Each Fluke product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and
service. The warranty period is one year and begins on the date of shipment. Parts, product repairs, and
services are warranted for 90 days. This warranty extends only to the original buyer or end-user customer of
a Fluke authorized reseller, and does not apply to fuses, disposable batteries, or to any product which, in
Fluke's opinion, has been misused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged by accident or abnormal
conditions of operation or handling. Fluke warrants that software will operate substantially in accordance
with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media.
Fluke does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers
only but have no authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke. Warranty support is
available only if product is purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the
applicable international price. Fluke reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of
repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke's warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke's option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair,
or replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke authorized service center within the
warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center to obtain return
authorization information, then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty,
postage and insurance prepaid (FOB Destination). Fluke assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following
warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB Destination). If Fluke
determines that failure was caused by neglect, misuse, contamination, alteration, accident, or abnormal
condition of operation or handling, including overvoltage failures caused by use outside the product’s
specified rating, or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke will provide an estimate of repair
costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to
the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges
(FOB Shipping Point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES,
INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not
apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other
decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision.
This User’s Manual covers the following pressure instruments: P3011, P3011P, P3012P,
P3013P, P3014P, P3015, P3015P, P3022, P3022P, P3023, P3023P, P3025, and the
P3025P.
Chapter 1
General Information
Safety Information
Safety Summary
The following are general safety precautions that are not related to any specific
procedures and do not appear elsewhere in this publication. These are recommended
precautions that personnel must understand and apply during equipment operation and
maintenance to ensure safety and health and protection of property.
W Warning
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
Use of compressed gas can create an environment of propelled foreign matter. Pressure
system safety precautions apply to all ranges of pressure. Care must be taken during
testing to ensure that all connections are properly and tightly made prior to applying
pressure. Personnel must wear eye protection to prevent injury.
Lifting and movement of heavy weights can create an environment of strain and impact
hazards. Care must be taken during testing to ensure that weight masses are lifted in a
manner that avoids over-reaching or twisting, and that the masses are not dropped.
Personnel must wear reinforced safety shoes to prevent injury.
Wear eye protection and reinforced safety shoes approved for the materials and tools
being used.
In this manual, a Warning identifies conditions and actions that pose a hazard to the user.
A Caution identifies conditions and actions that may damage the Pneumatic Deadweight
Tester.
Symbols used on the Pneumatic Deadweight Tester and in this manual are explained in
Table 1-1.
Symbol Description
B AC (Alternating Current)
J Earth Ground
W Important Information: refer to manual
~
Operating Principle
Deadweight Testers are the primary standard for pressure measurement. Utilizing the
well-proven Piston-Gauge system, consisting of a vertically mounted, precision lapped
Piston and Cylinder assembly, accurately calibrated weight masses (Force) are loaded on
the piston (Area), which rises freely within its cylinder. These weights balance the
upward force created by the pressure within the system.
Table 1-1. Symbols
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted
municipal waste. Go to Fluke’s website for
recycling information.
PRESSURE =
FORCE
AREA
Each weight is marked with the tester serial number, and the pressure measured when
placed on a correctly spinning and floating piston. The total pressure measured is the
summation of the weights plus the piston weight carrier assembly.
When the gas pressure within the system balances the combined downward force of the
piston and weights, the piston and weights will float freely and the system is in
equilibrium.
The design of a Piston/Cylinder Unit (PCU) fitted to a deadweight tester allows for a very
small clearance gap between the piston and cylinder. This is required to allow the gas to
pass between the components, providing a lubricating film, and preventing
metal-to-metal contact.
Operating & Storage Specification
Temperature and relative humidity ranges for operation and storage of the deadweight
tester.
Table 1-2. Operation and Storage Specifications
Operation Storage
Temperature 18 °C to 28 °C
64 °F to 82 °F
Relative Humidity
(Non-Condensing)
20 % to 75 % 0 % to 90 %
Environmental Corrections
The deadweight tester has been calibrated to the Gravity, Temperature, and Air Density
stated on the certificate.
