1
Hydromette BL Compact S
HYDROMETTE BL
COMPACT S
Operating Instruction
Version 2.0
PCE Americas Inc.
711 Commerce Way
Suite 8
Jupiter
FL-33458
USA
From outside US: +1
Tel: (561) 320-9162
Fax: (561) 320-9176
info@pce-americas.com
www.pce-instruments.com/us
www.industrial-needs.com
PCE Instruments UK Ltd.
Units 12/13
Southpoint Business Park
Ensign way
Hampshire / Southampton
United Kingdom, SO31 4RF
From outside UK: +44
Tel: (0) 2380 98703 0
Fax: (0) 2380 98703 9
info@industrial-needs.com
www.pce-instruments.com/english
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Hydromette BL Compact S
Contents
0.1 Conformity Declaration............................................................ 4
0.2 Publication Declaration ........................................................... 5
0.3 WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC Electrical and Electronic
Equipment Act .......................................................................... 5
0.4 Safety Instructions ................................................................... 6
1 Introduction ................................................................................... 8
1.1 Description ................................................................................ 8
1.2 Instrument Design and Key Assignments ............................ 9
1.3 Display Icons........................................................................... 10
2 Basic Functions ......................................................................... 11
2.1 Switching the Instrument On ................................................ 11
2.2 Display in Measuring Mode .................................................. 12
2.3 Settings Menus....................................................................... 12
2.3.1 Measuring Menu (main menu)................................... 13
2.3.2 Setting the Wood Type: .............................................. 16
2.3.3 Maximum Value ........................................................... 17
2.3.4 Minimum Value ............................................................ 18
2.4 Additional Functions .............................................................. 19
2.4.1 Automatic Shut-down .................................................. 19
2.4.2 Battery Monitoring........................................................ 19
2.4.3 Electrode Replacement .............................................. 19
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Hydromette BL Compact S
3 Specifications ............................................................................. 20
3.1 Technical Specifications ....................................................... 20
3.2 Intolerable Ambient Conditions:........................................... 20
3.3 Measuring Range................................................................... 21
4 Notes on Use............................................................................... 21
4.1 General Notes......................................................................... 21
4.1.1 Definition: Wood moisture (u) .................................... 21
4.1.2 Definition: Water content (w)...................................... 22
4.1.3 Calorific Value .............................................................. 22
4.1.4 Conversion Table......................................................... 22
4.2 Notes on Measuring Wood Moisture .................................. 23
5 Annex ............................................................................................ 24
5.1 Setting the Type ..................................................................... 24
5.2 Wood Types Table for the Compact S ............................... 25
5.3 Comparison Graph of Humidity - Material Moisture
Content .................................................................................... 26
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact
0.1 Conformity Declaration
For conformity to electromagnetic compatibility: EC Directive
89/33/EEC in the version 93/31/EEC for the measuring instrument:
GANN HYDROMETTE BL COMPACT S
We hereby declare that the design and model of the above-named
measuring instrument conforms to the above-named directive in the
design introduced to the market by us. This declaration is invalid if
unauthorised modifications are made to the instrument.
The following standards were consulted for electromagnetic
compatibility purposes:
Interference immunity: EN 61326-1: 2006-05;
EN 61326-1: 2006-10; ESD.
EN 61000-4-2: 1995 +A1:1998+A2:2001
Electromagnetic
fields: EN 61000-4-3: 2006-12
Emitted interference: EN 61326-1: 2006 – 05;
EN 61326 -1: 2006-10
Electromagnetic
interference field strength: 30 MHz – 16 GHz
EN 55011: 1998 + A1: 1999 + A2: 2002
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
0.2 Publication Declaration
This publication replaces all previous versions. It may not be
reproduced or electronically processed, duplicated or distributed in
any way without the written permission of Gann Mess- u.
Regeltechnik GmbH. Subject to technical and documentary
change. All rights reserved. This document was compiled with the
necessary care. Gann Mess- u. Regeltechnik GmbH accepts no
liability whatsoever for errors or omissions.
GANN Mess- u. Regeltechnik GmbH, Gerlingen, 07 Nov. 2014
0.3 WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC Electrical and
Electronic Equipment Act
The packaging, battery and instrument must be disposed of at a
recycling centre in accordance with legal regulations.
