The information contained in this document is believed to be correct, but OMEGA accepts no liability for any errors it contains, and reserves
the right to alter specifications without notice.
Your TRCIII-A Dry Well Ice Point Reference Cell has been designed for ease of
use and reliability whenever you require a temperature probe reference at
freezing point. It is important that you read this manual completely and follow
all safety precautions before operating this instrument.
1.1 Precautions
• Follow all safety precautions and operating instructions outlined in this
manual.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not operate in flammable or explosive environments.
• This unit is intended for indoor use only. Keep away from environments that
contain moisture and humidity.
• Never operate with a power cord other than the one provided with your unit.
• Remove main power cord before attempting any maintenance or fuse
replacement.
Introduction
1
• Do not connect and or operate this unit to a non-grounded, non-polarized
outlet or power source.
• Do not open the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Opening the
unit will void your warranty.
• Line voltage should never exceed ±10% the power supply rating.
• This unit is designed for “continuous use”.
• If this unit is not used as specified by the instructions in this manual the
protection provided by this equipment may be impaired.
1.2 Safety Warnings and IEC Symbols
This device is marked with international safety and hazard symbols in
accordance with IEC 1010. It is important to read and follow all precautions and
instructions in this manual before operating or commissioning this device as it
contains important information relating to safety and EMC. Failure to follow all
safety precautions may result in injury and or damage to your calibrator. Use of
this device in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair protection
provided within the unit.
It is the policy of OmegaTM to comply with all world-wide safety and EMI/EMC
regulations that apply. Omega is constantly pursuing certification of its
products to the European New Approach Directives.
1.4 General Description
The TRCIII-A Dry Well Ice Point Reference Cell is a highly precise instrument
providing a temperature reference at precisely 32°F (0°C). The unit provides six
3
3
⁄4” deep wells, 5⁄32” in diameter. Well temperature is posted on a digital display.
And is available in domestic (TRCIII-A) and European models (TRCIII-A-230).
The most common application of the ice point cell is for making a “cold
junction” interface between thermocouples and temperature measurement
instrumentation.
A list of Omega reference probes and thermometers to be used with the
TRCIII-A appears in the “Accessories” section (Section 5).
The TRCIII-A can also be used for temperature testing with a variety of
temperature transducers: thermocouple reference junctions, RTD’s,
thermistors, etc.
1-2
Section 2 Installation
2.1 Unpacking
Remove the packing list and verify that you have received all your equipment.
If you have any questions about the shipment, please call our Customer Service
Department at
1-800-622-2378 or 203-359-1660. We can also be reached on the Internet @
www.omega.com, e-mail: info@omega.com
When you receive the shipment, inspect the container and equipment for any
signs of damage. Note any evidence of rough handling in transit. Immediately
report any damage to the shipping agent.
NOTE:
The carrier will not honor any damage claims unless all shipping material is saved for
inspection. After examining and removing contents, save packing material and carton in
the event reshipment is necessary.
Installation
2
The following items are supplied in the box:
• TRCIII-A Dry Well Ice Point Reference Cell
• User’s Manual
• Bottle of mineral oil
• Power cord
The following items are supplied in the box:
Item: Omega Part #:
TRCIII-A Dry Well Ice Point Ref. Cell TRCIII-A/TRCIII-A-230
Users Manual M-3390
Calibration Certificate ----
Bottle of Mineral Oil DIP-0112
Power Cord 200-0028 (Domestic), 200-0107 (European)
2-1
2
Installation
2.2 Mounting
Mount the unit on a bench, table top or shelf in a tilt position and operate at least
2” from any air obstructions to the fan, front panel, rear panel, and top of the
unit (See Figure 4).
2.3 Ambient Temperature
The TRCIII-A can maintain “freezing point” in ambient temperatures between
35.6 and 90°F (2 to 32.2°C). Never place the ice point cell in ambient
temperatures below freezing, as it will damage the temperature control
mechanism inside of the unit. The ice point cell is not capable of maintaining its
“freezing point” temperature in ambient temperatures exceeding 90°F (32.2°C).
2.4 Power Connection
Standard (115 Vac~, 60 Hz models)
The TRCIII-A comes with a standard North American 3-prong AC power cord.
Do not use any other power cord other than the one provided. This cord
provides the proper grounding and has been safety tested by the proper
safety agencies.
Domestic (230 Vac~, 50 Hz models)
On 230 VAC~, 50Hz models a European style power cord with the proper color
code and approvals is provided with stripped wire ends for connection to the
proper connector used in your country or local area, this connector is not
provided.
WARNING:
• Never defeat the power cord’s grounding lug.
