07men LCF12560 005 - Noctrl
07men LCF12560 005 - Noctrl
MEN-LCF12560-005_NOCTRL (29-10-2021)
Contents
This manual is for guidance on the use of the Carbolite Gero product specified on the
front cover. This manual should be read thoroughly before unpacking and using the
furnace or oven. The model details and serial number are shown on the back of this
manual. Use the product for the purpose for which it is intended.
    2.0    Installation                                                            6
     2.1     Unpacking & Handling                                                  6
     2.2     Siting and Setting Up                                                 6
     2.3     Hearth                                                                7
     2.4     Chimney                                                               7
     2.5     Electrical Connections                                                8
     2.6     Voltage and Power Limit                                               9
    4.0    Operation                                                              11
     4.1     Operating Cycle                                                      11
     4.2     General Operating Notes                                              11
     4.3     Use of Probes and Metal Sheathed Thermocouples                       12
     4.4     Atmospheres                                                          12
     4.5     Operator Safety                                                      12
     4.6     Power Adjustment                                                     13
    5.0    Maintenance                                                            14
     5.1   General Maintenance                                                    14
     5.2   Maintenance Schedule                                                   14
       5.2.1 Cleaning                                                             16
     5.3   Safety Switch                                                          16
     5.4   Calibration                                                            16
     5.5   After-Sales Service                                                    17
     5.6   Recommended Spare Parts and Spare Parts Kit                            17
2
 6.5   Thermocouple Replacement                      19
 6.6   Element Installation and Replacement          19
   6.6.1 Top Element Replacement 1200 °C Models      20
   6.6.2 Bottom Element Replacement 1200 °C Models   21
 6.7   Fuse Replacement                              22
10.0    Specifications                               32
 10.1     Environment                                32
                                                          3
    1.0   Symbols and Warnings
4
1.3      Prerequisites to Use
Prior to the commissioning and use of this product, all personnel involved in its
installation, operation and maintenance must be deemed competent and have:
   l   Read and understood the information contained within this manual
   l   Received the relevant training with regard to safety and operation of the product
   l   Been provided with the appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required
       for the safe operation of this product
 Note: The customer is responsible for ensuring that all of the above conditions are
 satisfied before the product is commissioned for use.
                                                                                           5
    2.0   Installation
6
Depending on the application of the product, it may be appropriate to position it under
an extraction hood. Ensure the extraction hood is switched on during use.
Ensure that the product is placed in such a way that it can be quickly switched off or
disconnected from the electrical supply.
2.3      Hearth
The hearth and chamber are supported during transport by packing foam. Remove and
dispose of this packaging.
2.4      Chimney
The chimney is a length of tubing. If it is supplied unfitted, then fit it through the hole
in the top of the case.
If the product is to be used to heat substances that emit fumes, a fume extraction duct
of approximately 75 mm - 150 mm inlet diameter may be placed directly above the
chimney outlet.
Do not make a sealed connection to the product chimney as this causes excessive
airflow through the chamber and results in poor temperature uniformity.
                                                                                              7
                                           Key
C Chimney
The model covered in this manual has three internal circuits and is normally supplied
for connection to a three phase power supply. This may be either star or delta, but a
product must only be connected to the type and voltage of supply for which it was
made. If the product is ordered for a single phase supply, this may be Live to Neutral
reversible or non-reversible, or Live to Live.
Check the product rating label before connection. The supply voltage should agree with
the voltage on the label and the supply capacity should be sufficient for the current on
the label.
The supply should be fused at the next size equal to, or higher than the current on the
label. This manual contains a table of the most common fuse ratings.
When the mains cable is factory fitted, internal fuses are also fitted. It is essential that
the operator ensures that the product is correctly fused.
Products with a factory fitted supply cable are designed to be wired directly to an
isolator or fitted with a line plug.
Products without a factory fitted supply cable require a permanent connection to a
fused and isolated supply. The product's electrical access panel should be temporarily
removed, and connections made to the internal terminals.
