Phase Technology 70Xi-SS User Manual

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70Xi-SS

COLD FLOW PROPERTIES

SINGLE SHOT ANALYZER SYSTEM

USER GUIDE

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

NOTICE OF PROPRIETARY INFORMATION AND COPYRIGHT

Copyright © 2014 Phase Technology. All rights reserved. No part of this publication, or any software included with it, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, electronic, mechanical, recording or othe rwise, without the prior written permission of this copyright holder, Phase Techno logy .

The following document contains proprietary information of Phase Technology. These contents are confidential and any disclosure to persons other than the officers, employees, agents or sub-contractors of the owner or licensee of this manu al, without the prior consent of Phase Technology, is strictly prohibited.

Phase Technology

11168 Hammersmith Gate

Richmond, BC, Canada V7A 5H8

Phone: 604-241-9568

Fax: 604-241-9569

www.phase-technology.com

Customer Service & Support:

customer_service@phase-technology.com

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1: How to Connect and Power On the Analyzer 5

Section 2: How to Prepare Test Samples 7

Section 3: How to Run Tests Using Pre-defined Favorites 8

Section 4: How to Change Test Settings 9

Section 5: How to Create and Modify Favorites 10

Section 6: How to View Test Results 11

Section 7: How to View Phase Plots 11

Section 8: How to Use QC Chart Limits, Sample Specifications, and Trending of Test Results 12

Section 9: How to Change User Level Access 16

Section 10: How to Shut Down and Restart the Analyzer 18

Section 11: How to Use the Analyzer’s Connectivity Features 18

Appendix A. How to Use DrySac 23

Appendix B. Cleaning & Routine Maintenance 24

Appendix C. FAQ: Calibration, Recertification and Maintenance 27

Appendix D. Understanding & Using Phase Plots 29

Appendix E. Customer Service & Support 32

Appendix F. Warranty 33

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

This guide will help you become familiar with your Phase Technology 70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer and its features. In the unlikely event you experience a problem, contact Phase Technology for service and support.

TYPOGRAPHICAL CONVENTIONS

Throughout this guide, the following conventions are used to make it easier to differentiate between names of various windows or screens, buttons, and messages:

Convention Meaning Example

Bold upper & lower case

BOLD ALL UPPER CASE (CAPITALS)

“Text in parenthesis” Message displayed on screen “Run Count = xxx” Text in bold blue italics Refers to another chapter or

Screen or window name Control Panel

Buttons on the touch screen RUN

section in User Guide

please refer to the

Analyzer Options section

NOTES, CAUTIONS, AND WARNINGS

Important information and alerts are brought to yo ur attention with the following conventions and icons:

NOTE: Indicates further details that support the information provided in the section.

CAUTION! Indicates situations that require attention to prevent

damaging the unit.

WARNING! Indicates necessary safety precautions to avoid injury.

ASSUMPTIONS

This user manual is designed to be used by chemists and laboratory technicians who have a basic knowledge of sampling equipment and instrumentation.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

How to Connect and Power On

the Analyzer

1. The analyzer should be set up on a flat, vibration-free surface in a well-ventilated location.

2. On the back of the analyzer, remove the red caps that cover the “PURGE IN” and “PURGE OUT” fittings. These caps should be kept with the shipping box and related packing materials.

3. Attach the dryer bottle assembly to the back panel by fitting the two mounting bracket holes over the two mounting screws.

4. Separate the quick-connect fittings on the dryer bottle. Press the latch on the female fitting and pull them apart.

5. Attach the quick-connect fittings to the “PURGE IN” and “PURGE OUT” fittings on the back of the analyzer. A “click” sound confirms that the fittings have snapped into place.

6. Mount the Sample Injection Port Assembly onto the analyzer cover wi th the 4 mounting screws. Make sure the stainless steel tubing of the Sample Injection Assembly point to the back of the analyzer. Rotate the tubing if needed. Connect the sample transfer tube (1/8” Teflon tube with stainless fitting on one end and brass fitting on other end) from the Sample Injection Port Assembly (stainless steel fitti ng) to the analyzer “SAMPLE IN” port (brass fitting). Connect the supplied 1/8” Teflon tube (with brass fitting on one end and no fitting on other end) from the analyzer “SAMPLE OUT” port to a user-supplied waste bottle.

7. Connect the power cable to the back of the 70Xi Analyzer. Plug the power cable into a grounded AC outlet that is a dedicated circuit. Use a power surge protector, equipped with a line filter, if your power source is unstable or noisy.

8. To power up the analyzer, press the round button at the bottom right hand side at the front of the analyzer.

9. The analyzer will perform a set of self tests to verify that each of the main components of the analyzer, including the optics system and cooling system, are operating correctly. If a problem is detected, the self tests will stop and a message will be displayed at the bottom of the screen.

