LIQUIDRANGER

PROGRAMMABLE

LIQUID LEVEL SYSTEM

Instruction Manual

PL-270

March 1991

33452700

Thank you for purchasing Milltronics products. We endeavour to design

equipment that is simple to use and reliable in its operation, with the aim of

satisfying our customers needs.

Milltronics has been designing and manufacturing process equipment since 1954.

Our fields of expertise include ultrasonic level measurement, in-line weighing of

dry bulk solids and motion sensing.

Milltronics is established world wide through associate offices and repre-

sentatives. Our network is continually being refined to provide our customers

with first rate sales information, engineering assistance and after sales support.

For more details on our products and service, please contact us and we will provide

you with a listing of the offices or representatives nearest you.

P.O. Box 4225730 The KingswayPeterborough, ONCanada K9J 7B1

709 Stadium Drive Arlington, TexasU.S.A. 76011

Oak House Everoak EstateBromyard RoadWorcester, WR2-5HPEngland

Château de la SaurinePont de BayeuxB.P. 613590 MeyreuilAix en ProvenceFrance

Tel. (705) 745-2431Fax (705) 745-0414

Tel. (817) 277-3543Fax (817) 277-3894

Tel. (01905) 748404Fax (01905) 748430

Tel. 42.65.69.00Fax 42.58.63.95

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section Page

GENERAL INFORMATION

About This Manual 1 – 1About The LiquidRanger 1 – 1

SPECIFICATIONS

Main Electronics 2 – 1Transducers 2 – 3Temperature Sensors 2 – 4Cabling 2 – 4Peripherals 2 – 4

INSTALLATION

LiquidRanger 3 – 1Transducers 3 – 1Temperature Sensors 3 – 1Interconnection 3 – 1Internal Checks 3 – 2

START UP

General 4 – 1Parameter Entry 4 – 1Keypad 4 – 2Quick Start 4 – 3Run 4 – 6Error and Display Messages 4 – 6

FUNCTIONAL

Transceiver 5 – 1Transducer 5 – 2Damping and Fuzz Filter 5 – 2Temperature 5 – 3Sound Velocity 5 – 3Blanking 5 – 4Echo Discrimination 5 – 5Loss of Echo 5 – 5Alarms 5 – 5Analog Output 5 – 6

APPLICATIONS

Simple Level Applications 6 – 2Volume Applications 6 – 4Applications with Standpipes 6 – 7

PL-270 i

Section Page

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION 7 – 1

TROUBLESHOOTING

General 8 – 1 Advanced Calibration 8 – 3

APPENDICES

Sound Velocites 9 – 1Glossary 9 – 2Alphabetical Parameter Listing 9 – 3Maintenance and Spare Parts 9 – 4Error Messages 9 – 5Program Log 9 – 6Communications 9 – 8

FIGURES

Fig. 1 Standard Enclosure - Outline and Mounting 10 – 1Fig. 1A Large Enclosure - Outline and Mounting 10 – 2Fig. 2 ST-25/50 Series Transducer - Outline and Wiring 10 – 3Fig. 3 LR-21 Transducer - Outline and Wiring 10 – 4Fig. 4 ST-100 Transducer - Outline and Wiring 10 – 5Fig. 5 Temperature Sensors 10 – 6Fig. 6 Transducer Mounting - Liquid Applications 10 – 7Fig. 7 Transducer Mounting - Solids Applications 10 – 8Fig. 7A Easy Aimer Kit Installation 10 – 9Fig. 8 Transducer Mounting - ST-100 10 – 10Fig. 9 Typical Volume Application 10 – 11Fig. 10 Typical Solids Applications 10 – 12Fig. 10A Typical Solids Applications (cont’d) 10 – 13Fig. 11 Single Point Interconnection 10 – 14Fig. 12 Mother Board Schematic 10 – 15Fig. 12A Mother Board Schematic (cont’d) 10 – 16Fig. 13 Transceiver Board Schematic 10 – 17Fig. 13 A Transceiver Board Schematic (cont"d) 10 – 18Fig. 14 Power Supply Board Schematic 10 – 19

PL-270 ii

GENERAL INFORMATION

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

IMPORTANT

It is essential that this manual be referred to during installation and start up of the LiquidRanger.

The Quick Start section provides a simplified start up procedure for the LiquidRanger. It highlights theprogramming keypad, parameter entry, display and error messages and the first 16 and most commonly usedparameters; all you need to do to get the LiquidRanger to give a measurement display.

The Applications section provides a general description of the common applications found in industry andillustrates them with examples. It is suggested that you refer to the sub-section which most suits yourapplication. The programming may be further optimized by referring to section Parameters.

ABOUT THE LIQUIDRANGER

The LiquidRanger consists of an electronic assembly and operates in conjunction with Milltronics series ofultrasonic transducers. The system employs the principle of echo ranging to determine the distance betweentransducer and process level. The LiquidRanger emits an ultrasonic pulse via the transducer directed at theliquid surface to be measured. The pulse is reflected and received as an echo at the transducer andconverted into an electrical signal. The echo is processed by the LiquidRanger and the time at which theultrasonic pulse hits the level or target is extracted and compared to the time it was sent. This time differentialis then converted into distance, material level or volume as a basis for display, relay control and analog output.

Each LiquidRanger system utilizes one of a series of 4 transducer models: either the ST-25, ST-50, ST-100 orthe LR-21FM, to operate in ranges from 0.6 to 21 m (2 to 70 ft). The transducers are self-cleaning andmaintenance-free even in steamy, dusty or corrosive environments. For especially corrosive application, theST-series transducer can be faced with teflon or vinyl and flange mounted to assure continuous service.Selection of the proper transducer is made in consultation with Milltronics Engineering or authorizedrepresentatives.

The system is expandable to 60 points with additional Scan Modules, transducers and temperature sensors.Associated Remote Scanning Monitors, Satellite Alarm Modules, Analog Output Modules, Single PointDisplay Modules and Buffered Interface Converters can be incorporated to suit particular requirements.

The LiquidRanger is designed for easy start up as all calibration parameters and operational characteristicsare entered via the front panel keypad. As well, it is factory programmed to suit a wide range of applications.However, this programming may be easily changed to meet specific requirements.

FEATURES

For added convenience, the LiquidRanger provides precise volumetric measurement for seven commontank shapes as an integral part of the system. This eliminates the need for auxiliary volume convertingequipment.

For reliability and convenience in applications where liquid and/or air temperature vary, optionaltemperature sensors are available.

To assure fast update of data, even on large tank farms, the LiquidRanger monitors as if dedicated toeach tank with an adjustable scan speed of up to three tanks per second.

PL-270 1 – 1

To enhance reliable measurement of the liquid surface, the LiquidRanger senses and discriminatesagainst the presence of agitator blades in motion.

