Configuring A Zone For Zero Cross Control; Configuring A Zone For Phase Angle Control; Determining The Heater Size - Husky Altanium Matrix2 User Manual

2.2.1 Configuring a Zone for Zero Cross Control

This method defines how the power to each heater is averaged over a period of time. This is
achieved by switching between complete half cycles of the heater supply voltage using a
snubberless TRIAC as a switching device.

2.2.2 Configuring a Zone for Phase Angle Control

This method defines how the power to each heater is adjusted, by varying the point in each
half cycle at which the snubberless TRIAC (switching device) is turned on.
In either control method, the Altanium controller recalculates the power output
requirements for the entire system every 250 milliseconds to obtain the maximum control
resolution. By combining either of the above control methods with the Active Reasoning
Technology (ART) control algorithm, it is possible to achieve accurate temperature control
with the expectation of control accuracy of ± 1 digit under steady state conditions.
2.3

Determining the Heater Size

Hot runner molds can have a number of different types of heating elements:
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In the manifold, a series of cartridge heaters or bent tubular style heaters are normally used.
The wire inside an element is typically made of nickel-chrome, which is then surrounded by
magnesium oxide. The size of this wire and number of turns determine its resistance, which
in turn determines its wattage (the amount of energy). This determines its performance in
the mold. Undersize heating elements (too little wattage) create a serious problem when the
control asks for power and none is available. In almost all cases it is better to be oversize than
undersize in a hot runner mold.
The Altanium controller will provide wattage, resistance or amperage information for
heaters, if equipped with X ICC
determined using Ohm's Law. The diagram and formulas that follow demonstrate how.
WARNING!
Electrical hazard - risk of death or serious injury. Disconnect all electrical power from
the mold and controller prior to performing this test.
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Integral, which is a part of the probe.
Cartridge, which is slid into the probe or directly into the mold steel.
Using a multimeter, set the selector to measure resistance.
Place the (red) positive lead onto the first wire from the heating element and place the
(black) negative lead from the meter onto the second wire (these may be pins on a
connector, or the zone output fuses in the system as long as they are connected to the
heating element).
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or X ICC cards. Alternatively, this information can be
Altanium Matrix2
Configuring a Zone for Zero Cross Control