If any component fails the self tests, press t he INTELLINOSTICS button information and troubleshooting steps.

for further

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

If Pour Point function is available, the message, “Remove sample then press Continue” will be

displayed at the end of the self tests. If the samp le cup is empty, press CONTINUE to proceed, otherwise remove the sample with a cotton swab, then press CONTINUE. The analyzer will perform an auto-purge function as a final step of the self-tests.

10. After the self-tests are completed, the analyzer shows the Home screen (Fig. 1). The analyzer

returns to this screen whenever the HOME

Figure 1: Home screen

button is pressed.

a. The Sample Cup temperature, Optics light Signal, and Run Count are displayed at the

top of the screen. A set of Favorites buttons is listed on the right hand side (See sections 3. How to Run Tests Using Pre-defined Favorites and 5. How to Create

and Modify Favorites). The main area in the middle is initially blank, but displays a

phase plot when a test is done, or if a previous plot is opened

b. The ACCESS button

access levels, resetting the analyzer, and shutdown. (See section 9. How to Change

User Access Levels).

on the lower left hand corner is used for changing user

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

How to Prepare Test Samples

1. Phase Technology recommends filtering and drying test samples so that they are bright and clear in appearance and free of excessive moisture before testing. Refer to APPENDIX A: How to Use

DrySac for more details on drying the sample.

2. Fill a 30mL vial with test sample. Make sure the vial is filled up all the way to the neck.

NOTE: The analyzer automatically determines the amount of current sample (up to 30 mL) needed to rinse and clean the previous sample. Error messages such as “No sample flow” might occur if insufficient sample is found. For best results, it is important to fill the vial to its neck.

3. Lift the probe of the Sample Injection Port Assembly by sliding up the arm.

4. Place the vial to the indentation at the base.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

5. Lower the probe by sliding down the arm.

6. The black handle should sit on top of the mouth of the vial.

How to Run Tests Using

Pre-defined Favorites

1. To start a run using a predefined test setting, press and hold (for one second) one of the favorite buttons (see section 5. How to Create and Modify Favorites).

2. During the test, the LED on the test chamber lid will be red, indicating that the chamber is running, and the lid should not be opened.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

a. The STOP TEST button will abort a test that is in progress.

b. After the run has finished, the REPEAT TEST button

the same settings.

will rerun the test using

How to Change Test Settings

1. The analyzer’s current test settings, such as the Sample ID, Run Mode, and Sample Type,

Temperature unit, etc. can be viewed or modified from the Settings window (Fig. 2). The Settings window can be opened by tapping a favorite or pressing the arrow button

beside the Favorites window.

2. Changing the analyzer settings requires permission to be enabled by the administrator (see

section 9.How to Change User Access Levels).

Figure 2: Settings

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

The prefix “QC-“ is reserved for the names of QC samples. (see section 8. How to Use QC Chart and

Limits, Sample Specifications and Trending of Test Results). Press SET AS QC button (next to the

sample ID box) to the sample.

NOTE: samples designed with “QC” status are automatically compared to established control limits after a test. A message alerting users to QC fai lure will appear on screen should this occur.

3. The FLUSH run mode can be used to program a flush cycle when needed. Flushing is used when a problem is suspected, such as cross-contamination between samples or particulates in the system, which could cause symptoms such as erratic test results, poor repeatability, unsta ble signal, etc. To use the Flush mode, fill a vial with the same sample to be tested and place it in the Sample Injection Port Assembly. Select FLUSH as the run mode (rather than freeze point, cloud point, or pour point). The analyzer will flush the sample through the system.

4. Press the RUN button

5. Press the ADD TO FAVORITES button existing Sample ID will become the name of the new favorite.

6. Press the HOME button

7. The Settings window can also be closed by a horizontal swiping motion on the touch screen, moving across the bottom of the window.

to assign the current sample to be a QC standard. The prefix “QC-“ will be added

to start a test run using the current settings

to save the current settings as a new favorite. The

to close the Settings window and return to the Home screen.

How to Create and Modif

1. Creating and modifying existing favorites require permission to be enabled by the administrator (see section 9. How to Change User Access Levels).

2. To create a new favorite, open the Settings window, either by pressing an existing favorite or pressing the arrow button

window, make any desired changes to the settings.

3. Press the ADD TO FAVORITES button The Sample ID will be the name of the new favorite.

4. The order in which favorite buttons appear in the list may be rearranged by dragging and dropping any button upwards or downwards.

Favorites

on the thin bar to the left of the Favorite lis t. In the Settings

to save the current settings into a new favorite.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

5. To delete a favorite, drag and drop the favorite button onto the TRASH icon at the lower right of the favorites window. (The Trash icon is displayed only while dragging a favorite).

How to View Test Results

1. The 70Xi analyzer has the ability to multitask, so previous results and phase plots may be viewed even while the analyzer is running a current test.

The RESULTS HISTORY button

2. The table of results may be sorted by any one of the columns by pressing the desired heading (Test #, Date/Time, sample ID, Run Mode, Sample Type, Result). Repeated presses will toggle between ascending or descending sorting order. It is also possible to search or filter for a specific type of result by using the Search window to the left of the table of results.

