Manual Quv

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Literature Number: LU-8047 Revised: 26 Apr 07

Operating Manual

Accelerated Weathering Tester

Ap plic able fo r Serial Number s:

XX-XXXX-73 thru 75-basic XX-XXXX-73 th ru 75-se XX-XXXX-73 thru 75-spray XX-XXXX-73 th ru 75-cw

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Table of Cont ents

1. Safety Informatio n (July 2006) 8. Running a Test

1.1 Electrical Shock hazard (July 2006) 8.1 Selecting a Test Cycle (July 2006) 1.2 European Electromagnetic Compatibility (July 2006) 8.1.1 Standard Test Cycles (Feb 2007) 1.3 Ultraviolet Hazards (July 2006) 8.1.2 Custom Test Cycles (July 2006)

8.2 Mounting Test Specimens (July 2006) 2. General Descripti on (July 200 6) 8.3 Repositioning Test Specimens (July 2006)

3. Set up 9. Calibration

3.1 Uncrating (July 2006) 9.1 UV Sensors (July 2006)

3.2 Location (July 2006) 9.1.1 CR10 Calibration Radiometer (July 2006) 3.3 Electrical (July 2006) 9.1.2 AutoCal Calibration Procedure (Apr 2007) 3.4 Water (July 2006) 9.2 Panel Temperature Sensor (July 2006)

3.4.1 Condensation System (July 2006)

3.4.2 Water Spray System (July 2006) 10. Data Logg ing (Virtual Strip Chart) (July 2006 ) 3.4.3 Water Drains (July 2006) 10.1 Connecting the QUV to a Computer (July 2006)

10.2 Viewing the Data on a Computer (July 2006) 4. UV Ligh t System

4.1 Lamp Types (July 2006) 11. Maintenance

4.2 Irradiance Control (July 2006) 11.1 Replace Lamps (July 2006) 4.3 Lamp Cooling (July 2006) 11.2 Clean Water Pan (July 2006) 4.4 UV Baffle (July 2006) 11.3 Inspect Spray Nozzles (July 2006) 5. Moistur e System (July 2006) 12. Troubl eshooti ng & Repair (July 2006)

5.1 Condensation (July 2006) 12.1 Error Messages (Feb 2007) 5.2 Water Spray (July 2006) 12.2 Insufficient Water Volume (July 2006)

12.3 No Power (July 2006) 6. Temperature Control System 12.4 Loose Lamp Sockets (July 2006)

6.1 Panel Temperature Sensor (July 2006)

6.2 Lab Temperature Sensor (July 2006) 13. Replacemen t Parts (Jul y 2006) 6.3 Water Temperature Sensor (July 2006)

6.4 During UV (July 2006) 14. Technical Support & Service (July 200 6) 6.5 During Condensation (July 2006)

6.6 During Water Spray (July 2006) 15. Warranty Informatio n (July 2006) 7. Control ler Operation 16. Wiring Diagrams

7.1 Summary (July 2006) 16.1 V-2056, QUV/Basic (Apr 2007) 7.2 Displays (July 2006) 16.2 V-2057, QUV/se & QUV/cw (Apr 2007) 7.3 Keypad (July 2006) 16.3 V-2058, QUV/spray (Apr 2007) 7.4 Programming (July 2006)

7.4.1 P1: Set Test Duration (July 2006) 17. Plumbing Diagrams

7.4.2 P2: Select Cycle/Step to Run (July 2006) 17.1 V-2059, QUV/spray (Apr 2007) 7.4.3 P3: Modify or Create a Test Cycle (July 2006)

7.4.4 P4: Calibrate Panel Temperature (July 2006) 7.4.5 P5: Set Alarm Volume (July 2006) 7.4.6 P6: Set Ethernet Address (July 2006) 7.4.7 V-2061-L, Flowchart (March 2005)

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Section 1: Safety Information

1. SAFETY INFORMATION (Revi sed Ju ly 2006)

Q-Lab accepts no responsibility for the consequences if the user fails to comply with the instructions in this operating manual. Q-Lab 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-Lab. Q-Lab accepts no responsibility for the consequences if the operator uses other parts.

This symbol indicates, “ Attention!” Consult the operating manual. All caution and warning no tes in this manual are prece ded by this s ymbol.

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1.1 Electri cal Shock Hazard (Revised Jul y 2006)

This symbol will be found i n certain are as or on certain parts of the QUV . It warns of ele ctrical shock hazards. Only qualified se rvice personnel should attempt to service areas or parts of the QUV where this label appears.

The QUV uses 400 volts to operate its fluorescent UV lamps. When the QUV is in the UV Cycle, the rubber lamp sockets are energized with this voltage. If a lamp is plugged into a lamp socket on one side, but the socket is not attached on the other side, the exposed lamp pins may be energized with 400 volts. This voltage can be extremely dangerous.

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.

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1.2 European Electrom agnetic Compati bil ity (Revised Jul y 2006)

The QUV Test Chamber meets the European Electromagnetic Directive 89/336/EEC (as amended) and complies with the requirements of EN55011 and EN50082-2.

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.

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1.3 Ultravi olet Hazards (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

• The QUV’s lamps may cause severe sunburn or eye inflammation.

• 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.

• Never look at lighted UV lamps without UV absorbing goggles.

• 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 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).

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• 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.

Warnin g - Risk Of Burns. Limi t Exposur e. Use Protective G ear.

One sample holder removed. Hand 50 mm from lights (same as sample): allowable daily exposure is 1 minute.

One sample holder removed. Hand 30 cm from lights: allowable daily UV lamp exposure 6 minutes. Face 1 m from lights: allowable daily exposure 18 minutes.

All sample holders removed. Hand 30 cm from lights: allowable daily UV lamp exposure 2 minutes. Face 1.0 m from lamps: allowable daily exposure 6 minutes.

