TSI/Alnor 4143 User manual

Mass Flowmeters

Thermal Mass Flowmeter

Operation and Service Manual

Model 4140/4143

General Purpose

1980383, Revision C

April 2003

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CONTENTS

CHAPTERS

UNPACKING AND PARTS IDENTIFICATION............................1

1

2 SETTING-UP................................................................................5

Supplying Power...........................................................................5

Connecting Filter and Flow Tubes................................................6

RS232 Configuration and Operation ............................................6

Configuration Software.................................................................7

3 OPERATION ................................................................................9

Overview.......................................................................................9

ON/OFF Switch ............................................................................9

Flowrate Measurement.................................................................9

Temperature Measurement........................................................10

Pressure Measurement ..............................................................10

Select Measurement Displayed..................................................10

Display “Scroll” Mode .................................................................10

Volume Measurement ................................................................10

4 MAINTENANCE.........................................................................11

Flow Sensor................................................................................11

Re-certification............................................................................11

Cases .........................................................................................11

Storage .......................................................................................11

5 TROUBLESHOOTING...............................................................13

APPENDIXES

A SPECIFICATIONS .....................................................................15

B STANDARD FLOWRATE VS. VOLUMETRIC FLOWRATE.....19

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Chapter 1

p

Unpacking and Parts Identification

Carefully unpack the instrument and accessories from the shipping container.
Check the individual parts against the list of components in Table 1. If any
parts are missing or damaged, notify TSI immediately.

Table 1. List of Components

Qty Item Description Part/

Model

1 Mass Flowmeter, 0.25 inch inlet/outlet

(Air, Oxygen, Nitrogen)
Mass Flowmeter, 0.25 inch inlet/outlet
(Air, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Nitrous Oxide)*
Mass Flowmeter, 0.375 inch inlet/outlet
(Air, Oxygen, Nitrogen)
Mass Flowmeter, 0.375 inch inlet/outlet
(Air, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Nitrous Oxide)*

1 Filter

Model 4140: 60 mm ULPA filter with 0.25 inch barbed

fittings

Model 4143: 63 mm HEPA filter with 0.375 inch barbed

fittings

1 AC Adapter

115 V, North America, ungrounded
100–240 V, NEMA 5-15 plug, grounded
100–240 V, Europlug, CEE 7/16, grounded
100–240 V, Great Britain, grounded, fused

100–240 V, Australia/NZ
1 Operation and Service Manual for Model 4140/4143 1980383
1 RS232 Serial Command Set Manual, 4000/4100 1980340
*Other than the specifications in Appendix A, all references to 4140 and

4143 in this manual apply to the 41403 and 41433, respectively.

Table 2. Optional Accessories

4140

41403

4143

41433

1602317

1602342

8918-US

8918-NA
8918-EC
8918-GB
8918-AT

Item Descri

Computer Cable, mini-DIN to 9-pin RS-232 1303583
Analog Cable, mini-DIN to cable with tinned wires 1303584
Carrying Case for Model 4140/4143 1319201

1

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tion Part/Model

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Parts Identification

Figure 1-1 Model 4140/4143 Mass Flowmeter

1. On/Off Switch 4. DC Power Input

2. Display 5. Flow Inlet

3. Mounting Inserts (2) 6. Computer Serial Interface,

Operation

Analog Output, and Optional
Power Input Connection

3

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Chapter 2

(

)

g

)

g

)

(in)

(

)

g

d

y

Setting-Up

Supplying Power

The flowmeter can be powered in one of two ways: through the power jack
using the supplied AC adapter or through the mini-DIN connector. The DC
power input connector is shown below along with the power requirements.

Power Supply: 7.5 VDC ± 1.5 V, 300 mA maximum

When supplying power through the optional TSI interface cable, line up the
arrow on the connector with the bottom side of the flowmeter. Flowmeter
connector pin-out designations are shown below.

Table 3. Connector Pin-out and Color Code for TSI
Cable PN 1303584

Pin Function

Power Input (+) Black

1

Power Ground

2

Analo

3
4
5
6
7
8

Output (+

Analo

Ground (­(no connection) Blue
RS232 Receive
RS232 Transmit
Lo

ic Groun

-

out

Cable Color Code for
TSI Cable PN 1303584

Green
Red
Brown

White
Yellow
Gra

5

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Connecting Filter and Flow Tubes

The Model 4140/4143 has a thermal sensor exposed to the gas flow that
must be protected from foreign matter and particles. TSI supplies a filter
that should be connected to the inlet of the flowmeter, however, any filter
will work as long as it has a minimum efficiency of 99.9%.

