Environmental Express, Inc. AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions CONTENTS i. Introduction/General Information 2 ii. AutoBlock Warranty Information 3 1.0 Installing the AutoBlock 6 2.0 Hooking up inert gas to the AutoBlock 9 3.0 Service Screen 10 4.0 Creating a Method 15 5.0 Operator Test 18 6.0 Manual Operation 20 7.0 Data Viewer 21 8.0 Troubleshooting/Maintenance 23 9.0 Powering Off the AutoBlock 25 10.0 Warnings and Notifications 27 www.envexp.com 1
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions i. INTRODUCTION/GENERAL INFORMATION The AutoBlock has been designed specifically for your laboratory to provide safe, clean, and efficient sample digestions. It is capable of digesting water, wastewater, soils, and other materials typically digested using hotplate chemistry. UNIT DIMENSIONS The dimensions of the AutoBlock are 36"W x 24"L x 38.5"H and the unit weighs 250 lbs. A minimum of 2" of extra space should be allowed for around the sides of the unit. Additional space will be needed for reagents and the waste carboy. UNPACKING Your AutoBlock has been packaged in a custom-made shipping crate. It is highly recommended that you retain all packaging material for the warranty period in the unlikely event that the AutoBlock must be returned for repairs. See Warranty for complete details. Spend adequate time reading this instruction manual before unpacking your AutoBlock. While unpacking keep in mind there are many fragile components. A quality control sheet from the factory has been included. Use this list to inventory components as they are unpacked. NOTE: Residual water may be found in the internal plumbing of your AutoBlock. This includes the pump, reagent, and drain lines. This water is non-hazardous and was used for system checks and calibration during quality control inspection. WHAT S INCLUDED 1 AutoBlock unit 1 Laptop loaded with AutoBlock Software 1 jump drive with AutoBlock Software and AutoBlock Operation Manual and Instructions 1 power cord 1 USB cable 3 sample racks 6' of ½" ID drain tubing 1 10L waste carboy ½" barb fitting for the waste carboy 10 flangeless nuts 12 flangeless ferrules 50' of 1/16" ID PTFE reagent tubing 2 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. ii. AutoBlock Warranty Agreement The Warranty The Environmental Express AutoBlock is warranted to heat, hold temperature, automatically add reagents, lift racks, cool samples, and perform a fill-to-volume step using an external computer (not included in this warranty) with software for a period of ONE YEAR. This warranty covers parts, shipping, and labor for a period of 365 days from the original ship date. This warranty applies only in the case of damage or failure caused by reasonable and normal laboratory use. How the Warranty Works Upon receipt of the AutoBlock it is the laboratory s responsibility to inventory all parts and immediately notify Environmental Express of any suspected defects or missing parts. If during the first 365 days following the original ship date the unit malfunctions, a telephone call to troubleshoot the issue must be initiated by the laboratory. If it is deemed by the technical staff of Environmental Express that the problem cannot be fixed by the lab, and that the failure occurred during normal and accepted laboratory operations, then a written Return Authorization Form will be issued by Environmental Express. The AutoBlock will be returned to Environmental Express or a related repair / manufacturing facility in its original shipping container. Environmental Express will make every effort to troubleshoot and fix any problems with the customer while the instrument is at the laboratory. This may mean working with laboratory personnel to perform minor fixes, an Environmental Express representative going to the laboratory to troubleshoot and repair the instrument, or having a 3 rd party come to the laboratory s location for repairs. Charges Not Covered by the Warranty Failure to retain the original shipping crate and all other packaging materials could result in additional charges should it become necessary for the unit to ship back to Environmental Express. Failure to adhere to AutoBlock maintenance instructions and requirements can void all warranties and result in damage to the AutoBlock, loss of samples, and create repair issues not covered by the warranty. See maintenance section instructions for more information. Failure to continually pressurize the AutoBlock cabinet with clean incoming air will void all warranties and result in damage to the AutoBlock. Warranty Disclaimer Environmental Express makes no other warranty, expressed or implied. Environmental Express shall not be liable for consequential, incidental, specific or any other indirect damages resulting in economic loss or property damages sustained by any customer from use of this product. Environmental Express does not warrant the AutoBlock against damage resulting from chemical reactions that may occur between reagents or between samples and reagents or between various liquids and components of the AutoBlock. It is the responsibility of the laboratory to verify the compatibility of the reagents, heat and time www.envexp.com 3
