FID TOWER PLUS (H2+AIR)
USER’S MANUAL
This Operating Manual is applicable for the following models:
- FID TOWER PLUS (PG or NM styled)
Ver. 1.01.0000- 1 -
Table of Contents
1.Version history
2.Introduction
2.1Symbols Definition
3.Safety
3.1Personal safety instructions
3.2Instrument safety instructions
4.Specifications
4.1The most common option
4.1.1.Remote Connections
4.1.2.Cascading
5.Presentation of the device
5.1Front View
5.2Back View
5.3Dimensions
5.4Weight
5.5Transport and storage condition
5.6Fuses and Voltage setting
5.7Schemas
5.7.1.Fluidics
5.7.2.Electronic
6.Installation and initial start-up
6.1Receiving the generator
6.2Packaging list
6.3Placing the generator
6.4Gas connections
6.5Electrical connections
6.6Filling the water tank
6.7Installing the deionizer bag
6.8Starting the Hydrogen Generator
6.9Turn off the device
7.Operation
7.1Hydrogen Part
7.1.1.Configure Parameters
7.1.2.Diagnostic display
7.1.3.Special functions
7.2Air Part
7.2.1.AIR GENERATOR STARTUP
8.Returning Unit
9.Maintenance
9.1Routine maintenance
Ver. 1.01.0000- 1 -
- Version history
Version / Date / Comment/Change
1.00.0100 / 18th January 2017 / VICI DBS layout, initial release VICI DBS
1.01.0000 / 24th October 2017 / New photo of the Tower
- Introduction
The FID TOWER PLUS is a 2 in 1 Generator of Hydrogen and Zero Air.
The flows are optimized to guarantee a correct functioning of the FID in your GC-MS system.
The FID TOWER PLUS needs just a small space over your lab bench because of the design of this instrument.
2.1Symbols Definition
Symbol / Descriptionor / General warning. Caution is necessary when operating the device or control close to where the symbol is placed, or to indicate that the current situation needs operator awareness or operator action in order to avoid undesirable consequences.
The manual must be consulted in all case where this symbol is marked on the device.
or / Risk of asphyxia. Caution is necessary when operating the device in a not sufficiently ventilated area.
or / Oxidant material. Caution is necessary due to the presence of oxidant material.
/ WEEE symbol. When discard this product, it must be sent to separate collection facilities for recovery and recycling.
/ Fuse. Notify replaceable fuse place.
- Safety
- Personal safety instructions
Read all instructions and warnings. Not respect of following instructions and warning could induce electrical shock, fire and/or serious injury to people.
Normal precautions for any hydrogen supply should be taken when using the generator. DO NOT use in sealed or unventilated rooms.
DO NOT use in close proximity of open flames or other sources of ignition.
Keep away the power supply main cable from hot sources or oil. Damaged or entangled power supply cables could increase the risk of electrical shock
In normal usage, unplug the main power supply cable only when FID TOWER PLUS is turned off. The power supply main cable connector is the disconnect device in case of emergency, it must be easily accessible at any time.
Do not open and not repair the FID TOWER PLUS by not trained people. Do not replace parts by ones not approved by DBS.
Always unplug the unit from the mains power supply before accessing the internal components for replacement.
If the FID TOWER PLUS is used in a way not specified by DBS, the protection provided by the equipment could be compromised.
3.2Instrument safety instructions
The FID TOWER PLUS is designed to produce hydrogen for laboratory and industrial applications. The unit must only be operated for this purpose, according to the specifications and instructions provided in this manual. The following warnings must be observed at all times. Critical damages on the device could occur if following warnings are neglected.
Indoor use only
Never operate the unit in below-zero temperatures. This will cause irreversible damage to the electrolysis cell.
Only use pure (de-ionized) water (see “Filling the water tank”)
Only operate the unit in a room with sufficient ventilation (see “Placing the unit”).
Only the parts described in the “Spare parts list” can be replaced by the user.
Do not use the FID TOWER PLUS if a fault is known.