When connecting the product to the power supply, the plug or isolating switch should
be accessible, easy to remove, and within reach of the operator.
8
The supply MUST incorporate an earth (ground).
Electrical Connection Details:
                                                    Supply Types
 Supply        Terminal Label      Cable Colour                        Reversible or Live-
                                                    Live - Neutral
                                                                       Live
                                                                       to either power
                                                                       conductor
 1-phase       L1                  Brown            to live
                                                                       (For USA 200-240V,
                                                                       connect L1)
                                                                       to the other power
                                                                       conductor
               N / L2              Blue             to neutral
                                                                       (For USA 200-240V,
                                                                       connect L2)
                                                    to earth
               PE                  Green/ Yellow                       to earth (ground)
                                                    (ground)
2- or
           L1                    Black             to phase 1
3-phase
L2 Black to phase 2
                    When first starting up the product, check the setting of the OP.Hi
                    parameter (see the controller instructions) and compare it with the
                    data in section 9.0 towards the back of this manual.
If the power limit setting is incorrect for the voltage of the electrical supply, change it.
This must be done immediately if the setting of OP.Hi is higher than it should be.
                                                                                               9
 3.0    Temperature Controller
If this product is fitted with a temperature controller, instructions are provided
separately.
10
4.0     Operation
When heating large objects, in particular poor conductors, avoid shielding the
thermocouple from the heating elements. The thermocouple is intended to sense the
temperature near the heating elements. However, if a large object is placed in the
chamber it may record the average temperature of the object and the elements, this
can lead to overheating of the elements. Allow large objects to gain heat at a lower
temperature and then reset the controller to a temperature close to the desired
maximum, or heat using a slowly controlled ramp rate. For more information refer to
the controller instructions.
When heating materials that produce smoke or fumes, the chimney must be correctly
fitted and unobstructed. If not, soot will accumulate in the chamber and could possibly
cause an electrical breakdown of the heating element. If the furnace is used to heat
materials that emit smoke or fumes, regularly heat it up to maximum temperature for
one hour with the chamber empty to burn away the soot.
                                                                                          11
Materials such as case hardening compounds and other reactive salts may penetrate
the furnace chamber lining and attack the wire elements, causing premature failure.
Use of a hearth tile may be advisable: please consult the Carbolite Gero technical
department.
                Any metal object used to probe into the product chamber while the
                product is connected to the electrical supply must be earthed. This
                applies in particular to metal sheathed thermocouples, where the
                sheaths must be earthed. The refractory material of the chamber
                lining becomes partly conductive at high temperatures and the
                electric potential inside the chamber can be at any value between
                zero and the supply voltage. Unearthed probes can cause serious
                electric shock.
 4.4     Atmospheres
When an optional gas inlet is fitted, there is a label near the inlet saying "INERT GAS
ONLY". In practice, inert or oxidising gases may be used, but not combustible or toxic
gases.
The chamber is not gas tight, the gas usage may be high and the chamber is always
likely to contain some air. Residual oxygen of approximately 1% to 2% is to be
expected.
Before removing a hot object from the product, make sure there is a safe place to put it
down. If necessary use tongs, face masks and heat resistant gloves. Heat resistant
clothing and face protection can guard against the effects of radiated heat when the
furnace is open.
12
When the product is opened during operation there is considerable radiated heat. Do
not keep any flammable objects near the product, nor objects which could be damaged
by radiated heat.
                                                                                        13
 5.0         Maintenance
                                                                                                  Frequency
       Maintenance
                                                  Method                                                     Bi-
        Procedure                                                               Daily   Weekly   Monthly              Annually
                                                                                                           Annually
Safety
 Over-Temperature Safety
 Circuit
 (if fitted)                    Electrical measurement
 Electrical Safety
                                Visual check of external cables and plugs
 (external)
Function
14
                           Tested using certified equipment, frequency
Temperature Calibration
                           dependent on the standard required
Performance
Element Circuit
                           Electrical measurement
Cooling Fans (if fitted) Check whether the cooling fans are working
                                                                         15
 5.2.1     Cleaning
Soot deposits may form inside the furnace, depending on the process. At appropriate
intervals remove these by heating as indicated in the General Operation Notes.