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions indexes, the compatibility of each sample matrix, and other varying digestion method conditions prior to operation. Repair Approval If your system requires attention beyond basic maintenance, please follow the guidelines below. Failure to do so could result in loss of warranty protection and increased charges. Any attempt by laboratory personnel to repair the AutoBlock without first obtaining written consent from Environmental Express may void all or part of the Warranty, expressed or implied. Call 800-745-8218 (or 1-843-881-6560 outside the US) to obtain approval before beginning any repair work. In-Lab Troubleshooting & Repairs The AutoBlock has been engineered so that mechanically minded laboratory personnel can perform most troubleshooting, repairs, and tests. Technical assistance in such circumstances is always provided over the phone or e-mail by Environmental Express, whether the AutoBlock is in or out of the warranty period. There is no charge for this assistance. On-Site Repair In the unlikely event that an Environmental Express representative or approved 3 rd party representative must come on-site for repairs it is the laboratory s responsibility to schedule the repair with Environmental Express on a mutually agreed upon date. The laboratory must also put the AutoBlock through decontamination procedures to remove traces or sample or reagents in the lines and waste areas of the unit. A decontamination form will be provided to the laboratory by Environmental Express and must be filled out and returned by the customer prior to arrival at the laboratory s location. Repair by Manufacturer In the unlikely event that the unit must be returned to the manufacturer it is the laboratory s responsibility to: 1. Obtain a Return Authorization Form 2. Decontaminate the AutoBlock to remove traces of sample and/or reagent prior to packaging and shipping. A decontamination form will be provided to the laboratory by Environmental Express and must be filled out and returned by the customer before any repair work can be done on the unit. 3. Properly pack the AutoBlock in approved packaging only. 4. Place a Purchase Order with Environmental Express for repair (for any out-of-warranty repairs). Return Packaging & Shipping It is the responsibility of the laboratory to retain in good condition the original crate and other packaging material for a period no less than 365 days following the receipt of the AutoBlock. If the original shipping container is not available, a new shipping container must be purchased from Environmental Express prior to shipment. Shipping charges and insurance from your laboratory to Environmental Express and return shipping charges via standard trucking line will be the responsibility of the lab except for approved Warranty claims. 4 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. Inspection Upon Receipt and Repair Environmental Express representatives will inspect, repair, and return the unit in a timely manner bearing all costs covered by the warranty. However, if it is determined by Environmental Express that the damage to the AutoBlock was caused by negligence or improper use or improper packaging / shipment, no warranty shall apply. In such case reasonable and customary repair charges will apply including freight and insurance cost to and from the laboratory. Additional Information & Help If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact Environmental Express at 800-745-8218 (or 1-843- 881-6560 outside the US). Standard hours of operation are 8:30am 5:30pm EST, Monday through Friday, except holidays. You can also e-mail questions to info@envexp.com at any point. Please include your name, company name, telephone, and instrument serial number (if applicable). A technical representative will respond as quickly as possible. www.envexp.com 5