Caution

Always use a filter on the inlet of the flowmeter.

!

Note: Flow direction is identified by the large arrow printed on the

bottom side of the flowmeter.

After attaching the filter connect the flow tube to the inlet of the filter.
Connecting a tube to the outlet of the flowmeter will create back pressure.
See Appendix A for flowmeter accuracy specifications when operating at
various pressures. In general, minimize back pressure on the flowmeter to
maintain higher accuracy.

RS232 Configuration and Operation

Many flowmeter operating parameters can be easily configured through the
RS232 serial port. Likewise, the flowrate, temperature, pressure, and
volume can be read through the serial port. Refer to the Series 4000/4100
RS232 Serial Command Set manual for a detailed description of the
commands and command syntax.

RS232 Settings: Baud Rate ........ 38.4 k

Table 4. Changeable Operating Parameters

Function Command

Select Gas Calibration air, O2, N2, or N2O(if available) SGn
Select Standard or Volumetric Flow Measurement SUn
LCD Display Update Rate (controls averaging) SURnnnn
Select Measurement Display Scroll Mode SDMFTPn
Select Measurement Displayed on LCD Display SDMm
Select Measurement Units on LCD Display SDUn
Select Data Update Rate for Analog Output SSRnnnn
Set Analog Output Full-Scale Flowrate Value SASnnn
Set Analog Output Zero Value SAZnnn

Failure to filter the gas flow may change the calibration
and/or permanently damage the sensor

Data Bits .......... 8

Parity................ None

Stop Bits .......... 1

Flow Control..... None

.

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Configuration Software

TSI has several software utilities to help you communicate with your
flowmeter to change parameters and to obtain flow data. You can download
the latest versions of these at no charge from ou

1. If you only want to change one or more of the operating parameters
shown in Table 4 (above), the easiest way is to use the software utility
called “TSI setup.” This uses convenient drop-down menus to help
change these parameters. After you have made your changes, be sure to
click on “Send” to store the changes in the flowmeter’s memory.

2. If you want to communicate directly with the flowmeter using the basic
RS232 commands shown in the Serial Command Set Manual, you can
use a terminal program. HyperTerminal is a common terminal program
that is included with most versions of the Microsoft operating system.
Setting up HyperTerminal to communicate with your flowmeter can
sometimes be confusing. You can download a document from our web
site that helps you configure HyperTerminal. Download the document
called “Using HyperTerminal to communicate with TSI Flowmeters.”

Operation

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7

Chapter 3

Operation

Overview

The Model 4140/4143 Flowmeter measures mass flowrate, temperature and
absolute pressure of the gas inside the flow tube. All measurements made by
the Models 4140/4143 are NIST traceable.

ON/OFF Switch

Slide the switch to the ON position.

Flowrate Measurement

Flowrate data can be obtained from the Model 4140/4143 through the LCD
display, RS232 serial port, or the linearized analog output. The analog
output is a 0 to 10 volt DC linear signal representing 0 to 20 Std L/min. The
analog output scaling is user selectable. Refer to the Series 4000/4100
RS232 Serial Command Set manual for instructions on how to obtain flow
data through the serial port.

Gas calibrations (air, 100% O

, 100% N

2

through the RS232 serial port. Refer to the Series 4000/4100 RS232 Serial
Command Set manual. The LCD display will indicate the calibration being
utilized: air, O

, N2, or N2O.

2

Flow can be displayed in units of standard liters per minute (Std L/min*) or
in volumetric units of liters per minute (L/min). Refer to Appendix B for a
description of the two measurements. Selecting between the two
measurements is accomplished through the serial port. Refer to the Series
4000/4100 RS232 Serial Command Set manual for instructions on how to
select between flow units.

*TSI instruments define standard conditions as 21.1°C (70° F) and 101.3 kPa

(14.7 psia, 1 bar).

or 100% N

2

O) can be selected

2

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Temperature Measurement

The Model 4140/4143 has an independent temperature sensor in the flow
tube to measure the gas temperature. The temperature sensor is used for
temperature compensation of flowrate and for converting flow from standard
to volumetric units. Temperature can also be displayed on the LCD and is
available through the RS232 serial port in the units of degrees Celsius (°C).