For operator convenience in the plant, optional Single Point Display units provide volume or level readingand alarm status. Powered by the LiquidRanger through a cost-saving single cable run, the versatility ofthese units is such that they can be located either on the tanks, or remotely to suit your needs.

To enhance accuracy, the LiquidRanger may be programmed to provide sound velocity correctionallowing the system to operate on liquids emitting homogenous vapours.

PL-270 1 – 2

SPECIFICATIONS

MAIN ELECTRONICS

Power: › 115/230 V ±15%, 50/60 Hz- std. 110/200 V ±15%, 50/60 Hz - special (jumper selectable)› 100 VA maximum

Fuses: › main: (1) Buss, MDL 2 amp or equivalent › secondary: (3) Buss, AGC 2 amp or equivalent Range: › maximum 21 m (70 ft) under optimum conditions and dependent upon transducer type Accuracy: › 0.25% of maximum range

Resolution: › 1 mm (0.04") Volume conversion: › for 7 common tank shapes

(refer to section Parameter Description) Data link: › baud rates: 300, 1200, 2400 and (factory set) 9600

› one ±20 mA digital current loop for communication with AO-15, SAM-30, RSM-60, BIC, SPD or customer computer.

Battery: › 3 volt lithium, PC mount (memory back-up)

› operating life: 1 year › Duracell type DL-2025 Eveready,Sanyo or GE type CR-2025 Ray-o-vac or Panasonic CR-2016

Display: › 2 Liquid Crystal Displays, each 4 digits › 19 mm (0.75") high› 5 parameter status LED’s

Scan points: › single point (standard) › 60 point expansion capability with addition of maximum 4 SM-15 Scanner Modules (15 points / SM-15)

Operating temperature: › – 20 to 60 °C (– 5 to 140 °F) (range in which electronics will operate within specs,includes temperature riseabove ambient due to operation in enclosure)

PL-270 2 – 1

Ambient temperature: › – 20 to 50 °C (– 5 to 122 °F)(range outside ofLiquidRanger enclosure)

Outputs: › transducer drive: › 150 V (peak) pulses› pulse width 0.36 to 2.29 mSec.› repetition rate: self adjusting with manual override, maximum rate 3 points/sec.

› analog › 1 local isolated 0-20 or 4-20 mA DC (TB1-19/20)› output impedance 750 ohms max. dedicated: › to a single point

› as a multipoint average› to time share between points

› 300 V AC input/output isolation› expandable to 60 individual outputs with (optional) addition of four AO-15, Analog Output modules (15 points/AO-15). Refer to instruction manual PL-274, Peripherals.

› relays › one high and one low alarm/control relay› one form ‘C‘ SPST contact per relay, rated 5A / 220 V AC non-inductive› deadband is 5% of span › can monitor a single point or all selected points› expandable to 240 individual alarms with (optional) addition of 8 SAM-30, Satellite Alarm Modules(30 relays/SAM-30). Refer to instruction manual PL-274, Peripherals.

› all relays are certified for use in equi pment where the short circuit capacity of the circuits in which they are con nected is limited by the fuses having ratings not exceeding the rating of the relays.

Enclosure: › standard: › NEMA 4 style painted steel with Plexiglas window› 356 mm W x 457 mm H x 140 mm D (14" W X 18" H X 5.5" D)

› optional: › 762 mm W x 610 mm H x 203 mm D (30" W x 24" H x 8" D)

Shipping weight: › 19 kg (42 lb) std. enclosure c/w main electronics - NO OPTIONS

PL-270 2 – 2

TRANSDUCERS

* maximum ambient temperature for polyethylene foam facing is 77 °C (170 °F)** approximate shipping weight of transducer with standard cable length and unflanged

ST-25 & 50: › CPVC body with polyurethane face Optional faces:

› CPVC: for corrosive applications› Teflon (flange mounted transducers only): for highly corrosive applications› Polyethylene foam: for dusty, non-condensing applications

› 1" NPT std. mounting/conduit connection› optional flange mounting, std. sizes: 3", 4", 6", 8" and 12" (metric sizes also available)› totally encapsulated

ST-100: › aluminum housing with polyurethane face› 1/2" NPT internal thread conduit connection Optional faces:

› CPVC: for corrosive applications› Polyethylene foam: for dusty, non-condensing applications

LR-21: › aluminum housing with polyethylene and styrofoam face› 1" NPT std. mounting/conduit connection

Approvals: › CSA, FM and BASEEFA

MODEL AMBIENT FREQUENCY RANGE WEIGHT**TEMPERATURE (Beam Angle) std. cable

ST-25 – 40 to 93 °C* 41.5 KHz 0.6 to 7.5 m 0.9 Kg(– 40 to 200 °F) (12°) (2 to 25 ft) (2 lb)

ST-50 – 40 to 93 °C* 41.5 KHz 0.6 to 15.2 m 3.9 Kg(– 40 to 200 °F) (5°) (2 to 50 ft) (8.5 lb)

ST-100 – 40 to 77 °C* 21 KHz 1.2 to 22 m 15.8 Kg(– 40 to 170 °F) (7°) (4 to 70 ft) (35 lb)

LR-21 – 40 to 77 °C* 21 KHz 0.9 to 22 m 3.9 Kg(– 40 to 170 °F) (5°) (3 to 70 ft) (8.5 lb)

PL-270 2 – 3

TEMPERATURE SENSORS (optional)

Resistance: › 9.6 KΩ (nominal) at 20 °C ±5 KΩ temperature variance

Separation: › 365 m (1200 ft) from LiquidRanger under specified conditions. Refer to Cabling.

Model: › TS-2: › range: › – 40 to 93 °C (– 40 to 200 °F) › construction: › PVC body

› totally encapsulated › approvals: › CSA, FM and BASEEFA

› LTS-1: › range: › – 40 to 93 °C (– 40 to 200 °F) › construction: › 304 stainless steel

› totally encapsulated › approvals: › FM and BASEEFA

› LTS-1C: › range: › – 40 to 93 °C (– 40 to 200 °F) › construction: › 304 stainless steel

› totally encapsulated › approvals: › CSA

CABLING (op tional)

Transducer: › RG-62U coax› must be run separately in grounded metal conduit

Temperature Sensor: › Belden 8760, 1 pair shielded/twisted, 18 AWG or equivalent

PERIPHERALS (optional, refer to PL-274)

› Scanner Module› Analog Output› Satellite Alarm Module› Remote Scanning Monitor› Single Point Display› Buffered Interface Converter› Level Display System

PL-270 2 – 4

INSTALLATION

LIQUIDRANGER

The LiquidRanger should be mounted in an area that is within the ambient temperature range and that issuitable to the electronics or specified enclosure if supplied. The enclosure door should be accessible forprogramming and viewing and have sufficient room to swing open.