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 1.0 INSTALLING THE AUTOBLOCK 1.1 Ventilation (if unit is purchased with the fume hood) 1.1.1 The AutoBlock exhaust is located on the top right portion of the unit. Install a 4" diameter acid-resistant duct and clamp to the exhaust outlet. Vent using state & federal guidelines. 1.1.2 When connecting ductwork, verify zero to negative pressure to prevent backflow. The length of the duct should not exceed 25'. Vent the duct to the outside of the laboratory building or plumb into the existing ductwork. 1.1.3 If the fume hood is not purchased with the unit the AutoBlock must be placed in a fume hood for proper ventilation. 1. 2 Reagent Lines 1.2.1 Cut appropriate lengths of 1/16" PTFE reagent tubing, not to exceed 5' lengths. The ends need to be a square-cut face. 1.2.2 Slide the flangeless nut over the tubing with the nut threads facing the tubing end. 1.2.3 Slide the flangeless ferrule over the tubing with the tapered portion of the ferrule facing towards the nut. The large diameter of the ferrule should be pushed to the end of the tubing. 1.2.4 AutoBlock reagent ports are located on both sides of the unit. Ports 1-5 are located on the left side while ports 6-10 are located on the right. 1.2.5 Insert the tubing with the flangeless ferrule into the receiving port until it bottoms. While holding the tubing tighten the flangeless nut finger tight. The tubing should not be able to move in the port. 1.2.6 Repeat for all desired ports. NOTE: PORTS #1 AND #6 MUST ALWAYS REMAIN DI WATER!! 1.3 Drain Line & Carboy 1.3.1 Remove the ½" barb fitting from the bag of supplied parts. 1.3.2 Remove the nut from the fitting. 6 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 1.3.3 Remove the cap from the carboy. 1.3.4 Place the fitting into the cap. The threaded portion of the barb fitting should be on the inside of the cap. 1.3.5 Place the washer and then the nut onto the barb fitting and tighten. 1.3.6 Place the cap back on the carboy. 1.3.7 The barb fitting for the drain line is located on the right side towards the back of the unit. Place the supplied ½" tubing onto the barb fitting and the other end on the barb fitting on the carboy. NOTE: Ensure the tubing goes in a DOWNWARD direction the entire length to avoid back-ups. 1.3.8 In the fluidics compartment there is a safety drain in the case of a catastrophic failure to one of the pumps or 5-way valve assemblies. This drain is located under the unit and will evacuate any pooled reagent from the interior cabinet of the AutoBlock. A tray or tubing and container should be placed at the outlet point to contain any potential liquid coming from this drain port. www.envexp.com 7
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 1.4 Installing the Software 1.4.1 To install the software, insert the jump drive provided into the USB port of your computer. 1.4.2 Connect the AutoBlock to the computer using the USB cable provided. 1.4.3 Turn on the AutoBlock using the rocker switch located on the left side of the instrument. 1.4.4 Double-click on the AutoBlock Installer program. 1.4.5 Follow the prompts and click Next to continue through the install process. 1.4.6 Once the software installation is complete, click Next to finish. The computer may or may not ask you to reboot at this point. The software will then install the proper USB serial adapter to your computer if required. NOTE: You may need to have administrative rights to your computer for the USB serial adapter to properly install. 1.4.7 Once finished find the System folder from the jump drive. 1.4.8 Next open windows explorer and navigate to folder location: C://AutoBlock Software/System and find the System folder as shown below: 1.4.9 Highlight all files from the system folder on the jump drive and copy them by right-clicking on the files. 8 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 1.4.10 Paste in the System folder from the C://AutoBlock Software directory and over-write all files. 1.4.11 Once the software installation is complete, an AutoBlock icon will appear on your desktop. If the icon does not appear you can find the program by clicking on the Start button and proceeding to Programs in the menu. 1.4.12 Double-click on the AutoBlock icon to open the software. NOTE: The AutoBlock must be powered on for the software to open up. www.envexp.com 9
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 2.0 HOOKING UP INERT GAS TO THE AUTOBLOCK 2.1 Inert gas must be hooked up to the AutoBlock to prevent corrosion to the components in the cabinet of the unit. The gas must be inert (i.e. Nitrogen or Air) and from a source different from the air in the laboratory. NOTE: This gas must be flowing through the cabinet of the AutoBlock at all times, even when the unit is not running. This is a preventative measure to decrease corrosion to the components of the AutoBlock due to the corrosive materials used in the digestion procedures. 2.2 Hook the gas up to the unit by placing tubing over the hose barb on the front panel of the AutoBlock. 2.3 The input gas should be set to 40-100 psi going into the unit. The regulator inside the cabinet will then step the pressure down to the correct psi (10 psi). 