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Malvern Instruments Spraytec User Manual

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Spraytec
Spraytec
User Manual
User Manual
M A N 0 3 6 8
I s s u e 1 . 0
N o v . 2 0 0 5

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  • Page 1 Spraytec Spraytec User Manual User Manual M A N 0 3 6 8 I s s u e 1 . 0 N o v . 2 0 0 5...
  • Page 2 © Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2005 Malvern Instruments makes every effort to ensure that this document is correct. However, due to Malvern Instruments’ policy of continual product development we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of this, or any other document after the date of publication. We therefore disclaim all liability for any changes, errors or omissions after the date of publication.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    CHAPTER 1 - Introduction to this manual Introduction How to use this manual Access to the instrument Assumed information Where to get help CHAPTER 2 - What is the Spraytec? Introduction The Spraytec summarised Preparing the spray Designing an SOP Capturing the scattering pattern...
  • Page 4 C O N T E N T S S p r a y t e c Overlay window 4-13 Menus 4-14 The toolbar 4-18 CHAPTER 5 - Measurement tutorial Introduction Getting started Creating an SOP Manual measurements 5-29 Measuring the spray 5-30 Results 5-34...
  • Page 5 C O N T E N T S Part 2 - Supervisor’s guide CHAPTER 9 - Security Introduction Security principles Setting up the Administrator Security guidelines Setting up user groups Setting up individual users CHAPTER 10 - Advanced features Introduction 10-1 Derived parameters 10-2...
  • Page 6 C O N T E N T S S p r a y t e c APPENDIX C - Site requirements Introduction Environmental conditions Space required Power requirements Power cords Additional services Computer usage APPENDIX D - Unpacking instructions APPENDIX E - Installation Introduction Moving the instrument Changing the computer...
  • Page 7 Part 1 - Operator’s guide Part 1 - Operator’s guide...
  • Page 9 Introduction to this manual Introduction to this manual...

  • Page 11: Part 1 - Operator's Guide

    The aims of this manual are to: . Explain what the Spraytec is, how it works and the parameters it measures. . Explain in simple terms how the instrument analyses sprays. . Describe the Spraytec hardware and software components.

  • Page 12: Access To The Instrument

    Part 2 - Supervisor’s guide The Supervisor’s guide concentrates on administration and the more advanced Spraytec features. Topics covered are: . Security – explains how to set up administrators, users and user groups. . Advanced features – describes triggers, alarms, spray profiles, etc. in detail.

  • Page 13: Assumed Information

    Assumed information Naming convention The Spraytec is referred to either in full as ‘the Spraytec’ or as ‘the instrument’. The combination of the Spraytec instrument, the computer and the Spraytec software is referred to as ‘the system’.

  • Page 14: Where To Get Help

    Where to get help Manual and online help The primary sources of information on the Spraytec system are this manual and the software’s online help. This manual gives an overview of the system as a whole, while the online help gives detailed information on the Spraytec software.
  • Page 15 C H A P T E R 1 Remote support Malvern Instruments offers a remote support service, delivered by an Internet connection. Benefits include fast and efficient fault diagnosis, reducing downtime and costs. Online user training is also available, plus software updates. A high speed Internet connection is recommended for making use of this facility.
  • Page 16 C H A P T E R 1 S p r a y t e c P a g e 1 . 6...
  • Page 17 What is the Spraytec? What is the Spraytec?

  • Page 19: Introduction

    Introduction This chapter describes the full process of making a measurement, explaining at each stage how the Spraytec works. It begins with a summary of what the Spraytec does, then covers the following: . Preparing the spray and the instrument.

  • Page 20: Preparing The Spray

    SOP and just changes the required parameters. This re- duces the risk of making errors in the settings. . An SOP can be created centrally and then distributed to all Spraytec users within an organisation. Anyone can create an SOP but typically it is the re- sponsibility of the system administrator.

  • Page 21: Capturing The Scattering Pattern

    Capturing the scattering pattern This section describes the principles of the Spraytec’s operation. Fundamentals The fundamentals of Spraytec spray measurement are shown in this diagram: The process is: . Light from the laser + is scattered by the spray droplets - .
  • Page 22 . The pattern is a snapshot in time which relates directly to the size of the particles. . The Spraytec can take snaps at a rate of 10kHz. . Continuous acquisition allows a history of the spray event to be built up.
  • Page 23 In cases where the particle concentration is high, the measurement process is complicated by scattered light being re-scattered by other particles before it reaches the detector. The Spraytec software can apply a patented ‘multiple scattering’ algorithm to correct for this.
  • Page 24 C H A P T E R 2 S p r a y t e c . Corrected light scattering – this is the scattering signal from a detector with both the light and dark background subtracted from it. (The light background is modified using the multiple scattering algorithm and cor- rected for the transmission, which is affected by some of the background light being obscured by the spray particles.) The Particle Size Distribution...

  • Page 25: Calculating The Particle Size

    C H A P T E R 2 Calculating the particle size The Spraytec software calculates the particle size of sprays by comparing the acquired light scattering pattern to an optical model which predicts how particle scattering changes with particle size. To understand the meaning of the results from the Spraytec, two fundamental concepts require explanation.
  • Page 26 Many other methods are also available. The Spraytec uses the volume of the droplet to measure its size. In the example above, the matchbox has a volume of 50 x 25 x 10mm = 12500mm .