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Section 2: General Description

2. GENERAL DESCRIPTION (Revised Ju ly 2006)

The QUV Accelerated Weathering Tester is a laboratory simulation of the damaging effects of weathering. It is used to predict the relative durability of materials exposed to the outdoor environment. Rain and dew are simulated by a revolutionary condensation system and/or a water spray system. The damaging effects of sunlight are simulated by fluorescent UV lamps. Exposure temperature is automatically controlled, as is the daily sequence of UV periods and moisture periods. In a few days or weeks, the QUV can produce damage that might occur over months or years of outdoor exposure. Deterioration observed includes fading, chalking, cracking, crazing, hazing, blistering, gloss loss, strength loss, and embrittlement.

Simplified Cross Section of QUV

Recognition. The QUV/spray conforms to the following standards (among others).

ASTM G-154 (Previously G-53), Light/Water Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials ASTM D-4587, Light/Water Exposure of Paint

ASTM D-4329, Light/Water Exposure of Plastics

ASTM D-4799, A. Weathering of Bituminous Roofing Materials BS2782, Part 5, Methods 540B (Exp. to Lab Light Sources) ISO 4892 Plastics D Plastics Exposure to Lab Light Sources SAE J2020, Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Exterior Materials General Motors TM-58-10

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Section 3: Set Up

3. SET UP

3.1 Uncrati ng (Revised Jul y 2006)

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.

Caster Installation: To install casters, prop up one end of the QUV on a box and push the casters into the sockets in the legs.

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3.2 Loc ation (Revised Jul y 2006)

The QUV is intended for indoor use only. The specific environmental conditions are discussed below. Room Temperature: The optimal place for a QUV is in an air-conditioned lab or office. The QUV operates best in a room where the temperature is between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C). Room temperatures outside this range can cause poor control of test temperature. High room temperature can also prevent proper condensation from forming on the test specimens because of inadequate specimen cooling.

Ventilation: Each QUV generates an average of 700 watts of heat on a continuous basis. That’s equivalent to 2400 BTU/hr. This should not strain ordinary air-conditioning because it produces only about as much heat as two people. Each QUV also evaporates about 8 liters of water per day. The QUV should be located away from strong drafts that can cause one end of the machine to be cooler than the other. Relative Humidity: The maximum relative humidity in the room should be 80% for temperatures up to 31°C decreasing linearly to 50% at 40° C.

Transport and Storage Temperature: -40ºC to 80ºC

Pollution Control: Rated as Pollution Degree II for protection against ambient pollution. Sound Pressure Level: Sound Pressure Level does not exceed 74dBA.

Al ti tu de: 2000 meters or less.

Operation: The QUV is suitable for continuous operation.

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.

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3.3 Electri cal (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

The QUV comes with its own power cord. The electrical requirements are given below.

Voltage : The electrical voltage is shown on the nameplate on the rear of the QUV next to the power switch. Two versions are available, 120v and 230v. The voltage supplied to the QUV must be within ±10% of the voltage shown on the nameplate.

Current: The maximum current draw for the 120 volt QUV/se and QUV/spray is 16 amps and the 120 volt QUV/basic is 14 amps. The maximum current draw for the 230 volt QUV/se and QUV/spray is 8 amps and the 230 volt QUV/basic is 7 amps.

Frequency: The QUV will operate on either 50 or 60 hz.

Power Switch: The power switch has a built in circuit breaker, 20A for 120 volt machines and 10A for 230 volt machines. Therefore, if you connect several QUVs to a high capacity circuit, each QUV will still have adequate over-current protection.

Power Receptacle: The power receptacle must be located in close proximity to the QUV and within easy reach of the Operator. Do not use an extension cord. The power cord plug is the main disconnect device on the QUV so it must be pulled from the receptacle when servicing the QUV.

Plug: A 3-prong grounding plug is provided for 120V testers. No plug is supplied with 230V machines. The user must attach their own 3-prong grounding plug according to local electrical codes. The plug terminals should be connected to the wires as shown below.

120V 230V

Power: Black Brown

Neutral: White Blue

Safety earth ground: Green Green/Yellow Transient Overvoltage: Installation Category II of transient overvoltages.

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3.4 Water (Revised Ju ly 2006)

All QUV’s require water for the condensation system. QUV/spray models also require water for the water spray system. The necessary water connections and requirements are described below.

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3.4.1 Condensati on Syst em (Revised July 20 06)

Water for the condensation system is supplied by connecting a water line to the water feed located on the right rear of the QUV. We recommend using the 1/4 inch (6 mm) plastic tubing (supplied with the QUV) for this connection but copper tubing may also be used.

Water Feed

Purity: 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.

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. Pressure: The water pressure should be at least 2 psi (13.8 kPa) but not more than 80 psi (550 kPa). Volume: Water consumption is roughly 8 liters per day.

Connections: To make is easier to connect to your water system we have included the kit shown below. With this kit you can easily connect to an existing water line. No drilling or soldering is necessary because the saddle valve is self-piercing. Install the saddle valve as shown and then connect the saddle valve to the QUV water feed valve with 1/4 inch (6 mm) tubing.

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Section 2: General Description Adju st men t: Once the water is turned on, water will flow into the water feed and then into the water pan in

the QUV. 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.

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3.4.2 Water Spray System (QU V/spray only ) (Revis ed July 2006 )

Water for the spray system is supplied by connecting a water line to the shut off valve located underneath the right side of the QUV. This connection can be made by pushing a ½ inch (12 mm) hose over the hose barb fitting and securing it with a hose clamp.

Purity: Unlike the water for the condensation system, the water for the spray system should be purified. The water should have a resistivity greater than 200 kohms-cm. This will require deionization, distillation, or reverse osmosis and possibly filters. Less pure water can lead to spotting of the specimens and clogging of the spray nozzles. To avoid contamination, all pipes, valves, and fittings between the purification equipment and the QUV/spray should be stainless steel or plastic. Do not use iron, steel, galvanized, copper, or brass. The pH of the water should be between 6.0 and 8.0.

Pressure: The water pressure must be at least 25 psi (172 kPa) so that the spray spreads out and completely covers the test specimens. The maximum pressure should be less than 80 psi (550 kPa). Volume: The water flow rate is 7 liters per minute (LPM). Most test cycles, however, call for water spray only a few minutes per day.

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.