Do not mount the liquidranger in direct sunlightwithout the use of a sunshield.

Refer to Figure 1 for outline and mounting dimensions.

TRANSDUCERS

Wiring of transducer cable must be done in conjunction with approvedconduit, boxes and fitt ings and to procedures in accordance with all

governing regulations.

All transducer cabling must be run in grounded metal conduit for optimum noise rejection. Refer to: › Figure 2, ST-25/50 Transducer Outline and Wiring › Figure 3, ST-100 Transducer Outline and Wiring › Figure 4, LR-21 Transducer Outline and Wiringand to instruction manual PL-274, Peripherals, for wiring into a multipoint system.

1. Mount the transducer above the highest anticipated material level by at least: › 0.6 m (2 ft) for ST-25 & ST-50 series transducers › 0.9 m (3 ft) for LR-21 transducers › 1.2 m (4 ft) for ST-100 series transducers

2. Install the transducer so that it will have a clear sound path perpendicular to the liquid surface (refer to Figures 6 & 9) or toward the draw point at the bottom of the bin in solids applications (refer to Figures 7 & 10).

3. To avoid false echoes, install the transducer such that the sound path will not intersect vessel fill spouts, rough vessel walls, ladders etc. (refer to figures 9 & 10).

TEMPERATURE SENSORS

Refer to Figure 5.

INTERCONNECTION

All wiring must be done in conjunct ion with approved conduit, boxes and fittingsand to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

Refer to Figure 11, LiquidRanger Single Point Interconnection Diagram and instruction manual PL-274,Peripherals, for a multipoint system.

PL-270 3 – 1

INTERNAL CHECKS

If an air temperature sensor is not used, a 9.53 KΩ, 1/4 W resistor must be installed across TB-1 27/28 or parameter 47 must be set to ‘2’ to simulate 20 °C operation (see Functional\Parameter Entry). If a liquid temperature sensor is not used, no action is required.

The baud rate (P-17) of the LiquidRanger, the peripherals and the customer’s computer must all be common (typically, a baud setting of 2400 may be used).

One memory backup battery must be installed in one of the two battery sockets located on the lower right-hand side of the mother board. The second battery socket is for installing the new battery before removing the old one, so as not to loose the programming presently in the memory.

Do not install the memory backup battery until the liquidranger is powered and ready for use. A battery installed in an unpowered peripheral will be drained in about two weeks. Remove battery during extended shut down.

All ribbon cables connectors must be properly aligned and mated before turning on the power

The main electronics operating frequency must match that of transducers supplied. Transceiver board no.: › 10L1329 Gr. 1 = 41 KHz › 10L1329 Gr. 2 = 21 KHz

Check that power input jumpers are properly set for standard 115/230 V or special 100/230 V operation. Refer to Figure 11 or PS-20 board silkscreen.

One main fuse and three secondary fuses must be properly rated and instal led (see Specifications or PS-20 board).

Make power connection. Be sure wires are securely fastened to proper terminals. DO NOT OPERATE WITH GROUNDING WIRE DISCONNECTED.

Flip power switch at bottom of PS-20 board to On for start up procedures.

PL-270 3 – 2

START UP

GENERAL

The LiquidRanger has two modes of operation: Run and Program, selected by the front panel key switch.

When the key is turned to PROG., parameters can be accessed, diagnostic features can be viewed and thelevel of any particular point can be manually up-dated. The parameters are easily entered into theLiquidRanger via the front panel keypad.

While in the Program mode, the LiquidRanger displays will be dedicated to showing the selected point in thePoint field, the selected parameter in the Status field and the parameter contents in the Reading field.

When programming is completed, the switch is turned to RUN (then removed if desired) and the LiquidRangerwill automatically scan through the in-service points to display their corresponding levels. Analog output,alarms and communication link are all made available to give continuing status of the running system.

While in the Run mode, the LiquidRanger will display the measurement in the Reading field for thecorresponding point displayed in the Point field.

PARAMETER ENTRY

Parameters are entered as follows:

1. Turn key to PROG.

2. Press SELECT POINT

3. Enter desired point "##" (i.e.: "02")

4. Press SELECT PAR

5. Enter desired parameter "##" (i.e.: "01")

6. Enter parameter value or code

For ease of programming, steps 2 & 3 and 4 & 5 can be shortened by pressing NEXT POINT and NEXT PARrespectively.

Whenever a keypad switch is pressed, a beep is generated to confirm that contact has been made. If no beepis heard, check that the annunicator potentiometer (P1 on the PS-20 board) is not set too low. Turn clockwiseto increase volume.

GLOBAL PARAMETER

A global parameter is one in which the contents must be the same for all 60 points. Conversely, a parametercan be accessed globally (for all points) by selecting point 00.

If a global parameter is selected the point number will automatically change to "00". The next point to beselected will be displayed as "00" until a non-global parameter is selected. At such time, the point field willautomatically change to show the selected point.

For a multipoint system where the contents of a particular parameter may be common to all points,programming can be simplified by selecting the global point. This method can also be used to quickly programa majority of points that are common and then individually changing the contents for the parameters for thepoints that differ.

PL-270 4 – 1

RESET and MEMORY

Any parameter can be returned to its factory setting by pressing CLEAR and then ENTER.

All parameters for all points may be returned to their factory setting by flipping the power switch located on thePS-20 board to Off and removing the memory back-up battery for a few minutes and then replacing it.

Measurements and parameter contents are preserved during power failure by the memory back-up battery.When the power returns, the LiquidRanger will resume its normal operation.

KEYPAD

KEY GENERAL FUNCTION

Program Mode Run Mode

SELECT Selects point to be programmed P0INT or displayed.

NEXT Increments displayed point by 1. Increments displayed point by 1.POINT

SELECT Selects parameter to be PAR programmed or displayed.

NEXT Increments displayed parameter by 1 PAR

AUTO Resets automatic scrolling of all ADV. in service points.

DISP. Scrolls display through level and temperature ALT. readings.

Press: Status field will display ‘A’, Reading field will display air temperature in °C.

Press: Status field will display ‘L’, Reading field will display liquid temperature in °C.

Press: Status field will return to normal, Reading fieldwill display level or space as programmed.

Can be used in conjunction with Select Point forindividual point scanning.

ALARM Selects next in service point in high, high high or ‘H’ fail-safe alarm.

Press AUTO ADV. to scroll through all of these points.To exit Alarm H, press SELECT POINT and then pressAUTO ADV. to resume automatic scrolling.

ALARM Same as Alarm H except for points in low alarm. ‘L’

ACKN Acknowledges alarm as programmed in P-16.ALARM

CLEAR Clears reading.

PL-270 4 – 2

ENTER Enters parameter value or codedisplayed in Reading field.

MEAS. Press to take a measurement of the selected point.