2.4 A pressure sensor is located in the cabinet of the AutoBlock to ensure there is a constant stream of fresh air going into the unit. If the pressure sensor does not detect air going through it will shut the instrument down. 10 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 3.0 SERVICE SCREEN From the Main Screen, click on the Service Screen button for access to any service related items. 3.1 Reagents Tab 3.1.1 To assign a reagent to a specific port, click the drop-down arrow on the port number and select the appropriate reagent. The reagent is now assigned to that port. NOTE: Ports #1 and #6 will always be assigned to DI Water and cannot be changed. 3.1.2 To add a new reagent, click on the ADD REAGENT button. 3.1.2.1 Enter the reagent name (20 character maximum). 3.1.2.2 Assign a viscosity to the reagent. 3.1.2.3 Type in any notes in the details field and click OK (25 character maximum). 3.1.3 To delete a reagent, highlight the reagent you wish to delete and click on the DELETE REAGENT button. A pop-up will appear prompting the user to either confirm the deletion or cancel. NOTE: The user cannot delete H 2O as a reagent as this must always be used in the AutoBlock methods and is always assigned to ports 1 and 6. www.envexp.com 11
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 3.2 Temperature Calibration Tab 3.2.1 The graphite block temperature should be calibrated on an annual basis and always performed when installing the AutoBlock for the first time. 3.2.2 In the Temp Cal screen, press the ENABLE HEAT button to heat the graphite block to 90 C. 3.2.3 Once the block has reached 90 C, allow it to stabilize for 15 minutes. 3.2.4 Read the temperature inside an empty well with an IR Thermometer traceable to NIST. 3.2.5 Enter the actual temperature value in the field and click the Graphite Save Cal button to save the updated value. 3.2.6 To calibrate the Sample Probe temperature, fill a digestion tube (SC475 or equivalent) with deionized water and place into the graphite block. 3.2.7 Once the heating block temperature has stabilized, place the Sample Probe thermocouple into the vial along with an NIST traceable thermometer and allow the water temperature to stabilize. 3.2.8 Record the actual temperature in the field and click the PROBE SAVE CAL button. 12 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 3.3 Pump Calibration Tab 3.3.1 To calibrate the pump, inject 30mL of deionized water, using the manual screen (see Section 5.1), into a pre-weighed digestion vessel. Use Port 1 to calibrate Pump 1 and use Port 6 to calibrate Pump 2. 3.3.2 After injection, click the Initialize button to return the probe and racks to their home positions. 3.3.3 Weigh the vessel a second time and subtract the original weight to obtain the volume of deionized water injected. 3.3.4 Enter the actual injection volume in the appropriate field and press either the Pump 1 Save Cal or Pump 2 Save Cal buttons, depending on which pump was calibrated. 3.3.5 Perform the pump calibration on both pumps at least once every 30 days. www.envexp.com 13
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 3.4 Maintenance Tab 3.4.1 The Maintenance tab lists the items that require routine service. 3.4.2 Each service item lists the last date serviced, how often the service should take place, the number of days remaining until service is required, and an Info button describing what the service is. 3.4.3 When an item s service is due the Due? column will change from a green NO to a red YES. 3.4.4 The user will also be prompted when the software is first opened if an item is due to be serviced. NOTE: The AutoBlock and software will allow users to run the instrument without servicing any items that are due or overdue. It is the user s responsibility to maintain the instrument within the requirements of the AutoBlock. 3.4.5 When an item has been serviced, click the button under the Serviced? column to update. The software will then update the Date Serviced and Days Remaining columns. 3.4.6 The user can modify the expiration time for all service items based on individual laboratory needs. Environmental Express does not recommend increasing the time. Doing so could lead to failures in the AutoBlock and void the warranty. 14 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 3.5 Supplies Tab 3.5.1 The supplies tab lists part numbers and descriptions of items that may need to be replaced from time to time. If a part number you require is not listed on this tab contact Customer Service at 1-800-745-8218 to obtain a part number and price. All updated pricing can be found on the website at www.envexp.com. 3.5.2 Contact information for Environmental Express is also included on this tab. 3.6 Data Log Tab 3.6.1 The data log tab allows the user to choose the type of data logging that occurs during a digestion method. 3.6.2 The user can log method data, graphite block temperature, and/or sample temperature by clicking on the appropriate buttons. www.envexp.com 15