3. If there is a note attached to a test result, it will be indicat ed by a note icon the icon to read the note.

4. To view the corresponding phase plot of a result, press the desired row in the table of results. (see section 7. How to Review Phase Plots for more information on phase plots.)

displays a table of previous test results.

. Press and hold

How to View Phase Plots

5. Press the HOME button

When the 70Xi analyzer completes a test run, a phase plot is displayed on screen with the final test result. (See figure 1: Home Screen)

The phase plot is a graph with the temperature on the horizontal axis and the optics (scattered light) signal on the vertical axis. When the sample is completely liquid, the optics signal maintains a low and flat baseline level, but the presence of wax crystals causes a rise in the signal.

A pour point plot shows a sequence of vertical bars that indicate the amount of movement in the sample when it is perturbed at progressively colder temperatures.

1. To zoom in on part of the phase plot, use the touch screen to drag and paint a rectangle over the area of interest and release.

to return to the Home screen.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

The ZOOM OUT button rescales the phase plot to show the entire graph on the screen.

2. The OVERLAY button comparison purposes.

3. To annotate the phase plot with a note, press the NOTE icon screen, and type in the desired text. Such notes can serve as useful and customized reminder of the specific result. A note icon will accompany the line of result.

4. The °C°F button Celsius and Fahrenheit.

5. The SWITCH PLOT button view between the light signal graph and the sample movement graph.

allows two or more phase plots to be overlaid on the screen for

switches the temperature scale of the phase plot between degree

is available for Pour or Pour & Cloud point tests. It switches the

How to Use QC Chart Limits, Sample Specifications and Trendin

of Test Results

, at the upper right of the

1. QC Samples and Control Limits

a. All QC samples are identified with th e “QC-“ prefix in the sample ID. Press SET AS QC

in the Settings window (see section 4. How to Change Test Settings) to assign the current sample as a QC standard (i.e. analyzer will automatically add the “QC-“ prefix to the current sample ID).

b. In order to enter (or auto-calculate) control limits, there must be an existing Favorite for

the QC sample. Refer to section 5. How to Create and Modify Favorites for more information.

c. Only administrators are allowed to enter or modify QC control limits (see section 9.

How to Change User Level Access).

d. To assign control limits, press ANALYZER OPTIONS

screen.

e. On the Analyzer Options screen, press QC CONTROL LIMITS. The following window

appears.

button from the Home

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

f. Select the QC sample in the list box that you wish to enter or modify the control lim its.

g. Select the Temperature Unit (°C or °F) at the top of the window.

h. Enter the Upper Limit, Lower Limit and/or Centerline values for the corresponding run

modes.

i. QC upper and lower control limits (UCL, LCL) can also be automatically calcu lated by the

analyzer following ASTM D6299 methodology if there are a minimum of 20 valid data points. The analyzer also allows the user to manually identify and exclude outliers before calculating the control limits.

j. Press the HOME button

to save the control limits and return to the Home screen.

k. Whenever the test result of a QC sample exceeds the control limits, a pop-up window

will appear with the message “The last QC test exceeded the control limit requirements!.” This pop-up window will appear each subsequent time the analyzer starts a non-QC test under the same run mode that has failed the previous QC test, until one of the following rectifying conditions are met:

1) Re-run another QC test that meets the control limits

2) Have an Administrator acknowledge the error message by pressing OK on the pop-up window

l. Failed QC tests are flagged in the Results History screen with a

performed without any control limits are flagged in the Results History screen with a

icon.

2. Specification Limits for Non-QC Samples

icon. QC tests

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

a. Upper and lower limits can also be assigned to sample not designated for QC purposes.

Such limits may be internal production specification and hence useful for monitoring. Alerts are accordingly generated by the analyzer in case these limits are exceeded.

b. In order to enter sample specifications, there must also be an existing Favorite for the

sample. Refer to section 5. How to create and modify Favorites for more information.

c. Only administrators are allowed to enter or modify sample specifications (see section 9.

How to Change User Level Access).

d. To assign specification limits, press ANALYZER OPTIONS

from the Home screen.

e. On the Analyzer Options screen, press SAMPLE SPECIFICATIONS

f. Select the sample in the list bo x that you wish to enter or modify the specification limits.

g. Select the Temperature Unit (°C or °F) at the top of the window.

h. Enter the Maximum Specification, Minimum Specification and/or Expected Value for the

corresponding run modes.

i. Press the HOME button

screen.

j. Whenever a sample test result exceeds the specifications, a pop-up window will appear

with the message “The last test exceeded the sample specifications!” Tests that exceeded the sample specification limits are flagged in the Results Hi story screen with

icon.

3. Control Charts and Trend Graphs

to save the sample specifications and return to the Home

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

a. Trend graphs (i.e. time vs. test results graph) can be constructed for both QC and non-

QC samples. Such a plot illustrates the test results of a particular sample (of a specific sample ID) over time, and can serve as a trending plo t.

b. To generate a control chart (for a QC sample) or a trend graph, press RESULTS

HISTORY

from the Home screen.

c. From the Results History screen, press the TREND GRAPH button

Graph panel appears.

