Installation; Set-Up - Techne IFB-51 Instruction Manual

Figure 2: Schematic of IFB fluidised bath set up with cyclone and basic exhaust extraction

SET-UP

The extraction collar, cyclone and extraction fan should be interconnected using appropriate 100mm (4")
ducting. The purpose of the cyclone is to recover any aluminium oxide pulled out of the bath which can be
sieved and reused. An air damper should be positioned in the ducting between the cyclone and extraction
fan to control fume extraction and pull fumes away from the bath into the exhaust system. If the damper
is open too much it would create a negative pressure in the bath working area resulting in significant heat
and sand loss. A dilution tee (not shown) may also be included in the ductwork between the fluidised bath
and cyclone to dilute effluent gasses.
POWER
The IFB-51 and IFB-52 require a power supply of 230V, 50/60Hz, single phase. A 208V supply is insufficient
and should be boosted to 230V with a suitable boost transformer.
AIR
The compressed air supply to the bath must be clean, dry and free from oil. The pressure delivered to be
bath should be 30 psi (207 kPa) and capable of delivering 5 cubic feet/minute (CFM) (142 litres/min).
MECHANICAL
The unit should be mounted on a firm level surface. It is important to ensure that the bath is level, otherwise
it will fluidise incorrectly. This will lead to the formation of large temperature gradients across the bath
which results in premature heater failure and possible damage to the porous plate and inner container
assemblies.
1. Mount the fluidised bath in the position where it is to be used on a dry, level surface.
2. Connect a 30 psi air supply to the compressed air inlet on the rear of the control panel. The tubing and
any fittings should not be less than 13mm (1/2") ID at any one point or bath performance may be
reduced.
3. Wire up the bath to a 220 to 240V single phase power supply. See section ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION.
4. Fill the bath with aluminium oxide to within 80 to 100mm (3 or 4 inches) of the top.

INSTALLATION

system.
19