Ivoclar Vivadent EP 600 Combi User Manual

Operating Instructions

EP 600 Combi

Press Furnace and Ceramic Furnace

Valid as of

Software Version V4.0

2

3

Table of Contents

Page

Views of the Furnace, List of Parts 4

1 Introduction / Signs and Symbols 8

1.1 Preface

1.2 Signs and Symbols

1.3 Notes regarding the Operating Instructions

2 Safety First 9

2.1 Indications

2.2 Health and safety instructions

3 Product Description 14

3.1 Components

3.2 Hazardous areas and safety equipment

3.3 Functional description

3.4 Accessories

4 Installation and Initial Start-Up 15

4.1 Unpacking and checking the contents

4.2 Selecting the location

5 Operation and Standard Settings 19

5.1 Starting the furnace

5.2 Introduction to the operation 'Pressing'

5.3 Introduction to the operation 'Firing'

5.4 Introduction to the operation 'Miscellaneous'

5.5 Operating the menu / key functions

5.6 Help function

5.7 Protocol

6 Practical Use 26

6.1 Switching on/off

6.2 Standard programs

6.3 Firing programs

7 Maintenance, Cleaning, and Diagnosis 27

7.1 Monitoring and maintenance

7.2 Cleaning

7.3 'Access alarm table' menu

7.4 'Diagnostic programs' menu

7.5 Temperature calibration

7.6 Changing the press plunger

7.7 Changing the firing tray

8 What If… 30

8.1 Error messages and notifications (alarm)

8.2 Technical malfunctions

8.3 Repair

9 Product Specifications 33

9.1 Delivery form

9.2 Technical data

9.3 Acceptable operating conditions

9.4 Acceptable transportation and storage conditions

10 Miscellaneous 35

10.1 Press table

10.2 Firing table

10.3 Menu structure of the EP600 Combi

10.4 1-step firing program

10.5 2-step firing program

4

List of Parts

A = Furnace Base

1 Sagger tray BP1

2 Screws for sagger tray

3 Rubber foot

4 Air vents

5 On/Off switch

6 Power socket

7 Vacuum pump socket

8 External vacuum pump fuse

9 Heater fuse

10 Controls fuse

11 Rating plate

12 Vacuum hose connection

13 Vacuum hose

14 PC printer connection

(RS-232)

15 Opening for the

operating pin

16 Press drive socket

17 Heater plug socket

18 Thermocouple socket

19 Sealing surface

20 Fuse holder

21 Power cord

22 Plug for power cord

23 Plug-in for ground

connection

24 Recess for ATK1

25 Support for tray

B = Furnace Head with

Press Mechanism

50 Firing plate

51 Screws for furnace head

connections cover

52 Press drive cover

53 Furnace head cover

54 Furnace head connections

cover

55 Screws for press drive cover

56 Press plunger EP600 (red)

57 Terminal screw for press

plunger

58 Cover for press electronics

59 Press electronics

60 Split taper socket for press

plunger

61 Press drive cable

62 Thermocouple cable

63 Heater cable

64 Thermocouple plug

65 Press drive plug

66 Heater plug

67 Heater plug retention screw

68 Snap ring

69 Stone lining

70 Heating muffle

71 Sheathed thermocouple

72 Seal (O-ring)

73 Warnings

74 Recess for removal of firing

plate (50)

75 Pegs for plug-on console

76 Leaf spring

77 Plug-on console

78 Grounding band

79 Socket for Pager 1

80 Operating pin

81 Motion rod

C = Control Unit

100 LC Display

101 Contrast key

102 HELP key

103 Foil

104 Function key 1

105 Function key 2

106 Function key 3

107 Function key 4

108 ESC key

109 ENTER key

110 START key

111 STOP key

112 Open furnace head key

113 Close furnace head key

114 Numerical keys (0-9)

D = Automatic

Temperature
Checking Set (ATK 1)

121 Ceramic base block

122 Melting sample

123 Contact pins

E = Investment Ring

Cooling Grid
(complete)

140 Investment ring cooling grid

F = Firing Tray

150 Firing tray

G = Card Reader

160 Card reader

161 RS232 plug

162 Power pack

163 Status indicator

164 Card slot

165 Adapter

H = Program Memory

Cards

170 Program memory card

5

4

55

4

4

11

79

51

54

73

1

2

3

53

54

52

14

10

20

12

7

6

8

9

6

56

70

71

72

69

68

55

15

19

24

50

74

80

73

63

65

64

62

67

66

114

108

104

102

103

101

100

105

106

107

109

110

111

112

113

58

57

56

60

61

62

81

59

7

1

25

5

21713

79

11

54

75

18

16

17

23

73

22

121

122

140

123

76

77

78

D

E

164

163

161

160

170

150

162

165

G

F

H

8

1.1 Preface

Dear Customer,
Thank you for having purchased
the EP600 Combi Press and
Ceramic Furnace. This furnace
with the intelligent press drive
has been especially developed
for the Ivoclar Vivadent all­ceramic systems (IPS e.max

®

,
IPS Empress®). It is the latest of
our technical high-quality
products. Inappropriate use may
damage the equipment and be
harmful to personnel. Please
observe the relevant safety
instructions in Chapter 2.

The EP600 Combi is designed
according to EN61010-1 and
thus complies with the relevant
EU regulations.

1.2 Signs and symbols

The signs and symbols in these
Operating Instructions and on
the furnace facilitate the finding
of important points and have
the following meanings:

Risks and dangers

This symbol marks
safety instructions that

must be followed to
prevent injury or death.
Furthermore, damage to the
furnace and/or laboratory may
be avoided.

Important information

This symbol marks
additional information
for correct and
economic use of the
EP600 Combi.

Contraindication

Burn hazard

Risk of crushing

Furnace

Printer

Fuses

Vacuum

K-Module

(Communication

module)

Alternating current

(IEC 417)

Burn hazard

(IEC 417)

Risk of crushing

Outlet

(SELV, max. 24 VDC/A1)

PC printer connection

Display

FIRING Mode

PRESSING Mode

IPS e.max

IPS Empress Esthetic

IPS Empress
Layering Technique

IPS Empress 2
Layering Technique

IPS Empress Cosmo

IPS Empress
Staining Technique

Note

Technical malfunction

Operating error

Saving active; do not
switch off the furnace

Timer active,
programs cannot be
started

Energy-saving mode
active

Program memory card
active

Data transfer from/to
Program memory card
active

1.3 Notes regarding the
Operating Instructions

These Operating Instructions
facilitate the correct, safe, and
economic use of the EP600
Combi Press and Ceramic
Furnace. They are divided into
several, clearly structured
chapters. This should enable you
to locate specific topics quickly
and easily.

You must read these
Operating Instructions

To inform you about risks,
dangers, important information,
and contraindications, these
Instructions contain correspon­ding signs/symbols to mark
important paragraphs.

We recommend keeping the
Instructions in a safe place near
the furnace to have immediate
access to the information if
necessary.

Should you lose the Operating
Instructions, extra copies can be
ordered at a normal fee from
your local Ivoclar Vivadent
Service Center.

Furnace concerned:

EP600 Combi Press
and Ceramic Furnace

Target group:

Dental technicians
and technologists

1. Introduction / Signs and Symbols

V ~ 110-120
A max. 2.1

Ableitstrom / Leakage current

max. 0.75 mA

250VAC

T5A T12A T2A

RS 232

2. Safety First

This chapter is especially important for individuals
who work with the EP600 Combi or who have to
carry out maintenance or repair work. This chapter
must be read and the corresponding instructions
followed!

2.1 Indications

The EP600 Combi has been designed for pressing
IPS e.max and IPS Empress ingots and for firing
dental ceramic materials and should be used for
these purposes only. Uses other than the ones
stipulated, e.g. cooking of food, firing of other
materials, etc., are contraindicated. The manufac­turer does not assume any liability for damage
resulting from misuse. The user is solely responsi­ble for any risk resulting from failure to observe
these instructions.

Further instructions to assure

proper use of the furnace:

– The instructions, regulations,

and notes in these Operating
Instructions must be observed.

– The instructions, regulations,

and notes in the vacuum
pump Operating Instructions
must be observed.