Equations and factors are given on the certificate to adjust for any variations in these
environmental conditions.
Gravity
Gravity varies greatly with geographic location, and so will the deadweight tester reading.
Due to the significant change in gravity throughout the world (0.5%), ensure that the
tester has either been manufactured to your local gravity, or that you have applied the
correction from the calibrated gravity.
(980.665 cm/s² is the International Standard Gravity)
Gravity at site 981.235 cm/s²
10 °C to 50 °C
50 °F to 122 °F
Indicated Pressure 250 psi
235.981
250
xPRESSURETRUE=
665.980
psiPRESSURETRUE1453.250=
The ability to determine the local gravity value will depend on the data available in the
country that the instrument is to be used in. Some countries have geographic/geological
survey/mapping organizations that have the data readily available. If not, the countries’
National Standards Laboratory may be able to recommend a source of suitable
information.
The deadweight tester must be set up on a level, stable workbench or similar surface.
If instrument has fitted handpump, remove pump handle form tool roll and fit to
pump arm.
Level the tester using the four adjustable feet to the bubble level attached to the top plate.
Connection to External Pressure/Vacuum Supplies
Connection ports in the rear panel of the instrument are 1/4 NPT. Pressure supply must be
both clean and dry — a compressed gas bottle (instrument quality nitrogen or air) fitted
with a pressure regulator is recommended. Factory (compressed) air lines should only be
used if a series of filters are fitted to ensure that the supply is clean and dry.
W Warning
Great care must be taken when operating any pneumatic
deadweight tester, as any contamination present within the
system will result in degradation of performance, and eventual
IRREPARABLE DAMAGE to the PCUs.
To avoid damage to the instrument, the operator should ensure
that any device under test (DUT) is clean and dry before
connecting it to the test port. If the DUT is of unknown
cleanliness, the Dirt/Moisture Trap, P5531, can be mounted to
the test port of the deadweight tester. This will prevent any dirt
particles or moisture droplets present within the DUT from
passing into the deadweight tester system, (see Chapter 8).
Fit the device under test (DUT) to the test port using the method described below:
W Warning
DO NOT use Teflon/PTFE tape on these connections, as this
will prevent correct sealing. The Gauge Adapter sealing system
is designed for hand-tight sealing up to 20,000 psi / 1,400
bar-wrenches or similar tools are not required — over
tightening can cause damage to threads or sealing faces.
Before connection, ensure that there is an O-ring fitted to the
test port.
Check that the sealing face of the device to be fitted is clean
and undamaged, as scratches or dents can form leak-paths.
Note
The thread on the test port, and the lower part of the gauge adapters is
LEFT-HANDED. The following procedure details the correct method for
mounting devices using these adapters:
1. Screw the appropriate gauge adapter fully on to the instrument to be tested.
Figure 2-1. Screw on Gauge Adapter
gjn006.bmp
2.Screw assembly down COUNTER-CLOCKWISE on to test port.
Note
Hand-tight is sufficient; ensure that the bottom face contacts the O-ring on
the test port.
For devices with 1/8 BSP or NPT mounting threads, the diameter of the thread is very
close to the effective sealing diameter of the O-ring fitted to the test port.
This can make it difficult to achieve a good seal. When mounting these devices, use the
test port insert (stored in the spare seals container) as shown in Figure 2-6.
1
2
3
4
Figure 2-6. Test Port Insert
gjn012.eps
Table 2-1. Test Port Inserts - Parts List
Item Description Part
1 O Ring 3865142
2 Test Port Insert 3919892
3 O Ring 3883397
4 Test Port 3921566
To calibrate panel-mounted gauges with pressure connections in the rear, use an Angle
Adapter (see Chapter 8, Ancillary Equipment).
All P3000 Series pneumatic deadweight testers have a monitor gauge fitted to the
instrument top plate, to serve as a guide to the operator by indicating the approximate
pressure in the system.