"0" - "9" Numeric entries

A Press A# to turn scope display On. Refer to Troubleshooting\Oscilloscope.

B Press B# to turn scopedisplay Off. Refer to

Troubleshooting\Oscilloscope.

C Press C# to store the scope Press to place a point On or Off the display echo profile. Refer to priority loop Troubleshooting\Oscilloscope.

D Press D# to view a stored echo Press to view next in profile on scope. Refer to service priority point. Troubleshooting\Oscilloscope.

"." Decimal point entry

QUICK START

› turn the key to PROG. ‘prog’ will be displayed in the Reading field› press SELECT POINT› press 0 and 1› press SELECT PAR› press 0 and 1 parameter 01

select units: 1 = feet 2 = meters 3 = % display, programming in feet or meters as previously entered

e.g. press 1, units in feet, press ENTER (‘FEET’ indicator will light) press 3, display in % press ENTER (‘PERCENT’ indicator will light) › press NEXT PAR parameter 02

select service: 0 = out of service 1 = in service

e.g. press 1, point in service press ENTER

Program Mode Run Mode

PL-270 4 – 3

› press NEXT PAR parameter 03empty distance: enter distance

e.g. press 1 and 0, empty distance to transducer = 10 feet press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 04span: enter required span

e.g. press 8, span = 8 feetpress ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 05blanking: enter blanking required: minimum blanking

transducer feet meters ST-25 2 0.6

ST-50 2 0.6ST-100 4 1.2LR-21 3 0.9

e.g. enter minimum press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 06liquid or space: 1 = liquid

2 = space

e.g. press 1, measurement of liquid level press ENTER (‘LIQUID’ indicator will light)

› press NEXT PARfull reading check parameter 07

e.g. Reading field will display maximum level reading attainable

› press NEXT PAR parameter 08high alarm set: enter setpoint

e.g. press 7, high alarm at 7 feet press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 09low alarm set: enter setpoint

e.g. press 2, low alarm at 2 feetpress ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 10fail-safe: 1 = high

2 = low 3 = hold

e.g. press 1, fail-safe high press ENTER

PL-270 4 – 4

› press NEXT PAR parameter 11fail-safe timer: enter time

e.g. press 1 and 0, timer set for 10 minutes press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 12damping: enter rate in % of span per minute

e.g. press 1 and 0, damping rate = 0.8 ft/min press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 13convert display: enter factor

e.g. press 1, no conversionpress ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 14decimal point: 0 = no digits after decimal

1 = one digit after decimal 2 = two digits after decimal 3 = three digits after decimal

e.g. press 1, reading in tenths of a foot press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 15analog output: 0 = off

1 = 0 - 20 mA 2 = 4 - 20 mA

e.g. press 2, 4 - 20 mA output range press ENTER

› press NEXT PAR parameter 16alarm acknowledge: 0 - no

1 - yes 2 - no (auto) 3 - yes (auto)

The basic programming for point 1 is now complete, › press NEXT POINT› press SELECT PAR› press 0 and 2 ...

continue programming parameters until all the required points have been completed.

PL-270 4 – 5

RUN Turn the key to RUN. The reading field will momentarily display ‘run’ and then display the measurement for thepoint indicated. In the Run mode, the LiquidRanger will scan continuously and sequentially through all inservice points, indicating their reading and status if applicable.

It is possible for the reading to go negative, but a reading of 0000 will be transmitted to the peripherals. Asignificant negative reading is usually due to parameters 3 and 4 not matching the actual tank dimensions.

If it is felt that the level reading does not correspond to the actual process level, refer to Troubleshooting.

ERROR AND DISPLAY MESSAGES

‘Er ##’ If an error is detected, an error message will appear in the Reading field and the offending parameterand point number will be displayed in their respective fields. Turn the key back to PROG. and correct the error.Refer to Appendices\Errors.

Point/Status field

F fail-safe timer has expired

H high alarm

L low alarm

HH high high alarm

LL low low alarm

Er## error message: 1 - a parameter has not been programmed 2 - parameter contents to large 3 - parameter contents to small

- - - - no reading available for point selected.

EEEE reading is too large to be displayed. Try changing the decimal point location (P-14) or the conversionfactor (P-13) may be too large.

Lo-b memory back-up low. Replace battery or fuse FU 2 (on PS-20 board).

PL-270 4 – 6

FUNCTIONAL

TRANSCEIVER

SCANNING

The LiquidRanger will transmit a single pulse per scan point for which neon lamp L1 on the PS-20 board willflash correspondingly. The transmitter circuit pauses while the received echoes are being processed beforetransmitting the next pulse. Processing of the previous pulse occurs while the scanning relays are switchingand will not allow the transmitter to operate for the next point until the processing of the previous point hasbeen completed. Thus the normal scanning sequence is to cycle through all in service points (P-02), point 1through 60.

High resolution measurements (P-46) are a two step process. The first step is to form the window and thesecond is to extract the time at which the window occurs.

Thus two ultrasonic measurements or scans are required. The first time the LiquidRanger scans through itspoints, it performs only the first step; no readings are displayed. In subsequent scans both steps areperformed simultaneously. The exact measurement is made (second step) and a new window is formed forthe next scan. Thus a new reading is available for each point every time the LiquidRanger scans through.

In some solids applications the echo may be very weak or have a ragged rising edge due to the materialsurface. In these cases the high resolution measurement is meaningless. The reading will be more reliableand stable if the low resolution mode is selected. If the low resolution is selected, then the echo time delay istaken directly from the echo profile stored in memory. This gives a resolution of about one inch, correspondingto the 150 uSec sample rate used to collect the echo profile.

Due to the fast echo processing and the single pulse measurement per scan point, the LiquidRanger scanperiod is self adjusting with speeds of up to three points per second (P-21 = 0).

PRIORITY

Any point or set of points may be given priority status. To place a point on or off priority, global parameter 23must have been set to 1. Press the C key on the LiquidRanger (only in the Run mode) or the ACKN. ALARMkey on the RSM-60 (in either the Run or Program mode) while the point is being displayed. A "." will appear inthe Status field of the point being displayed to indicate priority. If points have been given priority status, then the scanning cycle will proceed on two levels. All priority pointswill be sequentially scanned once followed by a scan of the first non-priority point. All priority points will bere-scanned and then the second non-priority point will be scanned. Thus a non-priority point will only bescanned once per cycle.

e.g.: priority points: 1 & 3 non-priority points: 2, 4 & 5 sequence: 1 3 2 1 3 4 1 3 5 1 3 2

1 cycle priority points scanned 3 times non-priority points scanned once

The LiquidRanger display however, continues to scroll through the in service points in its normal fashion.

The D key on the LiquidRanger causes the Reading field to display only those points which are on priority.Press D again to advance to the next priority point or AUTO ADV. to automatically scroll through all prioritypoints. To cancel Auto Advance, press SELECT POINT. To cancel priority point only viewing, press SELECTPOINT and then AUTO ADV.