– The furnace must be operated

under the indicated environ­mental and operating
conditions (see Chapter 9)

– The EP600 Combi must be

properly maintained.

2.1.1

Risks and dangers

Make sure that no liquids or
other foreign objects enter the
furnace or the air vents, since
this may result in an electrical
shock.

2.1.2

Burn hazard

The furnace head should not be
removed from the furnace and
placed on a working surface or
packaging material while it is
still hot, as there is a burn
hazard.

2.1.3

Risks and dangers

Never touch the electronic
components, since a static
discharge may damage them.

9

10

2.1.4

Risk of crushing / burn hazard

Never reach under the furnace
head during operation. There is
a risk of crushing and a burn
hazard.

2.1.6

Contraindication

2.1.7

Contraindication

Investment rings or firing trays
must not be placed in the area
surrounding the firing table,
since they may get stuck under
the furnace head. Use the
sagger tray for firing trays or the
cooling grid for fired investment
rings.

2.1.8

Contraindication

Do not place any objects on the
furnace head. The opening
process of the furnace head
must not be obstructed.

Fired investment rings must not
be placed on the sagger tray to
cool. Please use the cooling grid
especially designed for that
purpose.

2.1.5

Risk of crushing

Never touch the press drive
during operation. There is a risk
of crushing.

11

2.1.9

Contraindication

Press cycles must not be
conducted without the firing
plate (50) in place.

2.1.10

Contraindication

The firing plate (50) must be
correctly positioned in the firing
chamber.

2.1.11

Contraindication

The furnace head is equipped
with an electronic drive and
must be operated with the
corresponding keys. Never open
or close the furnace head
manually.

2.1.12

Contraindication

The air vents must be kept free
from obstruction and clean at all
times. If this is not done, there is
a risk of overheating the
furnace.

2.1.13

Contraindication

Do not bend the thermocouple
(71). Do not touch the thermo­couple with your fingers in order
to prevent contamination
(grease).

12

2.1.15

Contraindication

The furnace head must not be
carried by holding the cables, as
there is a risk of damaging the
cables and the corresponding
connections.

2.1.14

Contraindication

If the firing tray (150) is in
place, press cycles must not
be conducted.

2.1.16

Contraindication

Burn hazard

Never place objects into the
firing chamber with your bare
hands. Always use the
corresponding tongs of
Ivoclar Vivadent supplied for
that purpose.

Do not touch the surfaces of the
furnace head while it is hot.
There is a burn hazard.

13

2.2 Health and safety
instructions

This furnace has been designed
according to EN 61010-1 and
has been shipped from the
manufacturer in safe operating
condition. To maintain this
condition and to ensure risk-free
operation, the user must observe
the notes and warnings in these
Operating Instructions.

– Place furnace on a fire-proof

table, observe local regulation
(e.g. distance to combustible
objects, etc.).

– Always keep the air vents at

the rear of the furnace free
from obstruction.

– Do not touch any parts that

become hot during operation
of the furnace.

There is a burn hazard.

– Clean furnace only with a dry

or slightly damp cloth. Do
not use any solvents.
Disconnect power before
cleaning.

– Use original packaging for

transportation purposes.

– It is important that the user

become familiar with the
warnings and operating
conditions to prevent injury
to personnel or damage to
materials. The manufacturer
is not responsible for damage
resulting from misuse or fai­lure to observe the Operating
Instructions. Warranty claims
cannot be accepted in such
cases.

– Before switching on the

furnace, make sure that the
voltage indicated on the
rating plate complies with
the local power supply.

– The mains socket must be

equipped with a residual
current operated device (FI)

– The power plug may only be

inserted into sockets with
protected contacts.

– Before calibration, main-

tenance, repair, or change of
parts, the power must be
disconnected if the furnace
has to be opened.

– If calibration, maintenance,

or repair has to be carried
out with the power connected
and furnace open, only
qualified personnel, who are
familiar with the risks and
dangers, may perform the
procedures.

– After maintenance, the

required safety tests (high
voltage resistance, protective
conductor, etc.) must be
carried out.

– Ensure that only fuses of the

indicated type and current
rating are used.

– If it is assumed that safe

operation is no longer
possible, the power must be
disconnected to avoid
accidental operation.
Safe operation is no longer
possible if:
– the furnace is visibly

damaged
– the furnace does not work
– the furnace has been

stored under unfavourable

conditions over an

extended period of time

– Use only original spare parts.

– The temperature range for

faultless operation is +5 °C
to + 40 °C (41 °F to 104 °F).

– If the furnace has been stored

at very low temperature or
high atmospheric humidity,
the unit must be dried or left
to adjust to the room
temperature for approx.
1 hour prior to connecting
power.

– The furnace is tested for use

at altitudes of up to 4000 m
(13,123 ft) above sea level.

– The furnace may only be

used indoors.

Risks and dangers

Do not work with
liquids near the

furnace. Should a
liquid accidentally enter the
furnace, disconnect power and
consult the Customer Service.
Do not operate the furnace.

Risks and dangers

Any disruption of the

protective conductor

either inside or outside
the furnace or any loosening of
the protective conductor may
lead to danger for the user in
case of a malfunction. Deliberate
interruptions are not tolerated.
Material developing harmful
gases must not be fired.

14

3. Product Description

3.1 Components

The EP600 Combi Press and
Ceramic Furnace comprises the
following components:

– Furnace base with electronic

controls

– Furnace head with press

drive
– Sagger tray
– Vacuum hose
– Vacuum pump with hose

and power cord (accessories)

The electronic controls and the
mechanical components for the
opening mechanism are located
in the furnace base. The heater
is located in the muffle in the
furnace head, where it is
embedded in the stone lining
segments. Operation and control
of the furnace is done with
state-of-the-art electronic
components.

Hazardous area Type of risk

Press and firing chamber Risk of burning

Opening/closing mechanism Risk of crushing

Electronic components Risk of electrical shock

Safety equipment Protective effect

Protective conductor Protection from electrical shock

Fuses Protection from electrical shock and damage to

the furnace

Interlock switch Protection from electrical shock

3.3 Functional description

The press/firing chamber may be heated up to
max. 1200 °C (2192 °F) by means of a heater.
Furthermore, the chamber is designed so that a
vacuum can be created with a vacuum pump.
The press drive produces the pressure required
for the press procedure. The press process is
controlled by means of the electronic components
and the corresponding software.

3.4 Accessories

– Refill Package ATK 1 "Melting Samples"
– Refill Package ATK 1 "Ceramic Base Blocks,

Contact Pins"

– Vacuum pump

3.2 Hazardous areas and
safety equipment

Description of the hazardous areas of the furnace:

Description of the safety equipment of the
furnace:

Please also refer to Chapter 2.

15

4.1 Unpacking and
checking the contents

The new packaging provides the
following advantages:

– Reusable packaging
– Closing mechanism with inte-

grated transportation grips

– Ideal protection by Styrofoam

inserts

– Easy handling / optimum

unpacking

– The packaging may be used

in several ways (modules)

Check the delivery for complete­ness (see delivery form in
Chapter 9) and transportation
damage. If parts are damaged
or missing, contact your local
Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.

Remove the furnace components
from their packaging and place
the unit on a suitable table.
Please observe the instructions
on the outer packaging.

There are no special transpor­tation grips on the furnace.
Support the bottom of the
furnace to carry it.

Packing and shipping of
individual components

The packaging of the
EP600 Combi permits simple
and safe shipping of individual
components. Simply use the two
corresponding inserts. Fold the
side flaps (2) and combine the
two packaging parts by means
of the transportation flaps.

The packaging may be discarded
with the regular household
refuse.

Important information

We recommend
keeping the original

packaging for future
transportation purposes. The
unit has been subjected to
extensive checks by the manu­facturer. It may therefore exhibit
slight signs of testing (hairline
cracks, slight discoloration).

4.2 Selecting the location

Place the furnace on a flat table
using the rubber feet. Make sure
that the furnace is not placed in
the immediate vicinity of heaters
or other sources of heat.
Furthermore, protect the furnace
from direct sunlight. Make sure
that air may properly circulate
between the wall and the
furnace.