The instrument was manufactured after 01.10.2009
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
0.4 Safety Instructions
This measuring instrument conforms to the EN 61326-1: 2006-05
standard and fulfils the requirements of applicable European and
national directives. Appropriate declarations and documentation are
located with the manufacturer. The user must read these operating
instructions in order to guarantee problem-free instrument
operation and operational safety. The measuring instrument may
only be operated under the specified climatic conditions. These
conditions can be found in Section 3.1 "Specifications". In addition,
this measuring instrument may only be operated under the
conditions and for the purpose it was designed for. The operational
safety and functionality are no longer guaranteed if the instrument
is modified or converted. Gann Mess- u. Regeltechnik GmbH
assumes no liability for any ensuing damage. All risks are assumed
solely by the user.
The instrument may not be stored or operated in
aggressive atmospheres or atmospheres containing
solvents!
Static electricity - At low wood humidities, below approx.
12% and low air humidity (especially in the winter
months), high-voltage static electricity charges may build
up, favoured by external influences (friction during
material transport, high environmental insulation value),
which may not only lead to strong fluctuations in the
measured data or negative values, but also to the
destruction of electrical components in the instrument.
Even the instrument operator may — inadvertently —
contribute to the build up of a static charge by the clothing
worn. A considerable improvement can be achieved if the
operator and the instrument are absolutely still during
measuring, as well as by earthing (contact with conducting
metal, water or heating pipes, etc.).
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
Frozen wood cannot be measured.
The notes and tables on allowable or common moisture
conditions in practice and general definitions given in
these instructions were taken from the technical literature.
The manufacturer therefore cannot accept any liability for
correctness. The conclusions drawn from the
measurement results depend on each user's individual
requirements and practical, professional empiricism.
Because the measuring instrument adheres to the stricter
emitted interference (EMC) Class B, it may be operated in
residential and commercial environments.
The measuring instrument and any accessories used may
only be used for the purpose intended, as described in
these instructions. The instrument and accessories should
be kept away from children!
Do not measure wood or other materials on conductive
surfaces, such as metal, wet surfaces, etc.
Gann Mess- u. Regeltechnik GmbH accept no liability for damage
caused by non-compliance with the operating instructions or by
violation of a duty to care during transport, storage or operation of
the instrument, even if this duty to care is not specifically discussed
in the operating instructions.
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
CAUTION: There is a danger of injury from the electrode
pins if the measuring instrument is carried without its protective
cover or other protective packaging. There is also a danger of injury
due to careless handling of the electrode pins during the measuring
procedure.
1 Introduction
1.1 Description
The Hydromette BL Compact S is an electronic moisture meter for
various types of wood and has a 3-line LCD display. The electrode
pins are pressed into the respective medium and allow recording of
the moisture content of wood combustibles.
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
1.2 Instrument Design and Key Assignments
Electrode pins
Display
Up key
Measure key
On/Off key
Down key
Introduction
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Hydromette BL Compact S
1.3 Display Icons
Main menu icons
Additional icons
Temperature in °C
Wood type icon
Measured value on hold;
ready to measure
Material moisture in %
Material moisture in %
Min./Max. display
Drained battery icon
Temperature in °C
Wood type icon
Type ID
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2 Basic Functions
2.1 Switching the Instrument On
The instrument is switched on by pressing the "On" key .
Last measured value in %
"Hold" icon
Last measured instrument
temperature in° C
Wood type symbol and code
A new measurement can be started in this menu by pressing
measuring key "M". Also see Section 2.2 "Measuring mode".
Figure 2-1 Main menu
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2.2 Display in Measuring Mode
Displayed measurement value in %
of water content or in weight % /
absolutely dry
"Hold" icon signals measurement
readiness
Instrument temperature in° C
Wood type symbol and code
A measuring process is started by pressing the "M" key.
2.3 Settings Menus
By repeatedly pressing the "Up" and "Down" keys the following
menus can be selected in sequence (sequence using the "Down"
key; the menus are accessed in the opposite direction using the
"Up" key):
Figure 2-2 Measuring mode
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
1. Measuring menu (main menu): The measuring process
can be performed from here.