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 4.0 CREATING A METHOD From the Main Screen, click on the Method Creation button. The AutoBlock will come with several pre-programmed EPA methods, however the software allows for users to create their own methods or modify existing ones. 1.5 Creating a Method 4.1.1 To create a method, press the Delete All button to clear the method template. 4.1.1.1 A prompt will appear asking the user if they want to delete all steps. Click Delete All to proceed. 4.1.2 Choose the actions from the Method Steps box on the left side of the screen. Each action will prompt the user for more information based on the action chosen. 4.1.2.1 INJECT: Select the desired reagent from the available list and specify the volume to be injected. NOTE: The reagent must be assigned to a port to be available for selection. See Section 3.1 for assigning reagents to ports. 4.1.2.2 HEAT TEMP / HEAT TIME: Enter the desired graphite block temperature. The software will then prompt the user to enter the length of time the AutoBlock should heat. NOTE: The heat temp is for the graphite block temperature only, not the sample temperature. The user should expect a 10 15 degree drop in sample temperature from the graphite block temperature and should verify this prior to running a digestion method. 4.1.2.3 COOL TIME: Enter the amount of time to cool samples. NOTE: When injecting reagents after a heat step it is important to cool the samples prior to doing so. A minimum of 20 minutes of cool time is required before injecting a reagent after heating. 4.1.2.4 PAUSE: Method execution will stop until the user recognizes a prompt to continue. A comments area (limited to 50 characters) is available to provide information on the pause step. 16 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 4.1.2.5 FILL: Final fill to volume. The user can choose what final volume the AutoBlock should fill all samples to, from 5 50mL. The reagent used for the fill step will always be deionized water from Port #1. In the event samples go to dryness during the digestion method one can choose whether or not the AutoBlock fills these cups to the desired final volume or not. 4.1.3 The user can move steps up or down in the method by clicking on the Move Up or Move Down buttons. 4.1.4 Once all information for the method is entered press the SAVE AS button and name the method. The new method will be saved to the Methods folder. www.envexp.com 17
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 4.2 Modifying an Existing Method 4.2.1 To modify an existing method, press the LOAD button and choose the appropriate method from the Methods folder to modify and click OK. 4.2.2 The method steps will appear on the screen. 4.2.3 Highlight any step and click Edit Step to make any necessary changes. Once the changes are complete click OK. 4.2.4 To delete a step highlight the step and click Delete Step. 4.2.5 To add a step, choose the function from the Method Steps box and click Add Step. The software will then prompt the user to enter any other necessary information for this step. 4.2.6 The user can move steps up or down in the method by clicking on the Move Up or Move Down buttons. 4.2.7 Once the method is modified click SAVE to overwrite it or SAVE AS to create a new method file. 18 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 5.0 OPERATOR TEST From the Main Screen, click on the Operator Test button. 5.1 Select a method by clicking the Select Method button and choose the appropriate file from the Method folder. 5.1.1 The user can view this method by clicking the View Method button. No edits can be made to the method from this screen. 5.1.2 Ensure all method reagents match the reagents assigned to the ports of the AutoBlock. 5.2 There are optional fields for Batch #, Operator Name, and Notes. The user can enter appropriate information in these fields if desired. 5.3 Click on the individual cells in the sample grid to match the location of the samples loaded into the AutoBlock. Once the cell is activated it will turn green on the grid. 5.3.1 In addition to highlighting individual cells the user can highlight all cells by clicking All On or individual columns by clicking the appropriate column button. www.envexp.com 19