Also ensure that there is enough
space between the furnace and
the user, as the furnace releases
heat during the opening of the
furnace head.

The furnace should neither be
placed nor operated in areas
where there is an explosion
hazard.

4.3 Assembly and initial
start-up

Make sure the voltage indicated
on the rating plate complies
with the local power supply. If
this is not the case, the furnace
must not be connected.

4. Installation and Initial Start-Up

16

The furnace components are
assembled as follows:

Step 1:

Assembling the tray and the
firing plate

– Mount the supports for the

sagger tray (25)

– The sagger tray (1) is slipped

onto the screws (2). If
desired, the screws may be
tightened using a screwdriver.

– Remove the firing plate (50)

from the protective paper
and place it in the stone
lining.

– Clean the sealing surface

(19).

Step 2:

Assembling the furnace head

The furnace head is best
assembled with the rear of the
furnace base placed as shown in
the corresponding figure. Lift
the furnace head with both
hands and slip the plug-on
console (77) onto the
corresponding pegs (75) in the
furnace base until the leaf spring
(76) audibly snaps into place.

Please make sure that
no cable is caught
between the furnace
head and the furnace
base and that the red
marks are lined up.

Step 3:

Mounting the connections

– Connect the cables of the

furnace head with the
furnace base.

– Insert the heater plug (66)

into the heater socket (17)
and secure it with the
retention screw (67) with a
right-hand turn.

– Insert the thermocouple plug

(64) into the thermocouple
socket (18).

– Make sure the polarity of the

plug is correct (+ signs
together).

– Insert the press drive plug

(65) into the press drive
sockets (16) until it audibly
snaps into place.

– Mount the grounding band

(78) of the furnace head
onto the sip-on tongue of
the furnace base (23).

2

77

75

76

66

64

18

65

16

23

78

67

17

1

25

1

17

Step 6:

Setting-up the cooling grid for
investment rings

The cooling grid for investment
rings is supplied fully assembled.
Please position the grid in a
suitable place.

Please remember that
the investment rings
are very hot and that
the grid should not be

placed on combustible
surfaces or in the
vicinity of combustible
objects and materials.

Step 4:

Mounting the furnace head
connections cover

Once the connections between
the furnace head and the
furnace base are established,
assemble the furnace head
connections cover (54) and
secure it with the corresponding
screws (51).

Step 5:

Establishing additional
connections

Make sure the voltage indicated
on the rating plate of the
apparatus complies with the
local power supply. If everything
is in order, plug the power cord
(21) into the power socket (6).

Vacuum pump

Insert the plug of the vacuum
pump into the socket for the
vacuum pump (7) and slide the
vacuum hose onto the vacuum
hose connection (12).

We recommend using

the Ivoclar Vivadent

VP3 Vacuum Pump

with this furnace.

If another pump is used, the
maximum power consumption
and the maximum final vacuum
of the corresponding pump have
to be observed.

54

12

14

6

21

7

12

79

18

Step 7:

Connecting the card reader

Connect the adapter (165) with
the RS232 PC/Printer interface
(14) and insert the plug (161) or
the card reader (Type 'ECO 5000
KB1' from ORGA) into the
adapter.

Important information

Please make sure that
the voltage indicated
on the rating plate

complies with the local power
supply. You may only use the
apparatus if the voltage is
compatible.

If the apparatus has been
correctly connected and is ready
for operation, the status
indicator (163) lights up.

Program parameters may be
stored on and read from a
memory card using the card
reader.

Firing programs stored on the
memory card are used in the

same way as the ones stored in
the furnace. They may be
accessed, edited, and run.
Insert the program memory card
into the card reader with the
microchip facing downwards.
The storage system is now ready
for operation.

Chapter 5 (Program Manager)
describes how to copy programs
to and from the program
memory card.

In order to activate the
card reader, "Eco
5000" has to be set as

output device in the
menu "Miscellaneous –
Configuration – Interface".
See also Chapter 5.4.4

The RS232 interface (14) may
also be used to connect a printer
or a PC in order to save or print
firing protocols.

procedures. As a result, the
firing chamber may exhibit slight
signs of testing. These signs
show that the unit has been
tested. These checks are
important for quality assurance.

Disassembling the furnace head

Note: Before the furnace head
connections cover is removed,
the furnace should be switched
off and the power cord (21)
unplugged.

Removing the furnace head
connections cover

– Remove screws (51) of the

furnace head connections
cover.

– Remove the furnace head

connections cover (54)

Removing the secured furnace
head

– Before the furnace head is

removed, the heater plug,
thermocouple plug, press
drive plug, and grounding
band should be disconnected
from the furnace base.

– Release leaf spring (76) and

lift off furnace head using
both hands.

Initial start-up

Connect the power cord (21)
with the power supply. Put the
On/Off switch (5) at the rear of
the furnace on position "I".
The language selection menu
appears on the display. Select
the language by means of the
F4 key and confirm by pressing
ENTER. Complete the selection
procedure using the function
key F1. After selecting the
language, the display shows the
EP600 logo. After that, the unit
conducts a self-test to check the
basic functions. The course of
the self-test is indicated by
means of a status bar. Once the
self-test has been completed
successfully, the preheating
phase will start. This phase
prepares the unit for optimum
temperature control. The
self-test and preheating phase
together usually take 30 min.

To reduce the moisture
in the press chamber
(stone lining) the

vacuum pump is
switched on during the pre­heating phase, thus removing
the moist air.

As of Software Version V3.0 the
vacuum pump is kept on during
the complete pre-heating phase.

Once the preheating phase has
been completed, the unit is
ready for operation.
The 'furnace selection' menu is
displayed to select whether the
furnace is used as a ceramic or
press furnace. After that, the
main menu appears on the
display.

Important information

During the test of the
press drive, noise from

the press drive is
audible (approx. 2 seconds).
During the self-test, this sound is
normal. If this is not the case, a
technicalmalfunctionhas occurred.
Please refer to Chapter 8.

The power plug may
only be inserted into a
grounded socket. The

power cord must not
come into contact with the hot
furnace head and should be
protected accordingly.

The EP600 Combi is
equipped with a
special electronic

device that can bridge
a power outage of approx.
10 seconds.

The EP600 Combi

Press and Ceramic

Furnace undergoes

extensive checks prior
to delivery. In the process, the
unit is subjected to special test

164

163

160

14

165

161

19

5.1 Starting the furnace

5.1.1 Start-up

After the furnace has been switched on, the
unit undergoes a self-test, and if necessary, a
preheating cycle. The furnace selection
menu is shown on the display.

To reduce the moisture in the press
chamber (stone lining) the vacuum
pump is switched on during the
pre-heating phase, thus removing
the moist air.

As of Software Version V3.0 the vacuum
pump is kept on during the complete pre­heating phase.

5.1.2 Main menu

In this menu, you may select whether the
EP600 Combi is used as a press furnace or a
ceramic furnace. The 'Combi Furnace'
software is required for the latter option.
Additionally, the menu item "Miscellaneous"
can be accessed from here. This menu
automatically appears, once the preheating
cycle has been completed.

5.2 Introduction to the
operation "Pressing"

The EP600 Combi is designed for use with
the Ivoclar Vivadent all-ceramic systems
IPS e.max and IPS Empress. Therefore, the
corresponding parameters of the various
programs have already been set in the
factory. All you have to do is select the
desired program for the corresponding
material using the function keys F1 (104), F2
(105), F3 (106), or F4 (107). Next select
whether you are using a large or small
investment ring. After that, the display
indicates the corresponding program cycle
diagram. The program is started by pressing
START. The firing of the press cycle selected
is graphically displayed. The most important
parameters are visible on the display (74) at
all times.

5.2.1 Main menu "Pressing"

This menu appears after selection of the
menu item "Press furnace" in the main
menu.

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3

Page 4

Now the press program is selected using the
function keys. This menu always displays
three programs, which may be selected by
means of the function keys F1, F2, and F3.
The menu comprises several pages. F4 is
used to move forward.
On the last page, there is an option called
"Main menu".

5.2.2 Menu "Investment ring selection"

This menu is used to indicate which
investment ring (large, small) will be used.

