Michell Instruments QMA401 Operating Manual
QMA401
Trace Moisture Analyzer
User’s Manual
97450 Issue 2
March 2018
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Use this information when contacting Michell Instruments for service purposes.
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QMA401
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www.michell.com
© 2018 Michell Instruments
This document is the property of Michell Instruments Ltd. and may not be copied or
otherwise reproduced, communicated in any way to third parties, nor stored in any Data
Processing System without the express written authorization of Michell Instruments Ltd.
QMA401 User’s Manual
Contents
Safety .............................................................................................................................. viii
Warnings ................................................................................................................... viii
Electrical Safety ......................................................................................................... viii
Pressure Safety .......................................................................................................... viii
Hazardous Materials (WEEE, RoHS2 & REACH) ............................................................. viii
Calibration (Factory Validation) ......................................................................................ix
Repair and Maintenance ...............................................................................................ix
Abbreviations ...................................................................................................................... x
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................1
1.1 General .............................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Theory of Operation ........................................................................................... 2
1.3 Sample Gas Path ................................................................................................ 2
1.4 Internal Sampling Options ................................................................................... 3
2 INSTALLATION ..................................................................................................6
2.1 Analyzer Storage Instructions .............................................................................. 6
2.2 Unpacking the Instrument ................................................................................... 6
2.3 Electrical Requirements ....................................................................................... 7
2.4 Rear Panel Connections ...................................................................................... 7
2.5 Pressure Safety .................................................................................................. 9
2.6 Connection of Gas Supplies ................................................................................. 9
3 OPERATION ....................................................................................................12
3.1 General Operational Information ........................................................................ 12
3.2 First Time Operation ......................................................................................... 12
3.2.1 Regulating Sensor Pressure.......................................................................... 13
3.2.2 Analyzer Setup ............................................................................................ 14
3.3 Menu Structure ................................................................................................ 15
3.4 Description of Measured Parameters .................................................................. 16
3.5 Main Screen .................................................................................................... 16
3.5.1 Large Display Mode ..................................................................................... 18
3.5.2 Full Screen Graph ........................................................................................ 18
3.6 Main Screen Sub Menus .................................................................................... 19
3.6.1 Warning Screen .......................................................................................... 19
3.6.2 Logging Screen .......................................................................................... 20
3.6.3 Alarm Screen .............................................................................................. 21
3.6.4 Field Calibration Screen ............................................................................... 22
3.6.5 Monitor Screen ........................................................................................... 26
3.7 Settings Menu ................................................................................................. 27
3.7.1 Measurement Screen ................................................................................... 28
3.7.2 Pressure Input ............................................................................................ 31
3.7.3 Outputs Screen ........................................................................................... 34
3.7.4 HMI Screen ................................................................................................ 35
3.7.5 Real Time Clock Screen ............................................................................... 36
3.7.6 Software Communications Screen................................................................. 37
3.7.7 Ethernet Screen .......................................................................................... 37
3.7.8 Field Calibration History ............................................................................... 37
3.7.9 About Screen .............................................................................................. 38
3.8 Sampling Guidelines ......................................................................................... 39
3.9 Measurement Cycle .......................................................................................... 42
3.10 Calibration Cycle ............................................................................................... 44
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QMA401 User’s Manual
4 MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................46
4.1 Removal and Replacement of the Power Supply Fuse .......................................... 47
4.2 Removal and Replacement of the Dryer Module .................................................. 47
5 CALIBRATION ..................................................................................................49
5.1 Traceability ...................................................................................................... 49
6 APPLICATION SOFTWARE OVERVIEW ...............................................................51
6.1 System Requirements ....................................................................................... 51
6.2 System Connection ........................................................................................... 51
6.3 Getting Started ................................................................................................. 52
6.3.1 Connection Method (Serial Connection (RS485 or USB) .................................. 53
6.3.1.1 RS485 Connection ................................................................................. 53
6.3.1.2 USB Connection .................................................................................... 53
6.3.1.3 Modbus TCP Connection (Ethernet) ....................................................... 53
6.4 Main Window ................................................................................................... 54
6.5 Using the Chart ................................................................................................ 55