PL-270 5 – 1

FREQUENCY

The LiquidRanger is supplied with one transceiver board which is factory built to operate at either 41.5 or 21KHz. Thus the resonant frequency of the transducers and the transceiver must all be the same.

DISPLAY

While in the Run mode, the Reading field will be periodically updated, indepedently of the scanning sequence.The default is a reading of measurement. The display can be made to show the air or liquid temperature bypressing ALT. DISP .

TRANSDUCER

The transducer converts the electrical energy of the transmit pulse from the transceiver into acoustical energyand converts the acoustical energy of the echo back into electrical energy for the transceiver receive period.

The effective acoustical energy is generated from the face of the transducer and is radiated outward,decreasing in amplitude at a rate inversely proportional to the square of the distance. Maximum power isradiated axially (perpendicular) from the transducer face in a line referred to as the axis of transmission.Where power is reduced by half (– 3 dB), a conical boundary defining the sound beam, centered about theaxis of transmission is established. The diametric measurement of the cone in degrees defines the beamangle and varies according to the transducer model. Impedance matching techniques are use to optimize thetransfer of power from the transducer into air and from the air back into the transducer.

Beam angle, frequency and range are three of the more prominent characteristics of concern when choosinga transducer for an application.

DAMPING AND FUZZ FILTER

The LiquidRanger provides damping (P-12) to control the maximum rate of change of the displayed level orvolume and of the mA output signal. As alarms respond to the dampened level reading, they indirectly fallunder the control of the damping function. Damping is set in % of span per minute.

e.g. if: P-01 = 1 P-04 = 20 P-12 = 10 then the damping rate is 2 ft/min.

Damping is often used to slow down the rate of response of the display especially where liquid surfaces are inagitation or material falls into the sound path during filling.

When in the Program mode, the damping is automatically overridden to give fast response when MEAS. ispressed. In the Run mode, the response can be further increased by setting the fuzz filter (P-49) and echodiscriminator (P-45) off - ONLY if they are not required.

If the transducer is being aimed while in the Run mode, it is suggested that damping be at its factory setting of100%. The damping can later be changed to suit prevailing conditions.

The fuzz filter (P-49) is designed to smooth out minor changes in the displayed reading as might occur due toripples on the liquid surface or air movement in the tank. Parameter 49 is set as a percent of span, so thatany change in the level reading within the limit will be heavily dampened. In other words, the displayedreading remains almost unchanged. For example, if the limit is set to 1% and the span is 20 m, then anychange in the reading of less than 0.2 m will be heavily dampened. If the change is more than 0.2 m, the fuzzfilter will be by-passed.

PL-270 5 – 2

TEMPERATURE

In order to compensate for uniform temperature changes of the sound medium over time, air temperaturesensing should be used. This will allow the LiquidRanger to more accurately measure the physical distanceswhen the transducer is subjected to temperatures other than 20 °C. The expected error due to temperaturechanges will decrease from 0.17% per Celsius degree over the operating range to 0.09%.

The LiquidRanger also accepts a liquid temperature sensor. The liquid temperature has no bearing on theLiquidRanger operation, it is strictly for display purposes.

For single point systems, the temperature inputs are found on the PS-20 board. 9.56 KΩ resistors are wiredacross the respective air and temperature inputs to simulate 20 °C. These are replaced as required where bytemperature sensors. Refer to figure 5.

For multipoint systems, the temperature inputs on the PS-20 may be used to provide a common temperaturefor all points. Temperature compensation of the individual scan points is achieved by connecting the requiredair temperature sensors to the SM-15 scan points. Refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM-15.

In addition to displaying the level reading, the LiquidRanger will display air and liquid temperatures in degreesCelsius (P-60 through 69). In the run mode, pressing DISP. ALT. will scroll the display through level and airand liquid temperature readings.

An air temperature sensor, when used should be mounted in a location which represent the temperaturefluctuations likely to occur between the transducer and target. Avoid mounting the sensor in direct sunlight asradiant heating can cause a pronounced difference between the air and the transducer temperatures.

Any combination of the three temperature sensor models can be used with the LiquidRanger. The followinghighlights the more important characteristics which have a bearing on their selection. Refer to sectionSpecification\Temperature Sensors.

› TS-2: PVC encapsulated, CSA, FM and BASEEFA approval, air only› LTS-1: stainless steel, FM and BASEEFA approval only› LTS-1C: stainless steel, CSA approval only

Individual temperature compensation for 20 °C may be achieved by setting P-47 = 2. This method is superiorto the 9.56K ohm termination as it provides more stability.

If the transducer’s ambient temperature is to remain constant, compensation may be programmed into theLiquidRanger, instead of using a temperature sensor, by performing an empty calibration. Refer to sectionParameter Description\P-29.

SOUND VELOCITY

The LiquidRanger can be programmed to correct for errors due to transducer operation in homogenousvapours with sound velocities other than air.

The basis is to physically measure the level (measuring tape or sight glass) and enter this value via P-29. TheLiquidRanger then calculates the sound velocity by comparing the entered physical measurement to its ownultrasonic measurement (empty calibration, P-29). If the temperature changes after calibration, theLiquidRanger can estimate a new sound velocity if it is used in conjunction with an air temperature sensor.

P-96, velocity at 20 °C, can be used to enter the known velocity of sound in a particular gas or vapour at 20 °Cor to view the resultant velocity of a sound velocity compensation, normalized to 20 °C.

PL-270 5 – 3

The maximum range of the LiquidRanger may also be reduced by changes in the sound velocity. Aftertransmitting, the LiquidRanger waits a maximum of 180 msec for the echo to return. In the case of air at 20 °C(344.1 m/sec), this is equivalent to a maximum target distance of 31 m, more than enough time to cover the21 m maximum range. However, if the vapour is chloroform at 20 °C (135.4 m/sec), the 180 msec would beequivalent to a maximum target distance of only 12 m (this is only an extreme example). The transducer to target distance is calculated as: distance = velocity x echo time delay x 0.5 Refer to Appendices\Sound Velocities, for typical sound velocities in various gases and vapours.

BLANKING

Near blanking (P-05) is used to ignore the zone in front of the transducer where ringing or other false echo isat a level that interferes with the processing of the true echo. The minimum blanking is as follows.

transducer meters feet

ST-25 0.6 2ST-50 0.6 2

ST-100 1.2 4LR-21 0.9 3

Ringing is the inherent nature of the transducer mass to continue vibrating after the transmit pulse hasceased. The amount of ringing varies with the type of transducer used and decays to acceptable levels in theorder of milliseconds. Excessive cold and over tightening of the transducer mounting (refer to Figures 6 & 7)will increase the ring time such that it may appear as an echo during the receive cycle. This is usuallyindicated by an incorrect high level reading. This condition may be verified with the use of an oscilloscope(refer to Troubleshooting\Oscilloscope) and may be overcome by increasing the near blanking.