5.2.3 Menu "Program"

In this menu, a graphical representation of
the currently selected program is displayed.
The temperature curve indicates the set
temperature values. The progress of the
running program is shown by a bold line.
The remaining time until the start of the
actual press process is also indicated. As
soon as the press process has commenced,
the time passed since the beginning of the
press process is indicated.

Furthermore, the display indicates the
distance travelled by the press plunger in the
selected unit of measure since the beginning
of the press process, as well as the quality of
the vacuum in percent. If no program is in
progress, F2 and F3 can be used to change
between the various programs.

With F4, the parameters of the currently
selected program can be viewed (see menu
"Program parameters").

5.2.4 Menu "Program parameters"

In this menu, the set parameters of the
selected program are displayed or edited
(for freely programmable programs).

Pressing F1 returns you to the menu
"Program".

5. Operation and Standard Settings

Please use only the original
standard programs, which are
especially coordinated with the
corresponding materials for the
Ivoclar Vivadent all-ceramic
systems (IPS e.max, IPS Empress
System).

20

Freely programmable press programs

Furthermore, the EP600 Combi is equipped
with 4 freely programmable press programs
(P8–P11). For these programs, values within
the following ranges can be entered:

Important information

For the layering technique, we
recommend a stop speed of
300 mm/min, for the staining
technique 150 mm/min.

– Higher values (stop speed of e.g.

300 mm/min) results in the press cycle
being stopped sooner.

– Lower values (stop speed of e.g.

100 mm/min) results in the press cycle
being stopped later. Consequently, the
press cycle is prolonged.

Once the program is started by pressing
START, the new program is displayed in the
usual manner.

5.3 Introduction to the
operation "Firing"

5.3.1 Main menu "Firing"

The main menu "Firing" always displays
menu items, which may be selected by
means of the function keys F1, F2, and F3.
The menu comprises several pages. F4 is
used to move forward.

Menu without program memory card in
place:

Page 1

Menu with program memory card in place:

Page 1

Page 2

Parameter

B Stand-by temperature

t Temperature increase

T Holding temperature

H Holding time

E Stop speed

MIN

50

1

50

0

0

MAX

900

140

1200

109

1000

Unit of measure

°C

°C/min.

°C

min.

µm/min

21

Internal programs

With this menu item, you may access
50 individual firing programs that are
stored in the furnace.

Program memory card

This option also provides 50 individual
programs. However, the programs are stored
on the program memory card by means of
the card reader. This option may only be
selected if a program memory card is present
in the card reader.

Program Manager

This menu item offers you various copying
options. For example, programs from the
furnace may be saved on the program
memory card.

Main menu

This menu item allows you to return to the
main menu.

5.3.2 Firing program groups

The program groups are used to organize
the 50 firing programs in five groups each
consisting of 10 programs. You may name
the groups, e.g. according to the materials
used (e.g. d.SIGN), according to the name of
the technician (e.g. John Miller), or accor­ding to your own requirements. These
program groups can be found in the internal
memory or the program memory cards.

Use F1 to return to the next higher level.

Use F2 to select a program group. After
that, F3 is pressed to reach the menu "Text
input". The names of the groups can be
freely defined. Twenty characters are
available for that purpose (see "Text input").

Use F4 to open the program list of the
current group.

Text input

The characters are selected using F2 and F3.
Use F4 to transfer the selected, highlighted
character to the text field. A character can
be deleted from the text field with F1.
Additionally, the numerical keys 2, 4, 6, and
8 may be used to navigate the characters.

In order to leave the text input screen and to
confirm the defined text, press ENTER. If you
want to leave the text input screen without
acknowledging the text, press ESC.

List of firing programs

The list of firing programs shows all the
firing programs (10 programs) of a program
group. The program group may be stored in
the internal memory of the furnace or on a
program memory card.

Use F2 to select the desired program. Once a
program has been selected, F3 is used to
access the text input screen. The names of
the groups can be freely defined. Twenty
characters are available for that purpose.
Enter the desired text as described above.
The date (e.g. 01.01.99) of the latest change
or saving will be automatically allocated to
the program. Use F1 to return to the menu
"Firing program groups". Use F4 to access
the firing curve display.

Once the firing curve display is visible, press
START (110) to start the selected program.

Important information

If no vacuum is set, i.e. no values for V(A) or
V(B), the vacuum bar is replaced by the text
"No vacuum".

Use F1 to change to the list of firing
programs.

Press F2 to return to the previous firing
program or F3 to change to the next firing
program.

Use F4 to return to page 1 of the program
parameters menu.

Once the firing curve display is visible, press
START (110) to start the selected program.

Program parameters, Page 1

The furnace is supplied by the factory with
50 free programs (empty parameters). The
parameters of the firing program may be set
on 2 menu pages.

The parameters for standard firing programs
are listed on page 1, while page 2 contains
the additional parameters necessary for
special programs.

The header displays the name of the
program group (e.g. d.SIGN), program
number (1), program name (glaze firing),
and the current temperature (403 °C).

Use F2 and F3 to change from one
parameter to the next or the previous one.

F1 is used to change to the firing curve
display. Once the firing curve display is
visible, the selected program is started by
pressing START.

The values are displayed in the form of a
table and may be individually set by the user.
The values entered have to be confirmed
with ENTER.

22

Important note

Vacuum:
If the value 0 is entered for V1 and V2,
no vacuum will be created.

Long-term cooling

Values between 50 and 1200 °C (122 and
2192 °F) may be entered. If 0 is entered, no
long-term cooling will be conducted.

Special programs

If "No" has been selected in the "Special
program" option, Page 2 of the program
parameters cannot be accessed.
If "Yes" is selected (press F4, "yes" appears,
confirm with ENTER), Page 2 is opened to
set the special values.

Program parameters, Page 2

Use F2 and F3 to change from one
parameter to the next or the previous one.

F1 is used to change to the firing curve
display. Once the firing curve display is
visible, the selected program is started by
pressing START.

Additional information regarding the special
programs

HV: Share of holding time with vacuum

With the parameter HV, the user selects if
and when the vacuum is switched off during
the holding time H.
– If V2 < T, the vacuum is switched off

before the holding temperature is
reached. In such cases, the parameter
HV is irrelevant.

– If V2 >= T, the parameter HV is taken

into consideration.

– If HV = 0, the vacuum is not switched

off during the holding time.

– If HV > 0, the vacuum is switched off

after period HV has passed since the
beginning of the holding time, but at the
end of the holding time H at the latest.

Use of HV for the first or second holding time

– For one-step programs, HV is used for

the first holding time H(A).

– For two-step programs, HV is used for

the second holding time H(B). For the
first holding time, the following rule
applies: If V2(A) ≥ T(A), the vacuum is on
during the entire first holding time.

SO: Quick opening

If this option is switched off, the furnace
head opens within one minute after the end
of the program. If this option is switched on,
the furnace head opens within 15 seconds
after the end of the program.

NP: Overnight program

This option corresponds to the one offered
by the Programat P100 and Programat X1
furnaces. If this option is switched off, the
furnace head opens after the end of a firing
program. If this option is switched on, the
procedure is as follows:
– The firing program is completed, the

heater is switched off.

– The furnace head opens without the

buzzer sounding.

– Once the furnace temperature drops

below 150 °C (302 °F), the furnace head
closes. The heater remains off.

Program course

Programs in progress can be stopped by
pressing STOP. An interruption of the
programs is not possible.

Empty programs

Upon delivery, all the internal firing program
spaces are filled with 'empty' programs. An
empty firing program does not have a name.
Empty programs are treated like any other
program. They can be selected, run, or
edited:

Holding temperature 700 °C

Temperature increase 30 °C/min.

Closing time 18 seconds

Stand-by temperature 403 °C

Holding time 1 minute

Vacuum on / Vacuum off both 0

(i.e. no vacuum)

Long-term cooling none

Special program no

5.3.3 Main menu "Program manager"

This program permits copying of the firing
programs to various storage media (EP600
program memory, or program memory card).

Example:

– Copy "Program" from "Internal

programs" No. 23 to "Program" on
"Memory card" No. 24

Duplicating programs: If the source and
target media are identical, the program on
this medium is duplicated.