  • Page 27: Displaying Results

    C H A P T E R 2 Displaying results The final step is to display the results. This section explains: . Why the results are volume-based. . How the distribution parameters are derived. . What parameters can be derived from the analysis. Volume-based results The first point to remember in interpreting results is that the fundamental size distribution derived is volume-based.
  • Page 28 C H A P T E R 2 S p r a y t e c geometric mean is chosen in these calculations as more appropriate to the logarithmic spacing of the fundamental size classes. The same principle of calculation applies to the standard deviation. For mono-size distributions the distribution mean is reported as the geometric mean of the size class and the standard deviation is reported as zero.

  • Page 29: Experiments, Records And Files

    C H A P T E R 2 The additional user-defined derived parameters include the following: . Obscuration. . Percentages above, between or below a specified particle size. . Arithmetic and Geometric Standard Deviations. . Aux x1, the auxiliary port used. .
  • Page 30 C H A P T E R 2 S p r a y t e c . A separate measurement file can be used for each day. N o t e Users are prompted to specify where to save data at the start of a measurement.
  • Page 31 The Spraytec hardware The Spraytec hardware...

  • Page 33: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 3 Introduction This chapter introduces the Spraytec hardware components. It provides: . A summary of the key hardware components. . For each key component, a description of its main parts. The software package is described in the following chapter.

  • Page 34: The Spraytec Instrument

    C H A P T E R 3 S p r a y t e c The Spraytec instrument The Spraytec instrument is shown below: The Spraytec has the following major components: + Optical support bench (X-bar). , Transmitter. - Receiver.
  • Page 35 The advantage of the X-bar is that the transmitter and receiver can be moved to different positions, with the certainty that the detector optics remain aligned to the transmitter laser path. This is the basis for the Spraytec instrument alignment. The X-bar is shown below: This shows: >...
  • Page 36 Chapter 6. Adjusting the feet The laboratory Spraytec X-bar must be kept at an angle of 12°. The instrument will be installed like this, but if the feet are ever moved vertically out of position readjust them as described in Appendix E.
  • Page 37 C H A P T E R 3 Connections The connections on the back of the Transmitter are labelled as shown here: These are used as follows: . TO RECEIVER – a LEMO cable with blue connectors is connected from here to the socket in the Transmitter end of the X-bar.
  • Page 38 The electrical background measurement includes any signal caused by ambient light in the room. Ensure no bright lights shine directly into the Spraytec optics. Do not work next to a window where sunlight can interfere with the measurement as this may cause the overall ambient light levels to change during the measurement.

  • Page 39: External Psu

    . ACCESSORY COMMS – this is the port for connection of accessories other than those connected to the above ports. The accessory must support the CAN Port protocol. This port could be connected to the Spraytec NSS input or, for a fuel injection system, the input on a pressure sensor.

  • Page 40: Universal Switching Box

    Computer and monitor A computer of suitable specification is normally supplied. For information on the computer requirements, contact Malvern Instruments. We recommend that this control computer is used to run the Spraytec software only. P a g e 3 . 8...

  • Page 41: Bench Shroud

    The wet environment Spraytec includes a detachable Bench shroud which covers the X-bar. The Bench shroud is used when measuring high volume sprays to ensure the spray is not deflected back into the Spraytec measurement zone. The shroud has three similar sections which clip onto the X-bar using clips on their lower surface.
  • Page 42 C H A P T E R 3 S p r a y t e c P a g e 3 . 1 0...
  • Page 43 The Spraytec software The Spraytec software...

  • Page 45: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 4 Introduction This chapter introduces the features of the software application. It describes: . The main window – a quick introduction to what the software looks like at startup and after a measurement. .

  • Page 46: The Main Window

    S p r a y t e c The main window This section shows what the Spraytec window looks like. This example shows a typical Spraytec display when the software is launched and a .smea file opened: The components are: + Title bar –...
  • Page 47 Spraytec – when coloured, this shows the computer is communicating with the instrument. The remainder of the Spraytec window is initially taken up by three result panes containing views as described below. These windows can be cascaded or tiled if required using options in the Window menu.

  • Page 48: The Measurement File Window

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c The Measurement file window Measurement results are automatically saved to a measurement file. This file and the experiment(s) and record(s) it contains are described in Chapter 2. The measurement file contains a virtual folder structure and the window displays its contents as a tree based on this.

  • Page 49: Size History View

    C H A P T E R 4 If averages are calculated, a new virtual folder named Averages is created with the average .psd files listed within it, as shown above for Experiment 1. If overlays are produced, a new virtual folder named Overlays is created to hold these and the .pso files listed within this.
  • Page 50 C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c The key components are: + Vertical line showing a trigger mark. When the cursor is held over this line, the trigger time is shown in a pop-up box as shown above. , Selector bar –...
  • Page 51 C H A P T E R 4 . Select one or more records using the mouse as described above then right-click and select Zoom in to Selection. There is also a Zoom Out option to undo this. Keyboard shortcuts Use the left arrow and right arrow keys to move the selector bar by one record.

  • Page 52: The Record Views

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c There is one tab for each of the views the Size History can show. The online help gives full details on how to use this window. The record views The record views give detailed information about the individual record selected in the Size History view.
  • Page 53 C H A P T E R 4 The available views are: . Particle Size Distribution – this is the left-hand view in the above exam- ple. It shows a histogram and a cumulative “percent volume smaller than” line. A table of values is shown below the graph. This view is described in detail in Chapter 6.

  • Page 54: The Measurement Manager

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c . For the Particle Size Distribution only, a Maximum Frequency value can be set. This defines the limit of the Volume Frequency % axis. .
  • Page 55 C H A P T E R 4 The Measurement Manager components are as follows. Toolbar The button bar controls the measurement operation. The buttons are: Settings – opens a dialogue showing the measurement settings. Extra comments can be added and changes made to the measurement parameters before the measurement is started.

