Sterling SDF 500, SDF 250, SDF 400 User Manual
Operating Instructions
Dehumidified air dryer
SDF 250
SDF 400
SDF 500
With Touch control unit
SDF 250/400/500
Sterling Material Processing
5200 West Clinton Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53223
Telephone: (414) 354-0970
Fax: (414) 354-6421
www.sterlco.com
Technical service:
Service department
Telephone: (800) 423-3183
Edition: 12/03
These operating instructions are for*:
(* please fill in personally)
Serial number:
Year of manufature:
Date of Delivery:
Number of delivery:
Date of commissioning:
Location:
Group of machines:
SDF 250/400/500
Sterling Material Processing retains all rights to change the information in these operating
instructions at any time without notice.
We assume no liability for any errors or direct or indirect damage resulting in context with these
operating instructions.
Copying, translation or publication in any form except for personal use of purchaser requires
approval from Sterling Material Processing.
All rights reserved.
SDF 250/400/500
Table of contents
1. General Information .............................................................................................1-1
1.1. Warnings and symbols.......................................................................................1-2
1.2. Explanations and information ............................................................................1-4
1.3. Legal basis ........................................................................................................1-4
1.4. Fields of applications.........................................................................................1-4
1.5. Notes on Usage..................................................................................................1-4
2. Safety instructions ................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1. General..............................................................................................................2-2
2.1.1. Assembly ..............................................................................................2-3
2.1.2. Operation ..............................................................................................2-3
2.1.3. Maintenance.......................................................................................... 2-4
2.2. For the safety of the devices ..............................................................................2-5
3. Start up.................................................................................................................3-1
3.1. Control Unit ......................................................................................................3-2
3.1.1. Touch Screen ........................................................................................3-2
3.2. Switching on the Dryer......................................................................................3-3
3.3. Basic parameters................................................................................................3-4
3.3.1. Entering Dryer Values...........................................................................3-4
3.3.2. Entering hopper values..........................................................................3-6
3.3.3. Setting the timer....................................................................................3-8
3.3.4. Observing processing status ................................................................3-10
3.3.5. Setting date and time........................................................................... 3-11
3.3.6. Changing language..............................................................................3-12
3.4. Continuous operation....................................................................................... 3-14
3.4.1. Continuous Operation of the Hopper ...................................................3-14
Continuous Operation of the Dryer.....................................................................3-14
3.5. Switching the dryer/hopper heater off ..............................................................3-16
4. Error and error correction .....................................................................................4-1
4.1. Actual messages ................................................................................................4-3
4.2. Alarm protocol ..................................................................................................4-7
5. Maintenance.........................................................................................................5-1
5.1. Maintenance schedule........................................................................................ 5-3
5.2. Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filter ..................................................................5-4
5.2.1. Cleaning or Replacing the Return Air Filter ..........................................5-5
5.2.2. Cleaning or Replacing the Regeneration air filter ..................................5-6
5.2.3. Filter of the electrical cabinet ................................................................5-7
5.3. Disposing of Drying Agents ..............................................................................5-8
5.4. Cleaning the Drying Hopper ..............................................................................5-9
5.5. Changing the battery of the control system ......................................................5-12
5.5.1. Resetting the control values................................................................. 5-14
6. Functional description ........................................................................................ 6-15
6.1. General Information ........................................................................................6-16
6.2. Drying Hopper (Optional)................................................................................6-17
6.2.1. Hopper heaters (optional).................................................................... 6-17
SDF 250/400/500
6.3. Connection to a Pneumatic Conveying System (Optional) ............................... 6-18
6.4. Return Air Cooler (Optional)........................................................................... 6-18
7. Transport, Assembly and Storage .........................................................................7-1
7.1. Tansport and Packing ........................................................................................ 7-2
7.2. Assembly ..........................................................................................................7-4
7.3. Storage ..............................................................................................................7-4
8. Assembly instructions ..........................................................................................8-1
8.1. Installation of the exhauster fan for regeneration of exhaust air..........................8-2
8.2. Connection of Return Air Cooler (Optional) ...................................................... 8-2
8.3. Electrical Connection ........................................................................................8-3
8.4. Compressed Air Supply.....................................................................................8-4
9. Technical data ......................................................................................................9-1
10. Accessories..................................................................................................... 10-1
SDF 250/400/500
1. General Information
These operating instructions are addressed to all users of the
device.
These operating instructions must be used by every person
charged with work on the unit.