6.5.1 Chart Options Window ................................................................................. 56
6.6 Data Logging ................................................................................................... 57
6.6.1 Configuring Logging Start Time .................................................................... 58
6.6.2 Configuring Logging Stop Time .................................................................... 58
6.6.3 Starting the Log .......................................................................................... 58
6.6.4 Viewing a Log ............................................................................................. 58
6.7 Parameters / Field Calibration ............................................................................ 58
6.7.1 Field Calibration .......................................................................................... 59
7 SHIPPING .......................................................................................................60
7.1 Preparation for Shipping and Packing ................................................................. 60
Tables
Table 1 Main Screen Parameters .............................................................................17
Table 2 Alarm Screen Parameters ..........................................................................21
Table 3 Calibration Screen Parameters ................................................................... 22
Table 4 Monitor Screen Parameters ....................................................................... 26
Table 5 Measurement Screen Parameters ............................................................... 28
Table 6 Outputs Screen Parameters ....................................................................... 34
Table 7 HMI Setup Screen Parameters ................................................................... 35
Table 8 Real Time Clock Screen Parameters ........................................................... 36
Table 9 Software Communications Screen Parameters..............................................37
Table 10 Ethernet Screen Parameters ......................................................................37
Table 11 Modbus Register Map ................................................................................72
Michell Instruments v
QMA401 User’s Manual
Figures
Figure 1 Measurement System .................................................................................2
Figure 2 Internal Sampling Options ...........................................................................5
Figure 3 Power Connection .......................................................................................7
Figure 4 Rear Panel Connections ..............................................................................8
Figure 5 Typical Gas Connections ............................................................................10
Figure 6 Initializing Overlay ....................................................................................12
Figure 7 Display During Heating Period ...................................................................12
Figure 8 Typical Display .........................................................................................14
Figure 9 Menu Structure ........................................................................................15
Figure 10 Main Screen .............................................................................................16
Figure 11 Large Display Mode ..................................................................................18
Figure 12 Full Screen Graph .....................................................................................18
Figure 13 Status Screen ...........................................................................................19
Figure 14 Logging Screen ........................................................................................20
Figure 15 Front Panel ..............................................................................................20
Figure 16 Alarm Screen ...........................................................................................21
Figure 17 Field Calibration Screen .............................................................................22
Figure 18 Field Calibration Screen 2 ..........................................................................24
Figure 19 Field Calibration Screen 3 ..........................................................................24
Figure 20 Field Calibration Screen 4 ..........................................................................25
Figure 21 Field Calibration Screen 5 ..........................................................................25
Figure 22 Monitor Screen .........................................................................................26
Figure 23 Settings Menu Screen ...............................................................................27
Figure 24 Measurement Screen ................................................................................28
Figure 25 Carrier Gas Screen ....................................................................................29
Figure 26 Measurement Screen ................................................................................30
Figure 27 External Options .......................................................................................31
Figure 28 Fixed Options ...........................................................................................32
Figure 29 Atmos. Option ..........................................................................................32
Figure 30 User Gas Setup Screen .............................................................................32
Figure 31 Outputs Screen ........................................................................................34
Figure 32 HMI Screen ..............................................................................................35
Figure 33 Real Time Clock Screen .............................................................................36
Figure 34 Software Communications Screen ..............................................................37
Figure 35 Ethernet Screen .......................................................................................37
Figure 36 Calibration History Screen .........................................................................38
Figure 37 About Screen ...........................................................................................38
Figure 38 Measurement Cycle (Phase 1) - Dried Sample Flow .....................................42
Figure 39 Measurement Cycle (Phase 2) Calibration Flow ...........................................43
Figure 40 Calibration Cycle (Phase 1) - Dried Sample Flow .........................................44
Figure 41 Calibration Cycle (Phase 2) - Sample Flow ..................................................45
Figure 42 Typical QMA401 Calibration Certificate .......................................................50
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Appendices
Appendix A Technical Specification ...............................................................................62
Appendix B Calculating Conversion Factors for Gas Mixes ............................................... 64
Appendix C Modbus Holding Register Map ....................................................................66
C.1 Set Points and Ranges .................................................................83
C.2 Gases for Gas Correction Values ...................................................84
Appendix D Quality, Recycling, Compliance & Warranty Information ................................ 86
Appendix E Return Document & Decontamination Declaration ........................................ 88
Michell Instruments vii
QMA401 User’s Manual
!
DANGER
Electric
Shock Risk
Safety
The instrument is designed to be completely safe when installed and operated correctly in accordance
with the information provided in this manual.