- Specifications
General
Operating Temperature / 15°C to +40°C
Operating relative humidity / 0-80%, non-condensing
Casing dimension (WxHxD) / 140x490x580 mm
Input voltage / 110-120 / 210-230V AC (Use voltage selector and adapt fuses) 50-60 Hz
Electrical protection / Transient overvoltage until overvoltage category II (Accept transient overvoltage occurring on the network)
General earth connection is done by the power supply main cable. Fuse F2 : 5x20mm, 4.0 or 6.3 A T (see §Fuses and Voltage Setting)
Microprocessor controlled display / Graphic display- Touch Screen, 128 x 64 pixels
Pollution degree / 2
IP protection degree / IP20
Atmospheric pressure / From 850 to 1150 hPa
External vibrations / Inferior to 0.05g / 25Hz
Working instrument’s position / Vertical only
Hydrogen part
Type and purity / Flow rate at STP in cc/min / Power consumption of H2 part in Watt
Hydrogen flow rate “PG style” purity 99.999% / 100, 160, 250, 300,
500 ,600 / Max 230W
HC free
Hydrogen flow rate “NM style” / 100, 160, 250, 300,
purity 99.9999% / 500 ,600, 1000 / Max 408W
HC free
Max Outlet Pressure / 11.0 barg
Air part
Type and purity / Flow rate at STP in cc/min / Max power consumption of Air part in Watt
Zero Air purity flow
HC free / 0-1800, 0-5000 / 500
Max outlet pressure / 5 bar (72.5 psi) ± 0.1 bar (± 0.5 %)
STP: Standard temperature and pressure (20°C, 1 bar)
Any changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer may void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
4.1The most common option
4.1.1.Remote Connections
This option requires the I/O board option.
The hydrogen generators are fitted with an optional remote control feature, which allows the user to check the status of the machine from a remote position, and to start/stop the production of hydrogen. The contacts used in the remote control are potentially free relay contacts. The contacts can be configured via software as normally-open or normally-closed (see the Configuration section). The maximum voltage and current ratings for the contacts are 1A / 48V. The pin configuration of the remote connector is shown in the table below.
Remote connector pin configuration
Pin / Description1+2 / Start (12-30 VDC polarity not important)
3+4 / Standby
5+6 / Reaching external pressure
09+10 / Low water level
11+12 / Bad water
13+14 / Change water
7+8+15 / Not affected
4.1.2.Cascading
This option requires the I/O board option
The RS-485 interface allows up to 10 generators to be operated in parallel mode. There are two modes available.
The generators are connected with an external non return valve to a gas line. The pressure must be controlled with an external pressure regulator. The outlet pressure is fixed to 10.3 bars. This mode allows up to 10 generators in a cascading group.
How does cascading work:
The communication of the generators is done via the RS-485 Interface. For a correct communication each generator need a unique ID number. Each generator must know how many generators are connected in the cascading group. As soon as the generators are powered up, one generator becomes the master, and controls the others (slaves). If there is a problem with the master, one of the slave generators will become the master.
Every generator can be forced to be the master, by entering into the menu you will see the function “force to master” , just select this function and acknowledge.
When a generator is the master, you can see the letter “M” in the menu button, while the slaves show the letter “S”.
The cascading function will only work properly if the gas outlets on all the generators are connected to the same gas line.
- Presentation of the device
- Front View
5.2Back View
5.3Dimensions
5.4Weight
Hydrogen part contribution:
H2 Flow rate configuration / Air Flow rate / FID Tower PLUS100 to 360 Nml/min / 1800/5000 / 19 Kg
500 to 600 Nml/min / 1800/5000 / 21 Kg
1000 Nml/min / 1800/5000 / 22 Kg
5.5Transport and storage condition
Temperature / Minimum –10°C, maximum +45°CHumidity / Inferior to 90%Rh, non-condensing
Chocks and vibrations during transport / Chocks < 1g; vibrations < 0.2g / 5Hz
Instrument’s position / Vertical
The above mentioned values are considered for an instrument transported in its original new packing.
Recommendations for the transport
When the instrument is shipped back to the factory for recalibration or repair, the gas divider + Nox should be packed in its original packing with the inlets and outlets protected against any accidental penetration of dust or particles of the package.
Do a water purge before move the device. Do not handle FID when it is full of water.
5.6Fuses and Voltage setting
Use only 240 V AC or 120 V AC settings and change fuses if needed.
Turn off the FID TOWER PLUS before change voltage or fuses.
Fuses values are depending of voltage and device setting. Use only 5x20mm fuse slow blow.
FID TOWER PLUS Settings / Input voltage Setting(V AC) / Fuses (A T)
Parts / Fuse mark
Hydrogen Part / F3 / 110 / 6.3
220 / 4
Zero Air Part 1500 / F2 / 110 / 2
220 / 2
Zero Air Part >1500 / F2 / 110 / 6.3
220 / 6.3
Check the setting of the voltage selector on the rear of the unit. The set voltage is indicated in the white square.
