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SV 1.2 24/02/2020 96000025 Installation and User Manual FertiMiX Pro C...
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Ridder Growing Solutions B.V. is naturally very interested in your comments and additions. This product is subject to the General Conditions of Ridder Growing Solutions B.V. This document may not be copied or made public by means of printing, photocopying, digital copying or any other process, without the prior written permission of Ridder Growing Solutions B.V.
FertiMiX Introduction to this manual Ridder Growing Solutions supplies both high-tech and simple solutions for large- and small-scale horticulture companies. Ridder Growing Solutions‘s range is divided into three product categories: Water Treatment Process Automation Management Systems The Ridder FertiMiX is part of our range of water treatment products.
FertiMiX Symbols and annotations This manual uses symbols, pictograms, abbreviations and annotations. This section provides an overview of these. 1.4.1 Symbols The following symbols are used: Note: This notice provides important information or a warning. Ignoring this information may result in product damage or personal injury. Note: This notice provides important information or a warning.
FertiMiX Symbol Name Hertz L (or l) litre litres per hour metre max. maximum min. minimum millilitre mS/cm millisiemens per centimetre cubic metre acidity personal protective equipment Volt W x H x D width x height x depth Where appropriate, these terms may be used in full the first time they are mentioned, with the abbreviation shown in brackets.
For other conditions of use, please refer to our General Conditions of Sale. Your warranty will be void if you fail to observe the instructions provided by Ridder Growing Solutions. This manual describes the FertiMiX Pro C. Certain details of the FertiMiX Pro C that you will be installing may vary from the situation shown.
FertiMiX Product information This section describes the components and the functioning of the FertiMiX Pro C. Principles of operation Figure 2-1: Diagram showing the basic operation of the FertiMiX Pro C No. Name No. Name Fertilizers, acid, alkali (lye) or Pressure pipe / filling pump other substances Dosing valve...
The water flows to the irrigation valves and is then supplied to the crop. If required, the water can first be filtered and the flow rate can be measured. The entire process is controlled by the Ridder CX500 process controller. Its tasks include: ensuring that the correct fertigation recipe is prepared (proportion of fertilizers and water).
FertiMiX Product specifications The FertiMiX Pro C is available in various configurations, because different dosing channels, pumps, sensors and I/O modules can be added to the FertiMiX Pro C. This is described in this and the following sections. 2.3.1 Basic configuration Figure 2-2 is a diagram of the components of the FertiMiX Pro C.
FertiMiX The following table provides an overview of the main specifications of the FertiMiX Pro C basic configuration(s): Component Specifications* Nominal capacity at 4 bars 15 to 90 [m Dimensions of frame (W x H x D) 120 x 160 x 120 [cm] smallest 280 x 160 x 200 [cm] largest Dimensions of main cabinet (W x H x D) 60 x 140 x 30 [cm]...
FertiMiX Figure 2-3 Filling module in mixing tank No. Description No. Description Fresh water Shut-off valve (with plastic rotary knob for manual inlet operation) Float Water inlet of mixing tank 2.3.3 Pressure module with filter The pressure module guides the irrigation water to the dosing module with the measurement module.
FertiMiX Figure 2-4 Pressure module with filter No. Description No. Description Pressure gauge for system Pressure regulator pump 500-micron screen filter Pressure gauge (0 - 6 bars) for filter (4 bars) 2.3.4 Measurement module (sensors) The pH measurement module is located after the pressure module; it is a branch of the supply channel of the dosing module.
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FertiMiX Figure 2-5 Location of pH measurement module and EC sensors Description pH measurement module EC control sensor EC verification sensor Figure 2-6 pH measurement module Description Description Connection point from pressure module pH verification sensor pH control sensor Return to mixing tank...
FertiMiX Depending on the configuration, the following sensors can be added: EC sensor: the EC sensor measures the electrical conductivity of the water. pH sensor: the pH sensor measures the acidity level of the water. The FertiMiX Pro C is supplied with at least one EC sensor as standard. If one EC / pH sensor is present, this is the control sensor.
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FertiMiX No. Description Part of pH control sensor pH measurement module pH verification sensor Optional acid dosing channel, recognizable by location and different colour sight glass Dosing valve (Fertilizer) dosing channel Needle valve Sight glass of venturi flow meter Dosing channel The figure below shows the components of the dosing channel.
FertiMiX 2.3.6 Pumps The FertiMiX is equipped with a system pomp as standard. The pump that is installed depends on these factors: capacity, pressure, electric voltage and frequency. For the pump's specifications, you can consult: the order confirmation the type plate of the system pump the documentation included with the pump.
The Ridder CX500 can be operated using our Synopta software. Synopta also enables the Ridder CX500 to be controlled remotely, in an advanced and convenient manner. The Ridder CX500 and Synopta are not part of the FertiMiX Pro C, but are available separately.
Ridder CX500. The tool has been designed especially for dealers. The tool provides support for most of the tasks that you need to perform for the Ridder CX500. You can also use it as a marketing tool during the quotation process.