. The Trend

d. Select the sample in the list box, or enter the desired sample ID to generate the control

chart or trend graph for that sample.

e. Once the control chart or trend graph is generated, the phase plot for any result on the

chart or graph can be opened simply by touching the data point on th e graph.

f. The QC Control Limits and Sample Specifications button

accesses those

screens directly from the trend graph screen (for administrators only)

g. In the case of QC control chart, the analyzer can also calcula te the control limits

automatically by pressing the CALCULATE LIMITS button

. Follow the on-screen

instructions to identify outliers before actual calculation.

NOTE: a minimum of 20 data points are required for the automatic control limits calculation.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

How to Change User Level Access

1. There are 3 diff erent user levels that allow varying degree of configuration control:

a. User: lowest level that may have restricted access to certain features. This is the

default user level upon power up

b. Administrator: level that can be password protected and has access to all available

features. Administrators can also configure access permissions of certain features for the User group

c. Factory: reserved for factory use only

2. To change the current user level, press the ACCESS button “Access” screen appears (see Fig. below)

at the lower left corner. The

3. Select either USER or ADMINISTRATOR

4. To setup or modify the password at the Administrator level:

a. Switch user level to Administra tor

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

b. From the Home screen, press the ANALYZER OPTIONS button .

c. Press USER ACCESS CONTROL. The following screen appears.

d. Enter a password of your choice for the Administrator Password. This step should be

performed by an authorized administrator. The screen also allows other permission settings.

e. Press the HOME button

f. Once the administrator password has been set up, the analyzer will prompt for the

password each time the user level is switched to Administrator

5. To modify User group permissions:

a. Switch user level to Administra tor

b. From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

c. Press USER LEVEL ACCESS

d. Select either “Allow” or “Deny” for access at the User level:

1) Favorites Changes – adding, deleting or organizing favorites

2) Test Settings Changes – modify test settings for any of the Favorites

3) Function Tests – access to the Function Tests screen

to save the settings and return to the Home screen

4) USB File Transfer – data file transfers between analyzer and USB ports ( e.g.

e. Press the HOME button

flash memory devices)

to save the settings and return to the Home screen

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

How to Shut Down and Restart the Analyzer

NOTE: it is very important to follow the steps below to either shut down or restart the analyzer properly. Hard shut downs such as unplugging the power cord while the analyzer is powered on may cause data corruptions and/or permanent damage to the analyzer.

1. To shut down the analyzer, press the ACCESS button

button

2. To restart analyzer, press the ACCESS button

and then press the RESTART button

and then press the SHUT DOWN

How to Use the Analyzer’s Connectivity Features

1. Data Download via USB

a. To download data from the analyzer to a USB memory stick, simply insert the USB

memory stick to the front USB port (beside the power button). The USB Download screen will automatically appear (see figure on next page).

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

b. There are 5 different types of data files that can be downloaded from the analyzer to the

USB memory stick:

1) DIAGNOSTIC FILES FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE

This option downloads all necessary files for Phase Technology’s Customer Service department to review and perform further data analysis for troubleshooting

2) SUMMARY OF ALL TEST RESULTS (.CSV)

This option downloads a summary of all test results to a CSV file (Re sults.csv). Spreadsheet programs like MS® Excel can be used to display the data and do further analysis

3) DETAIL PHASE PLOT DATA OF INDIV IDUAL TESTS (.DAT)

This option will open another window for user to select individual tests and phase plot data. Phase plot data files can be opened and viewed on an external PC with Phase’s LTB program.

4) BACKUP SOFTWARE

Before upgrading to newer software, it is recommended to use th is option to backup the existing software onto a secondary (USB) memory device

5) FACTORY USE ONLY

Reserved for factory use only

c. Transfer file location: All files will be downloaded to the PHASE_70Xi/[Analyzer Serial

Number] (e.g. PHASE_70Xi/201030001) folder on the USB memory stick

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

d. You can also import a supported document (.doc, .pdf, .ppt and .pps) into the analyzer

by pressing IMPORT USER DOCUMENTS. The analyzer will automatically search for and list all supported documents in the root directory of the USB memory stick. Simply select the desired document to upload and enter a document title. Once uploaded, you can find and view any imported documents by pressing the ANALYZER OPTIONS

button

e. When all file transfers are completed, simply remove USB memory stick from the USB

port to close the USB Download screen

2. LIMS (optional)

a. LIMS connection is through either the RS232 “Serial Port B” analyzer or the Ethernet

port, both located at the back of the analyzer.

b. For serial connection to PC, set the following:

Baud rate: 38400 Data: 8 bit parity: none Stop: 1 bit Flow control: none

c. To setup the location of the results file for LIMS through the Ethernet port:

1) Switch user level to Admin istrator (see section 9. How to Set User Level

2) From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

3) Press SETUP

on the Home screen, and then pressing IMPORTED DOCUMENTS.

