This section contains the necessary steps to assist in getting a new Flowmeter/Controller into operation as quickly and easily as possible. Please read the following thoroughly before attempting to install the instrument.
2.1.Receiving Inspection
Carefully unpack the Hastings HFM-E-200/HFC-E-202 series instrument and any accessories that have also been ordered. Inspect for any obvious signs of damage to the shipment. Immediately advise the carrier who delivered the shipment if any damage is suspected. Check each component shipped with the packing list. Insure that all parts are present (i.e., Flowmeter, power supply, cables, etc.). Optional equipment or accessories will be listed separately on the packing list. There may also be one or more OPT-options on the packing list. These normally refer to special ranges or special gas calibrations. They may also refer to special helium leak tests, or high pressure tests. In most cases, these are not separate parts, but special options or modifications built into the Flowmeter.
2.2.Power Requirements
The HFM-E-200/HFC-E-202 series requires ±15 VDC @ ±50 mA (HFM-E-200) +50 mA, -200 mA (HFC-E-202) for proper operation. The supply voltage should be sufficiently regulated to no more than 50 mV ripple. The supply voltage can vary from 14.0 to 16.0 VDC. Surge suppressors are recommended to prevent power spikes reaching the instrument. The Hastings power supply described in Section 1.4.2 satisfies these power requirements.
2.3.Output Signal
The standard output of the Flowmeter is a 0-5 VDC signal proportional to the flow rate. In the Hastings power supply the output is routed to the display, and is also available at the terminals on the rear panel. If a Hastings supply is not used, the output is available on pin 3 of the “Edge” connector and is referenced to pin 2. It is recommended that the load resistance be no less that 2kW. If the optional 4- 20 mA output is used, the load impedance must be selected in accordance with Section 1.3.
2.4.Mechanical Connections
The Flowmeter may be mounted in any position as long as the direction of gas flow through the instrument follows the arrow marked on the bottom of the Flowmeter case label. The preferred orientation is with the inlet and outlet fittings in a horizontal plane (if operating with a dense gas or at high pressures the instrument must be installed horizontally). When mounted in a different orientation the instrument should be re-zeroed at zero flow with the system pressurized to the expected operating pressure.
The smallest of the internal passageways in the HFM-E-200/HFC-E-202 series is the diameter of the sensor tube, which is 0.0125” (0.31 mm), so the instrument requires adequate filtering of the gas supply to prevent blockage or clogging of the tube.
The pressure regulator and the plumbing upstream must be of sufficient size to minimize changes in the upstream pressure. When switching from full flow to zero flow, the inlet pressure of instrument should rise to no more that 30% above the inlet pressure at full flow. In general, high capacity regulators and large internal diameter plumbing help to make the system more stable. The pressure drop between the regulator and the instrument due to line resistance should be minimized. The differential pressure across the unit should be less than 6” of H2O at maximum flow.
There are two 8-32 threaded holes, located on the bottom of the base that can be used to secure it to a mounting bracket, if desired (screws provided).
The standard inlet and outlet fittings for the 200/202 are 0.25” and 0.125” Swagelok (optional VCR or VCO fittings). The O-rings for the end cap and the sensor are Viton (optional Kalrez or Neoprene). It is
HFM-E-200/HFC-E-202