CAT5 E cable Only available in 305-metre length. 20542340 Valves cabinet Ridder CX500 expansion cabinet. Type SIO 128 I/O (H50 x B50 x D25 cm). 20542350 Valves cabinet Ridder CX500 expansion cabinet. Type SIO 256 I/O (H70 x B50 x D25 cm).
Figure 2-13: Example of product plate The product plate states: Production number 2.6.2 Quality control Ridder Growing Solutions checks and tests every FertiMiX for correct operation before shipment. The corresponding certificate can be found in the documentation included with the unit.
The sticker shows: Name of inspector Date inspected Inspector’s signature Please contact Ridder Growing Solutions if this label is missing. 2.6.3 Component stickers You will find an identification sticker on the main components of the FertiMiX Pro C. The following table below provides an overview:...
FertiMiX Machine Directive 2006/42/EC The following standards have been consulted to evaluate conformity: NEN-EN-IEC 62368-1:2014 en NEN-EN-IEC 61000-6-1:2007 en NEN-EN-IEC 61000-6-3:2007 en NEN-EN-ISO 12100:2010 en NEN-EN-IEC 60204-1:2006 en NPR-CEN Guide 414:2014 en Packaging, storage and shipment 2.7.1 Packaging The FertiMiX Pro C is shipped in one or more large crates and includes a number of boxes containing separate components.
FertiMiX Please also read the warning in section "Connecting pH sensor" on page 35. This warning applies specifically to the transport and storage of the pH sensor. Recycling and disposal When the FertiMiX Pro C has reached the end of its service life, you should dispose of it yourself.
FertiMiX Safety This section describes the safety requirements and precautions to be taken. When installing, using and removing the FertiMiX Pro C, you must comply with the safety requirements and instructions, and take the correct safety measures. Before installation and use: read and make sure that you have understood this manual and the accompanying documents, so that you are aware of the operating and safety instructions.
FertiMiX Please exercise caution when working with acid. If you want to use a supply pipe for a different chemical substance, make sure to check the following: Clean the supply channel before use if there is any risk that the original substance and replacement substance will react with one another.
The installation of the FertiMiX Pro C and the other components, together with the installation and configuration of the software, must be carried out by a qualified dealer. Ridder Growing Solutions considers a dealer/installer to be qualified if that person meets the following requirements:...
FertiMiX Avoid exposure to direct sunlight (5). Avoid exposure to hazardous substances (6). Avoid exposure to unnecessary vibrations (7). Make sure that there is sufficient ventilation due to the possible accumulation of harmful vapours (8). Make sure that there is sufficient light to operate and maintain the unit. Make sure that there is sufficient space around the unit to operate and maintain To prevent damage during transport, certain components are: not fastened tightly.
The overview below provides a step-by-step plan. You can follow this when installing and configuring the FertiMiX Pro C. This procedure assumes that: Synopta and the Ridder CX500 have been installed. the dealer is familiar with CX Assistant. Step Section to see for this...
Create a configuration with CX Assistant. Check the configuration. Upload the configuration to the IPC. Check the settings (of the Ridder CX500 "Software settings" on controls) in Synopta. page 44. Calibrate the EC and pH sensors. "Calibrating the sensors" on page 45.
To connect the electrical components, complete the following steps: 1. Make sure that the supply voltage corresponds to the design specifications of the FertiMiX Pro C. If this is not the case, please contact Ridder Growing Solutions. 2. Make sure that the power switch is set to 0 (off).
FertiMiX An acid dosing channel should be connected to the last channel of the dosing module. Depending on the pH, different material is used for an acid dosing channel. 4.5.2 Connecting EC sensor One or two EC sensors can be connected to the FertiMiX Pro C. If two sensors are connected, the first sensor in the direction of water flow is the control sensor, and the second sensor is the verification sensor (also see section "Measurement module (sensors)"...
FertiMiX A pH sensor must not be allowed to dry out. The pH sensor is kept moist during transport and storage with a protective cap containing water. Remove this cap before use and place the sensor back into it if the FertiMiX Pro C is not in use for an extended period.
You can download the latest version from our online portal. If you do not have internet access, please contact Ridder Growing Solutions. You can find the latest version of the software on the Ridder Growing Solutions portal. To check whether you are using the latest version, complete the following steps: Open an internet browser.
Here you can see the latest version of the software. Software configuration The FertiMiX Pro C is controlled by a Ridder CX500. The Ridder CX500 is configured by the dealer using CX Assistant. Each version of the Ridder CX500 has its own version of CX Assistant.
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FertiMiX Add the following component to the system: FertiMiX irrigation unit The FertiMiX irrigation unit includes a number of standard components. In the steps below, you should check whether the components have been added. If this is not the case, add the missing components. Also check whether the settings are correct and modify them as needed.
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FertiMiX You can select which control options you want for a filter set. Click the Start tab. Click the Control options button. Tick the filter set options that you want to use in Synopta. Add the following component to the draw group: Flow sensor.
The configuration created in CX Assistant is saved as a file with the name 'site file'. This file is then uploaded to the Ridder CX500 on the IPC. The Ridder CX500 controls the FertiMiX Pro C. This software runs on the IPC that is located inside the main hardware cabinet.