Hose barb fitting

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3.4.3 Water Drain s (Revised Ju ly 2006)

Water Pan Cleaning Drain: This drain hose is already attached and is clamped at the bottom. This hose should remain clamped during operation. It is only unclamped to empty the water pan for cleaning or other maintenance. When doing this, the tube between the water feed and the machine should be clamped shut so that water does not flow out the water feed.

Water Fe ed Overflow Drain : The ½ inch (12mm) hose supplied with the QUV should be connected to the water feed overflow port and run to a floor drain. This is in case the water feed valve fails to shut off. If water is ever seen in this hose the water feed valve should be replaced.

Water Pa n Overflo w Drain (QUV/ spray onl y): The 1-¼ inch (32 mm) hose supplied with the QUV must be attached to the large hose barb fitting under the QUV that extends from the bottom of the water pan. In order to attach this 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 fitting. Use alcohol or oil for lubrication. Then, gently work the 1-¼ inch (32 mm) drain hose onto the hose barb fitting and run the other end to a floor drain.

Water Pan Overflow Drain clamp Water Pan Cleaning Drain Water Feed Overflow Drain

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Section 4: UV Light System

4. UV LIGHT SYSTEM

4.1 Lamp Types (Revised Jul y 2006)

The QUV uses fluorescent UV lamps to reproduce the damaging effects of sunlight. There are four types to choose from: UVA-340, UVA-351, UVB-313 EL, and QFS-40. All of these lamps produce mainly ultraviolet rather than visible or infrared light. In addition to the four types of UV lamps, ordinary cool white lamps can be used in the QUV/cw. These produce mainly visible light rather than UV. All are dimensionally and electrically the same as normal 40 watt fluorescent lamps.

The lamps differ in the total amount of energy emitted and in the wavelength spectrum. Differences in energy output or wavelength spectrum can cause significant differences in test results. The particular application determines which lamp should be used.

UVA Lamps

UVA lamps are especially useful for comparing different types of polymers. Because UVA lamps do not have any UV output below the normal solar cutoff of 295nm, they usually do not degrade material as fast as UVB lamps. However, they usually provide better correlation with actual outdoor weathering. UVA-340: The UVA-340 provides the best possible simulation of sunlight in the critical short wavelength region from 365 nm down to the solar cutoff of 295 nm. Its peak emission is at 340 nm. UVA-340 lamps are especially useful for comparison tests of different formulations.

UVA-351: The UVA-351 simulates the UV portion of sunlight filtered through window glass. It is most useful for interior applications, the testing of some inks and for polymer damage that can occur to products in an environment near a window.

UVB Lamps

UVB lamps emit unnatural, short wavelengths of UV below the solar cutoff of 295 nm. As a result, they typically cause materials to degrade faster than UVA lamps. Consequently, they are popular for QC tests and for testing very durable materials. Since they emit unnaturally short wavelengths, however, they can produce anomalous results compared to actual outdoor weathering. Two types of UVB lamps are available. They have the same spectral distribution but the emit different amounts of total UV. QFS-40: Also know as FS-40 or F40 UVB, this is the srcinal QUV lamp. FS-40 lamps have been used for many years, and are still specified in some automotive test methods, particularly for coatings. QFS-40 lamps should only be used in the QUV/basic.

UVB-313 EL: Compared to the QFS-40 lamp, the UVBV-313 EL produces substantially higher UV and, therefore, faster test results. Also, the UVB-313 EL can be used in place of the QFS-40 in the QUV/se and QUV/spray to decrease the output of the UVB-313 EL to mimic the irradiance of the QFS-40. This allows longer lamp life and minimizes lamp replacement costs.

Cool White Lamps

Cool white lamps are commonly used in commercial, retail, and office environments. The same cool white lamps can be used in the QUV/cw but at much higher intensities to test for indoor photostability of materials.

Do Not Mix Differe nt 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 QUV 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).

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Section 4: UV Light System 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 260 280 300 320 340 360 380 400 Wavele ngth (nm) I r r a d i a n c e ( W / m 2 )

UV Lamps Compared to Sunlig ht

0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 Wavelength (nm) I r r a d i a n c e ( W / m 2 )

Cool White Lamps Compare d to Sunlight

UVA-340 (0.68 W/m2 @ 340nm) UVA-351 (0.45 W/m2 @ 340nm) UVB-313 EL (0.67 W/m2 @ 310nm) QFS-40 (0.48 W/m2 @ 310nm)

Sunlight thru Glass Sunlight

Cool Whites in QUV (20,000 lux)

Sunlight thru Glass

Cool Whites in typical office (1,000 lux)

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4.2 Irradiance Contr ol (Revised Jul y 2006)

In addition to speed, one advantage that laboratory weathering testers have over actual outdoor exposures is reproducibility of results. To achieve this reproducibility, testers must have control of the critical parameters of light, moisture, and temperature. Control of irradiance in a laboratory tester is particularly important.

Like any lamps, the QUV lamps loose output as they age. QUV’s that do not have Solar Eye irradiance control (QUV/basic) use a lamp replacement and rotation system to compensate for lamp aging. See section 11.1 for this procedure. 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-Lab Bulletin LU-8010, Controlled Irradiance in Laboratory Weathering).

QUV’s that do have the Solar Eye irradiance control system (QUV/se, QUV/spray, QUV/cw) control the irradiance using a feedback system. The user chooses the exact level of irradiance and the Solar Eye maintains the irradiance automatically. The controller monitors the UV intensity via four sensors at the sample plane and a four channel feedback loop system compensates for any variability by adjusting the power to the lamps.

The UV sensors are 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 controller adjusts the power to each pair of lamps to maintain the programmed irradiance. Each sensor must be calibrated separately. Sensor lenses should be periodically cleaned with a clean, soft cloth. B a l l a s t 1 B a l l a s t 2 B a l l a s t 3 B a l l a s t 4 Detector 1 3 2 4 Sample Plane Sample Plane Lamps (all same age)

Controller

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The irradiance level can be set from very low to very high. If you wish to run a particular test method, and the irradiance is specified in the test method, then use that irradiance. If you’re not interested in running a particular test method, then set the irradiance based on the following suggestions.

UVA-340 Lamps

• 0.68 W/m2 at 340nm -equivalent to noon summer sunlight for quick results without sacrificing correlation.