Access)

4) On the Setup screen, press CHANGE beside the Ethernet LIMS Filename field

5) You may be prompted to enter a user name, password and domain name to access your lab’s internal network

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

NOTE: make sure the “Save Credentials” check box is se lected (i.e. has check mark). After pressing OK, analyzer will ask whether to save the credentials. Selecting “Yes” will eliminate the need to enter the user na me and password each time the network location is accessed.

6) Once connected to your lab’s internal network, a list of computers on the network will appear. Simply select the destination computer and folder name where the results file (PhaseResults. csv) should be placed

7) Press the HOME button

to save the settings and return to the Home

screen

8) An icon at the top right corner of the analyzer screen will indicate whether the connection to the Ethernet location is successful:

- Connection is successful

- No connection

d. To setup automatic LIMS output after each test:

1) Switch user level to Admin istrator (see section 9. How to Set User Level

Access)

2) From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

3) Press SETUP

4) On the Setup screen, select either OFF or ON for Automatic LIMS Output

5) Press the HOME button

to save the settings and return to the Home

screen

e. To test LIMS:

3. Printer (opt ion al)

a. Either a PCL5e-compatible printer or a co mpatible label printer can be connected to one

b. To setup the printer model (either PCL5e or label printer):

1) From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

2) On the Analyzer Options screen, press LIMS TEST. A default result string will be sent to the RS232 port and Ethernet LIMS location

of the two USB ports at the back of the analyzer NOTE: many HP black-and-white laser printers are PCL5e-compatible

1) Switch user level to Admin istrator (see section 9. How to Set User Level

Access)

2) From the Home screen, press the ANALYZER OPTIONS button

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

3) Press SETUP

4) On the Setup screen, select the appropriate setting for Printer Model

5) Press the HOME button screen

c. To setup automatic printing after each test:

1) Switch user level to Admin istrator (see section 9. How to Set User Level

Access)

2) From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

3) Press SETUP

4) On the Setup screen, select either OFF or ON for Automatic Printing

5) Press the HOME button screen

d. To test the printer

1) From the Home screen, press ANALYZER OPTIONS button

2) On the Analyzer Options screen, press PRINTER TEST. A default result will be printed.

4. Barcode Scanner (optional)

to save the settings and return to the Home

a. The barcode scanner can be connected to one of the two USB ports at the back of the

analyzer

b. To scan a barcode as the sample ID, simply press SCAN BARCODE beside the Sample

ID filed in the Settings window (see section 4. How to Change Test Settings), then scan the barcode with the scanner

CAUTION! The 70Xi’s USB ports are intended to only be used with

Phase Technology recommended printers, barcode scanner, keyboard, mouse or flash drives. Do not use the USB ports to connect, power or charge other devices.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix A. How to Use Drysac

What Is DrySac?

DrySac is a small pre-packaged desiccant which can be used to remove water from hydrocarbon jet fuel samples prior to testing.

Laboratory tests have shown that using a desiccant is an effective way to remove moisture without introducing bias. Drysac does not remove hydrocarbon components, and has no effect on the hydrocarbon feeezing point.

DrySac can minimize the effects of moisture and improve the qua li ty of test results in some samples, especially in situations where atmospheric conditions may intro d uce water into the system. In certain samples, using Drysac improves repeatability.

How and When to Use DrySac

When testing jet fuels, it is recommended that samples be dried prior to beginning the test run. To treat the sample, place a fresh DrySac in an empty, clean vial. Fill the vial with enough sample to complete ly cover the DrySac (between 5 - 10 mL). Put the cap on the vial and swirl the contents a few times. Let the DrySac sample dry for a few minutes. Sample is now ready to be pipetted into the chamber.

DrySac can also be placed in sample vials to keep reference samples moisture free. Replace DrySacs with fresh ones on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, depending on how frequently the sample vials are opened and exposed to air.

When your Phase Technology analyzer is not being used for an extended period of time, DrySac should be placed directly in the instrument’s test chamber. In some climates, moisture can collect in the purge system overnight. This may result in wetness in the system when the next

Ordering information:

DrySacs (canister of 600) DRP-06C

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix B. Cleaning & Routine Maintenance

Cleaning the LED Touch Screen and External Surfaces of the Analyzer The screen protector shields the touch screen surface from dirt and spills while maintaining the screen’s

responsiveness and functionality. The screen protector film should be replaced every 6 months. Clean the analyzer’s LED touch screen using a soft, lint-free cloth and lens cleaner solution containing a

mixture of alcohol and water. Gently wipe down the screen until any visible fingerprints, smudges, dust or other signs of contaminants are gone.

Clean the external surface of the analyzer with a soft, damp cloth.