• Always use an outlet equipped with a grounding socket.
• Line voltage should never exceed ±10% the power supply rating.
CAUTION:
Electrical connections and wiring should be performed only by suitably trained personnel.
2-2
Section 3 Operation
3.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Operation
3
POWER
SWITCH
TEMPERATURE
DISPLAY
COOL CYCLE
LAMP
VENTS
TM
PROBE WELLS
Figure 2. Front Panel
Power Switch:
The unit is turned on and off using the rocker switch. The switch is illuminated
when the power is on.
Temperature Display:
The temperature display shows the temperature of the probe well. This display
is for reference only. Fluctuations in the display temperature may occur from
time to time. Despite these occasional fluctuations, the probe well temperature is
kept at freezing within the published accuracy and stability specifications.
Cool Cycle Lamp:
The cool cycle lamp is illuminated whenever the ice point reference cell is in its
refrigeration mode. After the initial cool-down phase, the lamp will illuminate
periodically. The period may vary from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. This is required
to maintain the ice point cell precisely at “freezing point.”
Probe Wells:
5
Six
⁄32” I.D. 3 3⁄4” deep wells are provided on the front panel which accept 1⁄8”
diameter probes. The wells are chassis grounded to minimize electrical noise
pickup.
3-1
3
Operation
3.2 Rear Panel
AC POWER INPUT
& FUSE RECEPTICAL
www.omega.com
e-mail: info@omega.com
MODEL NO: TRCIII-A 220V
SERIAL NO:
FAN AIR OUTLET
CAUTION: FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST
THE RISK OF FIRE REPLACE WITH ONLY THE SAME
TYPE, RATING AND SIZE OF FUSE. DISCONNECT
POWER FROM SOURCE BEFORE CHANGING FUSE.
INSTALLATION CATEGORY II
Figure 3. Rear Panel
230 VAC 50/60 Hz, 105W
FUSE: 250V F0.63A (2 EA)
3.3 Basic Operation
1. Add 3 to 4 drops of mineral oil or other heat transfer fluid to each of the 6
probe wells. The oil improves the thermal interface between the probes and
the probe well.
2. Be sure to have the unit in a tilt position during operation so that the mineral
oil does not drip out of the unit. (See Figure 4).
3. Place the ice point reference cell on a surface, leaving at least 2” space around
the unit. Never obstruct any of the air vents on the unit. Be sure that the
environment is between 35.6 to 90 °F (2 to 32.2 °C) and no higher than 90%
RH, non-condensing.
4. Plug in the unit’s power cord, being sure to use a socket with a ground lug.
Insert reference probes into the probe wells, being sure that the probe tips are
making contact with the bottom of the wells. Allow 30 minutes for the
temperature to stabilize at “freezing point.”
5. The probe wells are electrically connected to “earth ground” the the 3-wire
power cord. Never defeat the grounding lug. Always use an outlet equipped
with a grounding socket.
3-2
Operation
W
3
ALL
2" MINIMUM
ACCESS TO MICRO-SWITCH
ADJUSTMENT. SEE SECTION 7.
WORK BENCH
Figure 4. Tilt positioning for operation (side view)
NOTE: NOTE:
The greater the number of probes inserted into the ice point cell the greater the thermal
load on the TRCIII-A. While the unit is designed to maintain “freezing point” for 6 probes,
performance could be compromised at elevated ambient temperatures.
3.4 Applications
An ice point reference cell is most commonly used in temperature measurement
instrumentation calibrations. The function of the ice point reference itself in such
a system is to provide a highly effective cold junction between a
thermocouple and a DMM. The cold junction assures that there is no EMF
generated at the junction between thermocouple leads and the DMM input.
In practice, this is achieved by connecting thermocouple leads to copper leads
via TRP probes which have been inserted into the ice point reference cell.
Figure 5 shows the ice point in as it is used in the field. Calibration of the system
consists of comparing the temperature of the standard probe, which is measured
in millivolts by the 5
instrument. Note that in Figure 5, J type thermocouples were chosen for
illustration.
1
⁄2 digit DMM, to the temperature shown on the temperature
It is more desirable to connect the DMM to the probe that it will normally be
used with during operation.
3-3
3
Operation
The “System Calibration” procedure would be as follows:
1. The temperature instrument is first electronically calibrated to its
specifications following the procedure in the Operator’s Manual.
2. The temperature probe is then compared to the “Standard” probe at various
temperature points requested.
3. A Certificate of Calibration is issued with a listing of the deviations from these
points to the “Standard.”
