
Method 200.8 19-20
Methods 245.1, 7470, and 7471 for Mercury Digestions 21-22
Method 365.2 for Phosphorus 23-24
Method 3050B 25-26
NIOSH Method 7303 27
Sample Preparation for Lead Analysis Using the GhostWipe 28-29
Method 3060 for use with the HotBlock™ and StirBase Systems 30-31
HotBlock™ Parts and Supplies
50mL HotBlock™ Accessories and Consumables 32-33
100mL HotBlock™ Accessories and Consumables 34
15mL HotBlock™ Accessories and Consumables 35
AirLite HEPA-Filtered Enclosure 36
Sample Filtration Supplies 36-37
GhostWipes for Surface Sampling 38
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Warranty and Repair Policy
Limited Warranty
The Environmental Express HotBlockTM is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship when used in accordance
with applicable instructions, for a period of one year from the date of shipment. This warranty extends to parts, labor, and
any approved transportation charges. This warranty applies only to damage or failure caused by normal laboratory use. The
warranty is limited to product repair. If Environmental Express is unable to repair the HotBlock, the customer may, at his or
her option, receive a replacement unit or a full refund. Operating the HotBlockTM at temperatures higher than 150°C will void
the warranty.
Environmental Express makes no other warranty, expressed or implied for this product with respect to merchantability, tness
for a particular use or any other matter. Environmental Express is not liable for any consequential or compensatory damages
arising from use of, or in conjunction with this product. The maximum liability shall be the invoice price of this product.
Repair Policies
Under Warranty Repair:
If the HotBlock™ should fail to operate within the warranty
period (one year from date of shipment) Environmental
Express will repair it and ship it back to the customer at
our expense. The remainder of the warranty period will
be honored from the original ship date. Environmental
Express will bear the cost of ground transportation both
to and from the customer’s location, and bear the cost of
any parts, labor and cleanup required. However, if it is
determined that the damage to the HotBlock™ was caused
by negligence or improper use, this warranty will not apply.
The warranty is also void if the system is used beyond its
intended purpose or in the event of any unauthorized
repair. In such cases, reasonable and customary repair
charges will apply. Repair charges will be quoted prior to
work being done.
Loaner HotBlocks™ MAY be available during the repair period. There are only a limited number of these units.
A reasonable charge for “cleanup” will be charged if a loaner is issued. The customer will be responsible for all
shipping charges associated with a loaner unit.
Out of Warranty Repair:
If the HotBlock™ fails after the warranty period has lapsed,
the repair procedure is as follows:
First, notify an Environmental Express Technical Service
Representative of product’s failure and place an order for
repair. Whenever possible, our customer service technician
will walk you through possible troubleshooting scenarios
which may enable you to repair your block on site. (See the
troubleshooting section of this manual, pages 11-13).
If on site repair is not possible, the customer may return
the non-working unit to Environmental Express using
appropriate shipping containers and insurance. Repair
charges will be assessed and estimated prior to work being
done. Repair charges will include all freight costs as well as
reasonable and customary charges for parts and labor.
Call 800.343.5319 or 843.881.6560 • www.environmentalexpress.com
2345 A Charleston Regional Pkwy • Charleston, SC 29492
Product Information:
Item # Date of Purchase
HotBlock™ Serial #
Please record the serial # of your HotBlock™ here for easy reference. Your serial # is located on the back of your HotBlock™.
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Declaration of Conformity
The manufacturer, Environmental Express, 2345A Charleston Regional Parkway,
Charleston, SC 29492 declares that the following products, HotBlock™ Catalog
Numbers, SC196, SC154, SC150, SC151, SC100, and C6002, are in conformity with:
Standard for Safety Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use; Part 1
General Requirements, UL 61010-1, CAN/CSA-C22.2
No. 61010-1, 2nd Edition, Issued 12 July, 2004 with
revisions through and including 28 October, 2008;
Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory
Use Part 2-010: Particular Requirements for
Laboratory Equipment for the Heating of Materials,
IEY 61010-2-010, 2nd Edition, Issued 1 June, 2003,
Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
4000040
Environmental Express, Inc. declares that all HotBlocks
conform with the essential requirements of the
applicable EC directives.
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use - Part
2-010:Particular Requirements for Laboratory
Equipment for the Heating of Materials, CSA
C22.2.61010.2.01
Signed: ________________________________________
Al Jurgela, Chief Executive Ofcer
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual 50mL HotBlock™ Specications
HotBlocks™ for 50mL Samples
36-Well 50mL HotBlock™
SC100:
Nominal Sample Size: 50mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 15" x 15"
Crated Size: 23" x 23" x 17"
Weight: 43 lb.