This manual contains all the required information to install, operate and maintain this product. Prior
to installation and use of this product, this entire manual should be read and understood. Installation
and operation of this product should be carried out by suitably competent personnel only. The
installation and operation of this product must be in accordance with the instructions provided and
according to the terms of any associated safety certificates. Incorrect installation and use of this
product other than those described in this manual and other than its intended purpose will render
all warranties void.
This product meets the essential protection requirements of the relevant EU directives. Further
details of applied directives may be found in the product specification.
Electricity and pressurized gas can be dangerous. This product must be installed and operated only
by suitable trained personnel.
Warnings
Where this hazard warning symbol appears in the following sections,
it is used to indicate areas where potentially hazardous operations
need to be carried out and where particular attention to personal and
personnel safety must be observed.
Where this symbol appears in the following sections it is used to
indicate areas of potential risk of electric shock.
Electrical Safety
Ensure electrical safety is complied with by following the directions provided here and observing all
local operation & installation requirements at the intended location of use.
This product is completely safe when using any options and accessories supplied by the manufacturer
of this product for use with it. Refer to Section 2 (Installation) of this manual for further details.
Pressure Safety
For this product to operate satisfactorily, pressurized gas must be connected to it. Observe all the
information contained within this manual and all local operation & installation requirements at the
intended location of use. Refer to Section 2 (Installation) of this manual for further details.
Hazardous Materials (WEEE, RoHS2 & REACH)
This product does not contain or release any prohibited chemicals listed on the SVHC (Substances
of Very High Concern) Candidate List. During the intended normal operation of this product it is not
possible for the user to come into contact with any hazardous materials. This product is designed to
be recyclable except where indicated, see relevant sections in this manual for further details.
viii 97450 Issue 2, March 2018
QMA401 User’s Manual
Calibration (Factory Validation)
Prior to shipment, the instrument undergoes stringent factory calibration to traceable standards.
Due to the inherent stability of the instrument, regular factory calibration is not required under
normal operating conditions. The instrument should perform reliably for many years with just basic
maintenance, housekeeping and regular field calibrations from the internal reference (moisture
generator) or a known external reference.
There are, however some consumables that will require periodic replacement.
• Moisture generator - typical lifetime of around 3 years.
• Desiccant column - typical lifetime of around 2 years, but this strongly
depends on the moisture content of the sample gas. The drier the sample
gas, the longer the lifetime of the desiccant.
Michell Instruments can provide a fully traceable factory calibration service for the instrument and it
is recommended that this is considered at intervals of every year of the analyzer's life. Please contact
your local Michell Instruments' office or representative for further details (www.michell.com).
Repair and Maintenance
Apart from user-replaceable components required for routine operational maintenance described
above, the analyzer must only be maintained either by the manufacturer or an accredited service
agent. Refer to www.michell.com for details of Michell Instruments’ worldwide offices contact
information.
Michell Instruments ix
Abbreviations
The following abbreviations are used in this manual:
A ampere
AC alternating current
atm pressure unit (atmosphere)
bara pressure unit (=100 kP or 0.987 atm) (absolute)
barg pressure unit (=100 kP or 0.987 atm) gauge
°C degrees Celsius
°F degrees Fahrenheit
EU European Union
hr hour
Hz Hertz
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IP Internet protocol
ml/min milliliters per minute
3
mg/m
lbs/MMscf pounds per million standard cubic feet
mA milliampere
mins minutes
mmHg millimeter of mercury
Pa pascal
ppm
ppm
psia pound(s) per square inch (absolute)
psig pound(s) per square inch (gauge)
RH relative humidity
RS485/232 standards defining the electrical characteristics of drivers & receivers
RTC real time clock
RTU Remote Terminal Unit
SD storage device card
UART universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter
USB Universal Serial Bus
V Volts
" Inch
Δ delta
% percentage
Ω ohms
milligrams per cubic meter
parts per million (by volume)
V
parts per million (by weight)
W
QMA401 User’s Manual
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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 General
The QMA401 Moisture Analyzer is designed to provide reliable, fast and accurate
measurement of trace moisture content in a wide variety of applications where keeping
moisture levels as low as possible is of critical importance.
The high-contrast LCD touchscreen display presents all measured data to the user in a
clear and understandable format. The main display incorporates a real-time trend graph
and alarm indicators based on the NAMUR 102 standard. A powerful and intuitive HMI
makes control, logging and configuration of analyzer parameters straightforward.
