Related Manuals for TA AR-G2
Summary of Contents for TA AR-G2
- Page 1 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Rheometers Getting Started Guide Revision R Issued January 2011...
- Page 2 TA Instruments may have patents, patent applications, trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual prop- erty covering subject matter in this document. Except as expressly provided in written license agreement from TA Instruments, the furnishing of this document does not give you any license to these patents, trade- marks, copyrights, or other intellectual property.
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Page 3: Introduction
Getting Started Guide: • TA Instruments Trademarks • TA Instruments Patents • Other Trademarks • TA Instruments End-User License Agreement • TA Instruments Offices AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 3... -
Page 4: Notes, Cautions, And Warnings
EN 61010-2-010:2003 Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating of materials + Amendments. For United States UL61010-1:2004 Electrical Equipment for Laboratory Use; Part 1: General Requirements. UL61010A-2-010:2002 Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating of materials + Amendments. Page 4 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 5: Electromagnetic Compatibility Standards
Table 1 - Basic immunity test requirements. For the United States CFR Title 47 Telecommunication Chapter I Federal Communications Commission, Part 15 Radio frequency devices (FCC regulation pertaining to radio frequency emissions). AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 5... -
Page 6: Safety
The following label is displayed on the instrument for your protection: Symbol Explanation This symbol on the AR-G2 indicates that you should read this Getting Started Guide for important safety information. This guide contains important warnings and cautions related to the installation, operation, and safety of the instrument. -
Page 7: Warnings
WARNING: It is recommended that this instrument be serviced by trained and skilled TA Instruments personnel at least once a year. WARNING: The material used on the top surface of the Peltier Plate is hard, chrome-plated copper and the material used for the 'skirt' of the Peltier is stain- less steel. - Page 8 WARNING: Always unplug the instrument before performing any maintenance. WARNING: No user serviceable parts are contained in the rheometer. Mainte- nance and repair must be performed by TA Instruments or other qualified ser- vice personnel only. WARNING: This instrument must be connected to an earthed (grounded) power supply.
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Page 9: Electrical Safety
Mains frequency: 50 to 60 Hz Power: 1.4 kW DANGER: Because of the high voltages in this instrument, maintenance and repair of internal parts must be performed by TA Instruments or other qualified service personnel only. Liquid Nitrogen Safety Potential Asphyxiant WARNING: Liquid nitrogen can cause rapid suffocation without warning. -
Page 10: Chemical Safety
Safety of the rheometer may be impaired if the instrument: • Shows visible damage • Fails to perform the intended measurements • Has been badly stored • Has been flooded with water • Has been subjected to severe transport stresses. Page 10 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 11: Maintenance And Repair
Maintenance and Repair CAUTION: Adjustment, replacement of parts, maintenance and repair should be carried out by trained and skilled TA personnel only. The instrument should be disconnected from the mains before removal of the cover. WARNING: The cover should only be removed by authorized personnel. Once the cover has been removed, live parts are accessible. - Page 12 This page is intentionally blank. Page 12 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
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Page 13: Table Of Contents
Important: TA Instruments Manual Supplement ........ - Page 14 Signal cable fault ............53 Page 14 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
- Page 15 Other Messages ............53 Index ..............................55 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 15...
- Page 16 This page is intentionally blank. Page 16 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
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Page 17: Chapter 1: About The Ar Series Rheometers
This chapter reviews the history of rheology, and traces the development of combined motor and trans- ducer (CMT) rheometers. The AR-G2, AR 2000ex, and AR 1500ex are introduced, and brief descriptions of their main components and accessories are given. Please read this chapter carefully to familiarize yourself with the terminology used throughout this manual. - Page 18 SMT rheometers that led eventually to the modern ARES. Rheometric Scientific was acquired by TA Instruments in January 2003, and its products continue to be manufactured and developed. In the meantime, interest revived in CMT instruments, partly because of a desire to perform creep tests, and partly because of the need to investigate the phenomenon of the yield stress in more detail, for which the available SMT rheometers lacked the sensitivity.
- Page 19 Figure 1 Jack Deer’s Air Turbine Rheometer (left); Deer Rheometer (right). Figure 2 CSR. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 19...
- Page 20 TA Instruments in 1994. From that time on, progress in CMT technology has been remarkable, with the AR 1000 launched in 1996 and the AR 2000 in the year 2000 by TA Instruments. Both these instruments used air bearings, but the limits of that technology appear to have been reached, and for the AR-G2, launched in 2005, a magnetically levitated bearing was used.