The safety switch should not fail under normal working conditions, however rough
handling, exposure to corrosive materials/ environments, or exceptionally frequent use,
could compromise the safety system.
Weekly check:
The following check can be carried out by a general operator:
     l   On the temperature controller, set a safe temperature above ambient. The heater
         lights should illuminate.
     l   Open the door and check the heater lights. They should no longer be illuminated.
If the heater lights remain illuminated when the door is open, discontinue use and
contact Carbolite Gero Service.
Annual check:
The following checks should be carried out by a qualified electrician, as specified in the
"Maintenance Schedule" section of this manual:
     l   Remove the element access panel and take a voltage measurement from the heat-
         ing element terminals. Do not attempt to take a reading from the heating element
         itself as surface oxidation will give an unreliable contact.
     l   Ensure that power to the heating elements is switched off when the door is opened.
Contact Carbolite Gero Service and discontinue use of the product if it is found that the
heating elements are not fully isolated during these checks.
 5.4        Calibration
After prolonged use, the controller and/or thermocouple may require recalibration. This
is important for processes that require accurate temperature readings or for those that
16
use the product close to its maximum temperature. A quick check using an
independent thermocouple and temperature indicator should be made from time to
time to determine whether full calibration is required. Carbolite Gero can supply these
items.
Depending on the controller fitted, the controller instructions may contain calibration
instructions.
                                                                                           17
 6.0    Repairs and Replacements
This product contains alumino silicate wool products in its thermal insulation. These
materials may be in the form of blanket or felt, formed board or shapes, slab or loose
fill wool.
Typical use does not result in any significant level of airborne dust from these
materials, but much higher levels may be encountered during maintenance or repair.
Whilst there is no evidence of any long term health hazards, it is strongly
recommended that safety precautions are taken whenever the materials are handled.
Exposure to fibre dust may cause respiratory disease.
When handling the material, always use approved respiratory protection
equipment (RPE-eg. FFP3), eye protection, gloves and long sleeved clothing.
Avoid breaking up waste material. Dispose of waste in sealed containers.
After handling, rinse exposed skin with water before washing gently with
soap (not detergent). Wash work clothing separately.
Before commencing any major repairs it is recommended to make reference to the
European Association representing the High Temperature Insulation Wool industry
(www.ecfia.eu).
Further information can be provided on request. Alternatively, Carbolite Gero Service
can quote for any repairs to be carried out either on site or at the Carbolite Gero
factory.
18
6.4      Solid-State Relay Replacement
                 Disconnect the product from the power supply and remove the
                 appropriate cover as given above.
 1. Make a note of the wire connections to the solid state relay, then disconnect them.
 2. Remove the solid state relay from the base panel or aluminium plate.
 3. Replace and reconnect the solid state relay ensuring that the bottom of it has
    good thermal contact with the base panel or aluminium plate.
 4. Replace the access panel.
                                                                                           19
For all elements the heat output may decrease with age. When the furnace was new the
temperature controller may have been set up with a limit on the maximum power
output setting 0P.Hi typically 90%. As the elements aged this may have been adjusted
upwards to compensate for loss of heating. When a set of new elements has been fitted
the maximum power output needs checking to make sure it as per the new furnace
condition. Please contact Carbolite Gero for this figure. See the controller manual to
access and change this setting.
If only a few elements are replaced and the power limit has been increased and left at
this higher figure then the new elements could run hotter and this will shorten their life.
For this reason it is recommended that elements are replaced as full sets.
 6.6.1   Top Element Replacement 1200 °C Models
The furnace typically has 15 wire wound elements wound around a ceramic tube.
Remove the side panels. Remove the chimney, the top panel and the top cover of the of
the furnace chamber to which the top insulation blanket is rigidly fixed. It will be
possible to view the elements from above.