  • Page 56: Average Psd Window

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c Obscuration level This shows the obscuration level during the Inspection and Measure sample stages. It gives a visual indication of the spray concentration; 0% means no spray is present.

  • Page 57: Overlay Window

    C H A P T E R 4 The window shows the same set of parameters as the Measurement Parameters window, but as averages for the range of records selected. This can be the whole measurement or a subset of records; the online help shows how to select a range and calculate averages.

  • Page 58: Menus

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c Menus The menu bar contains the main menu headings for all software functions. The menu commands are described below. File menu New } Overlay Opens a fresh overlay window for dragging .psd files to.
  • Page 59 C H A P T E R 4 Note the following: . Items which end with a row of dots (...) open a dialogue box. . Items which end with an arrow ( } ) present a list of available sub-options when you click on the arrow.
  • Page 60 C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c View menu Use this menu to configure the main window display. The options are: Default Layout Returns all toolbars etc. to default positions. Size History Only Closes result windows apart from the size history.
  • Page 61 ER/ES Settings... Edits the ER/ES settings (only if 21CFR Part 11 is in use). Install Feature Key... Installs a key for a new Spraytec option (only if 21CFR Part 11 features are in use). Audit Trail... Displays the current audit trail (only if 21CFR Part 11 is in use).

  • Page 62: The Toolbar

    C H A P T E R 4 S p r a y t e c The toolbar The toolbar is located below the menu bar. It provides button shortcuts for performing the most popular operations. Each button has an equivalent menu command.
  • Page 63 Measurement tutorial Measurement tutorial...

  • Page 65: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 5 Introduction After reading this chapter a user should be able to make simple measurements. The chapter covers the following: . Getting started – powering on the system, starting the software, device and actuator preparation.

  • Page 66: Getting Started

    90 minutes to warm up to a completely stable state. This does not affect other measurement types. To start the Spraytec software: . Double-click on the Spraytec desktop icon. (If the icon is not available, open the Start menu and select Programs-Malvern Instru- ments-Spraytec to start the software.) .
  • Page 67 C H A P T E R 5 Instrument preparation This section presents guidelines on how to set the instrument up, depending on the type of spray being tested. Read each guideline below and take account of any which are relevant to the spray tested. Take account of ambient conditions, for example direct sunlight, at all stages.
  • Page 68 Setting up an actuator The Spraytec Accessories manual gives full details of the Spraytec NSS. The actuator manufacturer’s documentation describes the setup of the actuator itself. P a g e 5 . 4...

  • Page 69: Creating An Sop

    C H A P T E R 5 Creating an SOP Creating an SOP to make the measurement is the main step in the process. This means using the SOP wizard as described here. This wizard consists of several dialogues that can be stepped through by using Next and Back buttons. On each SOP dialogue there is a Help button;...
  • Page 70 2.5Hz and 2.5kHz. Due to the speed of data acquisition, data obtained during a rapid measurement is stored by the instrument electronics until the measurement finishes, then passed to the computer and Spraytec software for analysis. The Spraytec Measurement Processor downloads the measurement data from the instrument to the computer.
  • Page 71 C H A P T E R 5 To create an SOP: . Select File-New-SOP... or click to open the SOP wizard. . In the Welcome dialogue shown below select the required template. This selects suitable defaults throughout the wizard. .
  • Page 72 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c Continuous spray SOP This section describes how to create an SOP for use with a continuous spray, for example a coatings or agrochemical spray. .
  • Page 73 C H A P T E R 5 . The Measurement setup dialogue shown below appears. At the bottom of the dialogue select the Enable inspection stage... check box. This pauses the measurement after the background measurement and allows a trial spray before measurement starts so pre-measurement checks can be per- formed.
  • Page 74 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c . The first Analysis dialogue appears. Select water as the particle and air as the dispersant. Enable Multiple Scattering Analysis, especially if testing a high concentration spray: .
  • Page 75 C H A P T E R 5 Data handling – used to “kill” (discard) data from specified detectors. Spray profile – lets the user define the path length of the laser beam through the spray, providing a more accurate measure of the spray concentration.
  • Page 76 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c . The list above shows the recommended parameters for a continuous mea- surement. . This is the final dialogue. When all parameters are set up, click Next to dis- play the Wizard Complete dialogue.
  • Page 77 C H A P T E R 5 Pulsed spray SOP This section describes how to use the SOP wizard to create an SOP for use with pulsed sprays like nasal sprays and MDIs. . In the Welcome dialogue select the Default rapid template or, for a nasal spray, the Default nasal spray template.
  • Page 78 Select an actuator from those listed. A set of parameters for the actua- tor appears; set these up according to the manufacturer’s documentation. If using a Spraytec Nasal Spray Support (NSS), select the Uses Spraytec NSS check box and specify its setup; the online help gives full details. The Spraytec Accessories manual describes the NSS.
  • Page 79 C H A P T E R 5 . Select the Enable extraction check box and specify the extraction period. This can begin before alignment, before the background measurement or at the start of measurement (with a delay of up to 10 seconds if required). It can continue for up to 60 seconds after the measurement if required;...
  • Page 80 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c acceptable when carrying out the background check. If the background shift between the beginning and end of the measurement is greater than this percentage, a warning at the end of the measurement states that the optics have possibly become contaminated by the spray.
  • Page 81 C H A P T E R 5 The Transmission filter removes results that exceed the indicated transmission level. The Signal filter excludes data signals that are below the indicated signal level. The signal level relates to the average scattering signal recorded across the active detector channels.
  • Page 82 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c N o t e The FDA guideline for nasal sprays is to disable Multiple Scattering Analysis. . The Data Handling options allow for refining the measurement further and are detailed in Chapter 6 and in the online help.
  • Page 83 C H A P T E R 5 User size bands control the way data is aggregated; Chapter 6 has details. To use a different set of bands, select the Enable check box and click the button; Chapter 6 details the procedure. .
  • Page 84 The Options section determines how average size distributions are calculated. The choices are: Average scatter data – the Spraytec calculates the average scattering pattern associated with the records selected for averaging. The average size distribution is then calculated from this average scattering data set. This is the default and recommended option.
  • Page 85 C H A P T E R 5 the range. This allows for fluctuations in the spray concentration during the measurement. It is enabled by default. N o t e Disabling Concentration-weighted average causes the average to be calculated based on the assumption that each record is equally important in determining the final result.
  • Page 86 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c End phase – from time T2 until time T3, this is generally set to include the region where the particle size starts to increase towards the end of the spray event.
  • Page 87 C H A P T E R 5 Externally-triggered spray SOP This section describes how to use the SOP wizard to create an SOP for use with an externally-triggered spray, for example a fuel spray. . In the Welcome dialogue select the Default rapid template and click Next.
  • Page 88 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c . The Measurement setup dialogue shown below appears. At the bottom of the dialogue select the Enable inspection stage... check box. This pauses the measurement after the background measurement and allows a trial spray before measurement starts for pre-measurement checking.
  • Page 89 C H A P T E R 5 . Specify an external trigger with positive slope and high impedance. This trigger can be grouped. To set this up, click the Advanced button to open the Advanced settings dialogue. In the Group data by: list select Exter- nal trigger.
  • Page 90 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c Data handling – used to “kill” (discard) data from specified detectors. Spray profile – lets the user define the path length of the laser beam through the spray, providing a more accurate measure of the spray concentration.
  • Page 91 C H A P T E R 5 . The list above shows the recommended parameters for a fuel spray mea- surement. When these parameters are listed click Next. . The Averaging dialogue appears: The Options section determines how average size distributions are calculated.
  • Page 92 C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c Average scatter data – the Spraytec calculates the average scattering pattern associated with the records selected for averaging. The average size distribution is then calculated from this average scattering data set. This is the default and recommended option.

