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Montana Instruments Cryostation 200 PT User Manual

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4720-1-DOC001_1.0
System User Manual
Cryostation 200 PT
Version: 1.0
April 2025
www.montanainstruments.com
support@montanainstruments.com

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Summary of Contents for Montana Instruments Cryostation 200 PT

  • Page 1 4720-1-DOC001_1.0 System User Manual Cryostation 200 PT Version: 1.0 April 2025 www.montanainstruments.com support@montanainstruments.com...
  • Page 2 This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 3 Montana Instruments. Montana Instruments, CryoAdvance®, Cryostation®, CryoOptic®, The Rook®, and ATSM are trademarks of Montana Instruments Corporation. Other brand names used are the property of their respective owners.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    System User Manual Table of Contents Section 1 - Preface ................................ 7 Conventions Used in this Manual ..........................7 1.1.1 Abbreviations ....................................7 1.1.2 International System of Units (SI) Symbols ........................8 1.1.3 System of Imperial Units Symbols ............................8 1.1.4 Explanation of Safety Warnings .............................
  • Page 5 Cryostation 200 PT 3.5.1 Types of Wiring ..................................33 3.5.2 Thermal Lagging Techniques ..............................33 3.5.3 User Wiring Interfaces ................................34 3.5.4 Wiring Schematics..................................34 System Care ................................... 38 3.6.1 When Working in the Sample Chamber........................... 38 3.6.2 When Not Using The Cryostation ............................38 3.6.3...
  • Page 6 System User Manual 5.3.4 Vacuum Check .................................... 61 5.3.5 Helium Check ....................................62 Section 6 - Appendices .............................. 64 Related Documentation ............................. 64...

  • Page 7: Section 1 - Preface

    All users must read and understand this manual and all other safety instructions before using the equipment. Retain these instructions for future reference. This manual is intended for users of Montana Instruments products and systems described herein. Users include anyone who may physically interact with the system or peripheral equipment, including installation, setup, or configuration.

  • Page 8: International System Of Units (Si) Symbols

    System User Manual DMM: Digital Multimeter • HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface • Montana Instruments • PCB: Printed Circuit Board • TCM: Temperature Control Module • User Interface • UPS: Uninterruptible Power Supply • USB: Universal Serial Bus • VNC: Virtual Network Computing •...

  • Page 9: Graphical Symbols

    Cryostation 200 PT DANGER Serious personal injury Imminent hazards which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury or death. WARNING Serious personal injury Potential hazards which, if not avoided, could result in serious injury or death. CAUTION Possible personal injury Potential hazards which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

  • Page 10: General Hazard Information

    System User Manual 1.2 General Hazard Information The following descriptions are of general hazards and unsafe practices that may result in product damage, severe injury, or death. The products, parts, and components in this manual are to be serviced by authorized Montana •...

  • Page 11: Technical Support Information

    Montana Instruments service representative. 1.3.1 Warranty & Repairs If the system or parts need to be returned to the Montana Instruments factory or an authorized service center for repair or service, contact an authorized service representative for a return merchandise authorization (RMA) number and instructions on returning the unit.

  • Page 12: Section 2 - System Overview

    System User Manual Section 2 - System Overview 2.1 System Interconnect Diagram...

  • Page 13: Intended Use

    Cryostation 200 PT 2.2 Intended Use The system is a closed-cycle optical Cryostation used to control the temperature and vacuum parameters of an integrated sample environment. The Cryostation is designed to connect to the system rack that includes the pulse tube valve motor, vacuum control unit, and system controller and the system rack connects to the helium compressor provided by Montana Instruments.

  • Page 14: Technical Specifications

    System User Manual 2.3.2 Technical Specifications Environmental Specifications Humidity 5 – 80% non-condensing Altitude <2000 m Power Specifications Model Compressor: F-70LP Mains Power Connector on Unit A field wiring terminal box with an opening for a 1-inch nominal or M32 conduit connector is provided.

  • Page 15: Safety Information

    Cryostation 200 PT 2.3.3 Safety Information The following hazards may be typical for this product: WARNING Risk of serious injury due to hazards associated with cryocooling All personnel working with the system must be aware of the potential hazards associated with cryocooling.