Single PCU Models — Pressure
1. Ensure that both Inlet and Exhaust valves are closed.
Chapter 3
Operation
2. Select the required weights and stack them on the piston assembly. The pressure
measured is the sum of the weights plus the piston/weight carrier.
3. Use the handpump (if fitted) to generate pressure until the piston floats (i.e. not
touching the top or bottom travel limits.
Note
Handpump use: Slow down-strokes will only partially contribute pressure,
for higher pressurization, a faster down-stroke is required. The handpump
will generate approximately 300 psi/20 bar — above this pressure, an
external supply will be required.
Alternatively, if connected to an external supply, SLOWLY open and close
Inlet valve until piston floats. If piston is over-pressurized (piston against
top travel limit) then reduce pressure by SLOWLY opening and closing
Exhaust valve until the piston floats.
4. Gently rotate the weight stack clockwise, such that it is turning between
approximately 10 and 60 rpm. Avoid side-loads when turning the weights by placing
the palms of the hands on either side and “rolling” the stack by pulling in opposite
directions, see Figure 3-1. DO NOT rotate weights when the piston is against the top or bottom limits of travel.
5. Allow a few moments for the system to stabilize before taking any readings,
especially after large changes in system pressure.
6. For the next, higher calibration point, repeat from step 2 above.
7. To measure reducing pressures, remove the necessary weights, and by opening and
closing the Exhaust valve, SLOWLY reduce the system pressure until the piston
floats, then rotate clockwise as above.
8. Depressurize the system by SLOWLY opening the Exhaust valve, as sudden
depressurization will cause the weight stack to fall quickly, which may damage the
piston assembly.
9. Remove the weights from the piston.
1. Ensure that both Inlet and Exhaust valves are closed.
2. Select the required weights and stack them on the piston assembly. The vacuum
measured is the sum of the weights plus the piston/weight carrier. (The weights can
be passed over the weight carrier if held at a slight angle).
3. Use the handpump (if fitted) to generate pressure until the piston floats i.e. not
touching the top or bottom travel limits.
Note
Handpump use: Slow down-strokes will only partially contribute vacuum,
for higher vacuum, a faster down-stroke is required. The handpump will
generate approximately 75% vacuum (depending upon local atmospheric
conditions), above this range, an external vacuum supply will be required.
Alternatively, if connected to an external supply, SLOWLY open and close
Inlet valve until piston floats. If piston is over-pressurized (piston against
top travel limit) then reduce pressure by SLOWLY opening and closing
Exhaust valve until the piston floats.
4. Gently rotate the weight stack clockwise, such that it is turning between
approximately 10 and 60 rpm. Avoid side-loads when turning the weights by placing
the palms of the hands on either side and “rolling” the stack by pulling in opposite
directions, see Figure 3-1. DO NOT rotate weights when the piston is against the top or bottom limits of travel.
5. Allow a few moments for the system to stabilize before taking any readings,
especially after large changes in system pressure.
6. For the next, higher calibration point, repeat from step 2 above.
7. To measure reducing vacuum, remove the necessary weights, and by opening and
closing the Exhaust valve, SLOWLY reduce the system pressure until the piston
floats, then rotate clockwise as above.
8. Release vacuum by SLOWLY opening the Exhaust valve, as sudden depressurization
will cause the weight stack to fall quickly, which may damage the piston assembly.
9. Remove the weights from the piston.
Dual PCU (Pressure & Vacuum) Models
1. Select Pressure or Vacuum Mode by turning the system selector valve on the front of
the instrument, 1/4 turn counter-clockwise for Pressure, 1/4 turn clockwise for
vacuum. The selector valve automatically vents the system as it changes from
pressure to vacuum mode to prevent damage to sensitive vacuum equipment. During
the changeover, the operator may hear gas venting harmlessly inside the instrument
case as this occurs.
2. If the instrument is fitted with the optional handpump, ensure that the handpump
selector valve is also turned to the appropriate mode, 1/4 turn clockwise for Pressure
(handle pointing backward towards the pressure PCU) or 1/4 turn counter-clockwise
for Vacuum (handle pointing frontward towards the vacuum PCU).