The instrument provides two user-configurable analog outputs, and ModBus RTU/TCP
communications, allowing it to interface with a SCADA DCS, or by a computer using the
dedicated application software. A pair of adjustable isolated alarm contacts allow the
QMA401 to be used for direct process control.
The QMA401 offers:
INTRODUCTION
• ModBus RTU/TCP
• Datalogging to SD Card
• 2 user-configurable analog outputs
• Status and Process Alarms
Minimal & Straightforward Maintenance
Sophisticated instruments are often complicated and require experience and special care
in use, increasing cost of ownership. The QMA401 differs through its very uncomplicated
approach to field service; the desiccant column is easy to replace via the dryer service
panel on the rear of the instrument. The moisture generator has an average life span of
3 years before maintenance is required.
Automated Calibration for Continued Reliability
The QMA401 incorporates an integrated automatic calibration system for complete
user confidence. Periodic calibration checks of sensor performance can be initiated
on demand, or automatically (at user defined intervals and time of day), providing a
verification against the calibrated moisture generator or an external reference. The
moisture generator at the core of this system is supplied with a calibration traceable to
NPL and NIST.
During an internal calibration cycle, the Data Hold function will prevent any interruption
of dependant processes by holding the analog outputs at the same level for the duration
of the calibration.
Integrated Sample Handling Components
The QMA401 features an optional bypass arrangement to increase transport speed of
the sample.
A pressure regulator can also be specified to increase the range of acceptable input
pressure (rated to 300barg input pressure), and to protect the instrument against
pressure shocks.
Michell Instruments 1
INTRODUCTION
1.2 Theory of Operation
The Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) technology for moisture measurement is
based on monitoring the frequency of a hygroscopic-coated quartz crystal with specific
sensitivity to water vapor.
Bulk adsorption of water vapor onto the coated crystal causes an increase in the crystals
effective mass, modifying its oscillation frequency in a very precise and repeatable
manner. The frequency change is in proportion to the water vapor pressure in the
sample gas, providing a direct measurement of moisture content.
The sorption process is fully reversible with no long-term drift effect, giving a highly
reliable and repeatable measurement.
1.3 Sample Gas Path
The QMA401 measurement system must be supplied with gas at the required pressure
(to match that of its calibration) via the VCR connection on the rear of the instrument.
The flow is controlled automatically.
QMA401 User’s Manual
The sensor cell is located at the end of the sensor block and contains the sensor and
reference oscillators.
Figure 1
HE1 HE2
V1 V2 V3
FC1 FC2 FC3
shows a schematic diagram of this sampling system:
Sample In
DD
MG
QCH
PS
MFC
Sample Out
Key
DD
MFC
QCH
PS
Desiccant column
Mass flow controller
Sensor cell
Pressure sensor
Figure 1
MG
V1, V2, V3
HE1/HE2
FC1
Measurement System
Moisture generator
Solenoid Valves
Heat exchanger
Flow control
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QMA401 User’s Manual
1.4 Internal Sampling Options
The QMA401 is available with a Pressure regulator, or a fast loop bypass with flow
control. Either of these options can be configured independently or together with either
an internal or external particulate filter:
• Pressure regulator
• Fast-loop bypass with flow control
GAS IN GAS OUT
FILTER
INTRODUCTION
DRYER
OVEN
S0 - No sample system. With 15μm internal filtration
GAS IN GAS OUT
FILTER
DRYER
OVEN
PRESSURE
REGULATOR
S1 - Input pressure regulator. With 15μm internal filtration
GAS IN GAS OUT
FILTER
PRESSURE
REGULATOR
VALVE
METERING
DRYER
OVEN
S2 - Input pressure regulator and Fast-loop bypass with
flow control. With 15μm internal filtration
Michell Instruments 3
INTRODUCTION
S3 - Fast-loop bypass with flow control. With 15μm internal filtration.
QMA401 User’s Manual
GAS IN GAS OUT
FILTER
DRYER
OVEN
GAS IN GAS OUT
VALVE
METERING
PRESSURE
REGULATOR
DRYER
OVEN
S4 - Input pressure regulator. External 15μm filter supplied
GAS IN GAS OUT
VALVE
METERING
DRYER
OVEN
PRESSURE
REGULATOR
S5 - Input pressure regulator and fast-loop bypass with
flow control. External 15μm filter supplied
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QMA401 User’s Manual
S6 - Fast-loop bypass with flow control. External 15μm filter supplied
GAS IN GAS OUT
DRYER
OVEN
INTRODUCTION
VALVE
METERING
Figure 2
Internal Sampling Options
Michell Instruments 5
INSTALLATION
2 INSTALLATION
2.1 Analyzer Storage Instructions
In order for this product to be functional upon installation it should be stored in accordance
with the guidelines below:
• The product must be housed in a sheltered area, out of direct sunlight and
rain.