  • Page 93: Manual Measurements

    C H A P T E R 5 Time-based averaging is generally used to produce a .psh file containing average results for rapidly repeating pulsed spray events such as observed during fuel injector operation. Here the average is calculated either between Group Trigger marks or over fixed, repeated time periods.

  • Page 94: Measuring The Spray

    This section explains how to measure a spray using an SOP or manual measurement. To make the measurement: . Check that the Spraytec and any required accessories are ready to use. . Do one of the following: - To make an SOP measurement select Measure-Start SOP or click the button.
  • Page 95 C H A P T E R 5 . The instrument checks its alignment between the electrical and optical background measurements. If this is the first alignment in this session this may take some minutes, otherwise just a short time. .
  • Page 96 200 the instrument optics need cleaning. If the optics have been cleaned to give an acceptable background, but the laser intensity is still low (60% or below) the laser may be failing; contact Malvern Instruments. . If an Inspection Stage was specified by the SOP, the Inspection tab shown below appears.
  • Page 97 . When the measurement finishes or the user presses the Stop button, the Spraytec waits for another spray. Either prepare this and press Start again or click Close to end the session. P a g e 5 . 3 3...

  • Page 98: Results

    C H A P T E R 5 S p r a y t e c Results Once completed, the measurement will be added to the folder in the Measurement file window, together with the .ssop file used to configure the measurement parameters.
  • Page 99 Interpreting the results Interpreting the results...

  • Page 101: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 6 Introduction This chapter describes how to review measurement results. It covers: . The available plot and curve types. . Warnings and errors – how these appear in the views. . The Size History view. This includes the method for selecting records in the Size History view.

  • Page 102: Plot And Curve Types

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Plot and curve types Results can be displayed in several ways. This diagram shows three of the more common ways of displaying the result: This shows: + Histogram –...

  • Page 103: Warnings And Errors

    C H A P T E R 6 Warnings and errors If a warning or error condition existed at the time a record was measured, one of the following appears on the header line in a record view: . ! = warning. .

  • Page 104: Size History View

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Size History view This view, described in Chapter 4, shows the value of the derived parameters the user has specified at every point at which data was collected during the measurement.
  • Page 105 C H A P T E R 6 To select records using Edit-Records: . Open the Size History view and select Edit-records to open this dialogue: . Choose one of the following Selection Mode options: Range – to use a range selected using the mouse (see above). Screen –...
  • Page 106 C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Re-analysing (editing) records Each record in a Size History can be edited and reanalysed, producing a new result obtained using different measurement parameters. For example, suppose the refractive index value used for the spray initially is found to be incorrect.
  • Page 107 C H A P T E R 6 . After processing, the re-analysed records are displayed in place of the original records. Finding a record If information on the spray was entered into the SOP wizard Labels dialogue, use Edit-find to locate a measurement record(s) subsequently based on this. To find a record: .
  • Page 108 C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c . Clicking the buttons moves the Size History selector bar through the set of records selected for searching. Deleting records Records can be deleted from a Size History plot. This is useful if the plot contains more records then is required.