3. If either the system or handpump selector valve is set for vacuum, when pressure is
applied to the system, the safety valve fitted to the front of the PCU mounting
assembly will be ejected, venting the system. (The safety valve is retained by the
assembly, and will not “fly-out” of the instrument). This is to limit the possible
damage caused by pressurizing a vacuum instrument under test. Simply set the
selector valve(s) to the correct position, and reset the safety valve by pushing the
safety plug back in.
4. Pressure Mode: Operate as per Single PCU Models - Pressure, above.
5. Vacuum Mode: Operate as per Single PCU Models - Vacuum, above.
The deadweight tester can be used to calibrate in different pressure units in either of two
methods.
Conversion Weights
A set of Conversion Weights can be supplied, marked in the required pressure unit, and
adjusted to the correct mass for use with the existing piston(s).
Chapter 4
The set includes (where applicable) a replacement low-pressure weight carrier table, and
a replacement high-pressure weight carrier ring. These items are simply exchanged for
the original items when using the conversion weights. Calibration is carried out as
described above, with logical pressure increments throughout the operating range,
avoiding the need to perform pressure unit conversion calculations.
Software
PressCal software is available for use with deadweight testers, and will allow users to
apply all necessary corrections (e.g. local gravity, temperature, pressure head, etc.) to
enhance the pressure measurement accuracy of the instrument.
It will allow calibration in any of 12 different pressure units, using the existing weight set.
The piston/cylinder assembly is the most critical and sensitive part of the
deadweight tester. To maintain accuracy, the piston must always slide
freely in the cylinder, and the gas supply must remain clean and dry.
The Figures on the following pages detail the components of each assembly,
together with the relevant part numbers. Where “Spec” appears as a part
number, this indicates that this particular component varies with the
specification of the deadweight tester, and is usually associated with other
components in an assembly for replacement purposes.
Chapter 5
Maintenance & Servicing
Note
PCU Assembly — 10 mm Nominal Diameter — Pressure
Piston Disassembly
1. Hold the weight carrier (1), and lift the piston to its full extent. Tap the carrier
sharply down onto the cylinder (2) to release the tapered fit between the piston and
carrier. Remove the weight carrier.
2. Unscrew the PCU assembly from the instrument; use the dowel hole if the cylinder
is tight.
3. Carefully withdraw the piston from the cylinder.
Piston Cleaning
4. Use “non-fluffing”, non-abrasive, lint-free tissue or absorbent cloth. Hold the piston
by the larger “head” end, and rub the tissue back and forth along its length.
5. To remove all traces of contamination, the piston can be cleaned in a suitable solvent.
W Caution
O-ring seals (where fitted) are Nitrile rubber, and should not be
immersed in solvents, as they will become damaged. They
should be wiped carefully with a new tissue.
6. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
step 4.
7. Place piston carefully on a NEW tissue where it will not be damaged while the
Never touch the working surface of a clean piston with bare
fingers — the natural oil in your skin can cause the piston and
cylinder to stick.
8. Wipe any dirt or moisture from the outside surfaces of the cylinder (2).
9. Roll a NEW tissue into a tapered rod of appropriate size. Force the tissue through the
cylinder bore while rotating. Ensure that the tissue is a tight fit inside the bore so that
dirt and contamination is removed.
10. Repeat step 9 using a NEW tissue but from the opposite end of the cylinder.
11. Immerse the cylinder in a suitable, clean solvent, see note in step 5 above.
12. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
step 9 and 10.
13. Holding the piston by the larger “head” end, carefully introduce the piston into the
underside of the cylinder, and push gently through (the piston will normally slide
freely through due to its own weight).
Never force the piston into its cylinder or damage will result. If resistance
continues, re-clean piston, cylinder, or both. If, after repeated cleaning, the piston still
will not slide freely within the cylinder, then permanent damage may have occurred.
In which case, the parts should be returned to the factory for evaluation or
replacement.