• The product should be stored to minimize the possibility of sitting in ground
water.
• The temperature within the storage environment should be maintained
between -20 to +60°C (-4 to +140°F).
• The humidity within the storage environment must be non-condensing.
• The storage environment must not expose the analyzer to any corrosive
elements.
QMA401 User’s Manual
• The product may stay assembled with its sample conditioning system (if
supplied).
• All electrical and process connections should remain disconnected and capped.
• All protective coatings should remain in place until installation.
• For prolonged periods of storage, the lid of the packaging crate should be
removed to allow air to circulate.
• Any documentation supplied with the product should be removed from the
packaging crate and stored elsewhere to protect its integrity.
For the period from installation of the product to commissioning start-up, the following
precautions should be followed:
• The product and associated sampling system (if supplied) must remain
isolated from the process gas, and the enclosure should remain closed to
ensure ingress protection is maintained.
• If supplied, the sampling system enclosure heating/thermostat circuit should
be operated if the climatic temperature might fall below +5°C (+41°F).
• At time of start-up the procedures contained in the user manuals for both
analyzer and sampling system must be followed.
If the product was previously in service/operation then the following precautions should be
followed before storage:
• Upon isolation from the gas sample the entire system should be purged with a
dry nitrogen gas before powering down of the analyzer.
• All connections and ports (gas and electrical) to the analyzer or sample system
(if provided) should be capped.
• If the product is not removed from its location, the electrical grounding of the
analyzer should remain in place.
•
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QMA401 User’s Manual
DANGER
Electric
Shock Risk
2.2 Unpacking the Instrument
Open the crate and carefully unpack the instrument.
NOTE: Retain the packaging in case the instrument is returned for factory
calibration or service.
The accessories box should contain the following items:
• Traceable calibration certificate
• SD memory storage card
• USB communications cable
• IEC power cable
• Application software CD
• User's manual
If there are any shortages please notify the supplier immediately.
INSTALLATION
2.3 Electrical Requirements
The QMA401 requires the following electrical supply:
• 85 to 264 V AC, 47/63Hz, 250 VA max
• Alarm outputs comprise four sets of changeover relay contacts, one set for
INTERNAL FAULTS, and three sets for PROCESS alarms. All contacts are rated
at 24 V, 1A. NOTE: THIS RATING MUST NOT BE EXCEEDED
Fuse
This product is provided with an internally mounted fuse. A replacement fuse can be obtained
by contacting Michell Instruments' technical support. Fuse rating = 5 x 20mm 3 A anti-surge
to IEC 60127-2.
Power Connection
The product is provided with an IEC C13 socket on the rear panel for mains power input.
This equipment must be supplied with a voltage between the range of 85 to 264 V AC,
47/63Hz, maximum required power is 140 W.
Figure 3
Power Connection
Michell Instruments 7
INSTALLATION
2.4 Rear Panel Connections
1
POWER:
85-264V AC
47-63Hz 100VA
T2.5
G
A
B
NC1
NO1
MODBUS 485
ALARMS 1 - 2
MODBUS
USB
SERIAL NUMBER
1 Power Connection IEC Power Socket, On/Off Switch & Fuse
2 Electrical Connections #1
3 Bypass Flow Adjustment
4 Ethernet
5 Electrical Connections #2
6 Inlet Pressure Control
7 Dryer Module Access Panel
8 Gas Outlet
9 Gas Inlet
QMA401 User’s Manual
2
3
NC3
NC4
NC2
NO3
NO2
COM1
NO4
COM3
COM2
ALARMS 3 - 4
5
4
SIG
+24V
COM4
EXTERNAL
PRESSURE
RS485
(Modbus)
Alarms 1 & 2
Alarms 3 & 4
External
Pressure
Analog Output
OP1-
OP1+
ANALOGUE
OUTPUT
6
OP2-
OP2+
7
8
9
USB
A
B
G
NC1
NO1
COM1
NC2
NO2
COM2
NC3
NO3
COM3
NC4
NO4
COM4
Analyzer Status Alarm
NO in warning/fault condition
NC no warning / no fault
+24V
Signal
OP1+
OP1-
OP2+
OP2-
Figure 4
Rear Panel Connections
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QMA401 User’s Manual
!