  • Page 109: Particle Size Distribution View

    C H A P T E R 6 Particle Size Distribution view The Particle Size Distribution view shows two graphs, a histogram and a cumulative result-under curve: The histogram displays the result in the form of “in band” percentages. Each bar in the graph represents a size band of particles and its height represents the percentage of the spray that is within that size band.

  • Page 110: Derived Parameters View

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Derived Parameters view The Derived Parameters view displays a table of values for each parameter: The parameters are described in Chapter 10. For each parameter the value, average (over the period shown after the table), standard deviation, minimum size and maximum size are listed.
  • Page 111 . Multiple scatter – whether the multiple scattering algorithm was used. Other sections The remaining sections are: . Identification – this identifies the operator and the Spraytec hardware. . Rapid Measurement – this describes the trigger setup. . Spray properties – these parameters are described in detail in the spray profile section in Chapter 10.

  • Page 112: Averaging Data

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Averaging data Averages can be used to compare different stages of atomisation or look for consistency between measurements at different times. The average particle size for selected records can be calculated in two ways: .

  • Page 113: User Size Bands

    C H A P T E R 6 . A progress bar shows that processing is taking place. On completion, a set of views showing the averaged measurement parameters becomes available, starting with the Average PSD view. Right-click on this to see a list of the other available views.
  • Page 114 C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c As this shows, the default is 60 bands dividing the range 0.1 to 2000mm. The procedure for creating/editing a set of bands is described below. The permitted number of bands is from 3 to 60, inclusive.

  • Page 115: Curve Fit

    However, for comparability with results obtained using older laser diffraction systems, the Spraytec can be set up to produce size distributions using a simple two parameter distribution model. This is set up using the second Analysis SOP dialogue.

  • Page 116: Using Overlays

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c Using overlays A Particle Size Overlay window can be used to compare data from up to eight PSD views. The data from all these is shown on one display. An overlay can show any of the following views (right-click on the O window to select one): .
  • Page 117 C H A P T E R 6 To create an overlay: . Click on one or more .psd files in the Measurement file window and right-click. In the menu this displays, select Add to Overlay-New Over- lay. Alternatively, use the button or File-New -Overlay.

  • Page 118: Problems With Poor Data

    C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c . To change the format of the table shown in the window click the Columns button. In the dialogue displayed use the pull-down lists to change the con- tent of any column.
  • Page 119 C H A P T E R 6 Light scattered by the two particles closest to the lens is collected by the lens. Light from particle / is scattered beyond the lens. This shows the extent of the working area - . The minimum working range of the 300mm lens is 150mm, allowing measurement of particles down to size 0.5mm.
  • Page 120 When the Spraytec is set up, the system is aligned with air present in the measurement zone. Gases such as propellants have a refractive index significantly different from air.
  • Page 121 C H A P T E R 6 particle scattering, it is interpreted by the analysis as indicating the presence of coarse particles. The only way to overcome this is to eliminate from the analysis the detector channels affected by beam steering. An example of beam steering is shown by the following two views: This spray contains a high concentration of propellant, causing a large scattering response on the first detector channels.
  • Page 122 C H A P T E R 6 S p r a y t e c . Eliminate the detectors affected by beam steering from the analysis using the Detector Range options. This is used more often. It reduces the size range of the analysis as large particles are not detected, but realistic results are obtained.

  • Page 123: Using The Data Handling Options

    C H A P T E R 6 Using the Data handling options The Data handling options allow users to specify which of the scattering detectors to use when calculating the spray size distribution. The detector range to use can be specified and/or a scattering threshold set to decide whether to accept the signal received on each detector.
  • Page 124 The Beam Steering section above has more details. . No Extinction Analysis (if available) – when measuring very fine mate- rials, the Spraytec software can use the amount of light extinguished by the sample as a data point in order to improve the sub-micron resolution. This option can only be used if the measurement path length is correctly set in the Spray Profile options (Chapter 10).
  • Page 125 Using measurement files Using measurement files...

  • Page 127: Chapter 7 - Using Measurement Files

    . Printing results. Measurement file types The Spraytec measurement file (.smea) is the main file and this contains all the measurement information. The Measurement file window shows a folder structure when a .smea file is opened, but in fact the “sub-folder” information is stored within this single file.

  • Page 128: Exporting Information

    C H A P T E R 7 S p r a y t e c . Click Save to save the measurement information. Exporting information The values of any of the parameters from one or more records, as well as PSH images, can be exported via the Windows clipboard to other applications such as Microsoft Excel, Word and Wordpad.
  • Page 129 C H A P T E R 7 Exporting directly to a file Three output options are available, as described above: . Data – produces another .psh file containing the selected records. . Image – produces an .emf file (Enhanced Metafile) containing the graph as an image.
  • Page 130 C H A P T E R 7 S p r a y t e c . Use the Add-> and <-Remove buttons to build the list of Parameters to Export. These will all be included in the exported text file. Use the Move up or Move Down buttons to reorder parameters as appropriate.

  • Page 131: Printing

    C H A P T E R 7 To copy text to the clipboard: . Click in the window and select Edit-Copy Text. . The Select Range of Records to Copy dialogue appears. If required, change the selection of records using the Selection Mode as described in Chapter 6.
  • Page 132 C H A P T E R 7 S p r a y t e c . Select the check box for each view to include in the print. Each view will be printed on a separate page on the paper or in the .pdf file. The printed page will show the same information that is displayed in that type of view.
  • Page 133 Basic maintenance Basic maintenance...