Download button to do this). This will prevent you from accidentally testing the system with the wrong site file. 5.2.3 Uploading the configuration Once the configuration is complete, you need to upload it to the Ridder CX500 on the IPC. Launch CX Assistant. The Select CX controller screen appears.
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The Site Information screen opens. You need to complete the various fields shown on the Site Information screen. Some information, such as the reference ID, has been provided by Ridder Growing Solutions. The serial numbers are pre-entered unless you have replaced the IPC.
Software settings The Ridder CX500 can be operated using our Synopta software. Synopta is the user interface software for operating the FertiMiX Pro C and is installed on the grower’s PC / network.
FertiMiX Fertilizer dosing Acid dosing Start conditions More information about using and setting up these controls can be found in the section "Operation using Synopta (Quick Start)" on page 50. Calibrating the sensors The sensors need to be checked regularly in order to ensure accurate measurements. This must be done at least once per year.
(2) after the filter displays 2.2 bars. This is the pressure on the venturis. Using the dosing channels for the first time Ridder Growing Solutions advises you to test the FertiMiX first with water, before using fertilizers and/or acid.
FertiMiX To prepare the dosing channels for use, complete the following steps: 1. Place the suction hoses into a bucket of fresh water and submerge them completely. 2. Test the dosing channels by irrigating briefly using the fertigation recipe. 3. Check the water pressure on the venturis (see "Water supply and pressure" on the previous page).
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FertiMiX 6. Is the right amount of water being irrigated? 7. Are there any alarms?
FertiMiX Operation As soon as the dealer has prepared the FertiMiX Pro C for use, you can operate the FertiMiX Pro C. This section first explains how to operate the power switch and the system pump. After that, you will find instructions on how to operate the FertiMiX Pro C using Synopta.
Operation using Synopta (Quick Start) This section provides a brief explanation of the most important (fertigation) settings in Synopta. For more information, please refer to the "Ridder CX500 and MultiMa Irrigation Control User Manual", "Synopta Product Description" or the Synopta help.
FertiMiX To make it easy to find a control in Synopta, the path to a control is shown in this manual as follows: Controls / Water / Substrate / Irrigation, EC and pH / Irrigation valve groups / Valve group The third step in this path is always the irrigation method (underlined).
FertiMiX 6.3.4 Fertigation recipes Controls / Water / Substrate / Irrigation, EC and pH / Irrigation valve groups / Recipes Under Recipes, you can specify what is dosed and how. Use Recipes to set the desired dosage of water, fertilizers and / or acid. See sections "Irrigation"...
FertiMiX Irrigation valve settings Use this setting to base irrigation on the irrigation settings specified for each individual irrigation valve (in the relevant irrigation group). If you choose this option, enter the settings under: Controls / Water / Substrate / Irrigation, EC and pH / Irrigation valve groups / Irrigation valve.
FertiMiX 6.3.7 Acid dosing Controls / Water / Substrate / Irrigation, EC and pH / Irrigation valve groups / Recipes tab: pH dosing Use the pH dosing tab to base the acid dosage on the pH setpoint. 6.3.8 Filters Controls / Water / Substrate / Installation / Filter sets Use filter sets to manage the settings for the filters.
FertiMiX Moisture content start Use moisture content start to start irrigation based on the moisture content of the soil (or substrate). Contact start Use contact start when using an external contact, such as a level sensor or moisture sensor. Irrigation will start when the contact signals this. 6.3.10 Alarms To consult triggered alarm messages, navigate to ‘View’...
FertiMiX Maintenance This section describes how the FertiMiX Pro C needs to be maintained on a periodic basis. Maintenance guidelines The following guidelines are important for maintaining the FertiMiX Pro C: Disconnect the mains supply from the FertiMiX Pro C before performing any maintenance.
FertiMiX Annual maintenance The following inspection and maintenance tasks should be performed on the FertiMiX Pro C on a yearly basis: Clean, check and, if necessary, calibrate pH sensors. Clean, check and, if necessary, calibrate EC sensors. Check float switches. Clean and check filter(s).
FertiMiX Appendices Glossary CompactiMa module An I/O module that peripherals (inputs and outputs) can be connected to. Controls A collective term for the settings, measurements, alarms and readouts based on which the FertiMiX is controlled. Discharge outlet Excess water or wastewater. Dosing channel Pipe with solenoid valve and venturi for dosing one fertilizer (and/or acid) into the irrigation water.
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This is displayed as a percentage. Ridder CX500 The Ridder CX500 is the process controller that controls the FertiMiX Pro C. Venturi A venturi is a narrow point in a channel through which a liquid or gas flows.
You can use the spaces in the left column to tick off each step as you complete it. This procedure assumes that: Synopta and the Ridder CX500 have been installed. the dealer is familiar with CX Assistant. Section to see for Completed No.
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FertiMiX Section to see for Completed No. Step this Using the dosing channels for the first "Using the dosing time channels for the first time" on page 46. Test the dosing channels by irrigating briefly using the fertigation recipe. Place the suction hoses in the correct fertilizer/acid tank.