Note: At low flowrates, the temperature inside of the flow tube will

increase because of the heat generated by the thermal flow
sensor. This effect is normal and the temperature of the
incoming gas will be measured once flow resumes.

Pressure Measurement

The Models 4140/4143 measure absolute pressure near the outlet of the
flowmeter in the SI units of kilo-Pascals (kPa). Pressure measurements are
required when converting from standard to volumetric flow. Absolute
pressure can be displayed on the LCD and is available through the RS232
serial port.

Select Measurement Displayed

By using RS232 commands the LCD display can be set up to continuously
display either flowrate, temperature, or pressure. See the SDMm command
in the Series 4000/4100 Serial Command Set manual.

Display “Scroll” Mode

By using RS232 commands the LCD display can be set up to continuously
scroll between flowrate, temperature, and pressure. The scroll rate is
adjustable and the user can specify the parameters to be displayed. See the
SDMFTPn command in the Series 4000/4100 Serial Command Set manual.

Volume Measurement

These flowmeters measure total volume by integrating flow over time. This
is a calculated measurement performed by the flowmeter and is only
available using the RS232 serial port. Volume is not displayed on the LCD
display. Refer to the Series 4000/4100 RS232 Serial Command Set manual
for instructions on using the volume function.

10

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Chapter 4

Maintenance

Flow Sensor

Periodically inspect the flow sensor by looking into the outlet of the
flowmeter. Remove dust, particles and fibers from the sensor with clean, dry
compressed air. The flow sensor will break if touched. Never run liquids
through the flowmeter and never touch the sensor with a brush. Dust or
other deposits on the flow sensor will degrade the 4140/4143’s flow
accuracy.

Caution

The flowmeter must be switched off for cleaning.

!

Re-certification

To maintain a high degree of confidence in the measurements made by the
Model 4140/4143, TSI recommends that the instrument be returned to TSI
every 12 months for re-certification. The flowmeter will be recalibrated and
returned with a certificate of calibration to US National Institute of
Standards Technology (NIST) traceable standards.

Cases

If the instrument case or storage case needs cleaning, wipe it off with a soft
cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol or mild detergent. Never submerge the
flowmeter or allow liquids to enter the flow tube.

Storage

When storing the flowmeter, always cover the ends of flow tubes with the
caps provided to prevent dust or other foreign matter from entering the tube.

Only use clean, dry, compressed air when attempting to
remove contamination from the sensor.

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Chapter 5

Troubleshooting

Table 4 lists the symptoms, possible causes, and recommended solutions for
common problems encountered with Series 4100 flowmeters. If the
symptom is not listed, or if none of the solutions solves the problem, please
contact TSI Customer Support

Table 4. Troubleshooting
Symptom Possible Causes Corrective Action

No display. Unit not switched on. Switch on the unit.

No power to instrument. Plug in AC adapter or

check power source on
mini-DIN connector.

Temperature
reads high at low
or zero flows.

Flow readings
fluctuate greatly.

Display shows
flows over-range
with no flow
passing through
flow tube.

Temperature sensor is
being heated from the
flow sensor.

The flow is fluctuating. Improve inlet conditions

The sensor may be
damaged or broken.

The temperature value
will track the actual gas
temperature once the
flowrate through the
flowmeter exceeds
1 Std L/min.

or increase display
averaging time.

Return flowmeter to TSI
for service.

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Appendix A

Specifications

Specifications*
Flow Measurement

Measurement Range
Accuracy
Air and 100% O
100% N
100% N2O (41403 and
41433 only)

Resolution (Display)

Response

Temperature
Measurement

Measurement Range
Accuracy
Resolution (Display)
Response

Static Pressure
Measurement

Measurement Range
Accuracy
Resolution (Display)
Response

Over Pressure

Burst Pressure

Pressure Drop

Volume

Measurement Range
Accuracy
Air and 100% O
100% N
100% N2O (41403 and
41433 only)

Instrument Temp. Range

Operation, Ambient
Storage, Ambient

2

2

2

2

0.01 to 20 Std L/min.

2% of reading or .005 Std L/min, whichever is greater,
3% of reading or .010 Std L/min, whichever is greater,
3% of reading or .010 Std L/min, whichever is greater,

at standard conditions (21.1°C and 101.3 kPa)
See notes 1 through 6 below.

0.001 Std L/min between 0.01 and 9 Std L/min

0.01 Std L/min between 9 and 20 Std L/min
Less than 4 msec, 63% of final value at full scale flow

0 to 50°C
±1°C, at flows greater than 1 L/min. See note 2 below.