ICE POINT REF. CELL
BLOCK
CALIBRATOR
500°F
REFERENCE
PROBE
"STANDARD"
PROBE
UNDER TEST
Figure 5. Calibration of an Instrument Using an Ice Point
Fe+
Co–
CONNECTOR
Fe+
Co–
Fe+
Co–
Reference and a Block Calibrator
TRP
PROBES
Cu–Cu–
Cu+
CONNECTOR
Cu+
Fe+
Co–
5-1/2 DIGIT
DMM
14.110 mV
500°F
INSTRUMENT
UNDER TEST
3-4
Operation
3
Figure 6 shows another common setup involving an ice point reference cell.
Here, a millivolt source is used to simulate a thermocouple’s output. The
copper lead wires are then interfaced to the iron-constantan lead wires via the
TRP probes. The TRP probes are, in effect, a cold junction since they are inside
of the ice point reference cell. The temperature measurement instrument can
now be calibrated.
ICE POINT REF. CELL
TRP
PROBES
MILLIVOLT
SOURCE
14.110mV
Cu–
Cu+
CONNECTOR
Cu–
Cu+
Fe+Fe+
CONNECTOR
Co–
Co–
500°F
INSTRUMENT
UNDER TEST
Figure 6. Calibration of an Instrument Using an
Ice Point Reference and a Millivolt Source
3-5
4
Maintenance
Section 4 Maintenance
4.1 Cleaning
CAUTION:
Remove all electrical connections and power before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning
4.1.1 Main Body
Only a damp soft rag with a mild cleaning solution should be used when
cleaning the main body of this unit.
4.1.2 Fan
The TRCIII-A uses a fan for ventilation, It is mounted to the inside of the back
panel. The fan draws air into the unit. Use a soft bristle brush or a vacuum to
clean the fan inlet. In normal environments clean the fan inlet once a year. In
dusty environments clean the fan inlet twice a year.
4.2 Fuse replacement
CAUTION:
For continued protection against the risk of fire replace with only the same size, type and
rating fuse indicated here and on the rear panel of your unit.
User Replaceable Fuses (Externally Mounted):
For model TRCIII-A use 1 ea. 250 VAC~, T1.5A (Time-Lag, 1.5 Amp)
UL/CSA Approved (.25” dia. x 1.25” long)
For model TRCIII-A-230 use 2 ea. 250 VAC~, T.63A (Time-Lag, 0.63 Amp)
VDE Approved (5 mm dia. x 20 mm long)
Non-User Replaceable Fuses(Internally Mounted):
For model TRCIII-A use 2 ea. 250 VAC~, T1A (Time-Lag, 1 Amp)
UL/CSA Approved (.25” dia. x 1.25” long)
For model TRCIII-A-230 use 2 ea. 250 VAC~, T500mA (Time-Lag, 0.63 Amp)
VDE Approved (5 mm dia. x 20 mm long)
Before replacing fuse(s) disconnect the power from your unit. In order to replace
the fuses, remove the power cord and pry open the power module door with
a screwdriver. Remove the red block, using the screwdriver, again. Note, this
fuseblock has an orientation. In the TRCIII-A (115 VAC) only one fuse is used,
interrupting the “hot” line. The neutral line is bridged with a jumper. In the
TRCIII-A-230V. 2 fuses are used, interrupting the “hot” and “neutral” lines.
4-1
Section 5 Accessories
The following is a list of accessories that are available from Omega for the
TRCIII-A. Before buying a reference probe, determine which type of test probe
you are using (i.e. K, J, E, etc.). The precision mercury probe is a graduated
thermometer. It may be ordered with or without an N.I.S.T. certification sheet.
TRP-B B-type thermocouple probe (Pt30%-Rh vs. Pt6%-Rh)
Accessories
5
TRP-G G-type thermocouple probe (W vs. W-Re26%)
TRP-C C-type thermocouple probe (W-Re5% vs. W-Re26%)
TRP-D D-type thermocouple probe (W-Re3% vs. W-Re56%)
TRP-PT Precision mercury probe
TRP-PT-NIST Precision mercury probe with N.I.S.T. certificate
5-1
6
Troubleshooting Guide
Section 6 Troubleshooting Guide
SYMPTOM: DIAGNOSIS / CORRECTIVE ACTION:
Unit does not power up. Is the unit plugged in?
One or both fuses may have been blown.
Refer to the “Maintenance” section (Section 4) for directions on
replacement.
Unit does not maintain • The TRCIII-A may be out of calibration.
temperature at freezing point Refer to “Microswitch Adjustment
(32°F/0°C). Procedure” (Section 7)
Was the unit exposed to sub • If so, the thermostat switch may have
-freezing temperatures during been damaged and will require
storage or operation? service. Send your unit back to
Omega for service.