• 1.38 W/m2 at 340nm -2x solar maximum for fast results.

• 0.35 W/m2 at 340nm -so called "Average Optimum" (equivalent to March/September sunlight) for "average" or low UV exposures.

UVB-313 Lamps

• 0.67 W/m2 at 310nm -typical

• 1.23 W/m2 at 310nm -for extremely fast tests, quality control applications, or for testing very durable materials.

• 0.48 W/m2 at 310nm -for greatly extended lamp life when using UVB-313 lamps for SAE J2020

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4.3 Lamp Cooli ng (Revised Jul y 2006)

Fluorescent lamps are mercury vapor lamps. The coolest spot on the bulb wall controls the mercury vapor pressure. Because fluorescent lamps work most efficiently at about 40°C, the QUV has fans at each end of the control housing to cool the ends of the lamps. These lamp cooling fans pull room air over the ends of the lamps (air from these fans does not enter the test chamber). The lamp cooling fans operate during the entire UV cycle to help the lamps operate more efficiently. The end covers (i.e., the two trapezoid shaped metal covers that go on each end of the QUV and conceal the ends of the lamps) must be in place to properly direct the air over the ends of the lamps. To check the fans’ operation, listen for a faint hum at either end of the control housing.

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4.4 UV Baff le (Revi sed Ju ly 2006)

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 one side of the chamber travels to the other side of the chamber and adds to the UV striking that side. Most of this crossover UV hits in the center of the sample exposure area. The UV baffles selectively block and reflecs UV crossing over from side to side, thus correcting the top-to-bottom irradiance profile. The baffle consists of aluminum strips running parallel to the lamps. One of these baffles is located between the center lamps in each bank. A second baffle is near the top of the test chamber, midway between the front and back of the chamber.

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Section 5: Moisture System

5. MOISTURE SYSTEM (Revised Ju ly 2006)

All QUV’s produce the effects of outdoor moisture by condensation. The QUV/spray has the added ability to spray water on the test specimens.

5.1 Condensatio n (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

An essential feature of the QUV’s condensation system is that panels actually form the side wall of the test chamber and provide the closure that keeps the hot water vapor inside the chamber. Room air on the back side of the panels cools them to a few degrees below the vapor temperature. This temperature difference causes liquid water to condense on the panels.

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.

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.

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Section 5: Moisture System

5.2 Water Spray (Revised

Jul y 2006)

The QUV/spray can spray water on test specimens to produce thermal shock or erosion. 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. When the QUV is spraying water, the lamps are off.

Spray Flow Rate Adjustment: The recommended flowrate is 7 LPM. This is enough flow to cause the spray to fan out and cover the entire specimen area. At lower flow rates, the spray will not cover the entire area. The water flow 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.

• Spray Water Filter Assembly filters the water for particulates.

• 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, which helps maintain a constant flow rate through the nozzles. To set the pressure, turn on the water spray and turn the

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Section 6: Temperature Control System

6. TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM

6.1 Panel Temperatur e Senso r (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

The panel temperature sensor measures the temperature of ypical test specimens placed in the QUV. The sensor is mounted on a black panel (along with Solar Eye sensors No. 1 & 2) in the front-center of the specimen area.

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6.2 Lab Temperatur e Senso r (Revised

July 2006)

The lab temperature sensor measures the temperature of the air surrounding the QUV. The sensor is mounted under the QUV. The lab temperature sensor is used to help diagnose if high or low panel temperature faults are due to the lab temperature.

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6.3 Water Temperatu re Senso r

(Revis ed J uly 2006)

The water temperature sensor measures the temperature of the water inside the QUV. The sensor is mounted in a tube in the water pan. The water temperature sensor is used to detect if the water pan is empty and for fast heat up at the beginning of condensation steps.

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6.4 UV Cycl e (Revi sed Ju ly 2006)

The temperature control system during UV steps consists of a blower, air heater, air distribution system, panel temperature sensor, and controller.

• Blower. The blower is located on the underside of the unit. It operates continuously throughout the UV cycle.

• Air Heater. The air heater is located in the air tube above the blower. It heats the air from the blower when necessary.

• Air Dist ri bu ti on . Air from the blower enters the test chamber through the air tube in the center of the water pan. An air deflector directs the air throughout the test chamber. A 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.

The minimum panel temperature is about 45ºC. This is due to the heat from the lamps. To reach higher temperatures, the controller turns on the air heater based on the set point and actual panel temperature.

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6.5 Condensati on Cycle (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

The temperature control system during condensation steps consists of a water heater, panel temperature sensor, water temperature sensor, and controller. The water heater is located below the water pan. The blower does not operate during most of the condensation cycle. However, the blower is operated for the first few minutes of the condensation cycle to provide a rapid cooling of the test chamber. The controller sets the length of time that the blower operates. It has been preset at the factory to run until the temperature drops to the condensation temperature set-point.

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6.6 Spray Cycle (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

There is no temperature control during spray steps. The water heater, air heater, and blower are all off. The actual panel temperature is displayed but no set point temperature is possible.

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Section 7: Controller Operation

7. CONTROLLER OPERATION

7.1 Summary (Revised Jul y 2006)

One of the main features of the QUV Accelerated Weathering Tester is the microprocessor controller. This built in computer controls all functions of the tester. Interactive software allows easy programming using the keypad and LCD displays. Many common test cycles have been pre-programmed for the user to choose from, or custom test cycles can be easily created. A timer can be set to automatically stop a test after a given time. The controller continuously displays all test status conditions, including set points and actual values and continuously monitors for errors (such as low temperature if a heater burns out) and will automatically stop a test if an error is detected.

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7.2 Displ ays (Revised Jul y 2006)

The controller uses LCD displays to show the various test parameters and error messages. These parameters are always displayed in the same location on the control panel as shown below.

Ho urs : Min utes Ho ur s Ho ur s

Step Time Test Time Total Time Actual: Set: Lamps Back Front °C Top Pair: Bottom Pair: Status Message

Irradiance (QUV/se & QUV/spray): This shows the irradiance for the current step running. The bottom line shows the irradiance set-point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual irradiance for each of the four pairs of lamps. The irradiance is displayed in W/m2 at 310nm for UV-B lamps and 340nm for UV-A lamps.