0.1°C
Less than 75 msec, 63% of final value for 20°C step change
in temperature at full scale flow

Measured inside flow tube near the exit

50 to 199 kPa Absolute
±1 kPa, See note 7 below.

0.1 kPa
Less than 4 msec.
63% of final value for 30 kPa step change
620 kPa

Tested to 690 kPa without rupture.
Do not exceed 690 kPa.

See Chart.

0.0001 to 99.999 Liters

2% of Reading at flows greater than 2.5 Std L/min
3% of Reading at flows greater than 2.5 Std L/min
3% of Reading at flows greater than 2.5 Std L/min
See notes 1 through 5 below.

0 to 50°C

-20 to 60°C

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Specifications*

, N

Gas Calibrations

Physical Dimensions

External Dimensions
Tube Adapters
(Inlet & Outlet)

Weight
Flow Body Material

Computer Interface

Analog Output (Flow Only)

Range
Resolution
Maximum Current
Flow Accuracy

Power

Air, O
User selectable through serial port

See Diagram
Model 4140/41403: 0.25 inch O.D. straight
Model 4143/41433: 0.375 inch O.D. straight

86 grams
Polycarbonate

Connector 8 pin mini-DIN
Type RS232 Serial
Baud Rate 38,400
Data Bits 8
Parity None
Stop Bits 1
Flow Control None

0 to 10 V
13 bit
10 ma
See note 6 below.

AC adapter or power supplied through mini-DIN

7.5 VDC ± 1.5 V

O (41403 and 41433 only),

2

2, N2

, 300 mA maximum

Notes:

1 Accuracy stated at standard conditions of 21.1°C and 101.3 kPa.

2 Accuracy stated with gas temperature and flow body temperature within

3 Accuracy stated measuring dry gas (less than 10% R.H.).
4 Includes ±0.5% of reading repeatability.
5 Volumetric flowrate is calculated from the mass flow measurement. Add

6 For analog output, accuracy offset increases from 0.05 to 0.1 Std L/min.
7 Add uncertainty of 0.2 kPa for every 10°C away from 21.1°C.

• Add an additional 0.0003 Std L/min or 0.075% of reading, whichever
is greater, per 1°C away from standard conditions when operating
within the range of 0°C to 50°C.

• Add an additional 0.015% of reading per 1 kPa above 101.3 kPa or

• Add an additional 0.022% of reading per 1 kPa below 101.3 kPa

when operating within the pressure range of 70 kPa to 170 kPa.

±10°C of one another.

an additional 0.25% of reading to the flow accuracy to account for the
uncertainty in measuring gas temperature and pressure.

*Specifications subject to change without notice.

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4140/4143 Pressure Drop

90
80

70
60
50

40
30
20

10

Pressure Drop (cm H20)

0

0102030

Flow (SLPM)

4140

4140 w ith f ilter

4143

4143 w ith f ilter

Figure A-1 Pressure Drop

Mounts use 6-32 UNF Screws

Figure A-2 Model 4140/4143 Dimensions

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Appendix B

Standard Flowrate vs. Volumetric Flowrate

Since thermal flow sensors are sensitive to changes in air density and air
velocity, all thermal flowmeters indicate flowrates with reference to a set of
standard conditions. For TSI instruments, standard conditions are defined as

21.1° C (70° F) and 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia). Other manufacturers may use
different values.

Standard flowrate is the flowrate the air would be moving if the temperature
and pressure were at standard conditions. It is usually the most useful
measure of airflow because it defines the heat-carrying capacity of the air.

Volumetric flowrate is the true volume flow of the gas exiting the flowmeter.

In some instances, volumetric flowrate rather than standard flowrate may be
of interest. To display volumetric flowrate, the Model 4140/4143 will
multiply the standard flow measurement by the following density correction
factor:

T

15.273

m

StdFlowFlowVolumetric

=

Where

Tm = Gas temperature measured in flow tube in units of degrees Celsius

Pm = Absolute pressure measured in flow tube in units of kPa

To demonstrate the difference in output, consider the following.

Measured flow displays 10 Std L/min at 15C and 117kPa. The volumetric
flow as calculated by the Model 4140/4143 would be as follows.



)10( LFlowVolumetric =

=






)(




+

+

11.2115.273

+

1515.273

+

11.2115.273

3.101




117



3.101






m

P

min/478.8

19

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