Routine Maintenance Schedule:

Every 300 Test Runs (or more frequently if necessary)

 Replace Desiccant

Every 6 months:

 Replace Screen Protector

Replace 12 months:

 Replace Dryer Bottle O-ring  Replace Lid O-Ring

How to Replace the Desiccant:

1. Turn off power to analyzer.

2. Disconnect dryer bottle from back of analyzer by pressing the spring plates of both quick-connect fittings and pulling them to separate.

3. Keep the dryer bottle vertical (upright). Push the lock clip of the desiccant cup protector downward and turn it to the left (counterclockwise) to separate the metal cover from the assembly.

4. Pull the desiccant cup downward to separate the bowl from the top housing.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Discard the old, used desiccant. If previously using a dust filter ring, use two fingers to lightly cover the ring and control the flow

of the old desiccant beads into the bin. Place your other ha nd below the bowl opening. Tap the hand holding the bowl into the other hand. This will force the beads to move against the ring shifting it in position. The ring will move, but will be held against the bowl with the two fingers. Allow the beads to empty into the waste bi n. After the beads have poured out of the bowl, the ring can be removed and reused. See below:

5. Remove old dryer bottle o-ring and replace it with a new one. Be sure that the o-ring track is clean and void of any broken desiccant debris. You only need to replace the dryer bottler o-ring on an annual basis.

6. Get new pack of desiccant, cut across corner to open.

7. Cover the down pipe using a piece of adhesive tape or a finger.

8. Refill bottle with new desiccant. Do not fill past 1/2" (1-2 cm) from the top of the bowl. Use the “fill to this line” mark on the bottle to use as a guide when filling with desiccant. Lightly tap the bowl to settle the desiccant.

NOTE: Phase Technology desiccant packs are pre-measured so that each one contains the exact required amount. There should be no excess. Desiccant is now better packaged with a stronger vacuum pack seal to ensure there is less exposure to air and moisture.

9. Insert the dust filter ring into the desiccant bowl. Press the ring lightly into place, o r until it reaches the desiccant beads. See below:

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

10. Re-fit the desiccant cup onto the top housing by pushing the bottle all the way into the housing. Keep the bottle in upright position.

11. Replace the desiccant cup protector and connect it to the top housing. Lock the desiccant cup protector in place by turning it clockwise until a ‘click’ is heard.

12. Re-connect the dryer bottle to the analyzer. Push the connectors towards the analyzer until a 'click' is heard.

Important Considerations When Replacing the Desiccant:

 Replace the desiccant in the dryer bottle after every 300 test runs. Higher humidity in your lab

means more frequent replacement may be required.

 Avoid exposing the desiccant to the atmosphere for any length of time. It absorbs moisture

quickly, and exposure means more frequent replacement.

 Always use a fresh package of desiccant.  Never try to recharge desiccant. Dust created by this process will circulate through the purge

system and will damage vital components and void the warranty.

 Only use de siccant supplied by Phase Technology.  Replace the dust filter ring every 5 desiccant packages, or approximately every 1500 runs.

Replace the dryer bottle o-ring once yearly or if it is damaged.

 Join the dryer bottle connection ends together if th e dry er bottle is not connected to the analyzer.

This prevents inadvertent moisture absorption.

 When reassembling the dryer bottle, ensure that all o-rings are in place, all connections are

properly seated in the analyzer connectors, and that all seals are air (and thus moisture) tight.

 Keep the lid of your analyzer closed and latched when not in use to prevent humid air from

entering the purge system through the chamber inlets.

Ordering information:

Dryer Desiccant (5-pack) DRD-605P Dryer Desiccant (10-pack) DRD-610P Dryer Bottle O-ring Replacement Kit P/N: 101-02-6745 Screen Protector for touch screen PFILM-70Xi Cotton Swabs COTSWAB (10 packs of 400 per pack)

CAUTION! Use desiccant provided by Phase Technology only. Use of

other desiccant or recharging desiccant will VOID WARRAN TY.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix C. FAQ: Calibration, Recertification and Preventive Maintenance

What is Calibration?

Calibration is the act of comparing a test instrument’s performance to a known standard. For Phase Technology analyzers, a set of ASTM standard reference samples are used in the calibration pro cess because of their widely tested and known precision. For individual labs, intracompany QA crosscheck samples may be included in calibration.

What is a Calibration Certificate?

A calibration certificate is documented pro of that your Phase Technology analyzer is measuring pour, cloud or freeze point according to the manufacturer’s specificatio ns. The certificate specifies the allowable deviation from the average measurement over a range of standard result s.

Every new Phase Technology analyzer is shipped with a Certificate of Calibration which details the specific customer, serial number, test methods and preci sion (repeatability and reproducibility), date of calibration, and date for next recertification.

Why is having a Calibration Certificate important?

A calibration certificate is proof of traceability. Traceability is the unbroken cha in o f comparisons between a test instrument and defined international standards, all having stated uncertainties.

Phase Technology analyzers are calibrated during the manufacturing process and are traceable to ASTM standards. ASTM standards are well recognized and have been quantified in accepted round robin tests.