Lamps (QUV/basic): This shows if the lamps are on or off. The bottom line shows the bottom lamps and the top line shows the top lamps.

Lamps (QUV/cw): This shows the irradiance for the current step running. The bottom line shows the_{irradiance set-point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual irradiance for each of the} four pairs of lamps. The irradiance is displayed in lux x104_{for cool white lamps.}

ºC: This shows the panel temperature for the current step running. The bottom line shows the temperature set point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual black-panel temperature. If the temperature is followed by *, this indicates that a heater is currently on.

Step Time: This shows the time for the current step in the test cycle. The bottom line shows the time required to perform the current step (hours : minutes) as programmed by the user. The top line shows the elapsed time

Test Time: This shows the time for a particular test. The bottom line shows the desired duration as programmed by the user (0 to 9999 hours). The top line shows the amount of time the test has run. Total Time: This shows the total number of hours that the QUV has operated.

Status Display: This tells the user if the machine is running and what test cycle it is running. A typical status message is “RUNNING CYCLE A = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1.” The status line is also used for programming.

Message D isp lay: This tells the user what step in the test cycle is running. A typical message is “A/STEP 1 UV 60ºC 0.89W/M2 0:00/8:00”. The meaning of this message is described in the

programming section. The message display is also used for error/warning messages. Many are intended QUV/se & QUV/spray Disp lays

QUV/basic Displ ays

Status Message Tot al Tim e Hours Elapsed: Test Time Hours Elapsed: Set: Ste p Ti me Elapsed: Set: Hours: Minutes °C Actual: Set: Actual: Set: 2 1 3 4 Ir r adianceW/m2@Contr olWavelength

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7.3 Keypad (Revised Jul y 2006)

The controller has a 12-button keypad to tell the controller what to do. The keypad is shown below.

Silence Cl ear RUN STOP

?

Escape Al ar m Irradia n ce Calibration Prog r am Enter

RUN: This key is used to start running a test. When pushed, the QUV will resume exactly where it was when the stop key was pushed, unless the user has selected a different test cycle or step in the program. The selected test cycle will repeat itself in an endless loop. A green LED on the key lights up when in RUN mode.

STOP: This key is used to stop a test. When pushed, the QUV blower runs for one hour to cool down and dry-off the test specimens so they are not exposed to further degradation from heat or moisture. A blue LED on the key lights up when in STOP mode.

SILENCE: This key silences the alarm beeper when an error occurs to prevent the beeper from annoying the user. It does not clear the error, it only silences it. If there are multiple errors, the alarm may immediately sound again.

CLEAR: This key is used to cancel an error message. After pressing the “CLEAR” key you must press the “ENTER” key. If there are multiple messages, each must be cleared separately.

PROGRAM: This key is used to enter the Program Mode. Pressing the “PROGRAM” key allows the user to set a test duration, select a test cycle, modify or create a test cycle, calibrate the temperature sensor, set the alarm volume, or set an Ethernet address to connect to a computer. Programming instructions are in section 7.4.

UP/DOWN ARROWS: These keys are used to change a parameter in the status display when in the program mode.

LEFT/RIGHT ARROWS: These keys are used to move the cursor in the status display when in the program mode.

?: This key is used to enter the Diagnostic Mode. Pressing the “?” key allows the user to obtain information such as how much the air heater is on, the software version, the number of hours since the UV sensors were last calibrated, etc. The complete list of diagnostic messages is shown in the diagnostics section.

ENTER: This key is used to accept the current selection when programming, and moves forward one level in the program menu.

ESCAPE: This key is used to cancel the current selection when programming, and moves back one level in the program menu.

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Section 7: Controller Operation Al arm : The alarm LED is a red indicator light that flashes when most errors or messages occur. In

addition to the light, an audible alarm will usually sound. The alarm will also beep whenever a key is pushed.

Irradiance Calibration: This is a port used to connect the CR10 calibration radiometer to the QUV when calibrating the UV sensors. This is described in the calibration section.

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7.4 Progr ammin g (Revised Jul y 2006)

Press the PROGRAM key to enter the Program Mode and then use the up/down arrow keys to select one of six programs.

• Program 1 allows you to set/reset the duration of a test.

• Program 2 allows you to select a test cycle.

• Program 3 allows you to modify or create a test cycle.

• Program 4 allows you to calibrate the temperature sensor.

• Program 5 allows you to change the alarm volume.

• Program 6 allows you to set an ethernet address to connect to a computer.

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 to move back one level or to exit the program.

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7.4.1 P1: Set Test Durat io n

(Revised Jul y 2006)

Program 1 allows you to set the test time and also what should happen at the end of the test. You can also reset the elapsed test hours to zero after a test is finished.

1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode.

2. Press the Up/Down arrows until the display says P1.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press the Up and Down arrows to change the Test Time Set, which is the total number of hours you want to run the test. If you want to reset the elapsed hours, for example, to begin a new test, use the Left and Right arrow keys to move over to the elapsed hours and use the Up and Down arrows to change it.

5 6

5. Press the ENTER key to accept your choices.

6. Use the Up and Down arrows to choose the action the controller should take at the end of the test. Choices are: STOP, STOP+ALARM, ALARM, MESSAGE ONLY, or NONE

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7. Press ENTER to accept your choice.

8. The controller gives you one last chance to change your mind. Press ENTER to save the changes you just made, or press ESCAPE to cancel the changes and move back one level in the program.

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

ENTER

TEST TIME SET = 1000; ELAPSED = 0000 HOURS

ENTER

ACTION AT END OF TEST: STOP

ENTER ENTER

ENTER = SAVE CHANGES, ESCAPE = CANCEL

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7.4.2 P2: Select Cycl e/Step to Run (Revis ed Ju ly 2006)

Program 2 allows you to choose any of ten test cycles that have already been programmed (in program 3). Program 2 also allows you to choose which step in the test cycle to begin with and also the time into the step to begin with.

2. Press the up or down key until the display says P2.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press the up or down key until you find the desired test cycle.

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5. Press the ENTER.