To change the voltage or fuse, proceed as follows:
- Use a small flat screwdriver to push the snap clip of voltage selector insert to remove it.
- To change the voltage, spin the white holder. To change the fuse value, just replace it. Use 5x20mm fuse.
- Place back the voltage selector insert and check the white window shows the chosen voltage.
- Use a screwdriver to unscrew the cap from fuse holder F3. Replace the fuse and screw the cap in its original position.
5.7Schemas
5.7.1.Fluidics
The hydrogen generator produces pure hydrogen (and oxygen as a by-product) by the electrolysis of wa- ter. The key element of the generator is an electrochemical cell assembly which contains a solid polymer electrolyte. No free acids or alkaline are used. De-ionized or pure, distilled water is the only liquid which may come into contact with the cell. As this is consumed it must be refilled from time to time as re- quired. The generated hydrogen gas is accumulated in the hydrogen/water separator and the desiccant housing. The internal pressure is controlled by a pressure transducer. The outlet pressure is controlled by a proportional valve. The hydrogen is dried by passing through the automatic dryer for the “NM style” and by a static dryer for the “PG style”. The hydrogen then passes through outlet port at therear.
5.7.2.Electronic
1.Display Connection
2.USB Connection
3.I/O Board Connection
4.Water Level/Quality Connection
5.Water Pump Connection
6.Fans (NM) Fans+Outlet Valve (PG) Connection
7.Dryer (NM) Connection
8.Power Switching Connection
9.Negative PEM Cell Pole Connection
10.Positive PEM Cell Pole Connection
- Installation and initial start-up
- Receiving the generator
All units have been carefully inspected before transport. Visual checks for damage and functional tests should be performed upon receipt. Any damage must be immediately noted and reported. The generator must only be returned according to the shipping instructions provided.
Conserve the ORIGINAL packaging is case of return.
6.2Packaging list
List of items included in the shipment
Item / Quantity / Description/ 1 / Hydrogen generator
1 / External tank for Refilling
/ 1 / Filter for inlet Air (only if the option Air is installed)
1 / USB Pen User Manual
/ 1 / Deionizer bag
/ 1 / Water drain with flexible tubing
/ 1 / Power cable
6.3Placing the generator
The hydrogen generator must be placed on a flat, level, vibration-free, shock-free surface. Do not place the generator over a source of heat, as this may cause the device to overheat. The unit should not be in contact with any other objects on any side, and the air inlet must not be blocked. Leave at least 30 cm of free space at the rear for ventilation. Do not operate the generator in a sealed or unventilated room, or in close proximity to open flame or other sources of ignition. Do not operate the generator at below freezing temperatures. Operation is guaranteed at operating temperatures between +15 and +40°C.
Normal precautions for any hydrogen supply should be taken when using the generator.
DO NOT use in sealed or unventilated rooms.
DO NOT use in close proximity of open flames or other sources of ignition.
6.4Gas connections
Pure dry hydrogen at regulated pressure is available at the hydrogen outlet port at the rear of the generator. This port must be connected to 1/8" tubing using a stainless-steel or copper Swagelok connector. Teflon connectors are not suitable. The pressure at this port is adjusted and shown on the display. The hydrogen relief port at the rear of the unit can be connected to an exhaust hood or other vent system.
Plug the Oil-Free air source in the inlet (AIR IN) of the generator connecting between the Air Filter provided in the package.
Zero Air can be used by the 1/8” rapid fitting (AIR OUT)
The line from the relief port should never connect in such a way that back pressure can develop.
6.5Electrical connections
Check the setting of the voltage selector on the rear of the unit.
The set voltage is indicated in the white square on the inlet power filter. To change the voltage, proceed as follows:
Using a small screwdriver, remove the voltage selector insert.
Replace the voltage selector insert so that the white arrow points to the correct voltage
6.6Filling the water tank
The FID TOWER PLUS has an internal water tank included in its chassis. The tanks must be refilled with demineralized water with conductivity below 2uS.
Follow the steps in order to fill correctly the automatic water tank system.
- Fill the Refilling tank provided in the package with demineralized water (below 2uS)
- Connect the external water tank fitting to the refill fitting placed in the front of the FID TOWER PLUS
- The tank must be placed higher than the generator. (water refill the tank system by gravity).
- Disconnect the tank when the water has reach the MAX level showed in the same side of thefitting.