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Page 21: The Ar-G2, Ar 2000Ex, And Ar 1500Ex
The interplay between the rheometer main unit and the electronics is described in “Key Rheometer Components” on page A schematic of the AR-G2 rheometer is given in the figure below. The AR 2000ex and AR 1500ex are similar. Motor and bearing... -
Page 22: Key Rheometer Components
The ball slide is mounted within the instrument column, and a motor and optical encoder are located in the base of the casting to drive the ball slide screw, moving the instrument head vertically, and to measure its position. Page 22 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 23: Magnetically-Levitated Bearing (Ar-G2)
On the AR-G2 rheometer, the thrust disc is retained, but it is levitated magnetically. The thrust disc is con- structed from a magnetically susceptible material. Electromagnetic actuators are positioned above and below the disc, the strength of the magnetic field generated by each actuator is controlled through the cur- rent supplied to its coils. -
Page 24: Air Bearing (Ar 2000Ex/Ar 1500Ex)
Ultra hi-res optical encoder Air bearing (radial) Air bearing (thrust) Drag cup Motor windings Air bearing (radial) Drive shaft Figure 5 AR 2000ex Rheometer head. Page 24 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 25: Radial Air Bearings
Radial Air Bearings Radial bearings provide stiffness and support in the radial direction. The AR-G2, AR 2000ex, and AR 1500ex are designed with two porous carbon radial bearings, located above and below the motor. Rotational Mapping The characteristics of any real bearing will vary with angular position. By combining absolute angular position data from the optical encoder with microprocessor control of the motor, these small variations can be mapped automatically, and the results stored. -
Page 26: Motor
The motor on the AR-G2 rheometer incorporates a patented drag cup temperature sensor. For the first time in any rheometer design, the temperature of the drag cup is measured, ensuring the most accurate possible torque output. -
Page 27: Normal Force Transducer (Ar-G2 And Ar 2000Ex Only)
This results in a fast response, wide range signal, which is easy to calibrate, and has a genuine normal force measurement capability. Both the AR-G2 and AR 2000ex rheometers have the ability to control the amount of normal force during an experiment, and make quantitative measurements of normal forces generated by a sample during a test. -
Page 28: Smart Swap
The use of this feature is covered in this manual. Also available for use with the AR-G2 only are the Smart Swap™ geometries, which are an extension of the Smart Swap technology. These geometries can be automatically identified when installed on the AR- G2 rheometer. -
Page 29: Environmental Control Units
The hard chrome plating prevents mechanical or chemical damage to the plate. Refer to the Peltier Plate Getting Started Guide for additional information. Figure 8 AR Series Peltier Plate. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 29... -
Page 30: Peltier Concentric Cylinders
Refer to the Peltier Concentric Cylinder Getting Started Guide for additional information. Figure 9 AR Series Peltier Concentric Cylinder. Page 30 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 31: Upper Heated Plate
NOTE: To extend the upper heater temperature range to 200°C, see electrically heated plates option). Refer to the Upper Heated Plate Getting Started Guide for additional information. Figure 10 AR Series Upper Heated Plate. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 31... -
Page 32: The Electrically Heated Plate (Ehp)
An optional clear cover is available for sample viewing and for use with the Camera Viewer option. The AR-G2 EHP offers Active Temperature Control (ATC), making it the only EHP system capable of direct temperature control of the upper and lower plates. The Upper EHP can be used with lower Peltier Plates for temperature control to 200°C and as temperature control to 150°C for... -
Page 33: The Pressure Cell
All necessary plumbing and gauges are included as a manifold assembly. The Pressure Cell is ideal for studying the effect of pressure on rheological properties, as well as studying the materials that volatilize under atmospheric pressure. This option is available for the AR-G2 and AR 2000ex rheometers. -
Page 34: The Starch Pasting Cell
This temperature control system is specifically for the measurement of asphalt binders. Its operation is covered by the Asphalt Submersion Cell manual. Refer to the Asphalt Submersion Cell Getting Started Guide for additional information. Page 34 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 35: The Environmental Test Chamber (Etc)
The Environmental Test Chamber (ETC) The ETC is a high temperature Smart Swap™ option available for the AR-G2 and AR 2000ex rheometers. It uses a controlled convection / radiant-heating concept and has a temperature range of –160 to 600°C with heating rates up to 60°C/min. The unique design of the ETC provides fast response and temperature stability over a continuous 760°C range as highlighted in the figure below with temperature steps of 20°C. -
Page 36: Accessories
The disc is placed at the interface of the two fluids. A mark has been lightly inscribed on the inside of the cup to indicate when it is half full. Figure 15 Bicone Interfacial Accessory. Page 36 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 37: The Interfacial Double Wall Ring (Dwr)
The human eye can generally perceive a total runout greater than 0.05 mm, so the DWR will always appear to “wobble” when rotating, even when within specification. Figure 16 Interfacial DWR. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 37... -
Page 38: The Etc Viewer
SmartSwap™ accessories for rheological characterization of these materials are available for the AR-G2 and AR 2000ex rheometers. Onc accessory uses a light guide and reflecting mirror assembly to transfer UV radiation from a high-pressure mercury light source. The second accessory uses self-contained light emitting diodes, LEd, arrays to deliver light to the sample. -
Page 39: Small Angle Light-Scattering (Sals) Accessory