  • Page 16: System Rack

    System User Manual Risk of product damage due to improper use Never disconnect the vacuum hose while the temperature of any stage of the Cryostation is • below 285 K. Never open the case or vent valves when the temperature of any stage is below 285 K. •...
  • Page 17 Cryostation 200 PT Top view of system rack with earthquake supports shown Earthquake support bracket and adjustable rack foot shown (only one corner shown)

  • Page 18: Valve Motor

    The valve motor orientation will be configured at the factory. Consult a Montana Instruments Support Engineer and installation instructions prior to moving the valve motor within the system rack.
  • Page 19 System Control Unit with User Interface Touchscreen Front of Enclosure Intended Use The system control unit is a device used for instrumentation control of Montana Instruments products. It provides both the electronics hardware and software interface for communicating with other devices and controlling various instrument parameters.
  • Page 20 System User Manual DSUB9 ( The DSUB9 port on the rear face of the enclosure is used to interface with the helium compressor. This connection allows the system control unit to run the CAN bus in the compressor and display compressor readouts in the UI.
  • Page 21 Cryostation 200 PT Technical Specifications Environmental Specifications Temperature of Environment 5 – 25 °C Humidity 5 – 80% non-condensing Elevation <2000 m Power Specifications Model ECA24 Mains Power Connector on Unit IEC 60320 C14 Line Voltage 100 – 240 VAC Frequency 50 –...

  • Page 22: Vacuum Control

    Front of Enclosure Intended Use The vacuum control unit is used for vacuum control of Montana Instruments Cryostations. It is designed to connect to the system control unit and Cryostation provided by Montana Instruments. It is recommended to locate the vacuum control unit near both connected apparatuses.
  • Page 23 Cryostation 200 PT The VCM24 Turbo Option Vacuum Control Module consists of an outer enclosure, an Edwards mXDS3s Mini-Scroll (roughing) pump, Edwards nEXT85D Turbo Pump, KF40 turbo pump vacuum connection, one turbo case valve, one vent valve, and several communication ports. The enclosure (6U) is compatible with a standard 19-inch-wide rack and can be mounted with other rack-mount devices.
  • Page 24 System User Manual Technical Specifications Environmental Specifications Temperature of Environment 5 – 25 °C Humidity 5 – 80% non-condensing Elevation <2000 m Power Specifications Model VCM24/VCM24-Turbo Model 115 VAC 230VAC Mains Power Connector on Unit IEC 60320 C14 Line Voltage 115 VAC±...
  • Page 25 Cryostation 200 PT High voltage: danger of electric shock Electric shocks and burns from capacitor discharge or power circuits could lead to serious injury or death. Completely power down the system and unplug the power cable before accessing the enclosure •...

  • Page 26: Section 3 - Sample Chamber Configuration

    System User Manual Section 3 - Sample Chamber Configuration 3.1 Accessing the Sample Space Before starting the Cryostation, check the sample space. Depending on the configuration, there may be foam inserts to remove before cooling the system down for the first time. If applicable, check instructions specific to your configuration.

  • Page 27: Sample Mounting

    Cryostation 200 PT 3. If desired, the radiation shield lid can be removed separate from the rest of the shield. Unscrew the lid and lift it from the radiation shield to remove it. 4. Unfasten the 8X M3 button head screws on each side of the radiation shield (or separately, the lid only, see step 3);...

  • Page 28: Mounting A Thermometer

    System User Manual 3. Using tweezers, set your sample on top of the grease layer and press down gently to ensure a good thermal connection. Attach sample mount to exchange boss Step 1: Clean the surface of the mounting platform Step 2: Grease mounting surface Step 3: Attaching new sample »...
  • Page 29 Cryostation 200 PT NOTICE Cernox® thermometer wires are extremely fragile. Handle wires with care to avoid breaking. 1. If used, remove any VGE (the adhesive lagging the thermometer wire) with isopropyl alcohol or acetone. Clean off any residual VGE. 2. Clean off the area where the thermometer will be mounted with isopropyl alcohol or acetone.

  • Page 30: Windows

    System User Manual 3.4 Windows 3.4.1 Window Covers The standard sample chamber has 8 optical access locations (7 side and 1 top). The system ships with window covers in place. The window covers are removed by turning counter-clockwise until the notches are aligned with the openings in the window retaining ring.
  • Page 31 Cryostation 200 PT Steps 1-2: Using window tool to unscrew the retaining Step 3: Removing the retaining ring ring Step 5: Window centered on O-ring NOTICE Take care when handling and removing windows Handle the radiation shield and windows carefully to prevent scratches or fingerprints.
  • Page 32 System User Manual 1. Remove the window from the tension ring by pressing it out of the spring fingers. Some force may be required. 2. Before reinstalling the window, add a very thin layer of N-grease to the edge of the spring fingers.

  • Page 33: Sample Chamber Wiring

    (the item below the radiation shield). The Cryostation 200 PT model provides “pre-lagged” connections for some user inputs and wiring. These wires, which plug directly into the 4 K circuit board inside the sample space, do not need additional thermal lagging.