!
!
2.5 Pressure Safety
This product is used in conjunction with pressurized gases.
Pressurized gas is dangerous and should only handled by
DO NOT permit pressures greater than the specified safe working pressure to be applied
directly to the instrument.
INSTALLATION
WARNING:
Observe pressurized gas handling precautions.
WARNING:
suitably trained personnel.
For the calibration to remain valid the QMA401 must be
operated at the pressures specified on the calibration
certificate (typically a sample pressure of 1 barg (14.5
psig), with the outlet at atmospheric pressure). When using
the pressure control option, the cell pressure should never
exceed the maximum stipulated operating pressure of 1
2.6 Connection of Gas Supplies
Sample gas connections are made via the gas inlet and outlet 1/4" VCR ports located on
the rear panel of the instrument as shown in
with high quality stainless steel tubing.
NOTE: No external gas couplings are supplied with the analyzer but can
be ordered as an accessory by contacting Michell Instruments - see www.
michell.com for contact details.
barg (14.5 psig).
Figure 5
. All connections should be made
Michell Instruments 9
INSTALLATION
SAMPLE
OUTLET
9
QMA401 User’s Manual
NOTE: Items 1 to 6 are not
supplied with the unit, and
only illustrated to show a
typical gas coupling.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Figure 5
Typical Gas Connections
Making a connection to the 1/4" VCR fitting:
1. Clip the gasket and its retaining ring (8) over the end of the VCR adaptor
(5)
.
2. Locate the end of the VCR adaptor (5), fitted with the gasket (8) over the
VCR port (9) and screw the locking nut (7) finger tight to fix the adaptor
to the port.
3. Tighten the locking nut (7) one eighth of a turn.
Connection to a VCR to 1/4" Swagelok tube adaptor:
(available as an accessory)
1. Cut ¼” stainless steel tubing (1) to the correct length and, if necessary,
bend to shape to suit the location of the instrument. NOTE: To facilitate
ease of connection to the adaptor (5), at least 75mm (3 in) of the
tubing coming out of the adaptor must be straight.
2. Clean off any burrs or metal shavings adhering to the tubing.
3. Pass the tubing (1) through the locking nut (2), and the back ferrule (3).
4. Place the front ferrule (4) over the stainless steel tubing (1), bevelled end
towards the adaptor (5).
5. Insert the stainless steel tubing (1) as far as it will go into the adaptor (5)
and tighten up the locking nut (2) finger tight.
6. Hold the adaptor (5) flats with a spanner and tighten up the locking nut
(2). This action compresses the front ferrule (4) and back ferrule (3) onto
the tubing to form a gas tight seal. Caution: Do not overtighten as
this could cause the ferrules to crack and destroy the integrity
of the seal.
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QMA401 User’s Manual
The couplings can be checked for leaks by pressurizing the system (by connecting the
sample line to the process) and introducing a proprietary leak test solution into each of
the test ports (6) located on the locking nut (7). If a stream of bubbles is produced then
the gasket seal is leaking. If no bubbles are produced, the seal is gas tight.
If a leak is detected, tighten up the locking nut (7) a little more until the leak stops. If
the leak cannot be stopped by tightening the coupling, unscrew the locking nut (7), and
remove the coupling from the instrument.
Examine the ends of the coupling to check that the surfaces are not damaged and then
fit a new gasket (8), re-connect and re-test.
INSTALLATION
Michell Instruments 11
OPERATION
3 OPERATION
This section describes both the general operation of the analyzer and the method of
setting-up and changing the default parameters if this should become necessary.
Prior to operation, the instrument must have been connected to the correct electrical
power supply and the relevant analog and alarm outputs connected to external systems
as required and as described in Section 2. The instrument must also have been installed
as detailed in Section 2 and connected to a sample gas supply that is representative of
the monitored process.
3.1 General Operational Information
Operation of the QMA401 Trace Moisture Analyzer is completely automated and once
setup requires little operator intervention besides routine maintenance.
3.2 First Time Operation
QMA401 User’s Manual
When the instrument is switched on an Initializing overlay will be shown while the menu
system loads.
QMA401
Trace Moisture Analyzer
Initializing
Figure 6
After initialization is complete, the following display will appear.