What are the benefits of maintaining current, calibrated equipment?

Maintaining an up-to-date calibration certificate for your Phase Technology analyzer provides necessary documentation that gives you:

• proof of calibration for quality audits

• traceability to respected ASTM standards

• documentation to satisfy your ISO-9000 or N.I.S.T. laboratory accreditation requirements

• verification and assurance that your analyzer meets required measurement specifications

How often does my analyzer’s calibration need to be certified?

Phase Technology calibration certificates are valid for one year. They should be renewed by Phase Technology on an annual basis.

What is Phase Technology’s recommendation for analyzer preventive maintenance?

To keep your analyzer running at peak performance, Phase Technology recommends a regularly scheduled preventive maintenance and operation inspection performed by one of our technicians.

Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance is a proactive, preventive way for you to safeguard against unexpected down-time and associated costs while e nsuring optimum instrument performance and maximizing your lab and production up-time.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Is Phase Technology preventive or scheduled maintenance service the same as general, routine maintenance?

No, routine maintenance consists of procedur es that are a part of good laboratory practices. These include cleaning the test chamber, sample cup and optic lens . Replacing desiccant and performing certain diagnostic tests are also part of routine maintenance.

Phase Technology preventive maintenance service goes beyond regular cleaning and consumables replacement with performance checks and inspection of internal components to prevent potential problems before they develop.

What are the benefits of having on-site or service center preventive maintenance?

Preventive maintenance ensures that your analyzer is running optimally and helps identify possible problems before they cause bottlenecks in workflow:

• assurance that results are consistent and repeatable

• increased production yields

• reduced test errors and analyzer stoppage

How often should a scheduled preventive maintenance be performed?

Phase Technology recommends On-Site Preventive Maintenance or Service Center Scheduled Maintenance be performed annually. For labs with heavier analyzer use, a more frequent interval may be beneficial.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix D. Understanding and Using Phase Plots

A phase plot is a graph with the temperature on the horizonta l axis and the optics (scattered light) signal (for freeze point or cloud point) or movement index (for pour point) on the vertical axis.

For freeze and cloud point tests, phase plots depict the optics signal maintaining a low and flat baseline level when the sample is completely liquid. The presence of wax crystals causes a rise in the signal.

A pour point plot shows a sequence of vertical bars that indicate the relative amount of movement in the sample when it is perturbed at progressively colder temperatures.

Phase plots are very useful for interpreting and verifying test results, understanding the cold temperature characteristics of test samples, and diagnosing problems.

The 70Xi analyzer can overlay one or more phase plots by using the OVERLAY GRAPHS button. For example, overlaying a failed Quality Control (QC) test run on top of a previous good QC phase plot will immediately show if and how the wax crystal behavior is different between the two tests.

One of the most common causes for a failed test is sample co ntamination; sample contamination can be easily identified by observing a dragging “tail” on the phase plot when compared through overlay with a known good test run.

Cloud Point Cloud point is the temperature at which the smallest cluster of hydrocarbon (wax) crystals can be

observed when a sample is cooled under conditions prescribed by the ASTM D5773 test method.

Phase Technology’s 70Xi analyzer performs a cloud point test in two stages. First, the sample is cooled at a fast rate as the optics system looks for crystal formation and signal rise. On a cloud point phase plot, this can be seen as the blue line moves from left to right. As the crystals form, the baseline rises. The turning point where the signal rises is ca lled the approximate cloud point.

Next, the analyzer warms the sample until all the crystals disappear. The red portion of the pha se plot shows the warming stage; the plot returns to blue baseline. The analyzer re-tests the sample, cooling the sample more slowly. The green portio n of the phase plot shows the re-cooling.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

As soon as the signal rises sufficiently, the a nalyzer displays the cloud point and completes the test by warming the sample back to room temperature.

Freeze Point

Freeze point is the temperature at which soli d hydrocarbon (wax) crystals disappear when the temperature of a sample rises after having been previously cooled a nd allowed to form under conditions prescribed by the ASTM D5972 test method.

During a freeze point test, Phase Technology’s 70Xi analyzer cools the sample re latively quickly until wax crystals begin to form. On a freeze point phase plot, this can be seen as the blue line moves from left to right. As the crystals form, the baseline rises.

After a sufficient number of crystals are present, the sample is warmed until they all disappear. This warming phase is shown in green on the phase plot. Freeze point can be seen where the green curve returns to a flat blue baseline, then stabilizing during the warming stage.

Pour Point Pour point is the lowest temperature at which movement can still be observed as a sample is cooled and

perturbed under conditions prescribed by the ASTM D5949 test method.

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

In a pour point test, the sample starts off in a wax-free liquid state, and is then cooled. As it cools, it becomes more viscous as wax crystals begin to form. Pour point is the minimum temperature at which the liquid still flows before gelling or becoming sufficiently viscous and immobile under the test conditions.