SDF 250/400/500
1.1. Warnings and symbols
The following warnings and symbols are used in these operating instructions:
This symbol indicates danger to life! Fatal or serious injury is
possible if the corresponding instructions, regulations or
warnings are not observed.
L This symbol indicates that serious injury is possible if the
corresponding instructions, regulations or warnings are not
observed.
F This symbol indicates that extensive damage to equipment is
possible if the corresponding instructions, regulations or
warnings are not observed.
& This symbol indicates information important for becoming
familiar with the equipment, i.e. technical correlations.
$ This symbol indicates that a technical term is explained at this
point.
SDF 250/400/500
When disposing of drying agents / batteries / oil, observe all
official rules.
Caution: High noise pollution !
For all work on the equipment, hearing protection should be
worn.
Avoids impairment of hearing!
Caution: Danger of crushing !
Disconnect the equipment from mains supply before starting
mainenance procedures. All compressed air pipes on the
equipment should be depressurised before starting
maintenance work.
Caution: Danger of hot surface !
Before starting any work wait until all parts have been cooled
down sufficiently. Avoid touching any of these parts!
Caution: Danger of skidding !
Remove any granules remaining on the ground.
Caution: Danger to life through electrical shock !
Observe that the control system is still under voltage even
when the main switch is switched off.
Check the direction of rotation of the blowers after the
electrical connections have been made (see rotational
direction arrow).
SDF 250/400/500
1.2. Explanations and information
Various terms and designations are used in these operating instructions to ensure clarity.
Therefore please note that the terms used in the text stand for the corresponding explanations
listed below.
• Equipment: ”Equipment” can mean an individual unit, a machine or an installation.
• Operating personnel: The ”operating personnel” are persons operating the equipment on their
own responsibility or according to instructions.
• Operator : The ”operator” of the equipment (production manager, foreman, etc.) is the person
responsible for all production sequences. The operator instructs the operating personnel of
what is to be done.
• Operating instructions: The ”operating instructions” describe the interaction of the equipment,
production sequences or methods. The operating instructions must be compiled by the
operator of the equipment.
• Equipment foreman: When several operating personnel work on one machine, the
”equipment foreman” coordinates the sequences. The equipment foreman must be appointed
by the operator.
• Trained personnel: ”Trained personnel” are persons who, due to their training, are authorized
to carry out the required work.
1.3. Legal basis
See “Manufacturer’s Certificate” resp. “Certificate of Conformity”.
1.4. Fields of applications
For the drying of thermoplastic granules and regrind before processing in order to remove all
remaining moisture from the granules both inside and out, independent of climate or ambient air
conditions.
1.5. Notes on Usage
• Experienced operators can begin directly with the chapter on “Start-up” if the unit has been
properly installed.
• If the unit has not been installed yet, observe the instructions in the chapter on “Assembly
Instructions” and “Transport, Assembly and Storage”.
SDF 250/400/500
2. Safety instructions
These safety instructions apply to all persons within the range of
action of the equipment.
Please inform all persons within the range of action of the
equipment of the direct and indirect hazards connected with the
equipment.
These operating instructions are to be used by all persons
assigned activities connected with the equipment.
Knowledge of the English language is prerequisite.
Ensure in each case that the operating personnel are familiar with
the operating instructions and the function of the equipment. For
your safety
SDF 250/400/500
2.1. General
The operating personnel of this equipment must be at least 16 years old.
Please read these operating instructions carefully before taking into operation for the first time.
Contact us should questions arise. This avoids injury and damage to equipment!
These operating instructions must be kept available at all times at the place of operation of the
equipment. Improper operation results in danger of accidents!
Please note that, for reasons of clarity, not all conceivable cases regarding operation or
maintenance of the equipment can be covered in these operating instructions.
Please observe all safety instructions and warnings on the equipment. This avoids injury and
damage to equipment!
All work on the equipment is to be carried out by persons whose qualifications are specified in the
pertaining chapters of the operating instructions. Improper operation results in danger of
accidents!
The proper working clothes are to be worn during any work on the equipment. This avoids injury!
The local regulations and requirements pertaining to this equipment must be observed.
Disconnect electrical components from the mains supply before work is carried out on these
components Caution: Danger to life through electrical shock!
Compile detailed operating instructions based on these Operating instructions for the sequence of
procedures to be carried out on this equipment. Improper operation results in danger of
accidents!
Observe that the control system is still under voltage even when the main switch is switched off.
Caution: Danger to life through electrical shock!
SDF 250/400/500
2.1.1. Assembly
Compare the connected loads with those of the mains supply. Danger of injury through electrical
shock!
