Egitron ExtraLab Plus Operation Manual

Egitron ExtraLab Plus Operation Manual

Extraction force and torque measuring system

Advertisement

Quick Links

Rua Central da Vergada, 1280
4535 - 166 Mozelos VFR
PORTUGAL
Tel (+351) 227 471 120 ● Fax. (+351) 227 471 129
E-mail: info@egitron.pt ● URL: www.egitron.pt
ExtraLab Plus
Extraction Force and Torque
Measuring System
Operation Manual
Version 2.0.0
Valid for PC interface software version 1.4.0
Valid for firmware version 3.0.0

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the ExtraLab Plus and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Summary of Contents for Egitron ExtraLab Plus

  • Page 1 Rua Central da Vergada, 1280 4535 - 166 Mozelos VFR PORTUGAL Tel (+351) 227 471 120 ● Fax. (+351) 227 471 129 E-mail: info@egitron.pt ● URL: www.egitron.pt ExtraLab Plus Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System Operation Manual Version 2.0.0 Valid for PC interface software version 1.4.0...
  • Page 3 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System RESPONSIBILITY EXEMPTION This manual was written and revised to explain the ExtraLab Plus characteristics and functioning in the most correct way possible, particularly regarding PC interface software. However, this user manual and/or the equipment may be changed without previous notice.
  • Page 4 This is valid with the exception of the first onsite displacement or equipment transport, if required within the first month of the warranty period, which will be free. In this last case, EGITRON will decide the most appropriate option between the technician onsite displacement or the equipment transportation to EGITRON facilities and back to the client.
  • Page 5 • Equipment replacement. To request warranty services contact the EGITRON technical support. EGITRON can ask for the purchase proof / equipment invoice. This equipment is suitable only for its design purposes and EGITRON is not responsible for its improper use.
  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System INDEX WELCOME NOTES ..............................8 MANUAL CONTENTS ............................. 8 CONVENTIONS ............................... 9 EXTRALAB PLUS AND PC INTERFACE SOFTWARE SETUP ..............9 2.1. ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED ........................ 9 2.2. PC INTERFACE SOFTWARE SETUP AND CONFIGURATION ............. 9 2.3.
  • Page 7 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ANNEX A – OPERATOR INTERFACE MENU TREE ..................41 ANNEX B – ACCESSORIES ..........................43 ....................43 SPLASH PROTECTION APPLICATION ....................E LAMPS RROR OOKMARK NOT DEFINED ANNEX C – CALIBRATION ........................... 45 ..........................
  • Page 8: Welcome Notes

    MANUAL CONTENTS This operation manual describes the ExtraLab Plus and also the PC interface software. It starts with ExtraLab Plus characteristics, the setup procedure, the connection to a PC and the interface control software setup. After the setup, are described the ExtraLab Plus functionalities; the test process and the data acquisition thru the interface software.
  • Page 9: Conventions

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 1. CONVENTIONS Abbreviations: In this operation manual you can find the following abbreviations: • ExtraLab Plus – Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System • Report – Group of tests on one or more corks •...
  • Page 10 Figure 1 – Communication settings Stop bits number. The communication settings for ExtraLab Plus are: “19200, N, 8, 1”. After checking the causes for the communication fail, it will be necessary to press Test on the...
  • Page 11: Machine Setup

    Figure 2 - Back cover application 2.3.2. Connecting Connect the ExtraLab Plus equipment to the pneumatic feeding thru the pneumatic connection on the back panel. The feeding tube should have 6 mm of diameter (type FESTO PUN-H-6x1-nt) and the pressure must be between 6 and 8 bar.
  • Page 12: Operation And Equipment Features

    On the next subchapters, the most important aspects to consider when operating ExtraLab Plus will be analyzed, so that, after a careful reading the user will be able to fully operate the equipment and understand some less intuitive operations .
  • Page 13: General Aspects

    3.1. GENERAL ASPECTS 3.1.1. Equipment description The ExtraLab Plus has a tower format, supported by two cylindrical guides and an aluminum enclosure which contains the electronic control (commands and processing unit). On the next paragraphs, we will describe the main parts.
  • Page 14 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System • Operator interface where it is possible to easily operate the equipment. • Regulators to set the speed of the extraction test and the torque test • Emergency button to stop the equipment in case of emergency.
  • Page 15: Control Through The Command Box

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2. CONTROL THROUGH THE COMMAND BOX Figure 7 - Command Box 3.2.1. Operation Basic Concepts In this chapter we will be explain the basic concepts of navigation between the different windows...
  • Page 16: Template For Values Introduction

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System The keys are the control means available for navigating between the different modes. These also allow command individual movements (Calibration Mode) and to configure the equipment (Configuration Mode). The keys have the following functionalities: •...
  • Page 17: Welcome Window

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2.2. Welcome Window Press the “Power” bottom on the front panel of the command box to start the equipment. At starting, a welcome screen will appear with an indication of the installed Firmware version ( ).
  • Page 18: Configuration Menu