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 5.4 Once ready, click Start Method. 5.5 A pre-test checklist will pop-up to prompt the user to check the reagent bottles and to ensure the door to the AutoBlock is closed. 5.6 The AutoBlock will track the total digestion time in the lower left corner of the screen. 5.7 If the AutoBlock detects any errors during operation, the unit will sound an audible alarm and immediately abort the method. A note will appear in the method information field explaining why the AutoBlock aborted the method. 5.7.1 The user should check the four (4) indicator lights under the cell position grid for indications of leak and/or pressure issues. 20 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 6.0 MANUAL OPERATION From the Main Screen, click on the Manual Screen button. The manual interface screen allows the user to manually perform all functions of the AutoBlock. It will be used for calibration steps and is also useful for troubleshooting. 6.1 Injecting a Reagent 6.1.1 To inject a reagent, choose the desired reagent from the reagent list by clicking on and highlighting it. 6.1.2 It is necessary to purge and prep the injection line before injecting into a cup. The AutoBlock requires a minimum of 4.0 ml of reagent to fully prep and purge the reagent line. Move the probe over the drain prior to prepping and purging with a reagent by pressing the "Move to Drain" button under System Controls in the Manual Interface. 6.1.2.1 Under the Injection Control field, enter 4.0 ml as the reagent volume and press Inject. Ensure that reagent is injected into the drain. If not, repeat the process until it is visually seen that reagent has been injected into the drain. 6.1.3 Once the reagent is prepped and purged, enter the desired volume of reagent to be injected in the Injection Control field. 6.1.4 Highlight the cell(s) you wish to inject reagent into by clicking on them in the cell position grid. 6.1.5 Move the rack to the FILL position by sliding the indicator arrow up to FILL under the Rack Position control. 6.1.6 Press Inject and the AutoBlock will inject the desired amount of reagent into the highlighted cells. www.envexp.com 21
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 6.2 Heating the Graphite Block 6.2.1 To manually heat the graphite block, select the desired temperature in the Temp Control section of the screen. 6.2.2 Press Enable Heat and the block will heat to the desired temperature. 6.2.3 Press Disable Heat to turn the heat off. 6.3 Moving the Sample Probe 6.3.1 Designate the desired probe location by highlighting the cell on the cell position grid. 6.3.2 Click Move to Position under System Controls and the probe will move to the position. 6.3.3 Click Move to Drain to move the probe over the drain. You will need to do this prior to manually injecting any reagents. 6.3.4 Click Initialize to home the motors of the AutoBlock. This will move the racks to the down position and move the probe to the back right corner of the AutoBlock. 6.4 Turning the Fan On and Off 6.4.1 To turn the fan on and/or off move the slide button up for ON and down for OFF. NOTE: If the graphite temperature is greater than 40 C the fan cannot be turned off. 6.5 Aborting in the Manual Mode 6.5.1 If the user needs to abort a function during the manual mode, all buttons except Initialize will become unavailable. It is necessary to return the racks and probe back to their home positions once an abort occurs to reset the software. 6.6 Status Updates 7.0 DATA VIEWER 6.6.1 The manual mode will also give the user status updates on probe and rack position, as well as leak detectors and pressure sensors. 7.1 The AutoBlock software will log data as dictated by the user in the Data Log section of the Service Screen (see Section 3.6). 7.2 Once a digestion method is complete or has been aborted by the user or AutoBlock, a file for that digestion is created. Files are named by the date of the digestion and stored in their own file. 7.3 To open these files, click on the LOAD button in the Data Viewer screen. 22 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 7.4 Click on the desired file to open and click OK. 7.5 A.dat file is then displayed on the screen. One can print the data by pressing the PRINT button. 7.6 Users can also convert the.dat files to another format by right-clicking on the file name and saving as a different file type. www.envexp.com 23
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 8.0 TROUBLESHOOTING/MAINTENANCE 8.1 Cabinet Pressure If air is not properly entering the cabinet of the AutoBlock the instrument will not allow the user to run a method. An error message will appear on the screen stating there is no airflow going into the cabinet and the method will be aborted. Go to the manual screen and observe the green and red indicator lights near the bottom of the screen. Look for Cabinet Pressure. This light will be red if the pressure sensor is not sensing airflow and green if it is. 8.1.2 If the light is red check the incoming air into the unit to ensure it is at 40 psi. The pressure sensor will not work properly without the correct amount of incoming air. 8.1.3 If there is sufficient air entering the unit, remove the left and right panels of the AutoBlock. 8.1.4 Check the tubing coming from the air inlet to the regulator to ensure there are no cracks and it is tightly secured. 