  • Page 34: User Wiring Interfaces

    The wiring schematic is outlined on the following pages. Cryostation 200 PT Cryostation 200 PT user wiring to the 4 K circuit board shown below is “pre-lagged” and does not need to be routed under the thermal clamps. Other inputs will require proper thermal lagging.
  • Page 35 Cryostation 200 PT Internal Sample Chamber PCB @ 4K External DC Connector ‘USER’ Cable Pin Out Diagram of External DC Cable...
  • Page 36 System User Manual User Temperature Channels User Interface Internal connections Temperature Connection Signal Channel Location Name V(+) V(-) Thermometer USER1.THERM I(+) USER I(-) HTR(+) Heater USER1.HTR HTR(-) V(+) V(-) Thermometer USER2.THERM I(+) USER I(-) HTR(+) Heater USER2.HTR HTR(-)
  • Page 37 Cryostation 200 PT User DC Connections Internal Connections External Connections Cable 4700- Connection Signal Signal Bulkhead 7002 Location Name Pairs (38999/III PIN) D-SUB-25 SKT DC1.1 DC1.2 DC1.3 DC1.4 DC1.5 DC1.6 DC2.1 DC2.2 DC2.3 DC2.3 DC2.4 DC2.5 DC3.1 DC3.2 DC3.3 DC3.4 DC3.5...

  • Page 38: System Care

    System User Manual 3.6 System Care Recommend system care procedures should be followed by any users of the system. For further information on any of these procedures, contact an authorized service representative for assistance. 3.6.1 When Working in the Sample Chamber Keep surfaces clean.
  • Page 39 Cryostation 200 PT Ensure wiring from sample thermometers or other internal components does not touch the • inside of the radiation shield. Check that the software starts up and reads all thermometers. The temperature channel values • should be fluctuating a small amount, indicating the thermometer readings are active.

  • Page 40: Periodic Checks Every 6-12 Months

    System User Manual Check helium pressure to ensure values are within appropriate values per the table below: • Configuration Equalization Pressure 1.65-1.70 MPa F-70LP 1.66 MPa (240 psig) nominal 3.6.4 Periodic Checks Every 6-12 Months Inspect adhesive joints (sample mounting and/or wire bonding joints) and repair if needed. •...
  • Page 41 Cryostation 200 PT Check the pump performance Replace the tip-seals When needed* Replace the pump bearings Replace capacitor Electrical safety test Exhaust silencer filter When needed* *But not more than 30 months Steps to remove the Edwards mXD3s mini-scroll pump from the Montana Instrument Vacuum Control Unit 1.

  • Page 42: Sample Chamber Hardware Torque Specifications

    Edwards mXD3s manual. 3.8 Sample Chamber Hardware Torque Specifications Hardware in a Montana Instruments Cryostation is torqued to specifications that ensure optimal and safe system operation. Over time, however, hardware can become loose, so it may be necessary for users to tighten the hardware themselves.
  • Page 43 Cryostation 200 PT present in. By following the instructions below, users can ensure their cryostats continue to operate at peak performance. For further questions or help, please contact our Customer Service team. How to Torque Screws to Specification 1. Identify screw material, screw size, and temperature environment the screw is in.

  • Page 44: Section 4 - System Usage & Operation

    System User Manual Section 4 - System Usage & Operation 4.1 System Control Options 4.1.1 User Interface The touchscreen display provides the primary user interface control of the system. General Navigation The example screen above shows the general layout, navigation, and controls for the UI. Not all controls and views will be available for all instruments.
  • Page 45 Cryostation 200 PT b. Input Settings: Buttons with numerical values and units show the current input settings for a given command. To set new values, use the adjustment controls (if available) or press the display box to open an input popup dialog.

  • Page 46: Network Interface

    System User Manual 4.1.2 Network Interface To utilize any of the provided network services, the system control unit must be connected to a local network using the Ethernet port on the rear face of the enclosure. Each service uses a different network port number for communication. You may need to work with your IT department to configure these ports to be allowed through the firewall on your network.

  • Page 47: Primary Operations

    MI Remote Support  Secure SSH tunnel port 2223 The Montana Instruments Remote Support connection is used by authorized service representatives to remotely access your system to provide diagnostic and troubleshooting support. If the system is behind a NAT/Firewall, the firewall must allow the system to connect a Secure SSH tunnel on port 2223 to mirs.montanainstruments.com.
  • Page 48 System User Manual Cooling Down the System 1. In the UI for the instrument, navigate to the display screen and CRYOSTATION SAMPLE CHAMBER select the temperature channel to bring up its operation controls. PLATFORM 2. In the input box, enter the target temperature value. To reach the lowest PLATFORM TARGET possible base temperature, enter 0.0 K.