6-1
Micro-Switch Adjustment Procedure
Section 7 Micro-Switch Adjustment Procedure.
The TRCIII-A. Ice Point Reference Cell has been designed for years of
continuous, trouble-free operation. No periodic maintenance is required.
However, in case the unit fails to maintain a reading of 32°F/0°C. It indicates
that the micro-switch may need adjustment.
Before attempting to adjust the micro-switch, The Ice point reference cell must
be shut off for a period of at least 5 hours, or until the cell temperature reaches
ambient temperature.
Then, carefully proceed as follows:
• Locate the adjustment access hole. It is located on the left side of the unit,
adjacent to the handle pivot. - see figure 4
7
• The adjustment screw can be reached without removing the black plug.
Use a flat blade screw driver with a shaft length of at least 2
• Plug the unit to the appropriate power source. (115 or 230 Vac).
• Turn the unit ON.
• Verify the “Cool Cycle Lamp” in the front panel, is ON or OFF.
If the Lamp is ON make the following adjustments:
• Slowly, turn screw clockwise, until the “Cool Cycle Lamp” turns OFF.
• Slowly, turn screw counterclockwise, until the lamp comes ON. And
• Slowly, continue to make an additional 6 complete turns.
• Adjustment is complete.
CAUTION:
If the “Cool Cycle Lamp” remains lit during this adjustment procedure, the Ice Point
Reference Cell MUST BE returned to OMEGA for repair.
3
⁄4”
If the Lamp is OFF make the following adjustments:
• Slowly, turn screw counterclockwise, until the “Cool Cycle Lamp” turns ON.
And,
• Slowly, continue to make an additional 6 complete turns.
• Adjustment is complete.
If none of the above procedures correct the condition, contact the Omega
Customer Service Department at 1-800-TC-OMEGA (1-800-826-6342) for help
and assistance on returning your TRCIII-A. Ice Point Reference Cell.
7-1
8
Specifications
Section 8 Specifications.
Reference Wells: Six
Accepts
5
⁄32” I.D. 3 3⁄4” deep wells.
1
⁄8” dia. probes.
Ambient Environmental Conditions:Temperature:2 to 32.2°C (35.6 to 90°F)
Humidity:Up to 90% RH, non-condensing
Well Accuracy (@72°F ambient temp.): ±0.1°C (±0.18°F), or better.
Display Resolution: ±0.1°C (±.1°F), for reference only
Well Stability: ±0.03°C (±0.05°F)
for constant ambient temp.
Cool-Down Time:30 min. required for stabilization. Cooled from ambient (20°C/68°F)
to (0°C/32°F).
Dimensions:203 MM H, 419 MM W, 304 MM D 8” H, 16.5” W, 12” D
Weight: 12.7 Kg. (28 lbs.)
*Line voltage should never exceed ±10% the power supply rating.
8-1
Glossary of Terms Used in This Manual
Section 9 Glossary of Terms Used in This Manual
C.S.A. – Canadian Standards Association
D.M.M. – digital multi-meter
E.M.C. – electromagnetic compatibility
E.M.F. – electromotive force (voltage)
I.E.C. – International Electrotechnical Commission
N.I.S.T. – National Institute of Standards and Technology
R.T.D. – resistive temperature detector
U.L. – Underwriter’s Laboratory
V.D.E. – Verband Deutscher Electrotechniker (Germany)
9
9-1
10
The OmegaTM Family of Dry Block Probe Calibrators
Section 10. The OmegaTM Family of Dry Block Probe Calibrators
Below is a selection guide of Omega’s line of dry block probe calibrators. This family of rugged,
portable, highly accurate calibrators covers a wide range of temperatures, well sizes and features
making them perfect for temperature probe testing and calibration.