14. Stand assembly upright on a clean, hard, stable surface, ensure that the weight
carrier (1) is clean (especially the central mounting hole), and place on the tapered
end of the piston. Tap lightly using the palm of the hand to locate on the taper.
15. Carefully screw the assembly into the instrument, ensuring that the seal (6) is clean
and undamaged, and correctly re-fitted.
Replacement PCU Assembly
The piston and cylinder assembly is a matched pair, which is
calibrated and adjusted to a calculated mass figure. If, for any
reason, the piston or cylinder becomes damaged, then the
entire assembly must be replaced.
The replacement assembly consists of the following components: Item numbers
1 through 3.
Table 5-1. PCU Assembly - 10 mm - Pressure - Parts List
Item Description Part Item Description Part
1 Weight Carrier Spec 3 Piston Spec
2 Cylinder Spec 4 O Ring 3864954
PCU Assembly — 10 mm Nominal Diameter — Vacuum
Piston Disassembly
1. Unscrew the PCU assembly from the instrument; use the dowel hole if the cylinder is
tight.
2. The weight carrier is permanently attached to the piston, hold the weight carrier and
gently withdraw the piston from the cylinder (2)
Piston Cleaning
3. Use “non-fluffing”, non-abrasive, lint-free tissue or absorbent cloth. Hold the piston
by the weight carrier, and rub the tissue back and forth along its length.
gjn31.eps
4.To remove all traces of contamination, the piston can be cleaned in a suitable solvent.
W Caution
O-ring seals (where fitted) are Nitrile rubber, and should not be
immersed in solvents, as they will become damaged. They
should be wiped carefully with a new tissue.
5. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
step 3, taking great care to ensure that all traces of solvent are removed from the
inside of the tubular piston and weight carrier.
6. Place piston carefully on a NEW tissue where it will not be damaged while the
cylinder is cleaned.
W Caution
Never touch the working surface of a clean piston with bare
fingers — the natural oil in your skin can cause the piston and
cylinder to stick.
7. Wipe any dirt or moisture from the outside surfaces of the cylinder (2).
8. Roll a NEW tissue into a tapered rod of appropriate size. Force the tissue through the
cylinder bore while rotating. Ensure that the tissue is a tight fit inside the bore so that
dirt and contamination is removed.
9. Repeat step 7 using a NEW tissue but from the opposite end of the cylinder.
10. Immerse the cylinder in a suitable, clean solvent, see note in step 4 above.
11. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
steps 8 and 9.
Piston Re-Assembly
12. Holding the piston by weight carrier, dip the other end, carefully introduce the piston
into the underside end of the cylinder, and push gently through (the piston will
normally slide freely through due to its own weight).
NEVER FORCE THE PISTON INTO ITS CYLINDER OR DAMAGE WILL
RESULT. If resistance continues, re-clean piston, cylinder, or both. If, after repeated
cleaning, the piston still will not slide freely within the cylinder, then permanent
damage may have occurred. In which case, the parts should be returned to the factory
for evaluation or replacement.
13. Carefully screw the assembly into the instrument, ensuring that the seal (3) is clean
and undamaged, and correctly re-fitted.
Replacement PCU Assembly
The piston and cylinder assembly is a matched pair, which is
calibrated and adjusted to a calculated mass figure. If, for any
reason, the piston or cylinder becomes damaged, then the
entire assembly must be replaced.
The replacement assembly consists of the following components: Item numbers 1 and 2.
Table 5-2. PCU Assembly - 10 mm - Vacuum - Parts List
Item Description Part Item Description Part
1 Piston Spec 3 Bonded Seal 3918392
2 Cylinder Spec
PCU Assembly — 16 mm Nominal Diameter
Piston Disassembly
1. Unscrew the PCU assembly from the instrument; use the dowel hole if the cylinder
is tight.
2. Unscrew piston stop (5).
3. The weight carrier is permanently attached to the piston; hold the weight carrier and
gently withdraw the piston from the cylinder (3).
Piston Cleaning
4. Use “non-fluffing”, non-abrasive, lint-free tissue or absorbent cloth. Hold the piston
by the weight carrier, and rub the tissue back and forth along its length.