Since copying always results in an existing
program being overwritten (possibly an
empty program), the following inquiry will
be shown:

This inquiry should prevent the programs
from being overwritten accidentally.

Important information:

Only firing programs can be copied.
Press programs cannot be copied.

23

5.4 Introduction to the menu
"Miscellaneous"

This menu is called up via the main menu.
It permits the selection of a number of
lower-level programs with which the furnace
can be configured, calibrated, tested, etc.

5.4.1 Menu "Furnace information"

(Example)

Serial number of the furnace: 00001234

Article number of the furnace: 00006789

Number of press cycles: 789

Number of operating hours: 1245 h

Number of firing hours: 789 h

Operating hours of the vacuum pump: 367 h

Software date: 14.06.00

Version of the operating software: V01.00

Version of the supply board software: V01.00

Version of the press drive software: V01.00

5.4.2 Menu "Calibration"

This menu provides an auto-calibration
program. The temperature measuring circuit
can only be calibrated with this program.

The data of the latest ten calibrations are
stored in a table according to the date and
time (see menu "Protocols").

5.4.3 Menu "Diagnostic programs"

In this menu, the user is provided with
various diagnostic programs (see Chapter

7.4 "Diagnostic programs").

5.4.4 Menu "Interface"

With the help of this menu, the RS232
interface can be configured.

– Baud rate

Defines the transmission rate.

– Parity

Defines the number of bits transmitted
per character.

– Stop bits

Defines for which number of bits the line
has to be idle before the next character is
transmitted.

– Output device

Selection of the type of device connected
with the EP600 Combi.

– Code page

Character set

Parameters for the card reader

Baud rate = 9600
Data bits = 8
Parity = even
Stop bits = 1
Output device = ECO5000
Code page = CP 437

5.4.5 Menu "Configuration"

In this menu, the following functions of the
furnace can be configured:

Page 1

– Furnace type

This option is used to select the desired
furnace type: EP600 or EP600 Combi.
To change the furnace type, a code is
required, which has to be entered after
the selection of the new furnace type.

– Language

German, English, French, Italian, Spanish.
Further languages possible at a later
date.

– Default settings

If this option is selected and confirmed
with ENTER, all the subsequent menu
items are set to the default settings.

– Date format

With this menu item, the date format
may be changed from the European to
the American format and vice versa.

– Date

With this menu item, the exact date can
be set.

– Day

With this menu item, the day can be set.

– Time

With this menu item, the exact time can
be set.

– Temperature mode

With this option, the temperature may
be changed from °C to °F and vice versa.

– Vacuum unit of measure

With this option, the unit of measure for
the vacuum (mbar, hPa) can be selected
and/or changed.

– Measure of length

With this menu item, the measure of
length (mm, inch) can be selected and/or
changed.

Page 2

– Vacuum quality 100 %

This option indicates the absolute value
(in mbar) for 100 % vacuum quality.

– Return to "Main menu"

With this option, it may be determined
whether the software returns to the "Main
menu" once a program is completed or
if the current menu is maintained.

– Energy saving mode

If the energy saving mode is active, the
heat is reduced after a time period defined
by the user. In this way, the life cycle of
the heating muffle is prolonged and energy
is saved. By pressing the indicated function
key, the mode may be deactivated.

– Time of energy saving mode

Period of time after which the energy
saving mode is activated if no program is
in progress and no key has been touched.

– Acoustic signal

On/Off

– Pitch of the signal

Tune 1–9

– Volume of the signal

Three stages: low, medium, loud

– Signal at the beginning of the press

process

Yes/No

– User mode

This menu option is reserved for Service
Centers.

– Press drive calibration value

Page 3

– Protocols active

No / Yes / Direct

No –> Press/Firing programs are not
protocolled.

Yes –> Press/Firing programs are
protocolled (Press/Firing program
protocol table). The protocols have to
be transmitted manually from the
corresponding protocol table)!

24

Direct –>Press/Firing programs are
protocolled (Press/ Firing program
protocol table) and are shown or printed
immediately on the serial interface
RS232. Please note that therefore, a
corresponding output device (printer or
PC) has to be selected in the menu
'Interface'.

– Pager 1

Yes/No

– Laboratory name

Name which will appear in the header
or footer of the various protocols.

5.4.6 Menu "Maintenance"

This menu provides the commands necessary
during the maintenance of the furnace.
– Lower press plunger manually
– Lift press plunger manually

5.4.7 Menu "Enter new program"

The "Main menu pressing" also provides
three individual programs (Program No. 5–7)
in addition to the standard programs. If
these programs are not shown in the menu,
they are still concealed. They can be inserted
using the following function:
To insert one of the programs (program No.
5–7), select this menu item (F4), type in the
correct code, and confirm with ENTER.

Code Program No.

14000 5
15000 6
16000 7

If the code was typed in correctly, the "Main
menu pressing" displays the new program.

By therein entering the code, a
concealed program will be released
and an already released program
will be concealed.

5.4.8 Menu "Request alarm table"

See Chapter 7.3.

5.4.9 Menu "Protocols"

After selecting this menu the table with the
calibration data is shown.

Key F4 can be used to switch to the press
program protocol table (keys to be pressed:
F4, ENTER).

In this table the protocols of the last
15 press programs are stored. These
protocols can be transmitted manually from
here to the PC or printer (this depends on
the settings in the menu ‘Interface').

Key F4 can be used to switch to the firing
program protocol table (keys to be pressed:
F4, ENTER).

In this table the protocols of the last
15 firing programs are stored. These
protocols can be transmitted manually from
here to the PC or printer (this depends on
the settings in the menu ‘Interface').

5.4.10 Menu "Timer"

In this menu, the timer may be programmed.
With this feature, the furnace may be
heated up to stand-by temperature or
switched off at any given time.

In the interval between the switch-on and
the switch-off times, the unit is kept at
stand-by temperature.

To change the setting, select the
corresponding switch-on/switch/off time
with the cursor (F2/F3) and use the numeric
keypad for selecting the desired time.
The timer can also be switched on or off
with the key ‘timer active-yes/no’.

The times are typically typed in via the
numeric keypad. F3 is used to change the
selected menu item. ESC is used to undo
changes. ENTER is used to save the changes.
The mains switch must not be switched off
during this procedure.

When the timer is active, i.e. when
the heater is switched off, the
symbol is shown on the display. If

a program has not been completely
finished at the time when the furnace is
scheduled to turn off, the program will
nonetheless be completed before the heater
is deactivated. While the timer is active,
programs can only be started once the time
settings have been adjusted accordingly.

5.4.11 Menu "Status memory card"

In this menu, all the information regarding
the status of the card reader and the
memory card in the card reader can be
accessed.

25

5.5 Operating the menu /
key functions

5.5.1 Navigation

1

2

3

1 Information line

This line always shows the most current
temperature and operating mode.
Additionally, useful program information is
displayed.

2 Firing curve and dialog field

In this field, the dialogues and the various
information are displayed. The different
parameters may be changed here.

3 Function line

Change of level

1 level higher

Selector up
Selection within the same level

Selector down
Selection within the same level

Change of level
1 level lower

Selection key
Selection from various possibilities
The selection must always be confirmed
with ENTER.

The four function keys below the display are
used to navigate through the various menus.
The functions of the keys are represented by
symbols. These symbols are shown for those
keys, which have a certain function at the
current stage in the program. For example,
the symbol for the 'page down' key is only
shown if the contents of the current screen
take up more than one page.

5.5.2 Numeric keypad

The numeric keypad is used to enter
numbers. This keypad also contains the ESC
and ENTER keys.

5.5.3 Text input

The input of text is enabled by a virtual
keyboard shown on the display. F2 and F3
are used to select the characters. F4
transfers the selected, highlighted character
to the text field. F1 can be used to delete a
character from the text field. ENTER is used
to leave the text field and confirm the text.
If the user wants to quit this menu without
confirming the text, ESC is used.

5.5.4 Numbering of the various menus

To facilitate support, each menu is given a
number, which will become visible as soon
as the help function of the menu in question
is called up.

5.5.5 Display contrast

The display contrast can be regulated by
means of key 101.

If the unit has been in operation
for an extended period of time,
the display contrast properties may
change due to an increase in
temperature.