The AR-SALS is available for the AR-G2 and AR 2000ex Rheometers. The option incorporates TA Instru- ments’ Smart Swap™ technology bringing a new level of speed and simplicity for making simultaneous rheology and SALS measurements. -
Page 40: Ar Rheometer Geometries
SER Universal Testing Platform Smart Swap™ Geometries The AR-G2 Smart Swap geometries have a larger diameter than those used on the AR2000ex and 1500ex. This is required to record sufficient data (36 bits) around the circumference. In addition, the geometries have a larger bore to allow a better location surface and easier cleaning. -
Page 41: Instrument Specifications
Instrument Specifications The table found below contains the technical specifications for the AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Rheometer. Table 1: AR-G2 Technical Specifications Item/Area Specifications Accessory (Electronics Base) Width 7.25 in.(18.5 cm) Height 14.75 in.(37.5 cm) Depth 17.75 in.(45 cm) Weight 38.1 lbs (17.3 kg) - Page 42 CR: Controlled Rate Mode CS: Controlled Stress Mode Internal Resolution for D to A converter at torque of 0.1 μN.m. Direct Strain Control provides single cycle oscillation and continuous oscillations during experiments. Page 42 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
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Page 43: Chapter 2: Installing The Instrument
Overview Normally the installation of your new system will be carried out by a member of the TA Instruments sales or service staff, or their appointed agents, and it will be ready for you to use. However, should you need to install or relocate the instrument, this chapter provides the necessary instructions. -
Page 44: Installation Requirements
Exposure to direct sunlight. • Poorly ventilated areas. After you have decided on the location for your instrument, refer to the following sections to unpack and install the AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Rheometer. Page 44 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 45: Connecting The System
Push the D-type cable into the Signal port on the back of the rheometer and connect the other end to the Signal port on the back of the control box. The AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex rheometers communicate with the control computer via an Ethernet link. -
Page 46: Connecting Air And Water To The Rheometer
For Peltier-based temperature control options, connect a supply of cooling water to the flow and return connections at the rear of the rheometer Connect the air supply (from the air regulator assembly) to the 'air in' connection. Set the regulator to 2 bar (30 psi). Page 46 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 47: Leveling The Rheometer
Any movement caused by pressing should be rectified by adjusting the feet, and then rechecking the level. An 'L'- shaped level with a bubble in each arm is most convenient type to use for this process. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 47... -
Page 48: Installing A Geometry
Push the geometry up the spindle and hold it while locating the draw rod in the screw thread of the geometry. Screw the draw rod upwards (clockwise). It should be screwed finger tight but not forced. To remove the geometry, perform this operation in reverse. Page 48 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide... -
Page 49: Chapter 3: Use, Maintenance, And Diagnostics
Lower the bearing\motor assembly to the bottom of its travel. Turn off power to the rheometer. Fit the bearing clamp, if bearing is likely to be disturbed while the air is off. Turn off the air supply. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 49... -
Page 50: Maintenance And Repair
Maintenance and Repair CAUTION: Adjustment, replacement of parts, maintenance and repair should be carried out by trained and skilled TA personnel only. The instrument should be disconnected from the mains before removal of the cover. WARNING: The cover should only be removed by authorized personnel. Once the cover has been removed, live parts are accessible. - Page 51 Figure 22 Performing step 2. CAUTION: Always hold the clamp and turn the knob— never the other way round. Treat the rheometer with the same degree of care you would take with any scientific laboratory instrument. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 51...
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Page 52: Error & Lcd Display Messages
Power On Messages Immediately after power up of the rheometer, the display will show 'Initialising...' After a few seconds this will change to 'AR-G2 8.xx xx/xx/xx' (x is version dependent). If it does not, there is a problem with the rheometer. -
Page 53: Encoder Index Not Found
This message is likely caused by fault/damage to the Pt100 or thermocouple. Other Messages Other error messages may be displayed. These are usually indicative of problems with the rheometer that can only be fixed by a qualified TA Instruments representative. AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 53... - Page 54 This page is intentionally blank. Page 54 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
- Page 55 Electrically Heated Plate description 32 electromagnetic compatibility standards 4 error codes 52 ETC Viewer introduction 38 installation 43 location requirements 44 requirements 44 instrument body 22 cable connections 45 connecting to air 46 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 55...
- Page 56 3 location 44 location of instrument 44 magnetically-levitated bearing 23 motor 26 normal force transducer 27 notes 4 optical encoder 26 patents 3 Peltier Concentric Cylinder description 30 Peltier Plate description 29 Page 56 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
- Page 57 10 electrical 9 instrument symbols 6 liquid nitrogen 9 Safety Standards 4 safety standards 4 Smart Swap 28 TA Instruments offices 3 trademarks 3 unpacking 43 Upper Heated Plate description 31 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide Page 57...
- Page 58 VTI-SA+ technical specifications 41 Warnings 7 warnings 4 water connecting to rheometer 46 work surface 44 Page 58 AR-G2/AR 2000ex/AR 1500ex Getting Started Guide...
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