Far end blanking is a design function that ignores the zone below the zero or empty level where false echoesmay appear at levels that interfere with the processing of the true echo. In applications where the zero level is above the bottom of the vessel and it is desired to monitor the zonebelow the normal zero, range extension (P-26) may be used to extend the range into the far end blanking.Range extension is entered as a percent of P-03. As range extension reduces the protection afforded by the

typical receiver signal

typical processed signal

ringing true echo(level)

Near Blanking(P-05)

Empty Distance toTransducer(P-03)

range

end oftransmit

0level

false echo

far end blanking

range extension (P-26)as % of P-03

PL-270 5 – 4

far end blanking, it should be set judiciously. Avoid excessive range extension as this may reduce themeasurement’s reliability and accuracy. Range extension is factory set for 20% of P-03. If it is found that falseechoes are appearing ahead of the blanking zone, P-26 should be reduced accordingly.

Blanking is automatically corrected for sound velocity change where temperature and velocity compensationare used; keeping the blanking at the distance at which it was entered.

ECHO DISCRIMINATION

In applications where there is an agitator operating in the vessel, the blades may interfere with level readingswhen the material level is lower than the blades. In such a case, the agitator discriminator (P-45) can be set toOn (factory setting).

With the agitator discriminator set to On, the reading will not change unless the echo is closer for at least 5consecutive measurements nor will it change unless the echo is farther for at least 2 consecutivemeasurements.

This feature allows the LiquidRanger to remain locked on the true echo, even if there are occasional falseechoes due to agitator blades, electrical noise or crosstalk from other ultrasonic units.

Agitator discrimination, however, slows down the LiquidRanger’s speed of response. Therefore, if fastresponse is required, especially when aiming the transducer while in the run mode, and there is no agitatorinvolved, the discriminator should be set to Off.

Agitator discrimination will not work if the blades are stationary and in the transducer’s beam path.

LOSS OF ECHO

A loss of echo occurs when the echo confidence (P-89) is below the factory set threshold.

If the condition persists for a time beyond the limit as set by the fail-safe timer (P-11), then an ‘F’ will appear inthe Status display and a default measurement (P-10) will immediately appear in the Reading display.

Upon receiving an echo above the threshold, the loss of echo condition will be aborted and the reading willmove to the present level at the damping rate (P-12).

ALARMS

The LiquidRanger serves as the host for alarm programming, alarm status display and communicationtransmission to the SAM-30. The LiquidRanger is equipped with one alarm relay, which can be dedicated toany number of scan points. The alarm function can be expanded by the addition of SAM-30 modules.

The optional SAM-30 module provides individual alarm outputs per point. Each module has 30 form ‘C’contacts, two for each point that can be set for high, low, high high or low low. Refer to PL-274\SAM-30.

LiquidRanger alarm contact outputs are available at TB1-1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6. They consist of one high and onelow alarm, each being one form ‘C’ contact (S.P.D.T.). When multiple points are chosen, the high and lowalarm setpoints may be different for each point. On multiple alarms, the contact and display will respond to the

FAIL-SAFEMODE DISPLAYS RELAY STATUS ANALOG OUTPUTP-10 Status Reading high alarm low alarmfail-safe high F full on off highfail-safe low F empty off on lowhold F hold hold hold hold

PL-270 5 – 5

first point that is in alarm. Once this is acknowledged (P-16), the next alarm will be displayed. A beeperprovides audible alarm indication and its volume may be adjusted with potentiometer P1.

FUNCTIONS

high alarm: alarm On status occurs when the level rises to the On setpoint and returns to normal when the level lowers to 5% of span below the On setpoint.

low alarm: alarm On status occurs when the level lowers to the On setpoint and returns to normal when the level rises to 5% above the On setpoint.

SETPOINTS

The alarm On setpoints are measured from the bottom up, referenced to zero in the units programmed (P-01).

RELAY STATUS

During alarm Off status, the corresponding relays are energized. A relay under alarm On status will bede-energized. At this time a status code will be displayed in the Status field of the left hand display andtransmitted via the ±20 mA current loop.

code description

H high alarmHH high high alarmL low alarmLL low low alarm

While in the Program mode, alarm relays will hold their prior status, but will respond to measurements takenwhen MEAS. is pressed.

PROGRAMMING

Programming of the alarm functions is limited to alarm On setpoint parameters:

P-08 high alarmP-09 low alarmP-18 high high alarmP-19 low low alarm

ANALOG OUTPUT

Local analog output, proportional to liquid or space (if P-30 = 0) or volume or ullage (if P-30 ≠ 0), is availableat TB1- 19/20 as a single isolated current output, 0-20 mA or 4-20 mA which can be dedicated to any singlepoint, used to represent a multipoint average or time shared between a number of scan points. Whenassigned to one point, the output retains its last updated value to provide a continuous output while otherpoints are being scanned. When multipoint averaging is selected, the mA output is the average of the mAoutputs used (i.e. all points where P-15 is not equal to zero). When a number of points are chosen, the outputwill vary from point to point in response to the various liquid levels.

PL-270 5 – 6

The optional AO-15 module provides an individual current output per scan point and has 15 outputs permodule. The output is continuous for each point and is updated on each scan cycle. Refer to manual PL-274,Peripherals\AO-15.

PROGRAMMING

Analog output must be programmed for a range (P-15) of 0 or 4 - 20 mA. The analog output span is set by thespan parameter (P-04). The selected range is common to all outputs.

PL-270 5 – 7

APPLICATIONS

The LiquidRanger was designed as a multipoint liquid level monitoring system. However it is not restricted tomeasurements on liquid applications only. In tank farms where there exists the odd solids bin, theLiquidRanger may also be applied. This section highlights the most common LiquidRanger applications.

When programming, refer to the application which is most similar to yours. A practical example has been givento further illustrate the programming features used for each application. In actual practice, however, theexample may not cover all facets of the particular application. Therefore, the user should become familiar withthe many parameters available. Refer to Parameter Description.

The minimum dist ance from the transducer face to the target is dependent upon the type oftransducer being used. Minimum blanking should be limited as follows:

ST-25 0.6 m (2 ft)ST-50 0.6 m (2 ft)ST-100 1.2 m (4 ft)LR-21 0.9 m (3 ft)

PL-270 6 – 1

SIMPLE LEVEL APPLICATION

The most common application of the Milltronics ultrasonic level measuring systems is for simple levelmonitoring, whereby the material level or space between the transducer and reflecting surface is measuredand displayed. This may or may not include alarms and analog output.