Generally elements will be replaced as sets. Make a note of the interconnections to the
elements and preferably take a picture as a record. It may be possible to leave some of
the interconnection links in place while changing an element.
On each side disconnect the tail of the element from its brass electrical terminal block.
Remove the interconnections to each element if necessary.
Remove the screw holding the connection block carrier bracket from the side of the
furnace chamber.
Remove the plug of insulation blanket around the element’s tail and the ceramic tube
acting as a carrier and a guide for the element.
20
It will now be possible to slide out the element. The second person assists by guiding
the element from above.
Feed in a new element on its tube carrier and again a second person can assist by
guiding it in from above until the element sits centrally.
Once central replace the plug of insulation blanket around the element’s tail and the
ceramic tube acting as a carrier and a guide for the element.
Pass the tail of the element through its fixing hole in the terminal block and refit the
connection block carrier bracket to the furnace chamber.
Tighten up the connection bolt to the tail of the element and trim off any surplus with
wire cutters.
Replace any links removed to each element and replace the top of the furnace
chamber, the top panel and side panels. Replace any links that show signs of
deterioration.
Run the furnace up to the normal operating temperature for one cycle. When cool
switch off and electrically isolate and remove the side panels. Check the tightness of all
electrical connections.
6.6.2   Bottom Element Replacement 1200 °C Models
The furnace typically has 15 wire wound elements that just sit in grooves in the brick
work that is part of the hearth base. The elements are not supported on ceramic tubes.
It is not necessary to remove the hearth tile to fit these elements.
The replacement method is generally similar to that for the top elements above.
Remove the side panels. Disconnect the element tails, the interconnection links if
needed and remove the connection block retaining bracket.
Remove the plug of insulation blanket around the element’s tail and the ceramic tube
acting as a carrier and a guide for the element.
It will now be possible to slide out the element. If necessary remove any debris from
the slot the element sits in with a tube fitted to a vacuum cleaner.
The technique to fit the new element is for the second person to pass through a tube
typically 10 to 15 mm outside diameter from one side. The tail of the element is
positioned in the internal bore of the tube. The element is then gently inserted by the
first person from the other side and the tube is withdrawn and acts as a guide so that
the element does not snag while passing through the slot.
Once central replace the plug of insulation blanket around the element’s tail and the
ceramic tube acting as a carrier and a guide for the element.
Pass the tail of the element through its fixing hole in the brass terminal block and refit
the connection block carrier bracket to the furnace chamber.
Tighten up the connection bolt to the tail of the element and trim off any surplus with
wire cutters.
Replace any links removed to each element and replace side panels. Replace any links
that show signs of deterioration.
Run the furnace up to the normal operating temperature for one cycle. When cool
switch off and electrically isolate and remove the side panels. Check the tightness of all
electrical connections.
                                                                                           21
 6.7     Fuse Replacement
Fuses are marked on the wiring diagram with type codes, e.g. F1, F2. For more
information on fuses refer to section 9.0.
Depending on model and voltage, the different fuse types may or may not be fitted.
If any fuse has failed, it is advisable for an electrician to check the internal circuits.
Replace any failed fuses with the correct type. For safety reasons do not fit larger
capacity fuses without first consulting Carbolite Gero.
The fuses are located at the cable entry point. Remove the back panel or control box
back panel to gain access to the fuses.
22
7.0     Fault Analysis
                                                                                 23
 B.    Product Overheats
      Product only heats
                             The controller
      up when the
 1.                          shows a very high    The controller is faulty
      instrument switch is
                             temperature
      ON
                                                  The thermocouple may be
                             The controller
                                                  faulty or may have been
                             shows a low
                                                  removed out of the heating
                             temperature
                                                  chamber
                                                  The thermocouple may be
                                                  connected the wrong way
                                                  around
                                                  The controller may be faulty
      Product heats up                            Check for an accidental
                             The SSR has failed
 2.   when the instrument                         wiring fault that could have
                             "ON"
      switch is OFF                               overloaded the SSR
24
8.0          Wiring Diagrams
In all models the safety switch in the diagram is a positive-break door switch.