5. To remove all traces of contamination, the piston can be cleaned in a suitable solvent.
gjn32.eps
W Caution
O-ring seals (where fitted) are Nitrile rubber, and should not be
immersed in solvents, as they will become damaged. They
should be wiped carefully with a new tissue.
6. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
step 4, take great care to ensure that all traces of solvent are removed from inside the
tubular piston.
7. Place piston carefully on a NEW tissue where it will not be damaged while the
cylinder is cleaned.
W Caution
Never touch the working surface of a clean piston with bare
fingers — the natural oil in your skin can cause the piston and
cylinder to stick.
8. Lift off the bearing (2), and wipe any dirt or moisture from the outside surfaces of the
cylinder (3).
9. Roll a NEW tissue into a tapered rod of appropriate size. Force the tissue through the
cylinder bore whilst rotating. Ensure that the tissue is a tight fit inside the bore so
that dirt and contamination is removed.
10. Repeat step 9, using a NEW tissue, but from the opposite end of the cylinder.
11. Immerse the cylinder in a suitable, clean solvent, see note in step 5 above.
12. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure
in 9 & 10.
Piston Re-Assembly
1. Refit the bearing (2) to the top of the cylinder.
2. Holding the piston by the weight carrier, carefully introduce the piston into the
cylinder, and push gently through (the piston will normally slide freely through due
to its own weight).
NEVER FORCE THE PISTON INTO ITS CYLINDER OR DAMAGE
WILL RESULT. If resistance is felt, re-clean piston, cylinder or
both. If, after repeated cleaning, the piston still will not slide
freely within the cylinder, then permanent damage may have
occurred. In which case, the parts should be returned to the
factory for evaluation or replacement.
13. Screw piston stop (5) and O-ring (4) back into the underside of the piston.
14. Carefully screw the assembly into the instrument, ensuring that O ring (6) is clean
and undamaged, and correctly fitted to the piston body.
Replacement PCU Assembly
The piston and cylinder assembly is a matched pair, which is
calibrated and adjusted to a calculated mass figure. If, for any
reason, the piston or cylinder becomes damaged, then the
entire assembly must be replaced.
W Caution
W Caution
The replacement assembly consists of the following components: Item numbers
1 through 5.
1. The weight carrier is permanently attached to the piston; hold the weight carrier and
gently lift the piston (1).
2. Unscrew and remove bearing cap (3).
3. Carefully withdraw the piston from the cylinder (2).
Piston Cleaning
4. Use “non-fluffing”, non-abrasive, lint-free tissue or absorbent cloth. Hold the piston
by the weight carrier, and rub the tissue back and forth along its length.
gjn33.eps
5.To remove all traces of contamination, the piston can be cleaned in a suitable solvent.
W Caution
O-ring seals (where fitted) are Nitrile rubber, and should not be
immersed in solvents, as they will become damaged. They
should be wiped carefully with a new tissue.
6. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure in
step 4, take great care to ensure that all traces of solvent are removed from inside the
tubular piston.
7. Place piston carefully on a NEW tissue where it will not be damaged while the
cylinder is cleaned.
W Caution
Never touch the working surface of a clean piston with bare
fingers — the natural oil in your skin can cause the piston and
cylinder to stick.
8. Wipe any dirt or moisture from the outside surfaces of the cylinder (2).
9. Roll a NEW tissue into a tapered rod of appropriate size. Force the tissue through the
cylinder bore while rotating. Ensure that the tissue is a tight fit inside the bore so that
dirt and contamination is removed.
10. Repeat step 9, using a NEW tissue, but from the opposite end of the cylinder.
11. Immerse the cylinder in a suitable, clean solvent, see note in step 5 above.
12. After removal from the solvent, using a NEW tissue, repeat the cleaning procedure
in 9 & 10.
Piston Re-Assembly
13. Holding the piston by the weight carrier, carefully introduce the piston into the
cylinder, and push gently through (the piston will normally slide freely through due
to its own weight).