5.6 Help function

Pressing HELP will display a help text for the
current menu.

If the help text consists of several pages, the
'Up' (F2) and 'Down' (F3) symbols are
shown. They indicate that these keys may be
used to navigate between the individual
pages. F1 is used to return to the last active
menu.

5.7 Protocolling /
Output of protocols

From the press/firing program protocol
charts the protocols saved there can be
output. For that reason use key F2 to set the
cursor on position 'Print'. Subsequently,
enter the position number of the protocol to
be printed with the numbers’ block and
confirm with the ENTER key. Using key F4
the selected protocol can be sent via the
serial interface RS232 to the printer or PC
(Prograsoft).

Example press program protocol table:

Example firing program protocol table:

ESC:
Discarding values

ENTER: Used to confirm
entered numbers, for
example, or the change
of the temperature mode
from °C to °F.

26

6.1 Switching on/off

Put the I/O switch at the rear of the furnace
on position "I". The furnace is now switched
on and the EP600 logo appears on the
display. Subsequently, the unit conducts a
self-test to check the basic functions. The
course of the self-test is shown by means of
a status bar. If the self-test does not reveal
any errors or malfunctions, the preheating
phase is started. The preheating phase
prepares the furnace for optimum
temperature control. The self-test and
preheating phase together take 30 minutes.
After the preheating cycle has been
completed, the unit is ready for operation.
The main menu appears.

Important information

If the temperature in the firing
chamber is above 300 °C (572 °F)
at the time when the furnace is
switched on, only a self-test is
conducted. The preheating phase
is not started.

Important information

When changing from the press
furnace mode to the ceramic

furnace mode (or vice versa),
please keep in mind that the corresponding
stand-by temperature must be present. If the
stand-by temperature does not correspond
with the standard value (ceramic furnace:
403 °C (757 °F); press furnace 700 °C
(1292 °F) the display will show a
corresponding error message.

6.2 Standard press programs

1 Select the desired program and type of

investment ring.

2 Open furnace head with the

corresponding key (112).

3 Place preheated investment ring, ingot,

and Alox plunger in the furnace.

4 Press START; the LED of the start key

lights up (the process is automatically
started).

5 Once the press cycle has been completed,

the furnace head opens automatically
and the buzzer sounds. Immediately
remove the investment ring from the
furnace. Place it on the cooling grid to
cool. The program returns to the initial
position only after pressing STOP. Until
that point, the press time and press cycle
is shown. Close the furnace by pressing
'Close furnace head'.

Important information

Please use the separate cooling
grid and not the sagger tray of the
furnace.

Important information for the
IPS e.max and IPS Empress Systems

Various examinations have shown

that the time taken to remove the
investment ring from the preheating furnace
and to place it in the press furnace
significantly influences the press results.

This process should not take more than
1 minute. If it takes longer, the investment
ring will cool down too much and miscasts
may result.

In addition, make sure to open the furnace
head only immediately before placing the
investment rings in the furnace to prevent
the firing chamber (heater, stone lining, and
in particular the firing plate) from cooling
down too much.

6.3 Firing programs

The firing programs are selected in the main
menu "Firing".

Without program memory card

Page 1

With program memory card

Page 1

Page 2

1 Select the desired program.

2 Adjust the program parameters, if

necessary

3 Open furnace head and place the objects

in the furnace.

4 Press START; the LED of the start key

lights up. The program has now started.

5 After the completion of the program, the

furnace head opens automatically and
the buzzer sounds as soon as the fired
object may be removed.

Important information

For further information about the
firing programs (one-step, two-step
programs), please refer to Chapter

10.4 and 10.5 on page 37–38.

6. Practical Use

27

What Part When

Check all plug-in connections for correct fit Various external connections weekly

Check if the furnace head opens smoothly and without Furnace head opening mechanism monthly
excessive noise

Check if the thermocouple is straight and in the right place Thermocouple weekly

Check the stone lining inserts for large cracks or damage. Stone lining inserts weekly
If the stone linings are worn down, they must be replaced
by a certified Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center. Slight
hairline cracks on the stone lining surface do not have a
negative influence.

Check if the sealing rims of the furnace head and furnace Sealing rims of the furnace head weekly
base are clean and undamaged and furnace base

Check the keypad for visible damage. If the keypad is Keypad weekly
damaged, it must be replaced by a certified
Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.

Check furnace temperature (calibration). Press chamber Every 3–4 months, or after

approx. 50 press cycles.

7.2 Cleaning

The furnace may only be cleaned when
it is cool, since there is a burn hazard.
Do not use any cleaning solutions.

Parts Frequency Cleaning material

Housing if required soft, dry cloth

Keypad weekly, or if required soft, dry cloth

Tray if required cleaning brush or vacuum cleaner

Stone lining inserts daily cleaning brush

Sealing rims of the furnace head and daily cleaning brush and a soft cloth
furnace base

7. Maintenance, Cleaning, Diagnosis

This chapter describes the
maintenance and cleaning
procedures that may be
performed by the users. All
other tasks must be performed
by qualified service personnel at
a certified Ivoclar Vivadent
Service Center.

7.1 Monitoring and
maintenance

The time for these maintenance
procedures depends on the
frequency of use and the
working habits of the users. For
that reason, the recommended
times are only approximates.

Turn off the furnace
and disconnect power
before maintenance
and cleaning, since
there is a risk of
electrical shock.

This apparatus has
been developed for
typical use in the
dental laboratory.

If the product is used in a pro­duction facility, for industrial
applications, or in continuous
firing operation, premature
ageing of certain spare parts
have to be expected.

These spare parts are e.g.:
– Heating muffle
– Insulation material
– Lamps

These spare parts are not
covered by the warranty.

Please also observe the shorter
service and maintenance
intervals.

28

7.3 Menu "Access alarm table"

In this menu, up to 20 of the last alarm
messages are listed in a table. In case of
inquiries, please provide the service
technician with this information.

The enclosed error list contains
further information.

7.4 Menu "Diagnostic programs"

– Vacuum and system test

The program checks the final value (in
mbar) that the vacuum reaches after a
defined period of time and how much
time passes until 50 mbar are reached.

– Muffle test

By measuring the maximum power
consumption of the heating muffle, the
'age' of the heating muffle is determined
and presented by a bar diagram. If the
muffle has a high power consumption
(good, new), the bar is solid. At a certain
stage, the user is informed that the
heating muffle has to be replaced shortly.

– Keypad test

If the user conducts this test, all the keys
are represented on the display by a
matching symbol. Pressing the
corresponding key results in the symbol
of the display being inverted to change
to non-inverted (depending on the actual
condition.

F1 is not represented, since this key
is used to quit the menu.

– Display test

The test merely presents a certain pattern
(e.g. chessboard pattern: inverted /
non-inverted) so that the user may check
for defective pixels.

– Press drive test

Automatic check of the press drive.
Possible malfunctions are pointed out.

7.5 Temperature calibration

The accuracy of the thermocouple changes
during use. In order for it to function
optimally, it needs to be recalibrated on a
regular basis. The automatic furnace
calibration set (Automatic Temperature
Checking Set 1) has been especially
developed for this purpose. We recommend
that you check your furnace with the
Automatic Temperature Checking Set 1 after
approximately 50 press cycles or after 3 to 4
months of use. The corresponding message
will be displayed. Calibration should be
conducted while the furnace is at operating
temperature (stand-by temperature). It takes
approx. 2 hours. For that reason, we
recommend that you calibrate the furnace
overnight in order to save time.

Important information

The automatic request for

calibration after 50 press cycles is

only displayed in the "Press
furnace" mode. If the furnace is in the
"Ceramic furnace" mode, the message will
not appear after 50 firing cycles. However,
we recommend conducting a calibration
after approx. 3-4 months if the furnace is in
frequent use.

1. Insert the melting sample (122) in the

ceramic base block (121).

2. Screw the sample (122) to the contact

pins (123).

Important

Do not use tongs. Tighten until

barely fingertight.

3. Go to "Miscellaneous" and select

calibration program. Now the furnace
head opens.