Initializing Overlay
Figure 7
The heating period lasts about an hour, allowing time for the internal sampling system
to purged with the sample gas.
Display During Heating Period
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QMA401 User’s Manual
3.2.1 Regulating Sensor Pressure
The sensor pressure of the QMA401 must match the pressure stated on the calibration
certificate in order for the calibration to be valid.
To control the sensor pressure, a pressure regulator is required on the input of the
analyzer.
An integral pressure regulator (rated to 300barg input pressure) can be supplied as an
option at time of order. Otherwise, when choosing an external pressure regulator, select
one designed for use in high purity gas, with a stainless steel body and diaphragm to
minimize impact on sample response speed when measuring dry samples.
To set the input pressure:
1. Power the analyzer on and wait for the oven to heat up before proceeding.
OPERATION
2. Navigate to the Monitor Screen.
pressure seen by the cell.
3. Use the pressure regulator to adjust the
pressure shown on your calibration certificate.
NOTE: The pressure at the outlet should be atmospheric, unless
otherwise stated on the calibration certificate.
4. Familiarize yourself with the menu system of the analyzer, and setup the
parameters listed in the next section. Before a measurement is made,
ensure the correct carrier gas has been selected in the menu system.
Sensor pressure shows the actual
Sensor pressure to match the
Michell Instruments 13
OPERATION
3.2.2 Analyzer Setup
During the period when the oven is heating to set point, all functions except for HMI
adjustments are disabled until the oven has reached its operating temperature. During
this time, the carrier gas setting needs to be configured correctly for the gas being
measured. A number of presets are available for single gas types - if the intended
sample is a mixture of gas components then the gas conversion factor needs to be
calculated according to the instructions in Appendix B.
• Temperature and pressure units
• Pressure input
• Alarm configuration
• Analog output configuration
• Field calibration parameters
• Real time clock
QMA401 User’s Manual
Upon completion of oven heating the Main Screen will appear showing the default
parameters and units (example shown below).
Parameter
1 & 2
Figure 8
Typical Display
Using the inlet pressure regulator adjust the sample pressure until the reading on
the internal sensor pressure readout on the Monitor page matches the value on the
calibration certificate. The pressure at the outlet should be atmospheric unless otherwise
stated on the calibration certificate.
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QMA401 User’s Manual
3.3 Menu Structure
LARGE DISPLAY
PARAMETER 1
LARGE DISPLAY
PARAMETER 2
FULL SCREEN
GRAPH
SETTINGS
MEASUREMENT
OUTPUTS
HMI
RTC
SW COMMS
CAL HISTORY
ABOUT
FIRMWARE VER
SERIAL NUMBERS
MAIN SCREEN
WARNINGS
LOGGING
ALARMS
FIELD CAL
MONITOR
CARRIER GAS
DP CALCULATION
PURGE
PRESSURE INPUT
OUTPUT SELECT
PARAMETER
OUTPUT TYPE
LOW
HIGH
ERROR INDICATION
LANGUAGE
CHART PERIOD
BRIGHTNESS
SIGNAL SMOOTHING
DAY/MONTH/YEAR
HOUR/MINUTE
LOCK SCREEN TIME
TEMP UNIT
PRESSURE UNIT
FLOW UNIT
SAVE DATE
SAVE TIME
OPERATION
OVEN TEMP CNTL
ENCLOSURE TEMP
FLOW CONTROL
CELL PRESSURE
EXT PRESSURE
INSRUMENT DRIFT
BEAT FREQUENCY
PPMV OVER RANGE
LOG INTERVAL
INTERVAL UNITS
START/STOP
ALARM SELECTOR
CLEAR LATCH
PARAMETER
CALIBRATE
ANALOG O/P HOLD
CAL SOURCE
CAL METHOD
SETTLING CYCLES
CALIBRATION CYCLES
MOISTURE PPMV
BEAT HZ
DELTA HZ
SYS TEMP °C
FLOW RATE
SENSOR PRESSURE
EXT PRESSURE
OVEN TEMP SENS
OUTPUT 1
OUTPUT 2
OSCILLATOR COM
ETHERNET COM
DRYER SERVICE
MOIST GEN SERVICE
CAL ALARM
LATCH
LOW
HIGH
REF SOLENOID
SAMPLE SOLENOID
CAL. SOLENOID
DRYER % LEFT
MG DAYS LEFT
SCF
MGV
MODBUS ID
PROTOCOL
ADDRESS
Figure 9
Menu Structure
IP ADDRESS
SUBNET MASK
DEFAULT GW
Michell Instruments 15
OPERATION
3.4 Description of Measured Parameters
QMA401 User’s Manual
Moisture content ppm
Moisture content ppm
Moisture content mg/m
Water Vapor Pressure Pa Water vapor pressure in pascals
lbs/MMscf Pounds H
Frost Point
Oven Temperature Temperature of the internal oven
Flow Gas flow rate
Cell Pressure Pressure measured by the internal pressure transducer
Ext. Pressure
3.5 Main Screen
Parts per million of H2O by volume
V
Parts per million of H2O by weight
W
3
Milligrams H2O per cubic meter gas
O per million standard cubic feet
2
Frost point temperature of either ideal or natural gas depending
on options set on measurement screen
Pressure measured by an external pressure transducer (if
fitted)
Figure 10
Main Screen
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QMA401 User’s Manual
Parameter Description
Parameter 1 & 2
Graph
Alarm 1, 2 & 3
Alarm 4
Internal
Live reading of the selected display parameters.