  • Page 135: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 8 Introduction The instrument has been designed to keep user maintenance to a minimum. This chapter explains the routine user maintenance procedures that can be performed. These procedures are: . Moving optical modules along the X-bar. .

  • Page 136: Changing The Lens

    C H A P T E R 8 S p r a y t e c Changing the lens N o t e This applies to dual lens systems only. On instruments supplied with both 300mm and 750mm lenses, it may be necessary to change between these.

  • Page 137: Cleaning The Instrument

    C H A P T E R 8 Cleaning the instrument Laser scattering is a high resolution optical method in which the detectors and windows are an integral part of the measurement zone. Dust or smears on windows scatter light that is measured with the spray scattering. The process of measuring both a background and a spray and then subtracting the background does correct for such contributions.

  • Page 138: Troubleshooting

    C H A P T E R 8 S p r a y t e c Troubleshooting Errors and warnings are reported in the message bar, in dialogue boxes or in the Measurement Parameters view. This section lists the possible messages and explains what causes them.

  • Page 139: Part 2 - Supervisor's Guide

    Part 2 - Supervisor’s guide Part 2 - Supervisor’s guide...
  • Page 141 Security Security...

  • Page 143: Introduction

    . Setting up user groups. . Setting up individual users. Security principles As Spraytec users may have varying skill levels, user access can be limited so that certain functions such as editing SOPs, deleting records and editing results are reserved for specific users only.

  • Page 144: Setting Up The Administrator

    C H A P T E R 9 S p r a y t e c 21 CFR Part 11 The security system can be upgraded to provide technical compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 by installing a feature key. Once this is installed, 21 CFR Part 11 security settings can be applied and ‘Audit trails’...

  • Page 145: Security Guidelines

    C H A P T E R 9 . Select the Administrator name in the first row and then User-Properties. Confirm the blank password for the Administrator ac- count (that is, do not type anything in) and click OK. . Click Options-Security settings... and in the Security Settings dialogue shown below select the Enable security check box and click OK.

  • Page 146: Setting Up User Groups

    C H A P T E R 9 S p r a y t e c Setting up user groups All users must be a member of at least one user group. N o t e Only users assigned to the Administrators group can add or edit the user group properties.

  • Page 147: Setting Up Individual Users

    C H A P T E R 9 . The Members list shows all the users currently assigned to the group. To add a user click Add; a list of all users not currently allocated to that group is shown. Select one or more users (hold down the Ctrl key to select multi- ple users) and press OK to add those users to the group.
  • Page 148 C H A P T E R 9 S p r a y t e c To add a user: . In the Security Configuration dialogue, select User-New User... or double-click on an empty Username row to display the User properties dialogue: .
  • Page 149 C H A P T E R 9 . Use the Add button to allocate the user to appropriate group(s) by moving each group to the Member of: list. . After adding the user to all required groups, click OK. To edit a user: .
  • Page 150 C H A P T E R 9 S p r a y t e c If the administrator used the User cannot change password option, this prevents a user from changing a password once it has been initially set. Otherwise, once they have logged in a user can change their own password by using Security-Change password.
  • Page 151 Advanced features Advanced features...

  • Page 153: Introduction

    . Alarms – describes how warning and error generation is controlled. . Spray profiles – to improve the analysis, the Spraytec SOP gives the user the option of defining the shape, size, and position of the spray plume in relation to the Spraytec bench.

  • Page 154: Derived Parameters

    C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c Derived parameters The Measurement Parameters window shows the “standard values”, those derived parameters which are most commonly used. In addition a wider set of parameters can be defined by the user during SOP creation.
  • Page 155 . Nrr – the Rosin-Rammler distribution width (see below for details). . Aux x1 – the Spraytec interface unit has a number of auxiliary ports. These can be used to acquire a signal from other instruments. To view the signal in the Size History view, select this variable type and specify the x1 value, the name of the instrument and the units in which the signal is displayed.
  • Page 156 î þ þ ï The Spraytec calculation fits a straight line to this data and obtains the two parameters used in the fit: . Drr – Rosin-Rammler central size point. . Nrr – N the distribution width (gradient of the fit).

  • Page 157: Triggers

    C H A P T E R 1 0 Triggers A trigger is used in rapid measurements to signal that measurement must start. There are several types of trigger: . Manual – measurement begins when the user presses the Measurement Manager’s Start button.
  • Page 158 The available options for grouping are: . No grouping – in this case the Spraytec will not record any external trig- ger activity during an event. P a g e 1 0 . 6...
  • Page 159 C H A P T E R 1 0 . External Trigger – if this is selected the Spraytec will monitor any exter- nal trigger activity during an event and log the position of any trigger events on the Size History plot. Users can use these trigger marks to group data...

  • Page 160: Alarms

    C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c Trigger Parameters Manual No parameters Transmission drops to level Transmission % Scattering increases to level on Scattering level, detector number detector External trigger Slope, impedance .
  • Page 161 C H A P T E R 1 0 Background alarms Background alarms are used to alert the user of errors if the background signal at the start of the measurement is too high. A background measurement has two components: .
  • Page 162 C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c Optical alarms The optical alarm types are as follows: . Min Transmission signal – a measurement falling below the specified minimum transmission may mean that the optical windows are too dirty to make accurate measurements, or that the detector is badly aligned.
  • Page 163 C H A P T E R 1 0 Electronic alarms As no spray is in the beam during measurement of the light background, any light diffraction is probably due to optical contamination. The Max signal and Peak signal alarms are measures of the light that is hitting the detectors. This should be minimal if the windows are clean and there is no spray in the measurement zone.