8.1.5 Check the regulator inside the cabinet. The dial should read 10 psi +/- 2 psi if there is proper air flow. Ensure the tubing leaving the regulator is intact and secure. 8.1.6 The tubing leaving the regulator goes around the back of the unit and has a series of pin holes to diffuse air into the cabinet. This tube hooks up to the pressure sensor on the right side of the AutoBlock. Locate the pressure sensor and ensure the tubing is properly attached. 8.1.7 If the incoming air is within specifications, the internal regulator is working, and all tubing is intact, check the adjustment screw on the pressure sensor. This is a hex-shaped screw that takes a 5/64" Allen wrench to adjust. Turn the adjustment screw to the left to open up the pressure sensor valve to allow more airflow in. Observe the Cabinet Pressure indicator light in the manual screen to see if it turns from red to green showing proper air flow. 8.1.8 If the problem continues to exist contact Environmental Express Technical Support at 1-800-745-8218. 8.2 Changing the HEPA filter (only applicable to units with a fume hood) 8.2.1 Close the fume hood door. 8.2.2 Remove the two side screws holding the HEPA filter in place. 8.2.3 Open the fume hood door. 8.2.4 Unscrew the third button screw while holding the HEPA filter in place from behind. 8.2.5 Remove the case containing the HEPA filter. 8.2.6 Push the old HEPA filter out and replace with the new one ensuring the black gasket on the filter is facing out of the case. 8.2.7 Re-attach the HEPA filter with the 3 screws. The black gasket on the HEPA filter should be placed against the interior wall of the fume hood. 24 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
8.3 Changing the exhaust fan (only applicable to units with a fume hood) 8.3.1 Remove the front panel from the fume hood to access the hood chamber. 8.3.2 Remove the flexible exhaust tubing from the inlet side of the fan. 8.3.3 Disconnect the quick-disconnect wire from the fan to the AutoBlock. Environmental Express, Inc. 8.3.4 Remove the two mounting screws holding the fan to the back of the fume hood. 8.3.5 Rotate the fan out of the exhaust port. It will slide out. 8.3.6 Insert the new fan into the exhaust port. 8.3.7 Place a bead of silicone sealant around the fan where it joins the exhaust port. 8.3.8 Re-attach the fan to the fume hood with the two mounting screws. 8.3.9 Re-connect the quick-disconnect wire from the fan to the AutoBlock. 8.3.10 Replace the flexible exhaust tubing to the inlet side of the fan. 8.3.11 Replace the front panel to the fume hood. 8.4 Changing the pump tubing 8.4.1 The peristaltic pump tubing should be checked periodically for flattening, cracks, and overall wear and tear. 8.4.2 Remove the front, lower panel of the AutoBlock located below the front door. 8.4.3 Move the locking lever on the peristaltic pump from the right to the left opening up the pump head to access the tubing. 8.4.4 Pull the tubing out of the pump head. 8.4.5 Disconnect the tubing by unscrewing the left and right thumb screws connecting the pump tubing to the 1/16 reagent addition line and the ¼ reagent line coming from the 5-way valve assembly. 8.4.6 Check the ferrules from the PTFE lines and replace if necessary. 8.4.7 Attach a new peristaltic pump tube. 8.4.8 Place the pump tubing in the pump head by lining it up in the two v-notch grooves that hold the tubing in place. 8.4.9 Move the locking lever to the right to lock the peristaltic pump tube in place. www.envexp.com 25
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 8.5 Changing the pump head 8.5.1 Remove the pump tubing (see section 8.4). 8.5.2 Remove the two mounting screws attaching the pump head to the AutoBlock. 8.5.3 Remove the pump head. 8.5.4 Insert a new pump head by lining up the mounting screws and lining up the drive screw. NOTE: It is important to line up the drive screw with the coupling of the pump motor. The left or right panels will need to be removed to do this properly. A flat-head screwdriver can be used to turn the drive in the pump head to properly line up the drive screw. 8.5.5 Screw the two mounting screws into the pump head to attach it to the AutoBlock. 8.5.6 Check to ensure the peristaltic pump drive screw is properly lined up with the pump motor by turning the pump head drive screw with a flat head screw driver. Look in the left or right panel to see if the motor drive shaft moves. If it does it is properly installed. 8.5.7 Replace the left / right and lower front panels. 8.6 Changing the PTFE reagent addition lines 8.6.1 Remove the front lower and side panels from the AutoBlock. 8.6.2 Remove the pump tubing from the pump head (see Section 8.4) 8.6.3 Unscrew the flangeless nut connected to the rectangular connection on the pump tubing end. 8.6.4 Pull the 1/16" tubing free from the flangeless nut and pull through the grommet holding the tubing in place. 