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2.4. Configuration Menu The configuration menu gives access to a set of settings that allow the user to choose some generic parameters, such as language, date, time, and other parameters related with tests preparation.
  • Page 19: Test Mode Configuration

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2.4.2. Test Mode Configuration he ExtraLab Plus allows the execution of 6 test modes. To ease the identification of each test mode on the main screen, these were coded through related letters. Next we...
  • Page 20: Set Clock

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System manually introduce the exterior cork length value (part of the cork that that remains out of the bottle), according to the range validation and as referred on the chapter 3.2.1.1.
  • Page 21 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System The calibration operation must be performed by an operator with high level of responsibility and technically able to perform this operation. In this mode, some of the security functions of the equipment will be inactive. Therefore it is recommended to keep, as far as possible, the protection door closed and to have a very careful attitude whenever performing any command.
  • Page 22: Initialization

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System On calibration mode, if the measurement unit is not in the initial position (top), the system does not allows the descent movement. First, the user must place the measurement unit to its initial position (all the way to the top).
  • Page 23: Stopping Movements

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2.7. Stopping movements The operator can stop at any moment, any equipment action by performing the following step: • At the Command Box: Pressing “ABORT” bottom. After executing the stop command, it will not be possible to continue the testing, without initializing the system.
  • Page 24: Data Tables

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System Whenever it is necessary to explain a particular value or button in the software windows, there are yellow sticks with a brief description which can be opened by moving the mouse over that value box or button.
  • Page 25: Report Configuration

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System information: • • Client/Supplier Closure Types • • Size Bottle type • • Treatment Cork Class • • Washing Responsible The different tables can be opened by selection the “Tables” option on the “Configuration” menu. All tables have a similar construction and work the same way.
  • Page 26: Acquire Values

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.3.3. Acquire Values After performing one or more tests, it is possible to import the values into the interface software. To collect the values the operator has to press “Acquire Tests” button. Doing so, all tests results in machine memory, both maximum values and individual values, will be imported and visualized with the help of tables and graphics.
  • Page 27 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System • Individual Values ( ): this tab displays the individual values of a particular test. Figure 23 There is a table with the force and displacement values and another with...
  • Page 28: Saving Reports

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.3.4. Saving Reports After acquiring data or consulting a report, it is possible to save data into the database (BDExtraLabPlus.mdb), for later consultation, visualization and printing reports. Instead of saving a new report, it is also possible to add data to an existing report.
  • Page 29: Open Reports

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.3.5. Open Reports After saving a report into the database (“BD .mdb”), ExtraLabPlus possible to open the saved report. For this, select the option “Open” from the menu “Report” and the “Open Report” window...
  • Page 30: Export To Excel

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System The reports can only be printed if previously saved into the database. The user can choose the report language, on the language list available. By default the report is on the language selected on the report configuration window (3.3.2) but it can be printed on the following languages:...
  • Page 31: Calibration

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.3.8. Calibration Like any laboratory equipment, the ExtraLab Plus is subject to calibrations in order to prove and check the values acquired. If required, EGITRON can supply a Calibration Kit for ExtraLab Plus, as...
  • Page 32 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ExtraLab Plus every time the calibration window is opened, or after selecting a different load cell, or after pressing the “Cancel” button when editing the function. The last sub-group shows the conversion function stored in the database. The process of saving...
  • Page 33: Common Equipment And Software Operations

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.4. COMMON EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE OPERATIONS 3.4.1. States The equipment can assume five different states: • Stopped: The machine is ready to perform the tests; • Not initialized: Whenever the system requires a reposition;...
  • Page 34 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System For each Test Type, it is possible to perform different test modes: • Torque followed by extraction; • Torque and extraction, simultaneously; • Extraction; • Torque; • Overtorque; • Torque followed by Overtorque;...
  • Page 35: Values Acquisition

    • At the PC Software: Create a new test configuration, and through the application main window, send the configuration to the machine. Tests of different types cannot be stored in ExtraLab Plus memory. So, if the user wishes to change the test type, firstly the values on the machine should be transferred into the interface application and afterwards the memory of the machine can be cleaned.
  • Page 36: Safety And Protection

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.4.5. Safety and Protection The ExtraLab Plus has built-in protections, to assure the user and the equipment security. The software is permanently checking the equipment status monitoring if any anomaly is detected.
  • Page 37: Place The Bottle

    “Abort” or leave the menus until returning to the main screen. Press “START” or the central key to start the Test. Depending if the system recognizes or not the ExtraLab Plus actual position, the display should show one of the following messages: “Positioning System?”...
  • Page 38: Check Information On The Display

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System “Execute test xx”, where xx is the new test number. Press “CONT” or central key to confirm the test starting (to cancel press “ABORT”). At this time, the bottle is elevated and the measurement unit will seek the Closing Type position.
  • Page 39: Equipment Maintenance