Model: CL1000 Miniature Dry Block Probe Calibrator
Temperature Range: ambient +10 to 260°C (ambient +20 to 500°F)
Accuracy: ±1.5°C
Control Stability: --- Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 275W
Features: Low cost, Rugged benchtop design, available in 4 configurations
Model: CL900A hot point® Dry Block Probe Calibrator
Temperature Range: ambient +22 to 482°C (ambient +40 to 900°F)
Accuracy: ±0.8°C (±1.5°F) w/6” inserts / ±1.7°C (±3.0°F) w/4” inserts
Control Stability: ±0.2°C (±0.3°F) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 1217W
Features: Removable insert, Rugged benchtop design, RS-232 interface
Model: CL950A/CL950A-M hot point® Dry Block Probe Calibrator
Temperature Range: ambient +22 to 482°C (ambient +40 to 900°F)
Accuracy: ±0.8°C (±1.5°F) w/6” inserts / ±1.7°C (±3.0°F) w/4” inserts
Control Stability: ±0.2°C (±0.3°F) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 1217W
Features: Probe well accepts 4 probe sizes, Rugged benchtop design, RS-232 interface
Model: TRClllA ice point® Calibration Reference Chamber
Temperature Range: Fixed @ 0°C (32 °F)
Accuracy: ±0.1°C (±0.18°F)
Control Stability: ±0.03°C Power: 115 or 230V, 50/60 Hz, 104W
Features: Digital display, Rugged portable/benchtop design
Complete product specifications and features for these and additional calibrators can found
and downloaded from our web site. Visit us at www.omega.com
9-2
WARRANTY/DISCLAIMER
OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC. warrants this unit to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period
of 13 months from date of purchase. OMEGA’s WARRANTY adds an additional one (1) month grace period to
the normal one (1) year product warranty to cover handling and shipping time. This ensures that OMEGA’s
customers receive maximum coverage on each product.
If the unit malfunctions, it must be returned to the factory for evaluation. OMEGA’s Customer Service
Department will issue an Authorized Return (AR) number immediately upon phone or written request.
Upon examination by OMEGA, if the unit is found to be defective, it will be repaired or replaced at
no charge. OMEGA’s WARRANTY does not apply to defects resulting from any action of the purchaser, including but not limited to mishandling, improper interfacing, operation outside of design limits,
improper repair, or unauthorized modification. This WARRANTY is VOID if the unit shows evidence of
having been tampered with or shows evidence of having been damaged as a result of excessive corrosion;
or current, heat, moisture or vibration; improper specification; misapplication; misuse or other operating
conditions outside of OMEGA’s control. Components in which wear is not warranted, include but are not
limited to contact points, fuses, and triacs.
OMEGA is pleased to offer suggestions on the use of its various products. However,
OMEGA neither assumes responsibility for any omissions or errors nor assumes liability for
any damages that result from the use of its products in accordance with information provided
by OMEGA, either verbal or written. OMEGA warrants only that the parts manufactured by the
company will be as specified and free of defects. OMEGA MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES OR
REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, EXCEPT THAT OF
TITLE, AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED. LIMITATION OF
LIABILITY: The remedies of purchaser set forth herein are exclusive, and the total liability of
OMEGA with respect to this order, whether based on contract, warranty, negligence,
indemnification, strict liability or otherwise, shall not exceed the purchase price of the
component upon which liability is based. In no event shall OMEGA be liable for
consequential, incidental or special damages.
CONDITIONS: Equipment sold by OMEGA is not intended to be used, nor shall it be used: (1) as a “Basic
Component” under 10 CFR 21 (NRC), used in or with any nuclear installation or activity; or (2) in medical applications or used on humans. Should any Product(s) be used in or with any nuclear installation or activity,
medical application, used on humans, or misused in any way, OMEGA assumes no responsibility as set forth
in our basic WARRANTY/DISCLAIMER language, and, additionally, purchaser will indemnify OMEGA and hold
OMEGA harmless from any liability or damage whatsoever arising out of the use of the Product(s) in such a
manner.
RETURN REQUESTS/INQUIRIES
Direct all warranty and repair requests/inquiries to the OMEGA Customer Service Department. BEFORE RETURNING ANY PRODUCT(S) TO OMEGA, PURCHASER MUST OBTAIN AN AUTHORIZED RETURN (AR) NUMBER FROM OMEGA’S CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT (IN ORDER TO AVOID PROCESSING DELAYS). The
assigned AR number should then be marked on the outside of the return package and on any correspondence.
The purchaser is responsible for shipping charges, freight, insurance and proper packaging to prevent breakage in transit.
FOR WARRANTY RETURNS, please have the
following information available BEFORE contacting
OMEGA:
1. Purchase Order number under which the product
was PURCHASED,
2. Model and serial number of the product under
warranty, and
3. Repair instructions and/or specific problems
relative to the product.
OMEGA’s policy is to make running changes, not model changes, whenever an improvement is possible. This affords our
customers the latest in technology and engineering.
reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable form, in whole or in part, without the prior
written consent of OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC.
FOR NON-WARRANTY REPAIRS, consult
OMEGA for current repair charges. Have
the following information available BEFORE
contacting OMEGA:
1. Purchase Order number to cover the COST
of the repair,
2. Model and serial number of the product, and
3. Repair instructions and/or specific problems
relative to the product.