  • Page 164: Spray Profiles

    C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c These alarms can be used to guard against two possibilities: . High spray concentration – in some applications the spray concentration is too high for accurate results to be obtained. This situation is detected using the Min Transmission warning and error level values.
  • Page 165 C H A P T E R 1 0 Default spray profiles for free spray and spray nozzle are provided. The parameters for the selected profile are displayed in the dialogue as shown above. Additional profiles can also be set up; these will be made available to other users at the site.
  • Page 166 C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c . To create a new profile click the Add button to open the Spray Profile Editor (described below). Specify values for the parameters as described there then click Save and Close.
  • Page 167 C H A P T E R 1 0 this is 0, meaning the spray will be vertically upward. For a vertical downward spray the value will be 180°. Set up the Radii table as described below then click Save. The new spray profile will appear in the selection list in the Select a Spray Profile dialogue.

  • Page 168: Optical Models

    Mie theory Spraytec uses the full Mie Theory which completely solves the equations for interaction of light with matter. This allows completely accurate results over a large size range (0.02 - 2000µm typically).
  • Page 169 C H A P T E R 1 0 A standard set of particles is available for selection in the SOP (using the first Analysis dialogue). More can be defined by a user, but the following parameters must be specified accurately: .
  • Page 170 C H A P T E R 1 0 S p r a y t e c P a g e 1 0 . 1 8...
  • Page 171 SOP management SOP management...

  • Page 173: Introduction

    C H A P T E R 1 1 Introduction This chapter shows how to: . Edit or delete an SOP. . Produce new SOP templates. . Extract an SOP from a .psh file. Editing SOPs To edit an existing SOP: .

  • Page 174: Sop Templates

    . Create an SOP and save it to the directory SOP Templates rather than SOP. Deleting an SOP To delete an SOP: . In Windows Explorer navigate to the Spraytec SOP directory and delete the .ssop file. Extracting an SOP The SOP settings used to produce a measurement can be To extract an SOP: .

  • Page 175: Part 3 - Appendices

    Part 3 - Appendices Part 3 - Appendices...
  • Page 177 Health and Safety Health and Safety...

  • Page 179: General Warnings

    Read and fully understand this section before operating the system. Warning! Use of the system in a manner not specified by Malvern Instruments Ltd. may impair the protection provided by the system. The instrument must only be stored or operated in environmental conditions conforming to the specification in Appendix C - Site requirements.

  • Page 180: Laser Safety Regulations

    A P P E N D I X A S p r a y t e c The Spraytec system components are mains powered devices and all power cables and electrical sockets should be treated accordingly. Do not place cables where they are likely to become wet.
  • Page 181 A P P E N D I X A Transmitter front panel labels There are two laser warning labels on the front of the Transmitter: Transmitter back panel label There is one laser warning label on the back of the Transmitter: P a g e A .

  • Page 182: Spray Handling Warnings

    A P P E N D I X A S p r a y t e c General laser warnings Although staring directly at the laser beam momentarily causes no known biological damage, avoid staring at the beam as one would with any strong light source, such as the sun.

  • Page 183: Moving The System

    When it is eventually time to dispose of the system, do this in a responsible manner. The following guidelines should be followed: . Seek advice from the local Malvern Instruments representative for details. . Decontaminate the instrument if hazardous materials have been used in it.
  • Page 184 A P P E N D I X A S p r a y t e c P a g e A . 6...
  • Page 185 Specification Specification...

  • Page 187: Specification

    A P P E N D I X B Specification Dimensions Dimension Short X-bar Long X-bar Length 950mm 1400mm Width 550mm 550mm Height 610mm 610mm Weight 36kg 37kg Laser CDRH and IEC60825-1 compliant Class 3R laser product Max. output power <5mW Beam diameter 10mm (1/e²)
  • Page 188 A P P E N D I X B S p r a y t e c Optical models Mie Theory and Fraunhofer Approximation. Concentration range Patented Multiple Scattering Correction ( US Patent No. 5,619,324) enables operation at high concentrations. Minimum acceptable transmission 5% (95% obscuration), dependent on particle size range Detection system...
  • Page 189 A P P E N D I X B Computer and software Minimum PC specification Pentium PC 2.8GHz. 512MByte RAM, 160MByte free hard disk space. 1024 x 768 screen resolution, CD-ROM drive. XP professional (Service pack 2a or higher). One free USB port. Operating modes Automated using SOPs created in the software.

  • Page 190: Chemical Compatibility

    S p r a y t e c Chemical compatibility Spraytec components that may come into contact with the spray are manufactured from materials that are considered to give the widest protection from chemical attack. However, it is important to check that any spray used is chemically compatible with the materials mentioned.
  • Page 191 Site requirements Site requirements - f r o m M A N 0 3 6 8 I s s u e 1 . 0...
  • Page 192 © Malvern Instruments Ltd. 2005 Malvern Instruments makes every effort to ensure that this document is correct. However, due to Malvern Instruments’ policy of continual product development we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of this, or any other document after the date of publication. We therefore disclaim all liability for any changes, errors or omissions after the date of publication.

  • Page 193: Introduction

    A P P E N D I X C Introduction This document outlines all site requirements needed to install a Spraytec system. Ensure that all site requirements are fulfilled before the Malvern Instruments engineer arrives to install and commission your system.