The 70Xi Analyzer detects the pour point by shooting a calculated pulse of compressed gas onto the sample surface. This creates disturbances in the sample. The 70Xi Analyzer’s optical sensors take a sequence of pictures to detect this movement. Absence of movement indicates that the pour point has been reached.

The phase plot shows temperature on the horizontal axis and signal on the vertical axis. The signal is an indication of the amount of movement experienced by the sample.

As the sample is cooled, green bars show the magnitude of movement (read from right to left). Pour point is determined at the lowest level of temperature at which the sample still sho ws some movement.

The green movement bars are plotted at the selected resolution, but typically every 3°C (or 5°F) . Users can choose a resolution as small as 0.1°C if they wish

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix E. Customer Service

We're committed to ensuring that our customers get optimum performance and continued value from their Phase Technology 70Xi analyzer.

That's why our customer service & support goal is to minimize downtime and maximize productivity. We promise to do everything we can to resolve problems in the best and quickest way possible to always keep our customers up and running.

Our Pledge to You:

 FAST Response: Phase Technology responds to customers within 24 hours* after notification of

problem. No delays, no waiting for answers.

 BEST Solution: Working directly with Phase Technology gives customers complete access to the

scientists who design and build the analyzer. No one knows our analyzers better than we do.

 FREE Technical Support: Our customer service team is available to answer any questions. We

provide troubleshooting and helpful operating tips.

 Shipping Help: If a repair at our service center is necessary, we work with customers to

complete any necessary shipping documents. This speeds up delivery and clearance through customs.

 Warranty Protection: Opening a Phase Technology analyzer without authorization voids the

warranty. Only trained Phase Technology service technicians are properly equipped to make repairs to our analyzers.

How it Works: Phase Technology Customer Service Process

1. Customer sends email to: “customer_service@phase-technology.com” to report a problem. Phase Technology Customer Service responds directly to the customer within one business day.* Phase Technology works with customer to troubleshoot and determine solution to problem.

2. If repair is necessary, Phase Technology issues a Returned Materials Authorization (RMA) number to customer and assists in preparation of shipping documents.

3. For customers that need a service rental unit during the repair period, P hase Technology makes necessary arrangements.

4. Phase Technology provides a service estimate for customer approval. Phase Technology performs necessary repairs, recalibrates the analyzer (if required), and conducts a final check before shipping back to customer.

* Phase Technology Customer Service hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Pacific Time Zone)

TO CONTACT CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT:

Send email to customer service: customer_service@phase-technology.com Please include the serial number of your analyzer, as well as a detailed description of the

reason for your inquiry

70Xi Cold Flow Properties Laboratory Analyzer User Guide

Appendix F. Warranty

WARRANTY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Any product (hereinafter referred to as Product) manufactured by Phase Technology (hereinafter referred to as Company) is sold to the purchaser (herein after referred to as Customer) on the following basis and none other. All implied warranties of merchantability and of fitness for a particular purpose are hereby expressly excluded.

1. Products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year (Warranty Period) from the date of purchase.

2. Phase Technology will, without charge, at its option, replace or repair Products that fail as a result of defective materials or workmanship within the Warranty Period.

3. None of the obligations assigned to Phase Technology by this paragraph shall apply to any Products which have been repaired, altered or modified at the instance of Customer, unless Customer has disclosed the nature and full extent to any proposed repair, alteration or modification to Phase Technology in writing before it has been effected, and obtained an undertaking from Phase Technology that any outstanding warranty obligations in respect of such Products will continue to apply to such Products despite such repair or alteration. Phase Technology retains an unfettered discretion to grant or refuse any such undertaking.

4. None of the obligations of Phase Technology in thi s Warranty shall apply to any Products which have been subjected to misuse, neglect, accid ent, or (without restricting the generality of the foregoing) any extreme environmental condition or improper handling.

5. If defective Products are returned to Phase Technology, the costs of such return will be borne by the customer, and those of delivering the repaired or replacement Products to the customer will be borne by Phase Technology.

The Company's sole liability hereunder shall be to repair or replace any product, which proves to be defective. In no event shall the Company be liable for any special incidental, consequential, indirect or other similar damages arising from failure of its Products.

LIMITATION OF REMEDIES

Neither Phase Technology nor the Customer will be liable to the other for any special, incidental, consequential, indirect or other similar damages arising from breach of warranty, indemnification’s, breach of contract, negligence, strict liability or any other ki nd of civil liability. The Company's total liability in connection with this agreement shall in no event exceed the amount paid or payable by the Customer in respect to the product that is the cause of such liability on the part of the compa ny.

OBLIGATION OF THE CUSTOMER

The Customer agrees, as a condition of purchase of a product from Phase Technology, not to reproduce any part of the Product. The Customer also agrees not to make unauthorized use of the proprietary information that belongs to Phase T echnology.

COMPLIANCE

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protectio n against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy. If this instrument is not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, it may cause harmful interference to radio co mmunications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful i nterference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at the user’s own expense.

Phase Technology 70Xi-SS User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual