Professional Documents
Culture Documents
: LU-8047
Revised: 06 JUN 01
Model: QUV/spray
Applicable for Serial Numbers:
XX-XXXX.-66-spray through
XX-XXXX.-67-spray
(!]
Q·PANEL
Q-Panel Lab Products
800 Canterbury Road
Cleveland, OH 44145 USA
Phone: 440/835-8700
Q-Panel Lab Products
Express Trading Estate
Farnworth, Bolton
BL4 9TP England
LAB PRODUCTS Fax: 440/835-8738 Phone: 44-01204-861616
Fax: 44-01204-861617
Table of Contents
1. Safety Information 7. Solar Eye Controls and Displays
2. General Description 8. Choosing Cycles & Temperatures
3. Site Requirements, Location & Set up 9. Choosing a Test Duration
Organizational Considerations 10. Test Sample Mounting
Room Temperature and Ventilation 11. Routine Maintenance
Uncrating Daily Checkout Procedure
Electrical Calibrate Solar Eye lrradiance Controller
The Moisture System CR-1 0 Calibration Radiometer
Water Connections AutoCal Calibration Procedure
Condensation Water System Lamp Replacement
Spray Water System Three Month Maintenance
Spray Water Check Out Check Water Spray Flow Uniformity
4. UV Light System Six Month Maintenance
Why lrradiance Control? Thermometer Calibration
Solar Eye lrradiance Control Water Pan Cleaning
lrradiance Set Point Guide 12. Repairs & Troubleshooting
Choice of Lamps for the QUV Water Pan - Cathodic Protection
UV Baffle Water Spray System
Door Interlock & Override Main Power & Short Circuits
Lamp Cooling Disassembly Instructions
5. Temperature Control QUV Diagnostics
UV Cycle Temperature Control Error and Status Messages
Condensation Temperature Control 13. Replacement Parts List
Temperature Measurement 14. Test Panels
6. QUV Chamber Controller 15. Technical Support & Service
Controller Summary Description 16. Warranty Information
Controller Displays 17. Wiring Diagrams
Keys and Their Actions 18. Plumbing Diagram
Using the Controller
General Program Schematic
Cycles, Steps, etc.
Other Controller Features
.''
1.0 Safety Information
Q-Panel accepts no responsibility for the consequences if the user fails to comply with the instructions in
this operating manual. Q-Panel will accept responsibility for defective parts or components only if the
machinery was defective at the time that the tester was shipped.
Whenever it is necessary to replace any parts on your QUV, it is important that you use only parts that
have been supplied or recommended by Q-Panel Lab Products. Q-Panel accepts no responsibility for the
consequences if the operator uses parts that have not been sanctioned by Q-Panel.
The QUV is equipped with interlock switches that cut off the power to the UV lamps anytime you open
either of the trapezoidal End Covers (Figure 1).
Figure 1. The QUV/spray is equipped with interlock switches that cut off the power to the UV lamps
anytime you open either trapezoidal End Cover.
Unless you are a qualified electrician, do not bypass the electrical interlock switch. If you do bypass the
interlock switch, please follow the following safety precautions:
• Turn off the main power before working on the lamp electrical system .
• Do not touch the lamp pins when the tester is in the UV cycle
• Do not put anything into the lamp socket when the tester is in the UV cycle.
WARNING. This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio
interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
• Be sure you understand these hazards before you work with the tester .
• Do not open the machine unless it is shut off or you are a qualified technician performing required
maintenance or operation procedures as detailed in this manual.
• Shut off lamps before opening machine and removing test panels .
• Don't be fooled by the lamps' cool blue appearance or by the lack of heat and visible light. The
QUV's lamps are efficient generators of UV light similar to that in sunlight. These lamps require
safety precautions similar to the precautions for the sunlamps used for sun-tanning and medical
therapy. Exposure of a few minutes to unshielded lamps may cause painful sunburn or eye
inflammation. This eye inflammation is much like a severe sunburn on the surface of your eyeball,
and is familiar to skiers as "snow blindness." As with sunlight, extensive or repeated exposures may
lead to premature aging of the skin or permanent skin damage.
• Sunburn and eye inflammation are delayed reactions. Symptoms (pain, redness, hot sensation) don't
appear until 4 to 12 hours after UV exposure.
• After severe sunburn and eye inflammation, skin and eyes may be more sensitive to future UV
exposures, including sunlight.
• There is no UV hazard from the QUV in normal operation with doors closed. With doors closed, UV
leakage from the QUV is less than 1/20 the intensity of the UV from sunlight transmitted through a
closed window. With doors open but with test panels in place, UV leakage is still less than sunlight
through a window. Note: the QUV does not produce any appreciable infrared radiation.
• Burning effects of UV lamps depend on duration of exposure, distance from lamps, and percentage of
lamp surface that is visible. Figures show time of permissible daily exposure to light from the QUV
under various conditions. These times are based on Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for UV exposure
published by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Threshold Limit
Values represent conditions under which it is believed that nearly all workers may be repeatedly
exposed without adverse effect. These TLVs should not be used for determining exposure of
photosensitive individuals to UV. The TLVs should be used as guides in control of UV exposure, and
should not be regarded as a fine line between safe and dangerous levels. Note that 12 successive
exposures of 5 seconds during a day is the equivalent of a single exposure of 1 minute.
• If exposure to UV lamps is necessary, wear UV absorbing goggles. Protect skin with opaque clothing
or a quality sunscreen lotion (e.g. 5 percent PABA), not a "suntan" lotion.
• Individuals with light complexion are more susceptible to UV, and some individuals are allergic to UV .
Many common medications increase your sensitivity to UV (including sunlight).
• Do not use the UV lamps for any purpose except QUV testing. When discarding the lamps, disable
them to prevent unauthorized use. To disable, remove two of the end-pins with a wire cutter or pliers
(do not break lamps). UV lamps are not useful for plant growth or similar purposes.
Figure 2. One sample holder removed . Hand 50 mm from lights (same as sample): allowable daily
exposure is 1 minute.
Figure 3. One sample holder removed. Hand 30 em from lights: allowable daily UV lamp exposure 6
minutes. Face 1 m from lights: allowable daily exposure 18 minutes.
Figure 4. All sample holders removed. Hand 30 em from lights: allowable daily UV lamp exposure 2
minutes. Face 1.0 m from lamps: allowable daily exposure 6 minutes.
3.1 Installation
Equipment needed for operation and set up:
The 1984 revision of ASTM G-53 calls for a room temperature kept below 86oF (30oC). We recommend
keeping the room temperature between 70oF (21oC) and 80oF (27oC). Each QUV generates an average
of 700 watts of heat on a continuous basis. That's equivalent to 2400 BTU/hr. Each QUV also
evaporates about 8liters of water per day. These loads should be taken into account when designing air
conditioning and ventilation.
Floor Space. When you get several QUV Weathering Testers in the same room, it's very helpful to
maintain proper spacing between testers, and between testers and the wall. If the QUVs are jammed
together too tightly, it becomes difficult to open the doors, remove samples, and perform maintenance.
The figure below shows the spacing that we recommend from our experience.
W.AU.
+
24•mtnmum
1~1::1
Q-U-V a-u-v
~
......... 64·~
I I
~' H ~
Q-U-V
,__
Q-U-V Q-U-V
;:
a-u-v
~.1~1 Q-U-V
...1-1
..........-
(l'~m)
Q-U-V
,..
12" recocnrnencSed
3.4 Uncrating
Cut the metal straps that hold fiberboard carton to skid . Lift off the fiberboard carton . Cut metal straps
connecting unit to skid . Lift the unit off the skid and move into place. Remove adhesive tape from various
parts on inside and outside of unit.
3.5 Electrical
Be sure to supply your QUV with voltage within± 10 percent of its voltage rating.
The maximum instantaneous electrical load from a QUV is 2000W. If your electrical circuits are 20A, each
QUV should have its own circuit. Each 120V QUV has a built-in 20A circuit breaker and each 230V QUV
has a 1OA circuit breaker. (The circuit breaker is part of the main power switch.) Therefore, if you
connect several QUVs to a high capacity circuit, each QUV will still have adequate over-current
protection.
Electrical voltage and frequency for the QUV is marked on a plate on the machine. For a 120V machine,
the maximum current requirement is 16 amps at 120V. Therefore, a 20 amp connection is adequate. For
a 230V machine, 10 amps should be used. Do not use an extension cord . A 3-prong grounding plug is
provided for 120V testers and must be connected for safe operation . For 230V units the user must attach
his own 3-prong grounding plug according to local electrical codes . Power cord color code :
120V 230V
Power: black Brown
Neutral: white Blue
Safety ground: green Green/yellow
Condensation. During the condensation cycle, the water is heated by a heating element located under
the water pan. Water vapor fills the test chamber, which reaches 100 percent humidity at equilibrium.
Vapor continually condenses on the test panels, which are kept at a lower temperature by room air on
their back surface. Condensation runs off the test panels and back into the water pan.
The condensation on the test panels has a high degree of chemical purity because the water becomes
distilled as it vaporizes from the pan. A vent slot around the top of the water pan assures that the
condensing vapor is saturated with oxygen. Some vapor will escape through this vent and some will be
lost from around the panels.
Water
Feed
Heater
Water Spray. The QUV/spray allows the QUV to spray water on the test specimens in order to test for
degradation caused by thermal shock or erosion by water. Any combination of spray and/or
condensation can be programmed. The spray system consists of 12 spray nozzles (6 on each side) and
the associated piping, controls and drain. The nozzles are mounted between the UV lamps. They spray
water on the test specimens during the period when the lamps are off.
Test
Test
''
0 ''
Specimen
:'),Q
........~ N
Spray
I
0£:;·.':
.,.............
•-:::_;;,~lY"'' + ozz es + rY:Jr;~;,:-.
---if""V Between \....1'"~---
Lamps
Base Cabinet
A water supply should be connected to the Water Feed unit on the right rear of the unit. The line
pressure should be no more than 90 psi. Ordinary tap water is sufficient. Distilled water is not required,
since the water that contacts the panels is distilled when it vaporizes from the water pan. However, a
distilled or de-ionized water source can reduce periodic clean-out of solids which collect in the bottom of
the water pan. Water consumption is roughly 8 liters per day.
Do NOT pre-treat the water with a "water softener", as this merely exchanges sodium ions for the ions
previously in your water supply. A water softener can increase the corrosiveness of the water.
To connect water supply, drill 1/4 inch (6 mm) hole in water pipe. It is not necessary to drill plastic or
copper supply lines because the valve is self-piercing. Install saddle valve as shown. Connect saddle
valve to water feed valve with 1/4 inch (6 mm) tubing .
QUV Water Supply Connection for Water Feed. Plastic tubing is supplied with the QUV but copper tubing
may also be used.
Water Feed Level Adjustment. Be sure the QUV is reasonably level, so that water covers the entire
bottom of the water pan. The QUV water feed is adjusted at the factory so that the water level in the
water pan is 10 mm to 15 mm. This insures that water will always be in the pan for condensation, but that
water from the feed will not overflow the large drain, which is about 20 mm above the level of the pan. In
normal operation the water feed will only send a small amount of water to the pan. However if the water
feed goes out of adjustment, water may continually overflow down the large drain. This wasteful
condition can be corrected by bending the arm on the water feed float valve.
A second drain hose is located on the underside of the unit at the right rear. Use this to drain the pan
when cleaning or performing other maintenance. When draining the unit, it's a good idea to clamp shut
the tube between the water feed and the machine.
Pressure. Water pressure must be at least 40 psi (2.8 bars or 276 kPa) so that the sprays will
spread out to cover the specimens uniformly.
Spray Water Temperature. The temperature of the spray water may effect the severity of the test.
Colder spray water may cause more severe thermal shock. Warmer spray water might perhaps
cause more severe damage in long term erosion tests. The QUV/spray does not include provisions
for heating or cooling the spray water. Spray water temperature depends on the water system in
your factory, your climate, and the temperature of your water storage tank if any. If you have
reason to believe that the spray water temperature is significantly skewing your particular test
results, it will be necessary to add heating or cooling to the water supply before it enters the
QUV/spray.
When the QUV/spray unit arrives, the large, 1 Y. inch (3.2 em) tubing supplied for the drain will not be
attached to the drain hole. In order to attach the large drain hose, first soak it for several minutes in hot
tap water. Soaking it in hot water will make it more flexible. Next, lubricate the hose barb adapter under
the QUV that extends from the bottom of the water pan. Use alcohol or oil for lubrication. Then, gently
work the 1 Y." inch (3.2 em) drain hose onto the hose barb adapter.
pressura
regulator
Spray Flow Rate Adjustment. The water flow for the sprays is regulated by the following components
on the lower part of the machine. All are located in the lower rear, except the Flow Meter, which is on the
lower front of the QUV. See the Plumbing Diagram at the back of the Operating Manual for a detailed
description of all the system components.
• Ball Valve allows you to manually shut off the flow of water.
• Flow Meter indicates the rate of water flow in liters per minute (LPM).
• Solenoid Valve is opened and closed by electrical signals from the controller. This is the valve
that turns the sprays on and off during the test.
• Pressure Regulator maintains a constant water pressure to the sprays, which helps maintain a
constant flow rate through the sprays. To set the pressure, turn on the sprays, and turn the
Pressure Adjustment Screw until the Flow Meter reads 7 LPM. If the input water pressure later
rises, the Pressure Regulator will adjust to maintain a constant pressure (and consequently
constant flow) . If the input water pressure falls, the Pressure Regulator can adjust up to a point,
but if the pressure falls too much, the flow rate will also fall.
~-..=-·1
=---
///
Spray Nozzle Inspection Panel
Spray Flow Uniformity. It is important to assure that the spray water is uniformly distributed over the
QUV's sample mounting area. This has been pre-checked at the factory, but you should check it again in
case there was some maladjustment caused by shipping. To check the uniformity of the spray, follow the
steps in the section under Regular Maintenance. To do this you will use the Spray Nozzle Inspection
Panels located in the bottom rear of the QUV/spray.
• Changes in light intensity (i.e. brightness) may affect the speed of a material's deterioration.
• Changes in light wavelength, or Spectral Power Distribution (SPD), may affect both the speed and the
type of material degradation.
QUVs that do not have the Solar Eye controller use a lamp replacement and rotation system to
compensate for lamp aging. This system works well for many applications, but it has an inherent
limitation. The replacement/rotation system cannot compensate for lot-to-lot differences in lamps or for
differences in ambient temperature. Also, there is always some small drop in irradiance between
rotations (for a detailed discussion see Q-Panel Bulletin LU-801 0, Controlled lrradiance in Laboratory
Weathering).
Controller
...
1ii
N
1ii "'
1ii
....
1ii
.!!! .!!! .!!! .!!!
Oi Oi Oi Oi
al al al al
With the Solar Eye's feedback loop system, the irradiance is continuously monitored and precisely
maintained automatically.
lrradiance Sensors. There are four UV sensors built into special black panels in the center of the
sample exposure area. There are two sensors in the front and two in the back of the QUV. Each sensor
monitors the irradiance of two lamps. The Solar Eye controller adjusts the power to each two-lamp ballast
to maintain the programmed irradiance set point. Each sensor must be calibrated separately. Sensor
lenses should be periodically cleaned with a clean, soft cloth.
Actual lrradiance
W/m1/rvn of calibr.ltion wavelength (A)
•.•.,.,~ .:-1111
•.•.,.,-rl r.-1111
•.•.,.,
Set Point
DO
Calibrate
You can operate the Solar Eye at various levels for different applications. For example, with the UVA-
340, you could set the Solar Eye to simulate any of the following sunlight conditions:
• Solar Maximum (equivalent to noon summer sunlight) for quick results without sacrificing correlation .
• Maximum UV (75% higher than a QUV without Solar Eye) for fast results.
1.:,.------------------.
~ Intensified
~ 1.75x ~
:;:: 1
Q)
u
~
«l
·rl
'0
«l
t
H
0.5
Wavelength (nm)
UVA-340 lamps at various irradiance levels
1.5""T"""-----------------,
~
......
N
e
......
~
1 .. TypicaL ... ·-···-·---·····-·-· ···--·-·············-·· ..·-·--·---··-·-·
UVB-313
~~7~0~~~~~~~~0~~~~~~~$~0=
Wavelength (run)
10.68 W/m2 at 340 nm is the maximum irradiance of sunlight (CIE 85 table 4) and is the
typical irradiance of UVA-340 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUV's
2 0.76 W/m2 at 340 nm is a typical irradiance of UVA-351 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUV's
4 0.43
W/m2 at 310 nm is the irradiance specified in SAE J2020 and is a typical irradiance
of QFS-40 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUV's
Test Specifications: If you are testing to a particular test specification, review the test specification to
see if the irradiance is specified. If it is, set the irradiance controller to the specified irradiance.
Acceleration: The irradiance set point will obviously have a major effect on the rate of degradation of
most materials. Maximum irradiance is recommended if you want the fastest results possible. It is
especially useful for Quality Control applications and for extremely durable materials where lower
irradiance gives unacceptably long test times.
Lamp Life: The irradiance set point effects lamp life. The higher the set point - the shorter the lamp life.
Lamps frequently last more than 5,000 hours when run at normal irradiance. They may last less than
1,000 hours if operated at the maximum set point.
Correlation: The irradiance set point can have an effect on correlation. Theoretically, tests run at normal
irradiance may correlate with natural outdoor exposures better than tests run at maximum irradiance
(although we have not yet observed this in practice). This is because the maximum irradiance is much
higher than natural sunlight.
Tests run at normal irradiance will also correlate with tests run in non-solar eye QUV's better than tests
run at maximum irradiance. This is because the typical irradiance in non-solar eye QUV's is about the
same as the normal set points shown.
Black Panel Temperature Range: Although temperature is controlled by the air heater, the irradiance
set point has an effect on the minimum and maximum temperature the QUV can achieve. This is
because the lamps give off considerable heat, and the higher the irradiance the more heat they give off.
Therefore, to achieve black panel temperatures above 75°C, you might need to set a high irradiance. To
achieve black panel temperatures below 55°C, you might need to set a low irradiance.
Do Not Mix Different Types of Lamps. Mixing different types of lamps in a QUV will produce major
inconsistencies in the light falling on the samples. It also complicates calibration. Some users want to
put UV-A lamps on one side of the Q-UV and UV-B lamps on the opposite side. Do not do this either. A
small amount of UV from the lamps in each bank travels across the chamber and adds to the UV striking
the samples on the other side. If you have different types of lamps on opposite sides of your QUV, you
will get stripes of different types and severity of degradation (usually visible as a striped pattern). See
section on UV Baffle for further explanation.
4.5 UV Baffle
A special system of UV baffles (patented) creates exceptionally uniform irradiance from the top to the
bottom of the sample plane. In competitive testers lacking these baffles, the UV intensity is significantly
lower at the extreme top and bottom of the sample mounting area than it is near the middle. One reason
for this is that samples in the center of the sample plane receive UV from several lamps at once, while
samples at the top and bottom are effected by only one lamp. A second reason is that some UV light
from the lamps in each bank travels across the chamber and adds to the UV striking the samples on the
other side. Most of this crossover UV hits in the center of the sample exposure area. The UV baffles
selectively block and reflect UV crossing over from side to side, thus correcting the top-to-bottom
Baffle
• Blower. The Air Blower is located on the underside of the unit. It operates continuously
throughout the UV cycle.
• Air Distribution. Air from the Blower enters the test chamber through the air pipe in the center of
the water pan. An aluminum Air Deflector directs the air throughout the test chamber. An
aluminum Water Pan Cover insulates the air from the cooling effects of the water. The air
eventually vents to the room through the air vent slot around the top of the water pan.
• Black Panel Temperature Sensor. The microprocessor actuates the air heater when heat is
needed and turns off the heater when cooling is needed.
Other Capabilities. The user can also set a test timer to sound an alarm or shut off the test after a
duration of 1 to 9999 hours. The display continuously shows the temperatures (set and actual), the
progress of the cycle, and the progress of the test. Complete diagnostics give warning messages or shut
down the test as necessary and remind the user to perform routine service.
DDDDD
...
- -.. -
......-c
...
"-*:lllllllltet
...
....... ......
.......
---
•• 0
Cycle. The top line of the Cycle display shows the Function that the chamber is currently performing (UV,
COND). The second line of the Cycle display shows which step in the programmed cycle the tester is
currently performing. See section below on Programming for a more detailed explanation on steps,
repetitions, etc.
Step Time. The bottom line of the Step Time display shows the programmed amount of time required to
perform the current step (hours : minutes). The top line of the Step Time display shows the amount of
time in the current step that has already elapsed (hours : minutes).
Test Time. This display shows the duration of the test. The bottom line of the Test Time display shows
the duration of the test, as programmed by the user (0 to 9999 hours). The top line displays the numbers
of Test Time hours that have already elapsed.
Total Time. This display shows the total number of hours that the QUV has operated.
Status Display. The status display tells the user what is happening in the chamber. A typical status
message would be "RUNNING." The status line is also used for programming.
Message Display. The message display line is used for error/warning messages. Many are intended to
be informational and do not indicate that there is something wrong with your tester. A typical message
would be "OUTER COVER IS OFF." When the covers are replaced, the message disappears.
Some messages do indicate that there is a problem. The problem may be that the test parameters
chosen cannot be accomplished, or that there is a system malfunction. Please see section below on
error messages for a more complete discussion .
Alarm Light. The alarm LED is a red indicator light that flashes at the end of a test or when there is an
error or warning message. Most of the alarms are accompanied by an audible alarm.
Alarm Beeper. The beeper sounds intermittently when a fault condition occurs. It also beeps whenever
a key is pushed on the keypad. The keypad beep is extremely short. The alarm beep is longer to draw
the user's attention.
STOP. Suspends test at current elapsed time into cycle. Runs Air Purge Blower for 1 hour. Red LED
on the key lights up when in STOP mode.
SILENCE. Shuts off alarm beeper for the current error (but not alarm message or LED). If there are
multiple errors, the alarm may immediately sound again.
CLEAR. Cancel an error message by first keying in "CLEAR." Then press the "ENTER" key to clear
Alarm LED, beeper, and message. There may be multiple messages. Repeat this two-step procedure
for each message in the display.
UP/DOWN ARROWS. Use these arrows to scroll between different parameters and between different
choices within a parameter, for example:
Step 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 ... 25
UV; COND; SPRAY (for Functions)
higher and lower digits for temperature or Hrs:Min
STOP, ALARM, ALARM+STOP, NONE, for action at end of timer duration.
LEFT/RIGHT ARROWS. Allows user to scroll across display to select a different parameter to make
active. Active parameter flashes. Cursor moves to each digit of name, pairs of digits for time and
tern perature.
ENTER. Accepts current selection and moves one level deeper into program
ESCAPE. Cancels current selection and moves back one level in program .
Press the PROGRAM key to enter the Program Mode and then use the up/down arrow keys to select one
of four programs. Most users will primarily use only Program 1 and Program 2.
• Program 1 allows you to set the duration of the exposure test in hours.
Press the ENTER key to move one level deeper into a program. Once inside each level, use the arrow
keys to move around and to change parameters. Use the ENTER key to move to the next level and to
save the changes to any program. Use the ESCAPE key at any time to move back one level or to exit the
program.
0 W Left/Right arrows scroll across display line to other parameters shown in BOLD type. Active parameter flashes.
[PROGRAM
~~
0 0 0 0 ONLY, NONE
l
•
1
~ DO 0 0 [ENTER
(/)
CD
!=!- Quit Program Mode
N
m ,lr
TEP 1 COND 50'C 12:00
-n
m
[ll hoices for Function are UV, COND, FINAL STEP-
0
N
PROGRAM 2 SELECT STEP OR
MODIFY CYCLE HENTER~ 0 TO STEP 1, and--. (optional functions on HENTER~ ENTER= SAVE CHANGES,
ESCAPE = CANCEL
HENTER Quit Program Mode
pray model are SPRAY, and SUBCYCLE)
~~
0 0 w CD
0 0
~lr
J
rENTER l
N Quit Program Mode
"'
6.6 Cycles, Steps, etc.
Follow the general program schematic or these instructions to program the desired exposure cycle for
your QUV. You don't have to worry about making a mistake. Remember, you can escape the
programming mode at any time by hitting the ESCAPE key.
The test will start running at the beginning of the step chosen. If the user selects a step that is part of a
sub-cycle, the test will start running on the first repetition of that step.
Creating a Sub-Cycle For complex cycles within cycles, A step in a cycle can be programmed to have
the Sub-cycle function instead of one of the four other functions (UV, Condensation, or Spray). A Sub-
cycle step simply specifies that 1 or more subsequent steps will be repeated 2 or more times before the
cycle proceeds beyond them. A cycle can contain no more than one Sub-cycle.
Continuous Cycling: When the RUN key is pressed, the selected cycle repeats in an endless loop until
the test duration has elapsed. The user can select a different cycle or step via the Program Mode. The
cycle can be stopped by (1) the user pressing the STOP key; (2) the Test Duration Timer reaching its set
point; or (3) various error conditions. When RUN is pressed after a stop, the cycle will resume running
exactly where it left off. Similarly, when the main power is interrupted and then restored, the test will also
resume exactly where it left off.
Blower Run After STOP: Whenever the test is stopped by any of the above means, the lower blower is
run for 1 hour and then shut off. The purpose of this is to bring the chamber down to room temperature
and dry-off the test specimens, so that they are not exposed to further degradation from heat or moisture.
Set Point Display. This displays the irradiance set point. The user can change the set point by using
the set point adjustment arrows beneath the set point display.
Set Point Adjustment Arrows. The user can choose the light intensity of his QUV exposure. Please
read the section on lrradiance Control and lrradiance Set Point Guide for help on choosing an appropriate
irradiance set point.
Actuallrradiance
Wlm'lnm of calibration wavelength ( '-) Set Point Calibrate
Calibrate Light. The Solar Eye controller has a built-in clock and, after 400 hours of lamp operation, the
"Calibrate" light on the controller will light up. When this occurs, it is time to calibrate the system. (The
"Calibrate" light will also light up for five seconds every time the QUV switches into the UV cycle. This
indicates that the system is energized and the timer is operating properly.)
Calibrate
@••
Calibrate <Nery 400 UV hours
rcallbrale" light will flash).
Change UV lamps when
lrradlance can no longer reach
Set Point. then recalibrate.
Calibration Plug. The Calibration Plug is located just below the Calibration Light. Use this plug when
calibrating the Solar Eye System. See the section on AutoCal Calibration Procedure for complete
instructions.
If the irradiance drops 30% (e.g., if a lamp fails to light) an audible alarm will also sound after 10 minutes.
Shut off the QUV and determine the cause of the alarm. If necessary to locate the source of the problem,
you can turn the QUV back on. The alarm will not begin to sound again until another 10 minutes has
passed.
UV temperature is usually set at either 50oC, 60aC, or 70aC (122oF, 140oF or 158oF). Condensation
temperature is usually set at either 45oC, or 50aC, (113aF, or 122oF). This provides a wide range of test
severity, because a 10oC change in temperature can increase the rate of deterioration reactions by up to
2:1.
QUV/spray Moisture Cycles. Any combination of spray and/or condensation can be programmed.
However the most common moisture cycles are:
• Spray and Condensation. Usually the user programs a cycle that calls for a brief (several minute)
Spray Cycle and then a longer (several hour) Condensation Cycle. This setting is used for thermal shock
tests. The spray operates for a few minutes and then shuts off. This short period of spray cools the test
specimens rapidly, creating a thermal shock. Because the sprays operate for only a few minutes on this
setting, a relatively small amount of purified water is consumed. After the spray shuts off, a condensation
cycle usually begins. The elevated temperature of the condensation is an added accelerating factor
compared to the cold spray.
• Spray Only. The user generally programs several hours of spray to create erosion mechanical
erosion. This has been found particularly useful for wood coatings. With this setting, the specimen
temperature during the wet period is relatively cool, because the specimens assume the same
temperature as the spray water. This type of cycle may use large volumes of 01 water.
• Condensation Only. This is a "traditional" QUV moisture cycle. It typically utilizes several hours of hot
(50aC) condensate to reproduce and accelerate outdoor moisture attack. Condensation temperature
should be a minimum of 40oC to insure adequate heat transfer for condensation to occur. Because
condensation requires about an hour to fully develop, the controller requires that at least a 2 hour
condensation cycle be used.
The swing-up door covering the panels does not seal, but instead allows room air to reach the backs ,of
the test panels. However, the swing-up door does regulate the way that convection currents cool the
panels, and it reduces fluctuations in panel temperature due to drafts and room temperature changes.
Thick specimens of insulating material, such as wood or rubber, may exhibit inadequate condensation
because of poor heat transfer. To increase condensation, increase heat transfer by moving the QUV to an
air-conditioned room or increasing the condensation cycle temperature.
Sample Mounting Precautions. The test panels are actually the side wall of the test chamber. To seal
properly seal the chamber, it's important to have all panel holders in place, and it's important to have all
holders filled with test specimens or blank panels. Missing panels will cause vapor loss, poor
condensation, and loss of temperature control. In addition, mount the test panels so that the holes are
masked by the holder, and close all gaps larger than 1/32 inch (1 mm). The rubber end seals are
necessary to prevent UV, heat and water vapor from escaping. Install the seals with the end marked
"TOP" up.
Standard panel holder containing 2 panels 3 x 6" (75 x 150 mm) is installed by resting it in a slot on the
QUV's frame.
To seal in vapor, have all panel holders in place and all holders filled with test specimens or blank panels.
Close all gaps larger than 1/32 inch (1mm).
Flat panels up to 1/4" thick (6 mm) are fastened to the holders by snap-in rings. Simply push the ring
snugly against the panel. For proper tension, keep the opening of the ring in the center of the holder,
away from the edge, as shown. To remove the ring, pick up one side near the opening.
A small cylindrical stop keeps the test panels from falling down. Install the panel holders with this stop at
the bottom.
To mount odd-shaped samples, first attach them to a 3 x 6" (75 x 150 mm) aluminum blank. Then mount
the blank in the standard panel holder. Use water-resistant glue or fasteners made of corrosion-resistant
metal (brass, aluminum or stainless steel -- not plated steel). To insure adequate cooling for
condensation, odd shaped parts should be mounted to give reasonably good thermal contact with the
blank panel.
For samples thicker than 1/4" (6mm), such as wood, use the optional Thick Panel Retainer springs. Part
No. V-133.
Thin, flexible film samples are mounted by simply wrapping them around an aluminum blank.
In order to compensate for any variability in UV uniformity, we recommend that you rotate sample
positions by moving the left-end and right-end panel holders to the center positions once a week (or at
intervals equal to 1/6 of your test duration). To prevent unnecessary UV exposure, make sure the UV
lamps are off during sample rotation.
AutoCal lets you calibrate your Solar Eye system in seconds. Like any lamps, the QUV lamps loose
output as they age . The Solar Eye system compensates for this aging by increasing power to the lamps.
However, at some point, the lamps will no longer be able to maintain the irradiance Set Point. When any
of the "Actual lrradiance" displays on the controller begins to flash, the lamps corresponding to that
display are operating at at least 5% below the Set Point. Calibrate the controller. If the lamps still cannot
reach the Set Point, replace the two lamps that the sensor controls andre-calibrate the system.
The radiometer is designed to calibrate the Solar Eye sensors. It has been set at the factory to measure
fluorescent UV lamps. It can be used for either UV-A or UV-8 lamps. It should not be used to measure
sunlight, xenon arc lamps or other visible light lamps.
The radiometer sensor assembly, as well as the Solar Eye sensors, are designed to filter out the blue
wavelengths which the QUV lamps emit and to detect only the invisible UV wavelengths. The sensors do
not filter out the red wavelengths. Q-Panel fluorescent UV lamps emit no red wavelengths, so this is not
a problem. The CR10 radiometer will not give accurate measurements of light sources that do emit red
wavelengths, such as sunlight, xenon arcs and cool-white fluorescent lamps. If used to measure these
other sources, the number displayed by the radiometer will be much higher than what the UV intensity
actually is.
Radiometer Controls
1. Actuallrradiance Display.
2. Lamp Type Selector.
3. CAL 1. Push to calibrate sensor number 1.
4. CAL 2. Push to calibrate sensor number 2.
5. CAL 3. Push to calibrate sensor number 3.
6. CAL 4. Push to calibrate sensor number 4.
D·-·
wt.a•• "' .....
l~
,_.
OuvA •• ,....,
QUYIC'•tth•
J
~ 00 EB
0 0
cr)O
0 or:B
o.
CAUIIUIIQ.41oY
Care of your CR10 Radiometer. Your radiometer has been calibrated in W/m 2/nm at 310 nm for UV-B
lamps and 340 nm for UV-A lamps. The radiometer itself must be returned to a-Panel periodically for re-
calibration. This is to adjust for any changes that may occur over time. We recommend that it be re-
calibrated be every year.
The CR1 0 radiometer is a precision instrument. Store it in its carrying case, in a safe place, away from
extremes of heat, cold or high humidity. The sensor ''window" must be kept clean for accurate results. We
suggest periodically cleaning it with alcohol and a clean soft cloth. If you drop the radiometer or the
sensors, you may have to send it back to a-Panel for re-calibration.
Using the CR10 to Measure the lrradiance in Non-Solar Eye QUVs. You can also use your CR10
Radiometer to measure the irradiance of non-Solar Eye auvs in your lab. However you need some
special equipment and instructions, available from a-Panel Lab Products. If you have any questions
about UV measurement, call our Customer Service Department for guidance.
1 IC-1440, 9 Volt Adapter for CR10
6 V-2353-X, UV Measurement Ports
1 Instructions
Warning: Make sure that all panel holders are in place and filled, so that the operator is not
exposed to any UV light during calibration.
2. Plug the Calibration Connection Cable into the radiometer and into the Solar Eye controller on the
QUV control panel. The radiometer gets its power from the QUV via the Solar Eye controller.
- -
-
...-
Q
3. Select the lamp type {i.e., UV-A or UV-8) by pushing the "Lamp Type" button on the radiometer. Be
sure that the lamp type you have chosen is the same as the type of lamps used in the QUV. The
radiometer will read "0.00" until a lamp type is chosen.
5. Push and hold down the "Cal 1" button until the two LED lights next to the Cal button flash. This sends
a signal to the Solar Eye lrradiance Controller telling it the actual irradiance. The controller
automatically updates the calibration for that sensor.
6. Place the radiometer sensor into Calibration Port number 2. Push the "Cal 2" button. Repeat this
process for each of the sensors.
Don't forget to return your CR10 Radiometer to The Q-Panel Company every year for re-calibration .
Replacing the UV lamps is as simple as changing ordinary fluorescent tubes. Simply remove the
trapezoid-shaped Outer Cover end panel and unplug the black lamp sockets on either end of the lamps.
Always shut off the main power before changing lamps.
1. Locate the two Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels that you should store underneath the bottom
of your QUV/spray. These panels are made of aluminum and glass. They will allow you to
monitor the spray uniformity during a water spray cycle. In order to work properly, the glass
must be clean enough so that it is ''water break free" before it is used. This cleaning step is
important to assure that the surface tension of the glass windows is sufficient to allow proper
dispersion of the spray water. If necessary, clean the two Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels
with a solution of water and household ammonia. The solution should be diluted as
recommended by the supplier, typically 1 cup/gallon of water.
3. Using the Main Controller, select a water spray cycle. Observe the action of the sprays through
the windows of the Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels. Make sure that:
• The volume of water is sufficient
• The nozzles are not clogged
• The spray distribution is uniform.
4. Turn off the tester. Take the Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels off of one side of the QUV and put
them on the other. Make sure the regular panel holders are in place on the opposite side.
Repeat Step 3 above to determine that the spray system is working correctly on the second side
of the QUV.
5. Tum off the tester. Take off the Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels and set them aside. (We
recommend that you store them underneath the QUV.) Return your test specimens to the side
where you have just removed the Spray Nozzle Inspection Panels. See the section on
Troubleshooting if the water volume is insufficient, the nozzles are clogged or the spray
distribution is not uniform.
3. Unfasten the black sensor panel by loosening the thumbscrew at the top center.
4. Turn the sensor panel around to locate the thermometer sensor housing. The housing is attached by
two thumbscrews found on the reverse side of the panel. Loosen these screws, remove the housing
and set it aside.
Housing
5. Next, remove the clip located above the top thumbscrew by using a Phillips head screwdriver.
This will free the sensor from the sensor panel. Set the panel aside.
6. Compare the readings. The water will be cooling during this process, so be sure to read the two
thermometers at the same time. A large insulated cup will minimize this problem. If the QUV
thermometer does not agree with the calibrated mercury thermometer, you should re-calibrate it.
7. To recalibrate, go to the front of the QUV and use the controller. Program 3 will allow you to re-
calibrate the thermometer.
Whenever it is necessary to replace any parts on your QUV, it is important that you use only parts that
have been supplied or recommended by Q-Panel Lab Products. Q-Panel accepts no responsibility for the
consequences if the operator uses parts that have not been sanctioned by Q-Panel.
Clogged Filter Element. To check for a clogged element, turn off the Ball Valve and disassemble the
Spray Water Filter Assembly by pushing the red pressure release button on the top of the housing. Then
unscrew the bottom of the housing. Remove the filter element and re-assemble. If this takes care of the
problem, then the filter element was clogged and should be replaced.
Nozzle Inspection and Cleaning. If circular spray patterns are found on some samples, or if samples
near certain spray nozzle are not degraded, it may mean that one or more nozzles is clogged . Check the
1. Before replacing water heater, check electrical resistance with an ohm meter. Connect ohm meter to
water heater leads in bottom frame in front of front panel. Intact heater has resistance of 5~ to 20~.
Broken heater has resistance of infinity.
2. Unplug electrical and disconnect water. Drain water pan. Remove lamps.
3. Inside the trapezoid frame, remove the screw holding the wire cover channel. Disconnect the four
wires for blower, air heater and water heater. Unscrew the electrical conduit from the trapezoid
frame, and pull the wires out of the trapezoid frame.
4. Remove plastic drain hose above the ''Y'' connector (number 4 on drawing).
5. Remove the aluminum plate on the front underside of the bottom frame.
6. Remove four nuts (number 6 on drawing) underneath bottom frame. Lift off side frame and everything
above it.
Rubber Washer
Water Pan
= Rubber Washer
= Metal Nut
Plastic Hose
u Drain Assembly
Note: When DIAG key is pressed, the same data choice comes up as the last time DIAG was active.
Some messages do indicate that there is a problem. The problem may be that the test parameters
chosen cannot be accomplished . For example, "M33 WATER PAN TOO HOT XXoC" will appear if the
pan runs out of water. The "XXoC" at the end of the message will show the temperature that the pan
reached before the controller shut the test off. This type of message may indicate either a programming
error on the users part, or a mechanical problem with the auv.
To clear an error message, key in "CLEAR," then "ENTER." Repeat for each message you want to clear.
Alarm and message will reoccur if fault persists.
If you have any questions about status or error messages call the a-Panel Lab Products Technical
Services Department for guidance at 440/835-8700. Or, you can fax your inquiries to 440/835-8460.
Whenever it is necessary to replace any parts on your auv, it is important that you use only parts that
have been supplied or recommended by a -Panel Lab Products. a-Panel accepts no responsibility for the
consequences if the operator uses parts that have not been sanctioned by a-Panel.
The "recommended actions" shown below will sometimes instruct the technician to work in areas
inside of the QUV that allow exposure to high voltage. Consult a qualified electrician before doing
any work on the QUV electrical system.
M31 LABORATORY TOO HOT XXoC If Laboratory Temp > high limit, & if Lab
Temp Sensor Active
M32 LABORATORY TOO COLD XXoC If Laboratory Temp< low limit, & if Lab
Temp Sensor Active
M33 WATER PAN TOO HOT XXoC- MAY BE lfWaterTemp >high limit
EMPTY
M43 WATER SPRAY OFF: SHOULD BE ON If in SPRAY step and Flow Switch does not
sense water flow. Possible Causes:
1. No water flow to tester. Check Spray
Water attachment.
2. Ball Valve shut off. Check position of
valve.
3. Spray Water Filter Element clogged.
Replace Element.
4. Solenoid Valve stuck in closed position .
Check by restarting the spray cycle. If
solenoid is working, it will make a noise
when it opens. Replace if necessary.
M44 WATER SPRAY ON: SHOULD BE OFF If in UV or Condensation step and Flow
Switch senses that there is water flow.
Possible Causes:
1. Solenoid Valve stuck in open position .
2. Flow Switch malfunction.
M51 UV IRRADIANCE FAULT If fault contact is closed on controller in UV.
Possible causes:
ONE CHANNEL ONLY:
1. Rubber lamp socket is off or loose (see
figure below).
2. Lamp is burned out.
3. Ballast is broken.
4. UV sensor is broken.
ALL FOUR CHANNELS:
5. Ballast is not on because the ballast
relay is stuck open.
6. Ballast is broken.
Maintenance Note: If the rubber socket is loose and falls off the lamp pins, squeeze the socket with a pair
of pliers. This will tighten up the brass bushings inside the socket. Be sure the power is turned off before
performing this procedure.
M70 HEATER ON - SHOULD BE OFF If Stopped, and if panel temp > lab temp +30aC
** Blower continues to run until alarm is
cleared.
MBO EEROM FAILURE EEROM chip not responding
REMEMBER: After fixing a problem, you must clear the error message from the controller. First press
CLEAR, then press ENTER to remove the message and start running again.
This is the list of parts for Models aUV/basic, aUV/se and auv spray. See other lists for other models.
When ordering parts specify auv model, serial number, Volts, Hz and Part Number. Give serial number
of tester when ordering parts. Prices subject to change without prior notice.
Note: Use aluminum panels as blanks to fill empty spaces, and for general testing. Use steel panels to
test rust resistance of coatings.
The Q-Panel Company makes no other warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability or
fitness for a particular purpose, except as may be expressly provided by The Q-Panel Company in writing .
The Q-Panel Company shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special, or contingent
damages arising out of the sale or use of any product.
QUV, Solar Eye, UVA-340 and UVB-313 are trademarks of Q-Panel Lab Products.
(!]
Q·PANEL
Q-Panel Lab Products
26200 First Street
Cleveland, OH 44145 USA
Phone: 440/835-8700
Q-Panel Lab Products
Express Trading Estate
Farnworth, Bolton
BL4 9TP England
LAB PRODUCTS
Fax: 440/835-8738 Phone: 44-01204-861616
Fax: 44-01204-861617
OlJTER COVER
INTERLOCKS
WIRE COLORS
BK - BLACK GN - GREEN
BL - BLUE W - WHITE
BN - BROWN V • VIOLET
R - RED BKIW • BLACK/WHITE
GY. GRAY GNIY ·GREEN/YELLOW
Y -YELLOW
@ UVSENSORS
..------+-----'@
LEFT FAN
0 Part No. Description Qty.
pure water in
... ___ ..
60 ¥·2074
.. .. - .. _ ,
Insert 1/2' Tublna
_ .. -
@
-· _ , -·- - .. - ..
4
,
36
Unclamp to completely
drain Water Pan l~
!:
! 37
D
1.. _ .. _
43
.. _ .. - .. _ .. _ .. _
a
, _ , -
Saddle Valve
(connectTo
Water Pipe)
.. - .. _ , - .. ___I
To Floor Drain These parts make up CV-255-K water feed connection kit and are
supplied with the QUV in a separate bag; use as necessary.
V-2059