EXAMPLE 1

The application is to obtain level measurements in a 30 ft high vessel and a corresponding 4-20 mA output.An ST-50 transducer is installed, its face made level to the top of the vessel designated as point 1. The emptylevel will be at 0 ft (bottom) and the full level will be at 27 ft from the bottom (span). A high alarm is required at4 ft from the top (26 ft from the bottom) and a low alarm is required at 5 ft from the bottom. The maximumfill/empty rate is 1 ft/min. In the event of a loss of echo, the LiquidRanger is to go into fail-safe hold after 2minutes. A display resolution in tenth’s of a foot is required.

select point: 01

select parameter: P-01enter code "1", units in feet (global)

advance to P-02next parameter: enter code "1", point in service

P-03enter "30", empty distance to transducer

P-04enter "27", span

P-05enter "3", blanking

P-06 enter code "1", material level (global)

P-07 view "27", full reading check

P-08enter "26", high alarm On setpoint

P-09enter "5", low alarm On setpoint

P-10enter code "3", fail-safe hold

P-11enter "2", fail-safe timer - 2 min

P-12enter "100", damping rate

fill rate of 1 ft/min = 1 ft/27 ft x 100% of span per min = 3.7% of span per min

Typically, the factory set damping of "100" can be used.

PL-270 6 – 2

P-13enter code "1", conversion factor

P-14enter code "1", display resolution, one digit after decimal (global)

P-15enter code "2", 4-20 mA output

P-16enter code "1", alarm acknowledge, manual/ no auto reset (global)

all other parameters are left at their factory setting

program the next point and then turn the key to Run.

PL-270 6 – 3

VOLUME APPLICATION In addition to simple level applications, volume conversions can be included in the calibration. Volumeconversion should be done on liquid materials only.

Volume conversion is provided for 8 common tank shapes (P-30). Dimensions are entered using P-04, P-31and P-32. Volume is displayed as 0-100% and may be converted to volume units by entering a conversionfactor into P-13.

Note that P-04, span, must equal 100% (full) level of tank. In many volume applications, the ambient atmosphere is other than air or at a temperature other than 20 °C.Refer to Functional\Temperature and \Sound Velocity for details on compensating for such circumstances.

If it is noted that the LiquidRanger reading is consistently off by a constant amount as compared to thephysical measurement, this may be compensated for by performing a full calibration (P-32). A measurementoffset might occur when P-03 or P-04 do not exactly match the tank dimensions referenced for volumeconversion. If the cause of the offset appears below the relay setpoints, the setpoint parameters may need tobe reset as these will have shifted accordingly.

Refer to Figure 9.

EXAMPLE 2

The application is to measure the volume of glue in a horizontal tank with parabolic ends. The tank has beendesignated as point 1 and has been fitted with an ST-25 flanged transducer. The tank manufacturer‘sspecifications state that the total volume is 40.6 cubic meters.

The maximum fill/draw rate is 0.35 m3/min. In the event of a loss of echo, the LiquidRanger is to go intofail-safe high after 30 sec. A display resolution in tenth’s of a foot is required.

NOTE : As the glue gives off formaldehyde vapour, a velocity correction will be required.

transducer

standpipe

L = 0.6 m

A = 0.75 m

0.5 m3 m = span, P-04(must equal height of tank)

L = 5 m

PL-270 6 – 4

select point: 01

select parameter: P-01enter code "2", units in metres (global)

advance to P-02next parameter: enter code "1", point in service

P-03enter "3.6", empty distance to transducer

P-04enter "3", span (inside diameter of tank)

P-05enter ".6", blanking, min 0.6 m with ST-25 transducer.

Refer to Applications with Standpipes.P-06enter code "1", material level (global)

P-07view "3.0", full reading check

select parameter: P-10enter code "1", fail-safe high

P-11enter ".5", fail-safe timer, 30 sec.

P-12enter "100", damping rate

at a fill/empty rate of 0.35 m3/min, it will take

to fill or empty the tank.

The linear fill/empty damping rate =

= 21% of span per min

However, because of the tank’s shape, the top and bottom levels willfill and empty faster than the middle section. Therefore the actual damping value should be greater than that calculated. Typically, the factory set damping of "100" can be used.

P-13enter ".406", convert display, x 0.406

When volume conversion is being used, the display will automaticallyshow the levels in %. As 100% full = 40.6 cubic meters, a conversion factor of 0.406 must be entered.

= 143 min

3 m of span143 min

x 100%

50 m3

0.35m3/min

actual volumepercentage

= conversion factor

PL-270 6 – 5

P-14enter "1", display resolution, one digit after decimal (global)

select parameter P-30enter code "7", tank shape for volumetric conversion

P-31enter "1", tank dimension A

P-32enter "5", tank dimension L

NOTE : As steps P-28 and P-29 involve physical level measurements, for convenience sake, P-29 can bedone before P-28.

P-28 (optional)perform a full calibration, refer to Parameter Description\Volume and Display

Parameters\P-30

P-96record present sound velocity for reference

P-29perform an empty calibration, refer to Parameter Description\Volume and DisplayParameters\P-29

all other parameters are left at their factory setting

program the next point then turn the key to Run.

PL-270 6 – 6

APPLICATIONS WITH STANDPIPES

In many solids and liquid applications, access to the vessel must be made via a standpipe. In such cases,Milltronics can provide flange mounted ST-series transducers that will readily mate to the flanged standpipe(refer to Figure 6). Another option is to hang the transducer from a blind flange.

The standpipe length should be as short and the diameter as large as possible. As a rule of thumb, the – 3 dBcone of the sound beam should not intersect the standpipe wall in applications opening into a vessel.Otherwise, additional near blanking (P-05) will be required to compensate for the interference zone created bythe opening. The rise to run ratio (beam angle)* of the cone can be estimated as follows:

TRANSDUCER RISE : RUN

ST-25 10 : 1 ST-50 20 : 1 ST-100 15 : 1 LR-21 20 : 1

transducerradiatingsurface

nointersection

transducerradiatingsurface

sound beamintersectspipewall

reflection atinterference zonecreated by opening

vessel

vessel

near blanking extension of 150 mm (6")past end of standpipe may be required

novessel

no additionalblanking required

no additionalblanking required

* refer to Figure 9

PL-270 6 – 7

PARAMETER DESCRIPTION

NOTE: › (F): indicates the parameter’s factory setting, where applicable. For reference only - values maychange with software revisions.

› (G): indicates a global parameter.

› (V): indicates can be viewed only, not entered.

› (S.R. #) indicates the EPROM software revision number at which the listed parameter becameapplicable.The parameter is generally carried through all succeeding revisions. If norevision number is indicated, it may be assumed that the revision is 1.0, first release.