DISCONNECT THE WATER REFILLING TANK WHEN MAX IS REACHED. IF THIS IS NOT OBSERVED IT CAN CAUSE OVERFILL.
CAUTION!
To prevent contamination of the cell assembly, it is important to use only deionized or distilled water in the generator. Water containing metallic impurities will contaminate or damage the cell, and will void the warranty.
6.7Installing the deionizer bag
In order to protect the cell from bad water quality, it is necessary to use a deionisation bag. Inspect the bag thoroughly for holes or tears, indicated by loose deionizer beads on the outer surface. If the bag is damaged in any way, discard and replace it with a new one. Only use original parts (see Spare Parts). Wash the deionizer bag in deionized water before proceeding.
Insert the free end of the “T” fastener through the hole in the centre of the holder, until it is securely fastened. The bag should not block the outlet at the bottom of the tank. Once in place, the bag should not be allowed to dry out.
This bag is to be inserted in the internal tank via the front panel:
- Push the 2 fasteners showed by red arrows.
- Pull out the tank compartment.
- Unscrew the top cap and insert the deionizer bag.
6.8Starting the Hydrogen Generator
Press the H2 ON/OFF button to start the hydrogen part of FID TOWER PLUS.Once done (will be red coloured) the device will start to work. /
Following screen will appear.
Press “Menu” to select the correct sub menu (to set the pressure) /
Press “Select” to select to go inside the “pressure adjust” menu /
Use the arrows “up” and “down” to select the desired outlet pressure.
Once done, press “Exit” /
Press “start”. /
The generator will first build the internal pressure. You have to wait until it reach 100% before going on /
At this point, make sure that you have connected the outlet Hydrogen to your GC or application. At least make sure you have a restriction and that the outlet is not fully open. /
Once done, press “Open”. The hydrogen will go through the outlet and the pressure will rise until it reaches the selected pressure. /
Once reached, the generator will show “Normal flow”
To stop the device, press on AIR ON/OFF button, the H2 part of the FID TOWER PLUS will turn off. (button not coloured anymore) /
6.9Turn off the device
To stop the FID TOWER PLUS:Press on H2 ON/OFF button to turn off Hydrogen part.
ON/OFF button of stopped part will not be coloured anymore. /
- Operation
- Hydrogen Part
The operating status of the unit is shown on the main screen on the graphic display.
The main screen has three options at the bottom, corresponding to the three buttons on the unit and the part of touch screen, which are used to run the various functions and access the configuration and diagnostics of the unit, following the tree structure shown in the figure below.
7.1.1.Configure Parameters
Item / Description / Options / Range / DefaultSet Clock / Adjusting the internal Clock / - / -
Low Press Error* / Percentage of total pressure that has to be beat for activating the low pressure. / 0-100% / 30%
Pressure rise / Sets how fast the pressure has to increase. If the pressure increases at a slower rate, a low pressure alarm is activated. / 0.01 – 4.2 bar/min
0.2 - 60 psi/min / 0.09
14
Pressure drop delay / Sets a delay in seconds to ignore a pressure drop (override low pressure alarm) / 2 - 10 min / 2
Auto start / Sets whether the unit automatically starts production when power is switched on. / YES / NO / NO
Beeper / Sets whether the audible signal is activated in the event of an alarm. / ON / OFF / ON
Cascading mode / Sets the cascading mode. (see cascading for more details) / None/ Normal / Ext. P control / None
N Gen H2 in cascading / Sets the number of generators in the
Cascading chain / 1-10 / 1
ID number / Sets the ID number / 1-10 / 1
Remote start/stop mode / Configures the remote start/stop function / Start/stop, Start only, Direct control / start/stop
Remote relay mode / Configures the remote relay contacts. / Normally open (NO)
Normally closed (NC) / NC
Pre alarms in list / If set to Yes, the pre alarms are also shown in the alarm log. / YES / NO / NO
Pressure units / Sets the desired unit of measure for the pressure / bar / psi / kPa / bar
Temp. units / Sets the desired unit of measure for the temperature / °C and °F / °C
Volume units / Sets the desired unit of measure for the volume / scm (standard cubic meters)
scf (standard cubic feet) / scm
Lock Keyboard / If set to Yes, the keyboard will be locked automatically after the generator is in the main window for more than 20s. To unlock the keyboard, press the unlock button and hold for 5s. / YES / NO / NO
*BE CAREFUL: With a 100% set, the generator will never go in External Pressure Alarm.