6. Press the up or down key to find the step you want to begin with. Press the right or left key to scroll over to the time into the step. Press the up or down key to set this to the desired time (usually this will be 0:00).

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7. Press ENTER.

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

P2 SELECT CYCLE/STEP TO RUN

ENTER

RUN CYCLE A NAME = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1

ENTER

A/STEP 1 UV 60ºC 0.89W/M2 0:00/8:00

ENTER

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7.4.3 P3: Modif y or Create a Test Cycle ( Revised July 200 6)

Program 3 allows you to modify an existing test cycle or create a new test cycle. A test cycle can contain up to 25 steps. Once a test cycle is modified or created it must be selected in Program 2 to run.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press the up or down key until you find the desired test cycle. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the name of the test cycle. Press the up or down arrows to scroll through the alpha numeric characters to program the name.

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5. Press the ENTER.

6. Press the up or down key to find the step you want to program. Press the right or left key to scroll over to the function, temperature, irradiance, or time. Press the up or down key to set the desired value. The choices for function are: UV, condensation, spray (QUV/spray only), subcycle, and final step go to step 1. See the instructions on the following page for programming subcycles. The last step of the test cycle should be final step go to step 1.

5 6

7. Press ENTER.

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

P3 MODIFY OR CREATE CYCLE

ENTER

RUN CYCLE A NAME = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1

ENTER

A/STEP 1 UV 60ºC 0.89W/M2 8:00

ENTER

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Subcycles: The subcycle function can be used to repeat a sequence of steps before advancing to another step. For example, let’s say you want to simulate intermittent light and rain during the day and dew at night. This could be simulated by programming alternating periods of UV and spray followed by one period of condensation. The program would look like this:

J/STEP 1 SUBCYCLE STEP 2-3 REPEAT 3X J/STEP 2 UV 60ºC 0.89W/M2 3:55 J/STEP 3 SPRAY 0:05

J/STEP 4 CONDENSATION 50ºC 12:00 J/STEP 5 FINAL STEP GO TO STEP 1

The QUV will run the UV and spray steps three times before the condensation step.

Multiple subcycles can be programmed in a test cycle. However, the controller will not allow one of the steps in a subcycle to be another subcycle.

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7.4.4 P4: Calib rate Panel Temperat ur e (Revi sed Ju ly 2006)

Program 4 allows you to calibrate the black panel temperature sensor.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press ENTER (refer to the calibration section for the actual calibration procedure).

5. Press the up or down key until the displayed temperature

matches the temperature of the reference thermometer. _{5 6}

6. Press ENTER.

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

P4 CALIBRATE PANEL TEMPERATURE

ENTER IS REFERENCE THERMOMETER IN PLACE? ENTER REFERENCE TEMPERATURE = XX.Xº ENTER

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7.4.5 P5: Set Alarm Volum e (Revis ed Jul y 2006)

Program 5 allows you to change the alarm volume.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press the up or down key to raise or lower the volume.

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5. Press ENTER.

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

P5 SET ALARM VOLUME

ENTER

ALARM VOLUME = 10

ENTER

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7.4.6 P6: Set Ethernet Address (Re vis ed July 20 06)

Program 6 allows you to set an ethernet address so that the QUV can be connected to a computer. You may need to consult with your computer systems administrator for the proper ethernet address settings. See section 10 for additional instructions.

3. Press ENTER.

4. Press the up or down key until the display says P6.1. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the name of the test cycle. Press the up or down arrows to scroll through the alpha numeric characters to program the name.

5 6

5. Press the left or right key to scroll to P6.1. Press the up key to scroll to P6.2. Press the left or right key to scroll over to NO. Press the up key to change to yes if necessary.

5 6

6. Press the left or right key to scroll to P6.2. Press the up key to scroll to P6.3. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the address. Press the up or down key to change.

5 6

7. Press the left or right key to scroll to P6.3. Press the up key to scroll to P6.4. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the subnet mask setting. Press the up or down key to change.

5 6

8. Press the left or right key to scroll to P6.4. Press the up key to scroll to P6.5. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the default gateway setting. Press the up or down key to change.

5 6

PROGRAM

PROGRAM MODE MENU

5 6

P6 SET ETHERNET ADDRESS

ENTER P6.1 TESTER NAME = XXXXXXXXX P6.2 USE DHCP = NO P6.3 IP ADDRESS = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX P6.4 SUBNET MASK = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX P6.5 DEFAULT GATEWAY = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX

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9. Press the left or right key to scroll to P6.5. Press the up key to scroll to P6.6. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the destination port setting. Press the up or down key to change.

5 6

5. Press ENTER.

ENTER

P6.6 DESTINATION PORT = XXXX

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QUV Programming

Rev. 10 MAR 05 PROGRAM P1 SET TEST DURATION DURATION SET =1000; ELAPSED = 0000 HOURS

Choices are: STOP, ALARM, STOP+ALARM, MESSAGE ONLY, NONE

ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ESCAPE = CANCEL ACTION AT END OF TEST: STOP

ENT ER DURATION SET =1000; ENTER ENTER ENTER ELAPSED = 0000 HOURS

P2 SELECT CYCL E/

STEP TO RUN A/STEP 1 UV 50°C 0.68W/M2 2:41/4:00 RUN CYCLE A NAME =

ASTM G154 CYCLE 1 ENT ER ENTER

P3 MODIFY OR CREATE CYCLE

Choices for function are: UV, COND, SPRAY*, SUBCYCLE, FINAL STEP - GO TO STEP 1 (*QUV/spray only)

ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ESCAPE = CANCEL A/STEP 1 UV 5 0°C 0.6 8W/M2 4:00 ENTER ENT ER MODIFY CYCLE A NAME =

ASTM G154 CYCLE 1 ENT ER ENTER IS REFERENCE THERMOMETER IN PLACE? CALIBRATE PANEL TEMPERATURE =XX.X°C P4 CALIBRATE PANEL TEMPERATURE

ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ESCAPE = CANCEL

ENTER ENTER ENTER ENTER

ALARM VOLUME = 10 P5 SET ALARM VOLUME ENTER

Enter key accepts current se ction & moves one level deeper into program.