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 4. EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE This equipment doesn’t require significant maintenance cares. However for prevention it is recommended to have in mind the following points: 1. Take in consideration that the machine will handle products that are under pressure, and consequently splash of liquids may occur with some frequency.
  • Page 40: Troubleshoot

    “Invalid function”. Resolution: Through the “Calibration” window at the PC software, introduce the conversion function or use the database saved function, and send it to ExtraLab Plus. 5.2. COMMUNICATION ERROR Description: The PC control software could not communicate with the equipment.
  • Page 41: Annex A - Operator Interface Menu Tree

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ANNEX A – Operator interface menu tree Level 4 Level 5 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Calibration Calibration screen Initialize Initialize Confirmation screen Movement information Start test Confirmation screen...
  • Page 42 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 42 / 59...
  • Page 43: Annex B - Accessories

    Annex B . Figure 1-3 2. Grippers There are different types of clamps for ExtraLab Plus, which allow extending the measurement range for others cork types or other types of closures. The standard supply includes:...
  • Page 44 Choose the appropriate clamps according to the test to perform. Annex B . Figure 2-2 Install the ‘new’ clamps and insert the fixing pins for the clamps fixation. If required re-install the anti-splash protection. If any additional information is required, please contact the EGITRON technical support. 44 / 59...
  • Page 45: Annex C - Calibration

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ANNEX C – Calibration EGITRON provides a calibration kit for ExtraLab Plus with the necessary attachments for the calibration procedure. For more information, please contact EGITRON. Calibration requires high level of responsibility and only technical staff with metrology knowledge should perform this operation.
  • Page 46: Calibrate Extraction

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 2. Calibrate Extraction This procedure still is under revision to include the compression (Insertion) values calibration. To calibrate the Extraction Test, a calibrate load cell must be used. 2.1. Setup accessories 2.1.1.
  • Page 47 To apply load on the load cells, use the hook wrench supplied with the calibration kit, or using an Allen key size 4mm rotate the gear at the top of ExtraLab Plus. Slowly rotate the lock nut in the clockwise direction or the gear in the counterclockwise direction, to raise the measurement unit (see figure below).
  • Page 48 AnnexC . Figure 2-3 2.4.1. Insert the values into the calculus sheet. On the column ADC fill the collected values from ExtraLab Plus and on column Force (N) fill the values read from the reference unit converted to Newton (N). 2.4.2.
  • Page 49: Torque Calibration

    Check the conversion function. The values of maximum and average error must be under the range of acceptance (1 and 3 N, according to EGITRON model). If necessary repeat the values acquisition procedure. If the deviation continues, please contact EGITRON.
  • Page 50 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System - 1 Torsion set - 1 centering bar / load cell support bar - 1 sheave / pulley bar Annex C . Table 3 - 1 3.2. Setup (Opening direction) 3.2.1.
  • Page 51 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.2.5. The arm with the steel cable must be perpendicular to the centering bar (90º). If this is not the case, release the back screw, rotate the arm, and firmly tighten the same screw.
  • Page 52 3.5.1. Insert the values into the calculus sheet. On the column ADC fill the collected values from ExtraLab Plus and on column Pts (g) fill the values from the used weights. 3.5.2. Check the conversion function. The values of maximum and average error must be under the range of acceptance (2 and 5 N.cm, according to EGITRON model).
  • Page 53 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System 3.10.1. Remove all weights. 3.10.2. Disassemble the pulley support. 3.10.3. Remove the centering bar. 3.10.4. Remove the torsion set. 3.10.5. Re-apply the acrylic protections. If required further assistance, please contact EGITRON for technical support.
  • Page 54: Annex D - Firmware Actualization

    Procedure for software actualization on ExtraLab Plus equipment This procedure must only be followed if the embedded software version in ExtraLab Plus is not the latest. In case of doubt, do not perform the procedure and ask for EGITRON support.
  • Page 55 Check also if there is any other software using the same PC communication port (e.g. the ExtraLab Plus PC software). In this case close this software. If any additional information is required, please contact the EGITRON technical support. 55 / 59...
  • Page 56: Annex E - Communication Cable

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ANNEX E – Communication cable PC – ExtraLab Plus ExtraLab Champ - PC DB9M DB9F 56 / 59...
  • Page 57: Annex F - Technical Specifications

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System ANNEX F – Technical Specifications − Bottles height: 230 mm to 360 mm − Diameter of the cork stopper/bar top: 19 mm to 35 mm (other dimension by request) − Velocity adjustment for torque test: 2 rpm to 5 rpm −...
  • Page 58: Notes

    ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System EGITRON reserves the right of changing this document without previous notice. NOTES 58 / 59...
  • Page 59 ExtraLab Plus – Cork Extraction Force and Torque Measuring System Rua Central da Vergada, 1280 4535 - 166 Mozelos VFR PORTUGAL Tel (+351) 227 471 120 ● Fax. (+351) 227 471 129 E-mail: info@egitron.pt ● URL: www.egitron.pt 59 / 59...

Table of Contents