NEVER FORCE THE PISTON INTO ITS CYLINDER OR DAMAGE
WILL RESULT. If resistance is felt, re-clean piston, cylinder or
both. If, after repeated cleaning, the piston still will not slide
freely within the cylinder, then permanent damage may have
occurred. In which case, the parts should be returned to the
factory for evaluation or replacement.
14. Refit the bearing cap around the stem of the weight carrier, and screw onto the top of
the cylinder.
15. Carefully screw the assembly into the instrument, ensuring that O ring (4) is clean
and undamaged, and correctly fitted to the piston body.
Replacement PCU Assembly
The piston and cylinder assembly is a matched pair, which is
calibrated and adjusted to a calculated mass figure. If, for any
reason, the piston or cylinder becomes damaged, then the
entire assembly must be replaced.
W Caution
W Caution
The replacement assembly consists of the following components: Item numbers
1 through 3.
In order to perform maintenance procedures on the hydraulic system, the
Top Plate Assembly must first be removed from the instrument case.
1. Depressurize the system by slowly opening the Exhaust valve.
2. Disconnect any DUT from the test port.
3. Remove the 4 screws from the instrument top plate, (1 at the mid-point of each edge).
W Caution
The top plate will be connected to the instrument case by the
tubing that runs to the external supply manifold, so care must
be taken when lifting the plate to avoid damage to these
connections.
4. In most cases, the top plate can be lifted out vertically, but the system selector valve
fitted to the dual PCU (pressure & vacuum) models extends through the front of the
instrument case. For these instruments: Hold the top plate assembly by the test port,
and tilt the plate so that the rear edge is lifted, but the front edge remains in contact
with the instrument case.
5. Slide the top plate towards the rear until the selector valve is clear of the front lip of
the instrument case.
6. Carefully lift the top plate to reveal the inlet connection(s) from the external supply
manifold (mounted on the rear panel of the case).
7. Disconnect the tubing, and lift the top plate clear of the case.
When handling the top plate assembly, it is good practice to
remove the piston assemblies to avoid accidental damage.
Note
Replacement is simply the reverse of the above procedure.
1. Disconnect tubing from check valve (19) and/or (23).
2. On the upper side of the top plate, unscrew locknut (3) 1/2 turn, and remove spring
clip (1) from clevis (2).
3. The pump arm assembly can be swung out of the way.
4. Remove locknut (3) and clevis (2).
5. Loosen set screws (4) approximately 1 turn, and unscrew pump lock (5).
6. Withdraw pump assembly from below the top plate.
7. Disassemble outlet check valve assembly by unscrewing valve body (19). Take care
not to lose the small internal components that may spring out.
8. The inlet check-valve (23) is not user-serviceable and should be checked for signs of
contamination, and replaced if necessary.
9. Remove guide (6) from cylinder (13) — take care not to damage this, as it is a tight
fit within the cylinder.
10. Remove piston assembly from the cylinder.
11. The piston head assembly (12) can be separated from the piston shaft (10) by
removing the snap ring (9).
Cleaning and Inspection
The piston head assembly cannot be further disassembled without damage to the
components, so it must be wiped clean with a soft cloth to remove any contamination.
Check all seals for signs of wear and/or damage.
Check the cylinder bore for signs of excessive wear, scratches/scoring, etc.
Replacement seals are available; however, if there is significant damage to the internal
components, the pump is available as a replacement assembly.
Re-Assembly
Reassembly is the reverse of the above disassembly instructions.
Care should be taken whenever a seal comes in contact with
metal components, to avoid damage to the seal from sharp
edges, etc.
W Caution
Examples:
• When introducing the piston head assembly (12) into the cylinder (13).
• When introducing the piston shaft (10) through the guide (6).
• When introducing the guide (6) into the cylinder (13).
The clean pneumatic piston/weight carrier assembly will rotate freely, without additional
weights, slowing down gradually to a complete stop. If the rotation stops quickly, then
the PCU may be dirty and require cleaning. If the piston “squeaks” when rotated, it must
be cleaned immediately, see Chapter 5, Maintenance & Servicing.