  • Page 49: Venting And Pulling Vacuum

    Cryostation 200 PT An active warmup is much faster than using the command. The heaters will automatically shut off STOP when the entire system reaches 295 K, but the sample chamber will remain under vacuum. Stopping a Cooldown or Warmup At any time during a cooldown or warmup, the process can be stopped.

  • Page 50: Moving The System

    4.3 Moving the System If the system ever needs to be moved to a different lab or location, follow the steps below or reach out to the Montana Instruments Service team for guidance: 1. Save any important data on the system.

  • Page 51: Moving The System Rack

    Do NOT attempt to disassemble any components of the system beyond the original state as • shipped from the Montana Instruments factory. 4.4 Moving the System Rack After completing the steps in section 4.3 Moving the System, the system rack can also be moved.

  • Page 52: Section 5 - Diagnostics & Troubleshooting

    System User Manual Section 5 - Diagnostics & Troubleshooting This section contains information for basic system diagnostics and troubleshooting advice. Diagnostics or repairs outside of the scope of this section should be completed by an authorized service representative. 5.1 Expected System Performance Each system ships with a unique Certificate of Performance to demonstrate the factory performance of that Cryostation.

  • Page 53: Power And Communication Issues

    Cryostation 200 PT Thermometer not working Not properly installed Make sure the temperature channel is or activated. enabled. Navigate to MENU > INSTRUMENT SETTINGS > USER X Heater not working Not properly installed Toggle the Temperature Channel Enabled or activated.

  • Page 54: Compressor Issues & Fault Messages

    System User Manual 3. Ensure the switch on the front ENABLE panel is ON ( | ). 4. Power cycle the compressor. Toggle the power switch on the back of the unit OFF ( o ) then back ON ( | ). Communication issue with 1.
  • Page 55 Cryostation 200 PT Ammonium ion (ppm) 1.0 max. 0.20 max. Silica (ppm) 50 max. 30 max. Calcium (ppm) 100 max. 50 max. Magnesium (ppm) 100 max. 50 max. If the compressor alarm sounds or reads a fault message, check for these common issues: For each of the errors below, the compressor may need to be restarted.
  • Page 56 System User Manual Problem/Symptom Possible Cause Solution/Suggestion UI indicates “Cryocooler Power dropped out with compressor or Check cable power Disconnected” communication lost connections. See Power and Communication Issues section. Check the in the UI EVENT LOG for any fault messages. MENU System Halted | Pressure Helium hose not completely connected...
  • Page 57 Cryostation 200 PT flow of oil through the oil cooling coil is attached, and there is nothing insufficient. Since the oil flow depends that is causing a bypass of the on the differential pressure of the cryocooler. system, this alarm is commonly caused by low differential pressure.

  • Page 58: System Checks

    System User Manual Helium Temperature High helium discharge temperature. Allow system to cool before Alarm Temperature warmer than 93 C (200 F). restart. Phase Sequence/Fuse Faulty fuse or main power. Check fuses, main power Alarm phase sequence and power connections. Motor Temperature Alarm Overheating motor windings.
  • Page 59 Cryostation 200 PT 4. Ensure the screws holding the platform to the support base and the screws securing the radiation shield are in place and tightened (5 in-lb.). Failure to tighten the screws will reduce the ability of the system to pull heat from the sample platform and may increase vibrations.

  • Page 60: Vibration Mitigation

    System User Manual Heat Load Between Platform and Sample In the example below, the Stage 2, Platform, and Sample temperatures are high. However, the most critical issue is the large temperature gradient between the Platform and Sample. The heat load is most likely located in between the Platform and Sample, and since the Sample temperature is high, the temperatures of the Platform and Stage 2 are also being pulled up.

  • Page 61: Vacuum Check

    Cryostation 200 PT Shipping supports (only one pictured, both need to be removed) 4. Ensure the helium hoses are not touching the cabling or the optical table. They should also not be pressed against a wall or another surface. 5. Ensure the vacuum hose is not in contact with the optical table.

  • Page 62: Helium Check

    System User Manual 3. Check the O-rings on 1) the sample chamber vacuum housing 2) the vacuum housing lid and 3) the vacuum housing outer “warm” windows. Ensure the O-rings have a thin layer of L-grease and are completely free of debris or fibers. a.
  • Page 63 Contact an authorized service representative for instructions on this process or find the service document on the appropriate product page on the Montana Instruments website. Note that operating pressure will be higher at 2.0 -2.5 MPa (290-363 psig).

  • Page 64: Section 6 - Appendices

    Section 6 - Appendices 6.1 Related Documentation For a copy of associated documentation, see below: Document Title Location System Cryostation 200 PT Documentation General Terms and Direct Link to latest PDF Conditions of Sale Or find the link at the bottom of our...

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