Shipping Weight: 58 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC*, 9A
Sample Capacity: 36
Racks Included: SC200 (2)
54-Well 50mL HotBlock™
12-Well 50mL HotBlock™
* All HotBlocks™ are also available in 240V.
SC154:
Nominal Sample Size: 50mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 15" x 21.5"
Crated Size: 26" x 23" x 17"
Weight: 59 lb.
Shipping Weight: 78 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC*, 14A
Sample Capacity: 54
Racks Included: SC200 (3)
C6002:
Nominal Sample Size: 50mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 8.55" x 18.5"
Crated Size: 22" x 19" x 13"
Weight: 30 lb.
Shipping Weight: 35 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC, 13A
Sample Capacity: 12
Racks Included: C6050 (1)
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual 15mL and 100mL HotBlock™ Specications
HotBlocks™ for 15mL Samples
96-Well 15mL HotBlock™
SC196:
Nominal Sample Size: 15mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 15" x 21.5"
Crated Size: 26" x 23" x 17"
Weight: 59 lb.
Shipping Weight: 80 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC*, 13A
Sample Capacity: 96
Rack Set Included: SC296
HotBlocks™ for 100mL Samples
25-Well 100mL HotBlock™
35-Well 100mL HotBlock™
* All HotBlocks™ are also available in 240V.
SC150:
Nominal Sample Size: 100mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 15" x 15"
Crated Size: 23" x 23" x 17"
Weight: 42 lb.
Shipping Weight: 54 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC*, 9A
Sample Capacity: 25
Rack Set Included: SC225
SC151:
Nominal Sample Size: 100mL
Temperature Range: to 150ºC
Thermocouple: Type K
Footprint: 15" x 21.5"
Crated Size: 26" x 23" x 17"
Weight: 59 lb.
Shipping Weight: 65 lb.
Electrical: 120VAC*, 13A
Sample Capacity: 35
Rack Set Included: SC235
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual HotBlock™ Information and Markings
Environmental Express HotBlock™
Environmental Express HotBlocks™ provide an efcient method of digesting and
storing water, wastewater, soil and sludge samples for metals analysis. These
innovative digestion systems allow samples to be digested in a corrosion-free
environment. In addition, samples are handled in a small area with minimal
radiant heat loss. Users should be aware of potential dangers from heating certain
types of compounds. Such hazards may include explosion or the release of toxic or
ammable gases.
Denitions/Markings
Each HotBlock™ displays certain markings and symbols. All personnel working
with the HotBlocks™ should have an understanding of the following symbols and
denitions:
• V = voltage
• ~ = alternating current
• Hz = frequency
• A = amperes
This symbol means Caution
Hot Surface. The surface of the
HotBlock™ may be too hot to
safely touch with bare hands.
This symbol means Read
and become familiar with
instructions before operation of
instrument.
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Unpacking and Installation
Unpacking Your HotBlock™:
1. Remove the HotBlock™ from the shipping container by lifting from the
bottom of the block. The lid should not be used for lifting.
2. Your HotBlock™ is shipped with metal screws securing the bottom panel.
The metal screws must be removed before operating your HotBlock™.
Remove the metal screws and replace them with the PVC screws and
rubber feet included with your shipment. The corrosion-resistant PVC
screws and rubber feet are designed to secure the bottom plate.
Important: Do not over tighten the PVC screws!
Installation Requirements
Locate the HotBlock™ under a fume hood with a minimum face velocity of
100fpm, and allow a minimum of 2" of space on all sides. The following
environmental conditions should be observed:
• Ambient temperature range: 5-30°C
• Ambient relative humidity: 0-90%RH
• Altitude: sea level to 2500 meters
HotBlocks™ are rated as Pollution Degree 2 and Installation Category 2.
Electrical Requirements
Required Voltage: 120 volts, ~60Hz, 15A
(all HotBlocks™ are also available in 240V with CE mark)
Power should not vary greater than±10%. Use the supplied heat-resistant power
cord or equivalent to connect to the power supply.
For safety reasons, a separate power receptacle should be provided for each unit in
the system. Do not use extension cords or outlet adaptors. Make certain that power
outlets are earth-grounded at the grounding pin.
See individual specications for each HotBlock™ model, pages 3-4.
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual HotBlock™ Temperature Information
HotBlock™ Temperature Settings:
The pre-set factory “set point” temperature of your HotBlock™ is 106°C. Factory
tests have shown that this temperature is “sea level safe.” Liquids in uncovered
polypropylene tubes should not boil at this setting. Please note that the set point
of the block is not the same as the temperature of the liquids being digested. The
block temperature should be optimized for the specic digestion. The temperature
of liquid contents of the digestion cup will vary according to:
• The material being digested
• The number of samples being digested
• The air movement of the digestion area
• The addition of a watch glass or reux cap
If watch glasses are being used, the control point temperature should be
lowered approximately 10°C to avoid boiling.