EMC Filters (if fitted): dependent on the model there may be one filter, or more than
one fitted in parallel. The circuit diagram examples do not show multiple filter
arrangements.
ISOLATOR: the industrial models have an internal isolator which is not shown in these
diagrams.
8.1          WA-33-30
Connections below show 3-phase +N with indirect safety switches.
Key
C Controller
L Live
PE Earth
                                                                                        25
 8.2          WA-33-31
Connections below show 3-phase +N with indirect safety switches and over-
temperature control.
Key
C Controller
TC Control Thermocouple
N Neutral
L Live
PE Earth
26
8.3     WA-U3-30
Connections below show 3-phase +N with indirect safety switches.
                                                                   27
 Key
C Controller
EL Element G Grey
N Neutral
L Live
PE Earth
Products with this wiring arrangement may be converted between the following supply
voltages (please refer to the table within section 9.0 for compatible phases with the
product):
       l   3-phase + neutral in the range 380/220 V - 415/240 V
       l   3-phase delta in the range 220 V - 240 V
       l   Single phase in the range 220 V - 240 V
       l   208 V model: can be converted between 208 V delta and 208 V 1-phase
Please contact Carbolite Gero Service for details.
28
8.4     WA-U3-31
Connections below show 3-phase +N with safety switches and over-temperature
control.
                                                                              29
 Key
C Controller
 TC                                 Control Thermocouple
                                                                    Cables
 OT                                 Over-Temperature Controller
                                                                    BU       Blue
 OTC                                Over-Temperature Thermocouple
                                                                    R        Red
 R1, R2, R3                         Relay
                                                                    BL       Black
 R1/1, R1/2, R2/1, R2/2, R3/1, R3/2 Relay contactor
                                                                    GR/Y     Green + Yellow
 SW                                 Instrument Switch(es)
                                                                    G        Grey
 SSW                                Safety Switch
                                                                    P        Pink
 EL                                 Element
N Neutral
PE Earth
Products with this wiring arrangement may be converted between the following supply
voltages (please refer to the table within section 9.0 for compatible phases with the
product):
       l   3-phase + neutral in the range 380/220 V - 415/240 V
       l   3-phase delta in the range 220 V - 240 V
       l   Single phase in the range 220 V - 240 V
       l   208 V model: can be converted between 208 V delta and 208 V 1-phase
Please contact Carbolite Gero Service for details.
30
9.0      Fuses and Power Settings
9.1      Fuses
F1-F3: Refer to the circuit diagrams.
                                                                                          31
 10.0       Specifications
Carbolite Gero reserves the right to change the specification without notice.
                           Max         Max            Chamber Size           Approx
           Model           Temp       Power                                 Capacity
                            (°C)      (kW)       H        W          D          (l)
         Chamber furnaces heated by resistance wire resting on refractory formers.
 LCF 12/560                 1200       45       500      750     1500           560
 10.1       Environment
The models listed in this manual contain electrical parts and should be stored and used
in indoor conditions as follows:
Temperature: 5 °C - 40 °C
32
                                          Notes
                                  Service Record
Engineer Name   Date   Record of Work
The products covered in this manual are only a small part of the wide range of ovens,
 chamber furnaces and tube furnaces manufactured by Carbolite Gero for laboratory
and industrial use. For further details of our standard or custom built products please
            contact us at the address below, or ask your nearest stockist.
For preventive maintenance, repair and calibration of all furnace and oven products,
please contact:
Carbolite Gero Service
Telephone: + 44 (0) 1433 624242
Fax: +44 (0) 1433 624243
Email: ServiceUK@carbolite-gero.com
                                                  Carbolite Gero Ltd,
                                                  Parsons Lane, Hope, Hope Valley,
                                                  S33 6RB, England.
                                                  Telephone: + 44 (0) 1433 620011
                                                  Fax: + 44 (0) 1433 621198
                                                  Email: Info@carbolite-gero.com
                                                  www.carbolite-gero.com
                      Copyright © 2021 Carbolite Gero Limited