8.6.5 The tubing must then be pulled free from the wire / tubing management system. 8.6.6 Replace tubing and secure flangeless nut. 8.7 Changing VICI Emitters 8.7.1 Remove the old VICI emitters from the interior cabinet of the AutoBlock. 8.7.2 Peel off the adhesive strip backing from the new emitter and place near or in the same place as the old emitter. 9.0 POWERING OFF THE AUTOBLOCK 9.1 To power off the AutoBlock, press the EXIT button on the Main Screen to shut down the software. 9.2 It is now safe to power down the AutoBlock using the rocker switch. 9.3 It is required to leave the inert gas on to keep a slow trickle of fresh air going through the system to reduce the corrosion of parts in the metals digestion laboratory. 26 800.745.8218/843.881.6560
Environmental Express, Inc. 10. WARNINGS AND NOTIFICATIONS 10.5 Electrical requirements 10.5.1 Voltage: 120V, ~60Hz, 12A (Domestic) 10.5.2 Voltage: 230V, ~50HZ, 6A (INTL) 10.5.3 - Power should not vary greater than 10%. Use the supplied power cord or equivalent to connect to the power supply. For safety reasons, a separate power receptacle should be provided for each SPE-Express. Do not use extension cords or outlet adaptors. Make certain that power outlets are earth-grounded at the grounding pin. 10.6 This equipment is designed to be used with the original factory equipment. Any components or replacement parts need to be sourced through environmental express. Any other components that are used may violate warranty or intended use of the unit. 10.7 Equipment or components having a mass of 18kg or more will require the use of multiple persons or equipment for lifting and carrying to desired positions. This is a safety requirement. The unit weight exceeds 18kg and requires multiple people for lifting. 10.8 Warning labels 10.8.1 - FOR THE CONNECTION OF INERT GAS. 10.8.2 - Hot surface in the interior chamber 10.8.3 - Check power requirements before use. Voltage and fuse should be in accordance with supply. 10.9 This equipment is designed to operation in following environmental conditions 10.9.1 Ambient temperature: 5 C - 30 C 10.9.2 Ambient relative humidity: 0-85% RH 10.9.3 Altitude: sea level to 2400 meters 10.10 This equipment needs to be used in conjunction with an electrical surge protector. The electrical surge protector needs to be rated accordingly to the source supply. The main power cord of the unit should be interfaced with the surge protector. 10.10.1- Power should not vary greater than 10%. Use the supplied power cord or equivalent to connect to the power supply. For safety reasons, a separate power receptacle should be provided for each SPE-Express. Do not use extension cords or outlet adaptors. Make certain that power outlets are earth-grounded at the grounding pin. 10.11 This unit may need periodic cleaning depending on usage. An acid neutralizing cleaner is recommended for acid sample preparations. www.envexp.com 27
AutoBlock Plus Operation Manual and Instructions 10.12 The unit does not liberate any known poisonous substances. Caution is recommended as any exposed surface may have acid vapor residue due to usage. to maintain the maximum life of the electrical components, the inert gas line must remain connected and operational even when the unit is not in service. 10.12.1 waste from the drain line should be neutralized and disposed of with a waste management service. 10.12.2 any liquid discharge should be treated as potentially acidic and disposed of using a waste management service. 10.13 All surfaces and accessories that are exposed to elevated temperatures within the digestion chamber are considered a burn risk and should be treated with caution. 10.14 If this equipment is used in a matter other than specified, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. 10.15 Do not replace power supply cords with inadequately rated replacement cords. It is recommended that these are supplied through environmental express. 10.16 All replacement parts are needed to be supplied by Environmental Express. This includes the replacement of valves, tubing, heater elements, and control boards. 10.17 Replacement FuSES are rated for a maximum voltage of 250v. Each individual fuse is rated as 6A or 12A depending on the system purchased. 10.18 When servicing equipment, service personnel should: 10.18.1 Remove power supply when working in the electrical cabinet. 10.18.2 Prolonged use of the unit may result in acid residue on the various surface. The unit should be cleaned periodically and hand protection should be worn when servicing the unit. 10.18.3 All personal protective gear should be work when using equipment. This includes safety eyewear, gloves, and closed toed footwear. 10.18.4 Servicing of the equipment should be performed in a well ventilated area 28 800.745.8218/843.881.6560