When using lifting gear, please observe the pertaining regulations. Caution: Danger of accidents!
Do not modify, add other equipment or change the design of the equipment without the approval
of the manufacturer. Caution: Danger of accidents!
Attachments not supplied by Sterling must be manufactured in accordance with safety regulation
EN 294. Danger of accidents!
The equipment may only be operated when all the associated components are properly
connected up and in accordance with the relevant regulations. This avoids injury and damage to
equipment!
Operate the device only if all its components are grounded. Danger: accident through electrical
shock!
Please note for installation that the equipment is top-heavy. Danger exists that it may topple over!
Take care that the device is not standing on the mains cable. This will prevent danger to people
and material!
2.1.2. Operation
Appoint an equipment foreman to be responsible for the equipment.
Ensure that the operating personnel are provided detailed instruction in the operation of the
equipment. Improper operation results in danger of accidents!
When the main switch is switched off for reasons pertaining to safety, it must be secured against
unauthorized activation. Caution: Danger of accidents!
Repair work may be carried out by trained personnel only. Caution: Danger of accidents!
Never operate the equipment when partially dismantled! Danger! Limbs may be caught in
machinery! Electric shock!
In case of malfunction, shut down the equipment immediately. Have malfunctions corrected
immediately. Danger of accidents!
The machine is intended only for the drying of granulated plastics. Any other or additional use is
contrary to specifications.
This equipment is not suitable for food processing.
The safety instructions of the connected machines must be followed.
Please note that sound levels exceeding 85 db(A) may in the long term damage your health. Use
the appropriate ear muffs. This avoids impairment of hearing!
Please note that the drying cells, drying hoppers and air pipings grow hot during use. Avoid
touching any of these parts! Danger: Injury through burns!
Never operate the dryer without side panels. Danger: Limbs may be caught in machinery! Injury
through burns!
When drying plastics which emit gases dangerous for human health, take care that the
regeneration exhaust air is disposed of without polluting the environment. This will prevent danger
SDF 250/400/500
to people and material!
2.1.3. Maintenance
Before starting maintenance work, appoint a supervisor.
Inform the responsible personnel before maintenance work on the system is started. Caution:
Danger of accidents!
Disconnect the equipment from mains supply before starting maintenance procedures to ensure
that it cannot be switched on unintentionally. Caution: Danger of accidents!
All pipes, hoses and screwed connections should be checked regularly for leaks and damage.
Any faults which arise should be corrected immediately. Danger of accidents!
Depressurize all compressed air piping before starting maintenance work. Danger of accidents!
The air filters should only be cleaned/replaced when the the main switch is off and the blower has
stopped. This avoids injury and damage to equipment!
Any maintenance work on the equipment should only be started when the the main switch is off
and the blower has stopped. This avoids injury and damage to equipment!
Check the v-belts of the blower only when the main switch is switched off and the blowers have
stopped. Caution: Danger of accidents!
Open drying hoppers only if they are completely empty. Danger of accidents!
Never open drying hoppers while the device is in operation. Danger: Injury through burns!
Open drying hoppers only if they have been cooled down sufficiently. Danger: Injury through
burns!
Before starting maintenance work wait until the drying cells, drying hoppers and air pipings
have been cooled down sufficiently. Avoid touching any of these parts! Danger: Injury through
burns!
Remove any granules remaining on the ground. Danger of accidents!
Arrest the wheels after installation if the dryer is mounted on a movable frame. This will prevent
danger to people and material!
SDF 250/400/500
2.2. For the safety of the devices
Never change settings without carefully assessing the consequences.
Use only original Sterling spare parts.
Observe the maintenance instructions.
Keep a record of all maintenance works and repairs.
Please note that electronic components can be damaged by static discharge.
Before initial operation and in regular intervals, make sure that no electrical connections are
loose.
Never readjust sensors without exactly knowing their functions.
Please ensure that the permitted storage temperature lies between -20 and +55 °C
(-4 to +131 °F).
Please ensure that the permitted operation temperature lies between 0 and +45 °C
(32 to +113 °F).
Check the direction of rotation of the blowers after the electrical connections have been made
(see rotational direction arrow).
Clean the drying hoppers before the first filling.
Note the instructions of the material manufacturer for the maximum drying temperature.
Note the drying instructions of the material manufacturer.
Take care that the drying hoppers are always completely filled and that the retention period is
respected if continual removal is taking place.
Note that too large amounts taken from the drying hopper lead to insufficient drying of the
material.
Close the air stop valves of drying hoppers which are empty or have not been used.
Note down all data which you have entered into the control system.