2. Type selection: The material type can be selected here.
3. Maximum value: The largest measured value is
displayed.
4. Minimum value: The smallest measured value is
displayed.
2.3.1 Measuring Menu (main menu)
The last measured value is shown together with the comment
"Hold". The instrument temperature and the current type are also
shown on the display.
A new measurement can be started in this menu by pressing the
"M" key.
The "Hold" icon disappears from the display during the
measurement and the % sign flashes. If the measured value
remains stable, the % sign stays on and the measured value is
stored after releasing the "M" key. The "Hold" icon is displayed
again.
If the new measured value is greater or smaller than the previous
maximum or minimum, "Max" or "Min" flash on the display. Press
the "M" key briefly to store the new value as the new minimum or
maximum. A new measurement can be started without altering the
previous minimum or maximum by pressing "M" longer if the value
is not to be stored.
If a measurement is outside of the measuring range (< 10%, >
50%) a flashing value, which is additionally marked by "LO" or "HI",
warns of this.
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Hydromette BL Compact S
Min. value
flashes
Max. value
flashes
Type flashes
Illustrated quick-start guide
Main menu
Type selection
menu
Max. value reset
menu
Min. value reset
menu
M
M
<1 s
M
<1 s
M
<1 s
M
Press the measuring key for any
length of time
On/Off key: Instrument deactivates
after 30 sec. of inactivity
M
<1 s
M
>2 s
Hold the measuring key down
for more than 2 seconds
Press the measuring key
briefly
Key
Measurement
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Hydromette BL Compact S
Key
Wood type 3
M
M
>2 s
M
>2 s
M
<1 s
Main menu
Value deleted
Value deleted
Main menu
Main menu
M
<1 s
M
<1 s
Software Version:
Mess- u. Regeltechnik
GmbH
M
Release the measuring key
Press the Up or Down key
Up or Down for menu selection
Illustrated quick-start guide
<1 s
Wood type 3
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2.3.2 Setting the Wood Type:
The specified wood ID is displayed
with the icon for wood moisture.
Wood type symbol and ID
Press the "M" key (measure key) briefly to change the type.
The type ID flashes and can be set using the "Up" and "Down"
keys. Press the "M" key again briefly to save the change.
The type table can be found in the Annex.
Figure 2-3 Wood type menu
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2.3.3 Maximum Value
The largest measured moisture
value of a series is displayed
together with the display icon
"Max."
Wood type symbol and ID
To delete a maximum value, the displayed value must be selected
by briefly pressing the "M" key (measure key):
The value and the % sign are now flashing and the value can be
deleted by pressing the "M" key longer. Once the value has been
deleted, only the % sign flashes. By briefly pressing the "M" key
once again the deletion is confirmed and the % sign disappears.
The instrument returns to standby mode.
A new measurement can then be carried out using the "M" key.
Figure 2-4 Maximum value
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2.3.4 Minimum Value
The smallest measured moisture
value of a series is displayed
together with the display icon "Min"
Wood type symbol and code
To delete a minimum value, the displayed value must be selected
by briefly pressing the "M" key (measure key):
The value and the % sign are now flashing and the value can be
deleted by pressing the "M" key longer. Once the value has been
deleted, only the % sign flashes. By briefly pressing the "M" key
once again, the deletion is confirmed and the % sign disappears.
The instrument returns to standby mode.
A new measurement can then be carried out using the "M" key.
Figure 2-5 Minimum value
Basic Functions
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Hydromette BL Compact S
2.4 Additional Functions
2.4.1 Automatic Shut-down
If no key is pressed for approx. 30 seconds the instrument switches
off automatically. The current data are retained and are displayed
again after switching on.
2.4.2 Battery Monitoring
If the battery icon appears in the display, the battery is empty
and must be replaced.
A list of suitable battery types can be found in the "Specifications"
section.
2.4.3 Electrode Replacement
The knurled screws must be loosened to replace the electrodes.
The tips can then be easily replaced.
Care must be taken that the knurled screws are always sufficiently
tightened to prevent measuring errors and the area between the
tips is kept clean.