4. Remove the firing plate (50) from the
furnace with the firing tongs and place it
on the sagger tray.

5. Use tongs to insert the completed test
assembly into the recesses for the ATK 1
(124).

6. Place the tongs at the center of the test
assembly and press lightly until it
perceptibly clicks into place.

7. Start the calibration program.

8. At the end of the program, remove the
test assembly from the furnace using the
tongs and allow it to cool.

Contraindication

Under no circumstances should you
pull on the test sample. The ceramic
base will break as a consequence.

9. Replace the firing plate (50) and select a
firing program. The furnace head will
close automatically.

10. Once the sample assembly has cooled,

take it apart.

11. Use new melting samples for the next

calibration procedure and begin with
step 1.

123

123

121

122

50

74

29

7.6 Changing the press plunger

In order to facilitate the changing of the
press plunger, we recommend lowering the
press plunger manually by using the
corresponding option in the menu
"Maintenance".

1. Remove the screws (55) and the press
drive cover (52) while the furnace head is
closed.

2. Loosen the terminal screw (57) for the
press plunger with approx. half a turn.

3. Open the furnace head with the corre­sponding key (112). Once the furnace
head is completely open, switch off the
furnace, disconnect the power, and allow
the furnace to cool to room temperature.

4. Move the press plunger (56) into the
firing chamber by pushing it with one
hand and pulling it with the other while
rotating it slightly.

Contraindication

Take care not to buckle the
thermocouple located in the upper
part of the firing chamber.

5. Insert the new press plunger (56) with
the red mark into the guide bush with
the phasing (inclination) first. Push the
plunger into its split taper socket (6) by
rotating it slightly. Tighten the screw (57).

6. Reconnect power and switch on the
furnace with the I/O switch.

Never reach into the press drive
during operation. There is a risk of
crushing.

Wait until the furnace head closes automati­cally. Remount the press drive cover (52) and
tighten the corresponding screws.

7.7 Changing the firing tray

If you use the EP600 Combi as a ceramic
furnace, place the firing tray (150) in the
firing plate (50) prior to starting the firing
cycle.

Important information

For the firing cycles, always use the
firing tray (150) in order to ensure
optimum temperature conditions
within the furnace.

55

56

150

50

57

30

This chapter will help you to recognize
malfunctions and take the appropriate
measures or, if possible, to perform minor
repairs.

8.1 Error messages and
notifications (alarm)

Alarm notifications are directly displayed and
can be classified as follows:

8.1.1 Technical errors

(The furnace has noticed a
technical defect.)

8.1.2 Operating errors

(The user has tried to make an
incorrect entry.)

8.1.3 Notifications

Helpful information.

8.1.1 Technical errors

In case of a technical malfunction, a
corresponding message is displayed and an
alarm signal sounds. The alarm signal can be
switched off by pressing F2.

As long as the malfunction is active, the
"Minimize" symbol (F3) is indicated,
otherwise the "Acknowledge" symbol (F1) is
shown.

Depending on which symbol is shown, the
error message has to be minimized to a
symbol by pressing F3 (see "Minimized error
messages") or acknowledged with F1 after it
has been read.

Minimized error messages

If an error message is minimized, a
corresponding symbol will appear next
to the temperature indicator.

If the error is still active after two minutes,
the alarm window will appear again and the
corresponding signal will sound.

8.1.2 Operating errors

In case of an operating error (incorrect data
entry, etc.) an operating error message is
displayed, which has to be acknowledged
with F1.

8.1.3 Notifications

In special cases, notifications are displayed,
which will provide you with important
information. The notifications also have to
be acknowledged with F1.

8. What If…

31

8.2 Technical malfunctions

These malfunctions may occur without an error message being displayed:

Description Double-Check Action

Vacuum is not or only slowly released Is the vacuum released Wait until the vacuum has been released and

within approx. 30 seconds? remove object. Switch the furnace off and on again.

If it is still not working, contact your local
Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.

Microswitch of the furnace head Is the opening for the operating pin Remove dirt (foreign objects) from the opening.
opening mechanism does not engage (item 15 in parts list) obstructed?

The calibration sample assembly Is the recess obstructed by a foreign object? Clean the recess with a vacuum cleaner. The
cannot be properly inserted EP600 should be cold for that purpose.

Loud noises in the press drive Is the press plunger (56) dirty or damaged? Clean press plunger or replace it, if necessary

Are the motion rods (81) of the press Clean motion rods with a dry cloth.
mechanism dirty? Do not apply grease.

Display incomplete Run the display test program and contact your

local Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center, if necessary.

Text on the display is difficult to read Is the contrast set correctly? Press "Contrast" key (101) until the contrast

is ideal.

Display is not illuminated Is the fuse (10) for the electronic Check fuse and replace it, if necessary.

controls OK?

Buzzer does not sound Is the buzzer switched off (tune 0)? Select tune (1–9)

Furnace head does not open Is the fuse (10) OK? Check fuse and replace it, if necessary.

Was the furnace head opened manually? Use only the corresponding key to open the

furnace head. Switch furnace off and on again.

Has the vacuum been released? Is the program still running? Wait until the

program is completed. Switch furnace off and on
again. If it still does not work, contact your local
Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.

Press plunger fractured in the area Was the terminal screw of the press Replace defective press plunger.
of the terminal screw plunger (57) screwed too tightly?

Press plunger slips out of its holder Is the press plunger correctly secured? Tighten the terminal screw of the press

plunger (57).

Press plunger is too long Was the press plunger of the EP500 with Use the red press plunger designed for the

a length of 200 mm accidentally used? EP600 Combi (175 mm).

Vacuum pump does not start working Is the fuse for the vacuum pump (8) Check fuse and replace it, if necessary.

defective?

Was the max. power consumption Use only the vacuum pump recommended
(2.2 A) surpassed? by Ivoclar Vivadent.

Is the vacuum pump plug correctly Correctly connect the vacuum pump plug with
inserted? the furnace base.

32

Description Double-Check Action

Final vacuum is not reached Is the vacuum hose OK? Check vacuum hose (13) and hose connection.

Was the absolute value for the vacuum set Set a lower absolute value in the menu
incorrectly or not in accordance with the "Configuration" (Chapter 5.4.5)
pump capacity?

Is the furnace airtight? Clean sealing surfaces.

Is the press plunger OK, and in place? Make sure that the press plunger is mounted

and not fractured.

Is the pump capacity accurate? Run vacuum test program.

Wrong or illogical temperature Is the thermocouple (71) buckled or Contact your local Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.
indication fractured?

Is the plug for the thermocouple correctly Insert the plug correctly.
inserted?

Is the plug for the thermocouple defective? Contact your local Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.

Cracks in the heating muffle Are the cracks small and neglectable Small cracks in the muffle are normal and do not

(hairline cracks)? negatively influence the performance of the

furnace.

Are the cracks very large or are parts Contact your local Ivoclar Vivadent Service Center.
of the muffle broken off?

List of Errors

These Operating Instructions
also contain a list of errors that
may be displayed by the
corresponding EP600 Combi
software.

Use only fuses and
original spare parts
from Ivoclar Vivadent
with the corresponding
test labels.

The contrast
(brightness) of the
display may slightly
change after long
periods of operation.

8.3 Repair

Repairs may only be carried out
by a certified Ivoclar Vivadent
Service Center. Please refer to
the addresses listed on page 40.
If repairs during the warranty
period are not carried out by a
certified Ivoclar Vivadent Service
Center, the warranty will expire
immediately.
Please also read the safety
instructions in Chapter 2.

33

9.2 Technical data

Power supply: 200–240 Volt, 50–60 Hz

110–120 Volt, 50–60 Hz

Installation category II

Max. power consumption: 12 A at 110–120 VAC

8,5 A at 200–240 VAC

Vacuum quality: 100% 40–120 mbar

Acceptable data for pumps of other manufacturers: Max. power consumption: 2,1 A

Final vacuum: < 50 mbar

Use only tested pumps!