The password is to be entrusted to authorised personnel only.
Please note that the temperature of the dryer heating system must always be set lower than that
of the supplementary heaters.
When you dispose of drying agents, observe all official rules.
Note that drying cells are replaced or refilled by Sterling only if they are empty.
The material level may not fall below 40 % in the drying hopper, when material is continuously
removed from the drying hopper, but no material is continuously fed into the drying hopper (batch
drying). Close the throttle valves.
Read the operating manuals of the connected devices.
Please note that a compressed air supply is required for the operation of the unit.
Never set a higher operating pressure than 6 bar for the hopper loaders (system overpressure).
SDF 250/400/500
3. Start up
This chapter is addressed to the operators of the machine.
This chapter assumes general skills with drying systems and SPS
(PLC) control units.
This chapter assumes that the functional description has been
read and understood.
It must be ensured that the operators have the relevant skills.
F Note down all set values of the control system.
Make sure that the cooling appliance is connected to the mains
socket in the electrical cabinet (if present, optional).
Make sure that any condensate penetrating from the cooling
appliance (optional) does not get inside the dryer or the control
box.
& If the inside temperature of the switch cabinet is above 50º C (122
ºF) the dryer is switched off after 30 minutes if it is operated with
a cooling appliance (optional).
If ordered temperature can be displayed in ºF!
SDF 250/400/500
3.1. Control Unit
The control system is switched on at the main switch.
The control system is operated via the ”Touch Screen and the keyboard of the operator panel.
The facility’s control system is factory-programmed. Nevertheless, you have to set specific values
(basic parameters) which are dependent on the processed material, for instance.
The values entered are stored in the control system and remain so, even after the unit is switched
off or in the event of a power cut. All messages are displayed in plain text.
3.1.1. Touch Screen
The operating menus will be directly selected by touching the symbols with the finger tips. Entries
are made by means of the numerical keyboard.
As soon as a symbol has been touched, the respective menu will appear.
As soon as an input field has been touched, it will be activated and be ready for input.
All entries will only be accepted after being acknowledged by means of the Enter key.
SDF 250/400/500
3.2. Switching on the Dryer
Switch on the system by means of the main switch.
& The control system carries through a self-test; after that the
“Start-Screen” with date and time is displayed
3.3.
SDF 250/400/500
Basic parameters
3.3.1. Entering Dryer Values
Return air cooler on/orr
“I”: enabling the return air cooler
“O” disabling the return air cooler
Target value
Actual value
Status Dryer
Back to “Start-Screen”
SDF 250/400/500
Heater Reg. Act.
The regenerated heat temperature will be displayed.
Exit air Act.
The current temperature of the used air will be
displayed.
& If the unit is operates with “dew
point controlled changeover
point with dew point display”
(optional):
Dew point max.
Enter the maximum permissible (worst allowed)
dew point temperature (-35 to -28 °C / -31 to -18.4
°F).
Dew point Act.
The current dew point temperature will be displayed.
Return air cooler Target
Enter the max. permissible air temperature.
Acknowledge with the ENTER-key.
Return air cooler Act.
The current air temperature will be displayed.
& The cooling effect of the pre air
cooler is highly dependent on
the cooler circuit.
The lower the value chosen for
the pre air temperature, the
better.
F Plan the size of the coolant
circuit accordingly.
Displaying trend
Temperature
Dew point
SDF 250/400/500
3.3.2. Entering hopper values
Return air cooler on/orr
“I”: enabling the return air cooler
“O” disabling the return air cooler
Enter hopper name
Status Hopper
Back to “Start-Screen”
STT 1
SDF 250/400/500
Hopper temp Target
Enter the drying temperature for the drying
hopper.
Hopper temp Act.
The current temperature at the feed opening of
hopper flap will be displayed.
& If the unit operates with
motor flaps (optional):
Granule Temp
Enter the material temperature at which the flap
on the drying hopper should close.
& This value is entered in
percent of the temperature
on the hopper inlet.
The material temperature
calculated by the control
system for closing the flap
on the drying hopper is
displayed
Drying time Target
Enter the dwelling time of the material within the
drying hopper in minutes.
F Observe the indicated
dwelling time.
& When the drying hopper is released, the dwelling time starts. The
residual time is displayed (= current dwelling time).
If the drying hopper is blocked, the current dwelling time is reset
to the value of the dwelling time which has been entered before.
Drying time Act
The dwelling time of the material in the drying hopper is displayed in minutes.
Displaying trend
Temperature
SDF 250/400/500
3.3.3. Setting the timer
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