Note: The maximum sample temperature tolerance for our polypropylene digestion
vessels (SC475) is 130°C.
Remember that the temperature display (current block temperature) is not the
temperature of the sample. Sample temperature will usually be 5-15° less than
the display temperature.
Adjusting the Temperature of Your HotBlock™:
1. Plug the HotBlock™ into an approved receptacle. Turn the HotBlock™ on by
pressing the button on the back of the unit. Wait until the display shows the
current block temperature (in red) and the set point temperature (in green).
2. Press and hold or tap the or key. The display will show the set point
temperature on the right in blue. The adjustment is from ambient to 150°C
in increments of 0.1°C. There is no need to press the green (advance) or ∞
button.
Safe-Sample™ Temperature Protection:
Your HotBlock™ is protected from runaway temperatures by a fail-safe alarm
system. In the unlikely event that the heating system fails to respond to the
controller, the Safe-Sample™ system will automatically shut the system off and
sound an audible alarm.
This alarm sequence occurs if the actual temperature of the block reaches a
temperature that is fteen degrees higher than the set point temperature. If this
should occur, the HotBlock™ will stop heating, preventing the loss of samples. The
HotBlock™ must be turned off, then turned back on to reset the alarm.
If the alarm sounds, see the troubleshooting section of this manual, page 11-13.
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Potential Hazards and Maintenance
Potential Hazards:
The HotBlock™ should only be operated by properly trained personnel using
standard laboratory safety practices.
Use extreme caution when operating the HotBlock™. Plastic and graphite surfaces
of the HotBlock™ may be too hot to safely touch with bare hands.
The HotBlock™ contains electrical circuits and devices and compounds operating at
dangerous voltages. Contact with these circuits, devices and components can cause
serious injury or painful electric shock.
Proper grounding is essential to avoid a potentially serious electric shock hazard.
Ensure that there is an internal ground connection between the metal base of the
system and the 3-pin, earth-grounded receptacle.
For safety reasons a separate power outlet receptacle should be provided for each
unit in the system. Do not use extension cords or outlet adaptors. Make certain
each power outlet is earth-grounded at the grounding pin.
See individual block specications for power requirements, pages 3-4.
Application of the wrong supply voltage can create a re hazard and a potentially
serious shock hazard, and could seriously damage the HotBlock™ system. See
specications for individual HotBlocks™.
Users should be aware of potential dangers from heating certain types of
compounds. Such dangers may include explosion or the release of toxic or
ammable gases.
Always lift the HotBlock™ from the bottom of the unit.
Maintenance:
Any service inquiries should be directed to Environmental Express Technical Service
Department.
After each use, clean exterior surfaces with a damp sponge to remove acid residue.
For acid spills, sponge with a diluted solution of sodium bicarbonate followed
by distilled water. Acid that is spilled directly into the digestion wells should be
neutralized and removed.
Before using any cleaning or decontamination methods except those
recommended, check with Environmental Express to conrm the proposed method
will not damage your HotBlock™.
Avoid excessive spills, as liquid allowed to overow into the HotBlock™ casing can
severely damage electronic components.
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual Circuitry Diagram
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HotBlock™: Operation and Instruction Manual HotBlock™ Replacement Parts
HotBlock™ Replacement Parts
Description Catalog #
Power module (plug receptacle) w/ push button switch SC941
Power Cord- heavy duty SC958
Environmental Express Controller SC945-W
12" X 12", 120V, silicone rubber, etched-foil heater mat
for models SC100 & SC150 SC951
12" X 12", 240V, silicone rubber, etched-foil heater mat
for models SC100-240 & SC150-240 SC951-240*
110/220V, 25A solid state relay SC952
Type K Thermocouple SC953
Terminal board SC955
Ceramic ber insulation for models SC100 & SC150 SC959
14" X 14" Powder-coated aluminum bottom
for models SC100 & SC150 SC963
12" X 18", 120V, silicone rubber, heater mat
for models SC154 and SC196 & SC151 SC966
12" X 18", 240V, silicone rubber, heater mat
for models SC154-240 SC196-240 & SC151-240 SC966-240*
15" X 5" 120V silicone rubber heater mat
for model C6002 (12-Place Block) C6300
15" X 5" 120V silicone rubber heater mat
for model C6002-240 (12-Place Block) C6300-240*
Fail-Safe Relay SC968
Alarm Buzzer SC969
Ceramic ber insulation
for models SC154, SC196 and SC151 SC970
14" X 19", powder-coated aluminum bottom
for models SC154, SC196 and 151 SC971
PVC screw for rubber foot SC964
Rubber foot SC976
*for HotBlocks™ shipped outside the United States and Canada
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