Escape key cancels current selection & moves back one level in program.

Up/Down arrows select program 1, 2, or 3 and change test settings.

Left/Right a rrows scroll across display to select parameters shown in BOLD . Active parameter flashes.

ENTER

ESCAPE

ENTER

V-2061-L

ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ESCAPE = CANCEL ENT ER ENTER P6 SET ETHERNET ADDRESS P6.1 TESTER NAME = XXX P6.2 USE DHCP = NO P6.3 IP ADDRESS = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX ENTER ENTER =SAVE CHANGES

ESCAPE = CANCEL ENTER

P6.4 SUBNET MASK = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX P6.6 DESTINATION PORT = XXXX P6.5 DEFAULT GATEW AY = XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX

ENTER ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ESCAPE = CANCEL ENTER

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7.5 Diagnost ics (Revised Jul y 2006):

The diagnostic mode can be entered by pressing the “?” key. The diagnostic mode is used to find the following information, some of which may be useful for troubleshooting certain error messages. DIAG 1 LABORATORY TEMPERATURE = XXºC

DIAG 2 UV PROP=XX°C, INT=XX ON = XX% * (* appears when air heater is on) DIAG 3 COND PROP=XX°C, INT=XX, ON=XX% * (* appears when water heater is on) DIAG 4 WATER TEMPERATURE = XX°C

DIAG 5 CONTROLLER TEMPERATURE = XX°C DIAG 7 VERSION X.XXX CHECKSUM=XXXX

DIAG 8 XXXX HOURS SINCE LAMP SERVICE (QUV/basic only)

DIAG 9 JOULES/M2 = XXX,XXX,XXX (QUV/se & QUV/spray only) DIAG 10 XXXX HOURS SINCE UV SENSOR CAL (QUV/se & QUV/spray only) DIAG 11 UV% CH1=XXX CH2=XXX CH3=XXX CH4=XXX (QUV/se & QUV/spray only)

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Section 8: Running a Test

8. RUNNING A TEST

8.1 Selecting a Test Cycle (Revised J uly 2006)

There are many standard test cycles written for the QUV by organizations such as ASTM, SAE, ISO, etc. Generally, it is best to use one of the standard cycles that’s already been developed. The standard test cycles pre-programmed in the QUV are shown in section 8.1.1. Occasionally, however, you may want to develop your own custom cycle for a particular application. Guidelines for choosing settings for custom cycles are given in Section 8.1.2.

In addition to the test cycle, an important part of any test -maybe the most important - is the type of lamp to use. Refer to section 4.1 for a description of the various types of lamps and what type to use for a particular application. Make sure the correct lamp type is installed before starting a test. The lamp type is printed on the wall of the lamp near one of the ends. If you need to change lamps refer to section 11.3.

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8.1.1 Standar d Test Cycl es (Revi sed Febru ary 2007)

Shown below are the test cycles pre-programmed in the QUV. These can be selected by pressing the PROGRAM key and going to the P2 menu. The lamp type specified for each test method is also listed. Some cycles can only be run in certain QUV models, for example, cycle G contains a spray step so only the QUV/spray model can run this cycle. Cycle G on the other models will be blank.

Cycl e A: ASTM G154 CYCLE 1 Lamp type: UVA-340

Models: basic, se, spray (irradiance is not programmed on QUV/basic model)

Step Function Irradiance (W/m2₎ _{Temperature (ºC)} _{Time (hours:minutes)}

1 UV 0.89 60 8:00

2 condensation n/a 50 4:00

3 Final step - Go to step 1

Cycl e B: ASTM G154 CYCLE 2 Lamp type: UVB-313

Step Function Irradiance (W/m 2) Temperature (ºC) Time (hours:minutes)

1 UV 0.71 60 4:00

Cycl e C: SAE J2020 (also ASTM G154 CYCLE 3)

Lamp type: QFS-40 (UVB-313 lamps can be used in QUV/se and QUV/spray models) Models: basic, se, spray (irradiance is not programmed on QUV/basic model)

Step Function Irradiance (W/m2) Temperature (ºC) Time (hours:minutes)

1 UV 0.49 70 8:00

Cycl e D: ASTM G154 CYCLE 4 Lamp type: UVA-340

Models: se, spray

1 UV 1.55 70 8:00

Cycl e E: ASTM G154 CYCLE 5 Lamp type: UVB-313

1 UV 0.62 80 20:00

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Cycl e F: ASTM G154 CYCLE 6 Lamp type: UVA-340 Models: se, spray

1 UV 1.55 60 8:00

Cycl e G: ASTM G154 CYCLE 7 Lamp type: UVA-340

Models: spray

1 UV 1.55 60 8:00

2 spray n/a n/a 0:15

Cycl e H: ISO 11507 Meth. A Lamp type: UVB-313, UVA-340, UVA-351

Step Function Irradiance (W/m 2₎ _{Temperature (ºC)} _{Time (hours:minutes)}

1 UV 0.71 60 4:00

Cycl e I: EN 927-6 Lamp type: UVA-340 Models: spray

2 Subcycle repeat steps 3-4 48x

3 UV 0.89 60 2:30

Cycle J: Cool Whites Lamp type: Cool White Models: cw

Step Function Irradiance (x104_{lux) Temperature (ºC)} _{Time (hours:minutes)}

1 UV 0.60 40 24:00

Cycl e K: ISO 4892-3 Cycl e 1 Lamp type: UVA-340

1 UV 0.76 60 8:00

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Cycl e L: ISO 4892-3 Cycl e 2 Lamp type: UVA-340

Models: spray

1 UV 0.76 60 8:00

Cycl e M: ISO 4892-3 Cycl e 6 Lamp type: UVB-313, QFS-40 Models: basic, se, spray

(QFS-40 lamps must be used in QUV/basic model and irradiance is not programmed) Step Function Irradiance (W/m 2₎ _{Temperature (ºC)} _{Time (hours:minutes)}

1 UV 0.48 70 8:00

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8.1.2 Custo m Test Cycl es (Revised Jul y 2006)

Custom test cycles can be programmed by pressing the PROGRAM key and then scrolling to the P3 menu. See section 7.4.3 for details on programming custom test cycles. Generally, a custom test cycle should be programmed in one of the blank test cycles (cycle J for models basic, se, and spray) rather than changing one of the pre-programmed test cycles. Following are some guidelines on setting an irradiance level and the moisture cycle.

