Oven logger
Oven loggerKeywords:Grant Instruments, Ovens, Data
Grant Instruments introduces a new oven logger that features a low profile– just 20mm – to suit a wider range of ovens and applications. It is designed for ease of use, said to provide a maximum of information with a minimum of button pushing.
Grant reports that the compact Grant OQ606 can be quick-started by pressing a single button, when it assumes a default setting which will meet most requirements. Programming other set-ups via PC is also said to be simpler than ever before, using the friendly features of Grant's software. Flexible triggering functions allow logging to be initiated by rate of rise of temperature, pre-set temperature thresholds, or duration of run. The logger is programmable with cure specs, performing cure calculations and enabling direct printout of cure levels.
The Grant OQ606 is reported to log data from up to six K-type thermocouples,immediately indicating which channels are active on an easy to understand alphanumeric display to reassure the user that sensors are operating correctly to avoid wasted runs. It is also stated to measure temperatures up to 2,000°C with up to 1°C accuracy and 0.25°C resolution. Logging can be programmed in one-second increments from one second to 24 hours, or at a fast sampling rate of 0.1 seconds.
On completion of a run, temperature and cure information is reportedly downloaded in 30 seconds at the press of a button, to either a portable printer or a PC. Flash memory supplies battery-fail protection for eight runs, typically one day's work.
The Grant OQ606 package includes logger, set-up software, and Paintwise Lite basic analysis software. Paintwise Lite provides set-up and download functions,storage of user settings, data in tabulated or graphical formats, basic report functions, cure specs and calculations, and export of data in ASCII format. Users can upgrade to the power of Grant's Paintwise Plus analysis software for advanced data analysis. A portable printer can also be supplied as part of the package, and Grant has designed new ranges of clip-on and magnetic probes to accompany this logger, to provide a total solution for oven monitoring.
Other new products from Grant include its HE10D and HE30D, 10 -and 30-litre capacity baths designed for use between 50°C and 260°C (Plate 4). High temperature laboratory baths and circulators impose special demands: for example, the silicone oil immersion fluid commonly used for high temperatures has a relatively high viscosity, potentially causing localised overheating and consequent deterioration of the fluid. This effect is reported to be minimised in the HED series by the use of a very powerful stirrer and a large surface area heater.
Plate 4 Grant high temperature baths - the safer choice
The special Grant circulation system is said to ensure even flow distribution throughout the immersion liquid, thereby achieving excellent temperature uniformity across the bath (0.2°C at 150°C), very important for calibration procedures or viscometry. A separately controlled accessory pump is used for external circulation so that the operator can wait until the fluid viscosity is low enough for efficient pumping, before starting the pump. For safety, these baths are heavily insulated – including the lid – and other safety features claimed include an adjustable temperature cut-out and fluid level sensor. Control parameters – temperature, heating rate, timed operation and high and low alarms – are set digitally for accuracy and ease of use and the LED display has 1°C resolution.
A three-year warranty underwrites the reliability of these quality products and like all Grant equipment they are stated to carry the CE mark and are IEC 1010 compliant.
Details available from: Grant Instruments (Cambridge). Tel: +44 (0) 1763 260811; Fax: +44 (0) 1763 262410; E-mail: patrickn@grantinst.co.uk; Web site: www.grant.co.uk