Specifications
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Hydromette BL Compact S
3 Specifications
3.1 Technical Specifications
Display: 3-line display
Display resolution: 0.1%
Reaction time: < 2 s
Storage conditions: + 5° to + 40° C
- 10° to + 60° C (short-term)
Operating conditions: 0° to + 50° C
- 10° to + 60° C (short-term)
Power supply: 9 V battery
Usable types: Type 6LR61 or Type 6F22
Dimensions: 200 x 50 x 30 (L x B x H) mm
Weight: approx. 170 g
3.2 Intolerable Ambient Conditions:
Condensation, continuously high humidity (> 85%) and wet
Continuous dust exposure and flammable gases, vapours or
solvents
Continuously high ambient temperatures (> + 50° C)
Continuously low ambient temperatures (< 0° C)
Notes on Use
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Hydromette BL Compact S
3.3 Measuring Range
Wood moisture:
10% to 50% (in weight percent / absolutely dry)
10% to 25% (in percent of water content)
2-stage wood type correction
4 Notes on Use
4.1 General Notes
The Hydromette BL Compact S measures wood moisture by
means of resistance measurement. Entering the appropriate code
allows evaluation by weight percentage and percent of water
content.
4.1.1 Definition: Wood moisture (u)
The term “wood mois ture” refers to the wood’s water content.
Normally, wood moisture (according to DIN 52183) is expressed as
a percentage related to absolute dry content (or dry weight or
percentage of atro). When wood moisture is being determined by
means of a Darr test, the testing sample must be dried at
approximately 103°C to the equilibrium constant. Wood moisture
(u) is calculated by the following formula:
Notes on Use
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Hydromette BL Compact S
4.1.2 Definition: Water content (w)
This term is partially used for indicating the moisture of wood
combustibles and biomasses. It expresses the water mass in % (w)
in relation to the total mass, the so-called “wet weight”. Water
content (w) is calculated by the following formula:
4.1.3 Calorific Value
To attain a good heating value or calorific value with the lowest
possible emissions, the aim should be wood moisture (u) of under
20% for single ovens without automatic feed. This corresponds to a
water content (w) of less than 17%.
After a year of open-air storage, wood moisture (u) values of about
40% to 50% are attained, and after two years of storage about 20%
to 30%. This depends on the initial moisture, the type of wood and
the storage conditions.
4.1.4 Conversion Table
Conversion of wood moisture (u) to water content (w)
Wood moisture (u) %
100
50
30
25
20
15
10
Water content (w) %
50
33
23
20
17
13
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Notes on Use
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Hydromette BL Compact S
4.2 Notes on Measuring Wood Moisture
Direction of grain
Figure 4-1 Measuring perpendicular to the grain
For the best-quality measurement results, before measurement the
log should be split again and measured at the fresh inner face. The
electrode pins must be pressed into the wood across the grain.
Care must be taken that the knurled screws are always sufficiently
tightened to prevent measuring errors and that the area between
the tip slots is kept clean.
It is not possible to measure frozen wood.
Annex
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Hydromette BL Compact S
5 Annex
5.1 Setting the Type
Evaluation is done in:
2 Hardwood wood moisture in weight % / atro
3 Softwood wood moisture in weight % / atro
32 Hardwood wood moisture in % of water content
33 Softwood wood moisture in % of water content
Annex
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Hydromette BL Compact S
5.2 Wood Types Table for the Compact S
Wood type Code for Code for
Measurement in weight % Measurement in
% water content
Maple 3 33
Birch 3 33
Pear tree 2 32
Beech, white, red 2 32
Douglas fir 3 33
Yew 3 33
Oak 3 33
Oak red, white 2 32
Alder 3 33
Ash 3 33
Spruce 3 33
Pine 3 33
Chestnut, Spanish, Horse 3 33
Cherry 3 33
Larch 3 33
Linden 2 32
Walnut 3 33
Poplar 3 33
Fir 3 33
English elm 3 33
Annex
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Hydromette BL Compact S
5.3 Comparison Graph of Humidity - Material
Moisture Content
10
100
0
20 30
40 50 60 70 80 90
Relative air humidity in %
Fungus attack
Outdoor moisture range
Room moisture in summer
Room moisture in winter
6 8 10 12
14 16
18 20
25 30
Wood moisture (softwood)
MoistNormalDry
Annex
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Hydromette BL Compact S
Notes:
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