Live graph reading of parameter 1.
The current state of the alarms.
Possible alarm states:
Low – Alarm type is set to Low, and has been triggered because the
selected parameter is below the threshold value.
OK – Alarm has not been triggered.
High – Alarm type is set to High, and has been triggered because
the selected parameter is above the threshold value.
Trip - Alarm has been triggered previously, the selected parameter
then fell back within acceptable limits.
Analyzer Status Alarm Relay
Activated for warning/fault
Selection set in Modbus Register 9 (see appendix D)
Internal warning alarms.
OPERATION
Warnings
Graph Delta
Instrument Mode
Oven
Temperature/Next
Mode
Possible alarm states:
OK, WARNING
Shown as ΔX (where X=the currently selected primary measurement
parameter) – Displays the difference between the minimum and
maximum graph measurements.
Displays the current instrument mode.
Possible instrument modes:
Measure – The QMA401 is performing a measurement cycle
Cal Internal – The QMA401 is performing a self-calibration using
the internal reference
Cal External – The QMA401 is performing a self-calibration using an
external reference
Heating – The oven is still heating to the set-point temperature
Displays the countdown to the next mode. If the QMA401 is in warm
up mode this parameter is replaced with a live oven temperature
reading.
Table 1 Main Screen Parameters
Michell Instruments 17
OPERATION
3.5.1 Large Display Mode
To access large display mode, press and hold on the measurement parameter to be
enlarged.
To return to the Main Screen, touch anywhere on the screen.
QMA401 User’s Manual
3.5.2 Full Screen Graph
Displays a full screen graph of Parameter 1.
To access the full screen graph, press the graph area of the Main Screen.
To return to the Main Screen, touch anywhere on the screen.
Figure 11
Large Display Mode
Figure 12
Full Screen Graph
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QMA401 User’s Manual
3.6 Main Screen Sub Menus
The following sub menus can be accessed from the Main Screen:
• Warnings
• Logging
• Alarms
• Field Cal
• Settings
• Monitor
3.6.1 Warning Screen
The buttons on this screen are used to toggle the internal alarms on/off. When an
individual alarm is disabled it will not trigger the internal alarm.
OPERATION
Figure 13
Displays the state of the internal alarm associated with each of the parameters above,
indicated by the following icons:
Value Description
Off
On
ON
Alarm disabled
Alarm enabled. No fault
Alarm enabled. Fault condition
Status Screen
Michell Instruments 19
OPERATION
3.6.2 Logging Screen
Controls logging to the SD card.
QMA401 User’s Manual
Figure 14
Parameter Description
Log Interval
Interval Units
Status
Filename
Frequency of recording data to the log file
Available Options: Cycles, Seconds
Displays status information related to logging, e.g. SD card full
Automatically generated filename based on current time and date
The SD card should be formatted as FAT32.
Frost Point
-66.9
Cell Pressure
3.0
SD card
slot
1 H20 mg/m3
2 WVP Pa
Alarms
3 H20 lbs/MMscf
4 Warnings
Logging Screen
10
°C
°C
barg
HIGH
LOW
TRIP
OK
0
-5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0m
DP °C
Inst. Mode
Next Measurement
0.00
Calibration
0m
WARNINGS CALIBRATE SETTINGS MONITORLOGGING ALARM
Figure 15
Front Panel
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