  • Page 194: Space Required

    A P P E N D I X C S p r a y t e c The wet environment Spraytec is suitable for indoor use and wet environments. The system is designed to be stored and operated in the following conditions: + 15 to + 40 °C ( + 50 to 95 °F)

  • Page 195: Power Requirements

    Power requirements The mains power supply must be clean and filtered. If necessary, fit an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to remove any spikes or noise. The power requirement for each component of the Spraytec system is given below. Power sockets Component...

  • Page 196: Additional Services

    For remote support over the Internet, a direct Internet connection is required. Computer usage The Spraytec software can be run on a network but this is not recommended as running other software at the same time may impact on the speed of the Spraytec software.
  • Page 197 Unpacking instructions Unpacking instructions - f r o m M A N 0 3 6 8 I s s u e 1 . 0 Déballez l’instrument Déballez l’instrument Auspacken des Gerates Auspacken des Gerates Desempaquetado del aparato Desempaquetado del aparato Desempacotamento do instrumento Desempacotamento do instrumento...
  • Page 198 A P P E N D I X D S p r a y t e c If there is any sign of damage contact the freight carrier immediately. Si vous constatez des signes de dommages quelconques, contactez immédiatement le transporteur. Bei irgendwelchen Zeichen von Transportschäden den Spediteur sofort benachrichtigen.
  • Page 199 A P P E N D I X D Open the wings of the carton and remove the top foam insert. Ouvrez les rabats du carton et retirez les blocs de mousse du haut. Die Klappen des Kartons öffnen und die oberen Schaumeinlagen entfernen.
  • Page 200 A P P E N D I X D S p r a y t e c P a g e D . 3...
  • Page 201 Installation Installation...

  • Page 203: Introduction

    A P P E N D I X E Introduction The Spraytec system should initially be commissioned by Malvern trained personnel. This appendix shows how to re-install the system, typically required under the following circumstances: . Moving the instrument – if the system has to be moved from one labora- tory to another, read the information in this appendix to reconnect the sys- tem correctly.
  • Page 204 . Set up all computer connections, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Adjusting the Spraytec feet For the laboratory Spraytec the X-bar must be at 12°. To achieve this adjust the feet as follows: . Both front feet – screw both feet in fully home. These do not use spacers.

  • Page 205: Changing The Computer

    If the computer used with the instrument is changed, follow this procedure. N o t e If the computer already has an older version of the Spraytec software, remove this before installing the new version. Use the Add/Remove Programs function in the Windows Control Panel.
  • Page 206 A P P E N D I X E S p r a y t e c P a g e E . 4...
  • Page 207 Regulatory statements Regulatory statements...

  • Page 209: Ce Declaration Of Conformity

    A P P E N D I X F CE Declaration of Conformity The CE badge on this product signifies conformance to European Commission Directives. N o t e This product’s CE compliance is valid only if it is powered with the Malvern-provided and CE marked AC adapter.

  • Page 210: Fcc Notice (Us Only

    A P P E N D I X F S p r a y t e c FCC Notice (US only) The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mark on this product signifies conformance to FCC regulations relating to Radio Frequency Devices. These have been satisfied by testing the product against, and being found to be compliant with: FCC CFR 47 Part 15:August 2002.Class A digital device.

  • Page 211: Canadian Regulatory Information (Canada Only

    A P P E N D I X F Canadian Regulatory Information (Canada Only) This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

  • Page 212: Vcci Acceptance (Japan Only

    A P P E N D I X F S p r a y t e c VCCI acceptance (Japan only) The Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) mark on this product signifies compliance to Japanese EMC regulations as specified by VCCI. Translation: This is a Class A product based on the standard of the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Information Technology Equipment (VCCI).
  • Page 213 Index Index...

  • Page 215: Index

    I N D E X Index 4-11 Background alarms setting 10-9 21 CFR Part 11 4-3, 9-2 uses 10-9 Background Intensity (BI) 10-4 Beam steering Access to the instrument 1-2, 9-1 avoiding 5-3, 6-21 Administrator causes 6-20 account example 6-21 tasks excluding detectors 6-23...
  • Page 216 I N D E X S p r a y t e c view Electrical warnings dat file Electronic alarms 10-11 Data collection 10-6 Environmental conditions Data handling Error options 5-18, 5-25, background 6-23 how signalled Default rapid template 5-23 spray measurement Default Size History View 4-6, 4-16, 6-4...
  • Page 217 Measurement settings 4-11 Measurement setup dialogue 5-9, 5-15, Keyboard shortcuts 5-24 Menu bar command list 4-14 Labels (warning) Edit menu 4-15 Laboratory Spraytec File menu 4-14 Laser Help menu 4-17 safety Measure menu 4-16 specification Security menu 4-17 LEMO cable...
  • Page 218 I N D E X S p r a y t e c spacing modules Powering on Nebuliser Pre-measurement settings 5-8, 5-13 vignetting 6-19 Preparing a spray Nozzle profile 10-13 Preparing to measure Nrr (parameter) 10-3 Priming a spray Problems (poor data) 6-18 Profiles (spray) 10-12...
  • Page 219 I N D E X typical pattern Spray profile Security 4-17 and extinction analysis 6-24 Enabling editor 10-14 Login and logout introduction 10-12 menu options 4-17 SSA (Specific Surface Area) 2-10, 10-3 passwords 9-6, 9-8 ssop file Selecting records Start button 4-11 Selector bar (PSH) Status bar...
  • Page 220 5-3, 6-20 causes described 6-18 example 6-19 excluding detectors 6-23 Warnings background electrical how notified laser Spray handling spray measurement Website Wet environment Spraytec What the Spraytec does Window main Measurement file Working range P a g e 6...

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