Irradiance Set Point Guidelines

The irradiance can be set anywhere from very dim to very bright. As a guide, we recommend using either the normal or maximum set points shown in the table below. It may be possible to reach irradiance levels even higher than shown but these are not recommended because they may not always be possible to reach with other lamps, higher room temperatures, etc.

IRRADIANCE SET POINT

Lamp Type normal maximum

UVA-340 0.68W/m2 @ 340 nm 1 1.55 W/m 2 @ 340 nm UVA-351 0.87W/m2 @ 340 nm 2 1.55 W/m 2 @ 340 nm UVB-313 0.67W/m2 @ 310 nm 3 1.23 W/m 2 @ 310 nm QFS-40 0.48W/m2 @ 310 nm 4 0.86 W/m 2 @ 310 nm Cool White 0.60 x10lux (6,000 lux) 4 2.00 x10 4 lux (20,000 lux)

1

0.68 W/m2 at 340 nm is the maximum irradiance of sunlight (CIE 85 table 4).

2_{0.87 W/m2 at 340 nm is a typical irradiance of UVA-351 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUV’s} 3_{0.67 W/m2 at 310 nm is a typical irradiance of UVB-313 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUV’s} 4

0.48 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

Factors To Consider When Choosing An Irradiance S et Point

Acceler ation: 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 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. Typically, lamps will maintain maximum irradiance for about 1,000 hours and normal irradiance for much longer. However, lamps should always be changed once a year, even if they are still maintaining the irradiance set point. This is because they get dirty due to the condensation and air flow through the chamber and, as a result, the spectral power distribution is affected.

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

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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 75ºC, you may need to set a high irradiance. To achieve black panel temperatures below 55ºC, you may need to set a low irradiance.

Moisture Cycle Guidelines

Condensation: This is a “traditional” QUV moisture cycle. All QUV models are capable of producing condensation. It typically utilizes several hours of hot (50°C) condensate to reproduce and accelerate outdoor moisture attack. Condensation temperature should be a minimum of 40°C 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.

Spray and Condensation (QUV/spray models onl y): Thermal shock can be produced on test specimens by programming short periods of water spray. Usually only a few minutes of water spray is needed to rapidly cool the specimens. Because the sprays operate for only a few minutes, a relatively small amount of purified water is consumed. After the spray step, a condensation step usually follows for maximum acceleration of the damaging effects of moisture.

Spray only (QUV /spray models on ly): Mechanical erosion and can be produced on test specimens by programming long periods of water spray. This has been found particularly useful for wood coatings. During spray steps, the specimen temperature is relatively cool because the specimens assume the same temperature as the spray water. This type of cycle uses large volumes of DI water.

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8.2 Mount ing Test Specimens (Revised Jul y 2006)

The QUV can test any material in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The most convenient shape and size is 3” x 6” (75mm x 150mm) flat panels up to ¼” (6mm) thick. Two of these panels will fit in each of the 24 (25 for QUV/basic) standard panel holders supplied with the QUV.

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.

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For samples thicker than 1/4" (6mm), such as wood, use the optional Thick Panel Retainer springs. Part No. V-133.

Extra large samples can be mounted to a large aluminum blank that is installed on the frame in place of several holders. The blank must be 12.75" high (325 mm). Make sure that the blanks are exactly as wide as the opening of the sample mounting area to avoid loss of water vapor during the condensation cycle.

Thin, flexible film samples are mounted by simply wrapping them around an aluminum blank.

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Once the test specimens are mounted in the holders they can be placed in the QUV. Panel holders stack conveniently for carrying. Simply cradle them in your arm and stack, alternating flanges up and flanges down.

Panel holders are mounted by placing them in a slot on the QUV's frame. The extreme right and left-hand panel holders receive slightly less UV than the other holders because they are close to the ends of the lamps. Due to the reduced UV in these positions, ASTM G154 does not allow the use of these holders. We recommend that you do not use these holders unless absolutely necessary.

The rubber end seals are necessary to prevent the vapor from escaping from the chamber. Install the seals with the end marked “TOP” up.

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The test panels actually make up the side wall of the test chamber. To properly seal the chamber, it’s important to have all the 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. The panel holders should be pushed together so that there are no gaps larger than 1/32 inch (1 mm).

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8.3 Repos iti oni ng Test Specimens (Revised Jul y 2006)

In order to compensate for variability in UV and temperature uniformity, we recommend repositioning the test specimens at least once a week. This is best done by removing the two panel holders on the left end, sliding all the other holders to the left, and replacing the two that were removed on the right end. To prevent unnecessary UV exposure, make sure the UV lamps are off during specimen rotation.

Remove two panel holders on left end.

Slide all other panel holders to the left.

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Section 9: Calibration

9. CALIBRATION

9.1 UV Senso rs (QUV/se, QUV/spr ay, QUV/cw on ly ) (Revised Ju ly 2006)

The UV sensors require frequent calibration because they are located inside the harsh climate of the QUV. A “Time to Calibrate” message will appear every 500 hours of UV time. Calibration is done with the CR10 calibration radiometer.

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Section 9: Calibration

9.1.1 CR10 Cali brati on Radiometer (R evised Jul y 2006)

The CR10 calibration radiometer was specially developed for the Solar Eye Irradiance Control system. It allows you to calibrate the system quickly and easily. Although it is a necessary accessory to the system, you can use a single radiometer to calibrate any number of QUV’s.

The CR10 is designed to measure fluorescent UV lamps only. It should not be used to measure sunlight, xenon arc lamps or other visible light lamps. It has been calibrated to measure UV-A lamps at 340nm and UV-B lamps at 310nm in W/m2.

The CR10/cw is designed to measure cool white fluorescent lamps in a QUV/cw only. It has been calibrated to measure in the units of 104_{lux. Therefore, if the CR10 reads 0.60 this is really 0.60 x10}4_lux

or 6000 lux.

The radiometer itself must be returned to Q-Lab 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.