Electrical fuses: 200–240V: T 6,3 A (heating circuit) T 1 A (controls)

T3,15 A (vacuum pump)

110–120V: T 12 A (heating circuit) T 2 A (controls)

T5 A (vacuum pump)

Fuse dimensions: 200–240V = diameter 5 x 20 mm

110–120V = diameter 6,3 x 32 mm

Dimensions: w x d x h: 445 x 520 x 650 mm

Usable size of the press chamber: diameter 50 mm, height 85 mm

Usable size of the firing chamber: diameter 80 mm, height 50 mm

Max. press and firing temperature: 1200 °C

Weights: Furnace head: 7,6 kg

Furnace base: 17,0 kg

Tray: 0,4 kg

Press furnace, complete: 25,0 kg

Extra muffle: 0,3 kg

Safety information: IEC 1010-1, EN 61010-2-020, Part 1

ULC and cUL standards

Radio protection, electromagnetic compatibility: EMC tested

This chapter contains all the
relevant product specifications.

9.1 Delivery form

EP600 Combi

– EP600 Combi incl. software
– Sagger tray
– Automatic Temperature

Checking Set 1 (complete)
– Investment ring cooling grid
– Power cord
– Vacuum hose
– Firing tray
– ECO-5000 card reader incl.

power pack
– 3 program memory cards
– Operating Instructions
– Firing plate (slit)

Accessories

– Refill package ATK1 "Melting

Samples"
– Refill package ATK 1 " Cera-

mic Base Block"
– VP3 Vacuum Pump
– Program memory cards
– Download cable

Colours
Standard colour:

Traffic white (RAL 9016)

Special colours:

– Salmon (RAL 3014)
– Aquamarine (RAL 5014)
– Turquoise (RAL 6027)

9. Product Specification

34

9.3 Acceptable operating

conditions

– Acceptable temperature

range:

+5 °C to +40 °C

(+41 °F to +104 °F)

– Acceptable humidity range

Maximum relative humidity

80 % for temperatures up to

31 °C (87.8 °F), gradually

decreasing to 50 % relative

humidity at 40 °C (104 °F).

Condensation excluded.

– Acceptable ambient

pressure

The furnace is tested for use

at altitudes of up to 4000 m

(13,123 ft) above sea level.

Atmospheric pressure 500

mbar – 1060 mbar.

Important
information

If condensation water
or ice is formed after
unpacking, we
recommend allowing
the furnace to dry at
room temperature for
at least 24 hours.

Do not connect
power cord. Even if
the furnace seems to
be dry on the outside,
humidity may still be
present inside.

Use only the original power
cord for operation.

9.4 Acceptable
transportation and
storage conditions

– Acceptable temperature

range

-20 °C to +50 °C
(-4 °F to +122 °F)

– Acceptable humidity range

Max. relative humidity 80 %

– Acceptable ambient

pressure

500 mbar – 1060 mbar

Use only the original packaging
together with the corresponding
foam material for shipping
purposes.

35

10. Miscellaneous

The program parameters are set in the
factory. The parameters used may differ,
but they are based on the latest standard

of technology of the Research &
Development Department of Ivoclar Vivadent,
Schaan.

For each of the listed programs, either the option
"small" or "large" investment ring must be
selected.

10.1 Press table

The program numbers for the reserve
programs (8–11) are indicated on the
new furnaces which are delivered ex
works as of Software Version V.4.0.

If the Software Version V.4.0 has not been installed
ex works and the furnace has been upgraded with
an update version, the program numbers 6 and 7
will be occupied with standard programs. The
parameters existing in the programs 6 and 7 will
not be maintained.

Program Description Investment ring size

IPS e.max Press large

IPS e.max Press small

IPS

e.max ZirPress large

IPS e.max

ZirPress small

IPS Empress Esthetic large

IPS Empress Esthetic small

IPS Empress Layering Technique large

IPS Empress Layering Technique small

IPS Empress 2 Layering Technique large

IPS Empress 2 Layering Technique small

IPS Empress Cosmo large

IPS Empress Cosmo small

IPS Empress Staining Technique large

IPS Empress Staining Technique small

Reserve large

Reserve small

Reserve large

Reserve small

Reserve large

Reserve small

Reserve large

Reserve small

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

36

10.2 Firing table

4)

These values are related to the possible set values. The actually achieved values however may differ and depend on various factors (e.g. starting temperature,

heating of the firing chamber, vacuum yes/no, condition of the heating muffle, local power supply, type of object holder, object size).

4)

Description:

F1... skip into the next menu below with F1
(F3)... skip back with F3

37

10.3 Menu structure of the EP600 Combi

Preheating

Start

F2...F3

Main menu

"Furnace type"

Firing program

groups

List of firing

programs

Main menu

"PRESSING"

Main menu

"FIRING"

Miscellaneous

Card reader status

Program-Manager

Press program

F2...F3

F1 or F2, (F1)

F2 or F3, (F1)

F1...F3, (F1)

F2, (F3)

F4, (F1)

Firing program

F4, (F1)

Parameters

F4, (F1)

Parameters

F4, (F1)

F3, (F1)

F3, (F1)F1, (F3)

F4, (F1)

38

10.4 1-step firing program

39

10.5 2-step firing program

Ivoclar Vivadent AG

Bendererstrasse 2
FL-9494 Schaan
Liechtenstein
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent Pty. Ltd.

1 – 5 Overseas Drive
P.O. Box 367
Noble Park,Vic. 3174
Australia
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com.au

Ivoclar Vivadent GmbH

Bremschlstr. 16
Postfach 223
A-6706 Bürs
Austria
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent Ltda.

Rua Maestro João Gomes de
Araújo 50; Salas 92/94
Sao Paulo, CEP 02332-020
Brazil
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent Inc.

2785 Skymark Avenue, Unit 1
Mississauga
Ontario L4W 4Y3
Canada
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.us.com

Ivoclar Vivadent Marketing Ltd.

Rm 603 Kuen Yang
International Business Plaza
No. 798 Zhao Jia Bang Road
Shanghai 200030
China
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent Marketing Ltd.

Calle 134 No. 13-83, Of. 520
Bogotá
Colombia
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent SAS

B.P. 118
F-74410 Saint-Jorioz
France
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.fr

Ivoclar Vivadent GmbH

Dr.Adolf-Schneider-Str. 2
D-73479 Ellwangen, Jagst
Germany
Tel. [phone] / 8 89-0
Fax [phone] / 63 26
www.ivoclarvivadent.de

Ivoclar Vivadent Marketing Ltd

114, Janki Centre
Shah Industrial Estate
Veera Desai Road,
Andheri (West)
Mumbai 400 053
India
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.firm.in

Ivoclar Vivadent s.r.l.

Via dell’Industria 16
I-39025 Naturno (BZ)
Italy
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.it

Ivoclar Vivadent S.A. de C.V.

Av. Mazatlán No. 61, Piso 2
Col. Condesa
06170 México, D.F.
Mexico
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.com.mx

Ivoclar Vivadent Ltd

12 Omega St, Albany
PO Box 5243 Wellesley St
Auckland, New Zealand
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.co.nz

Ivoclar Vivadent Polska Sp. z.o.o.

ul. Jana Pawla II 78
PL-01-501 Warszawa
Poland
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.pl

Ivoclar Vivadent S.A.

c/Emilio Muñoz, 15
Esquina c/Albarracín
E-28037 Madrid
Spain
Tel. + 34 91 375 78 20
Fax + 34 91 375 78 38
www.ivoclarvivadent.com

Ivoclar Vivadent AB

Dalvägen 14
S-169 56 Solna
Sweden
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.se

Ivoclar Vivadent UK Limited

Ground Floor Compass Building
Feldspar Close
Warrens Business Park
Enderby
Leicester LE19 4SE
United Kingdom
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.co.uk

Ivoclar Vivadent, Inc.

175 Pineview Drive
Amherst, N.Y. 14228
USA
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.ivoclarvivadent.us.com

Ivoclar Vivadent – worldwide

This apparatus has been developed solely for use in
dentistry. Start-up and operation should be done
strictly according to the Operating Instructions.
Liability cannot be accepted for damages resulting
from misuse or failure to observe the Instructions.
The user is solely responsible for testing the
apparatus for its suitability for any purpose not
explicitly stated in the Instructions. Descriptions and
data constitute no warranty of attributes and are
not binding.

© Ivoclar Vivadent AG, Schaan/Liechtenstein
563466/0605/e

Version: 4
Issued: 6/2005
For software V4.0