Mechanical Set-Up For Gravity-Feed And Rx Applications - Thermo Scientific APEX 100 User Manual

Mechanical Set-Up for Gravity-
Feed and Rx Applications
The APEX detector is designed specifically for use in gravity-feed and pharmaceutical
(Rx) applications. If this system was supplied complete, with a framework, non-metallic
throughput tube, and automatic divert valve, it will require a minimal amount of
installation and adjustment. When a search head only is provided, proper installation is
critical. Correctly installed, the metal detector will operate reliably for long periods
without attention.
The customer is responsible for initial inspection of the equipment and site preparation.
It is essential that the customer place the equipment in the production or process line, in
accordance with the guidelines below. The customer must assure that qualified service
personnel are available to make interconnections with other production equipment and
perform work at the installation site. A Thermo Fisher Scientific Products Customer
Service Representative is available to supervise installation and verify operation, as well
as train personnel assigned to operate and maintain the equipment.
APEX Installation Considerations
Customers who intend to install the APEX metal detector, should study the following
factors that can influence the detector's performance. The importance of studying this
section and taking note of the information given is very important. It has been proven
that faulty metal detector operation, such as random false alarm signals and undue
sensitivity to vibration, are usually due to incorrect installation of the metal detector or
some other factors external to the metal detector itself.
Location of the Detector
The APEX controls should be located to give easy access to the front panel. The
installation location of the display and/or electronics box should be the first
consideration.
Mounting the APEX
For trouble free and reliable operation, it is very important that the APEX be correctly
mounted. The support structure for mounting the APEX must transmit a minimum
amount of vibration to the metal detector. This structure must be flat and parallel,
thereby minimizing possible twisting torques to the metal detector case which can
distort the electromagnetic field and cause false triggering. While the APEX and the
support structure may remain in contact, nothing including the product, must be allowed
to touch any part of the aperture as this could cause wear of the aperture lining and give
random false alarms. Any pressure, torque, or electrical ground will cause the APEX to
misfire. Any support platform, or throughput pipe that passes through the aperture must
be completely free of all metal and must not touch any part of the aperture at any time.
Metal-Free Area
For optimum performance, non-moving metal should be allowed no closer to the
aperture opening than 1.5 times the smallest aperture height, measured outward from
the center of the aperture. Moving metal should be allowed no closer to the aperture
opening than 2.0 times the smallest aperture height, measured outward from the center
Thermo Scientific APEX User's Guide Page 299