To check the freedom of the PCU, open the Exhaust valve and hold the weight carrier.
Lift the piston vertically, gently up and down. It should slide freely within the cylinder, if
any resistance is detected, it must be cleaned immediately.
Chapter 6
Fault Finding
W
Do not rotate the piston if it is dirty as permanent damage can
occur.
If the spin/sensitivity of a recently cleaned PCU deteriorates quickly, then it is likely that
the hydraulic system has become contaminated. If this is the case, the system must be
completely dismantled, thoroughly cleaned and rebuilt before further calibration is
carried out.
During the normal operation of a deadweight tester, gas flows slowly through the tiny
gap between the piston and its cylinder. If the system has become contaminated, any
particles will tend to move towards the PCU and thus affect its performance, and possibly
damage it.
System Will Not Pressurize
1. Ensure that Inlet and Exhaust valves are closed.
2. Ensure for missing or dirty seal in test port.
3. Ensure that the sealing face of the DUT is not dented or scratched, and is correctly
contacting the seal in the test port.
4. Ensure that the external supply is correctly connected and functioning correctly.
5. Ensure that the selector valve(s) are correctly positioned (if fitted).
6. Ensure that the safety valve (models with vacuum PCU only) is seated correctly.
The piston will always fall slowly as the gas passes between the piston and cylinder.
However, this fall rate will never be so fast that a stable reading cannot be made.
1. The system may be leaking. Check that exhaust valve is fully closed, and test port
connections are correctly made.
2. The DUT may be leaking. This can be verified by recording the fall rate, and
comparing it with the fall rate under the same conditions but with the DUT removed
and the test port blanked off.
3. If the system has been pressurized quickly, then sufficient time must be allowed for
the instrument to thermally stabilize. Continue re-floating the piston until the fall rate
stabilizes. This should take no longer than one minute.
If the system pressurizes and depressurizes in conjunction with the downward and
upward strokes of the pump, then the outlet check valve has failed completely. This
should be disassembled and inspected for dirt or damage to valve seat and seal. After
inspection, clean all parts carefully, replace as required, and re-assemble correctly, see
Chapter 5, Maintenance & Servicing, Handpump Assembly section.
1. Shut-off any external supplies, and depressurize system by slowly opening both Inlet
and Exhaust valves.
2. Disconnect external supplies.
3. Remove screw-in handle from handpump arm (if fitted) and store in tool roll.
4. Refit instrument lid, ensuring that the hinges are correctly engaged, and secure with
toggle clips at the sides.
Chapter 7
Storage & Transportation
Weights
1. Starting with the largest increments first, stack all appropriate weights in the wooden
weight case.
2. Pass the threaded rod of the weight clamp assembly down through the center of the
weight stack, and locate in the base of the weight box.
3. Secure the weights by screwing the clamp assembly in clockwise, ensuring that the
stepped rim of the clamping disc locates correctly in the center of the weight stack.
4. Close lid and secure with catches at front.
The weight set is heavy (can be up to 80 lbs/36 kg per individual
box) so care must be taken when moving it. Both handles must
be used when lifting the set for stability, and we recommend
that it be carried between two people.
If there is any doubt that the instrument to be tested is not internally clean, then the
addition of the P5531 Dirt/Moisture Trap will protect the deadweight tester from
contamination and possible damage. Any particles or moisture present within the DUT
will fall into the clear, acrylic chamber, where they can be seen by the operator.
The top connection reproduces the test port on the deadweight tester, allowing the
standard gauge adapters to be used.
To calibrate gauges with the pressure connection on the rear (e.g. panel-mount gauges) in
their correct position, an angle adapter should be used. The angle adapter fits directly
onto the test station, converting it through 90 degrees, allowing the standard adapters to
be used.
Figure 8-2. Angle Adapter
Pointer Remover/Punch, P5551
To remove and refit the pointer of a pressure gauge, a pointer remover/punch should be
used. This tool has a spring-loaded plunger to quickly and consistently refit the pointer.