01 Units (G)

this parameter selects units for display and programming. Entering this parameter will automatically set values for parameters 03, 04, 05, 08, 09, 18, 19, 31, 32 and 96. (F=----)

enter: 1 = feet 2 = meters enter: 3 = % display, programming in feet or meters as previously entered

02 Point in Service

this parameter is used to select the points from 1 to 60 which will be placed in active service and thereby limiting the scan to these points only.

enter: 0 = out of service (F) 1 = in service

03 Empty Distance to Transducer

this parameter represents the distance between the face of the transducer and the empty or zero level (0 or 4 mA). Re-entering this parameter may reset the value of P-96. (F=----)

enter distance

04 Span

distance from the zero (0%, 0 or 4 mA) to full (100%, 20 mA). Re-entering this parameter may reset thevalue of P-96. (F=----)

enter desired amount

PL-270 7 – 1

05 Near Blanking

refer to Functional\Blanking.

minimum recommended blanking: transducer meters feet

ST-25 0.6 2 ST-50 0.6 2 ST-100 1.2 4 LR-21 0.9 3

enter distance required (F=1.000)

06 Material or Space (G)

mode of ultrasonic measurement; either material level referenced to the empty level or space measurement referenced to the face of the transducer. Re-entering this parameter may reset the value of P-96.

enter: 1 = material level (F) 2 = space measurement

07 Full Reading Check (V)

this parameter displays the maximum reading possible, calculated on the basis of the empty distance, span and blanking values entered. It is unaffected by P-13 or tank calibration.

e.g. for a material level reading, if the blanking were extended 2 m into a 20 m span, thenthe highest reading would be 18 m. For a space measurement, the lowest reading would be 2 m.

08/09 High/Low Alarm

establishes the alarm On setpoints in feet or meters as programmed in P-01 for the common alarm and the satellite alarm module(s). (F=----)

enter On setpoint

10 Fail-safe Mode

in the event that a loss of echo condition extends past the time set in the fail-safe timer (P-11), the LiquidRanger, RSM-60 and SPD display will hold their last reading, or show a full or

empty reading as selected.

enter: 1 = high 2 = low 3 = hold (F)

PL-270 7 – 2

11 Fail-safe Timer

the amount of time delay before going into fail-safe mode (P-10). Range of 0.0 to 999.9 minutes. (F=0.0)

enter desired time in minutes

e.g.: for 30 sec. time delay, enter ‘.5’

12 Damping Rate

this function slows down the response of the LiquidRanger to spurious inputs, such as splatter from falling material. It establishes the maximum rate of change allowable and

is set as a % of span per minute with a range of 0.001 to 9999%. This should be set slightly faster than the vessel’s rate of change. (F=100.0)

enter desired amount

13 Convert Display

enter factor by which the measurement is to be multiplied by before being displayed (maximum of 4 display characters). (F=1.000)

14 Decimal Point Location (G)

sets the maximum number of digits after the decimal.

enter: 0 = no digits after decimal 1 = one digit after decimal (F) 2 = two digits after decimal 3 = three digits after decimal

15 Analog Output

when analog output is required, whether from the PS-20 board or the AO-15 module,select either 0 to 20 or 4 to 20 mA.

enter: 0 = no local output, TB1-19/20 (F) 1 = 0 - 20 mA 2 = 4 - 20 mA

When using AO-15 modules, this choice is made once, on any point, and applies to all outputs.

PL-270 7 – 3

16 Alarm Acknowledgment (G)

the LiquidRanger’s alarms may be acknowledged in one of the four different modes.

enter: 0 = no: ACKN will stop beeper but relay(s) remain in the alarm state as long as any of the 60 points are in alarm.

1 = yes: ACKN will stop beeper and return alarm relay(s) to their non-alarm state. (F)

2 = no auto: beeper is automatically acknowledged after 30 secondsbut relay(s) remain in the alarm state as long as any of the 60 points are in alarm.

3 = yes auto: the beeper and alarm relay(s) are automatically acknowledged after 30 seconds.

17 Baud Rate (G)

the baud rate may be set to 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 or 9600 (F).

18/19 High High/Low Low Alarm

establishes the alarm On setpoints in feet or meters as programmed in P-01 for theLiquidRanger PS-20 alarm and the SAM-30 alarms. (F=----)

enter the On setpoint

20 spare

21 Minimum Scan Period (G) refer to Functional\Transceiver\Scanning and Troubleshooting\Advanced Calibration\

Considerations. The minimum scan period between successive points may be set within a range of 0 to 999.9 seconds. (F=0.0)

enter desired time

22 spare

23 Scanning Mode (G) (S.R. 3)

refer to Functional\Transceiver\Scanning

enter: 0 = normal (F) 1 = priority scan

24 spare

PL-270 7 – 4

25 Multipoint Averaging (S.R. 3)

yields the average of all analog outputs (at TB1-19/20) for the points in service with P-15 selected. However, the LCD display and AO-15 outputs will show the analog outputs for the individual points.

enter: 0 = mA output correspondent to individual points (F) 1 = average mA output

26 Range Extension (S.R. 3.4)

used to extend the measurement range into the far end blanking. Refer to Functional\Blanking.

enter, as a percent of P-03, the distance below 0 not blanked (F=20)

27 ASCII Nulls (G) refer to Appendices\Communications. (F=0)

28 Full Calibration

this provides measurement offset compensation on a full tank. Measurement offset might occur when parameters 03 and 04 do not exactly match the tank dimensions referenced

for volume conversion. Re-entering this parameter may reset the value of P-96.(F=----)fill tank as much as permissible, but without going into the near blanking zone (P-05).

Refer to figure 11.

Press MEAS. The LiquidRanger will take a measurement and display the level in the linear units chosen regardless if percent, volume or convert display is used. Press MEAS. at least five times and insure that a stable reading is being obtained.

Enter the actual physical measurement or level

Press ENTER. The LiquidRanger will now calculate the measurement offset to be usedin future measurements. (F=----)

29 Empty Calibration

this provides sound velocity compensation on an empty tank. This is required on a volumeapplication where the atmosphere in the tank is other than air or the atmospheric temperature is constant but other than 20 °C and no temperature sensor is being used.

Re-entering this parameter may reset the value of P-96. Refer to Functional\Sound Velocity. (F=----)

Empty tank as much as permissible. Leave filled with normal vapour and at normal operating temperature. Refer to Figure 9.

Press MEAS. The LiquidRanger will take a measurement and display the level in the linear units chosen regardless if percent, volume or convert display is used. Press MEAS. at leastfive times and insure that a stable reading is being obtained.

Enter the actual physical measurement or level

Press ENTER. The LiquidRanger will now calculate the correct sound velocity to be used in future measurements and automatically enter it into P-96. (F=----)

PL-270 7 – 5

Refer to section Applications\Volume Applicationfor details on parameters 30, 31 and 32.

30 Tank Shape

enter: 0 = non volume - linear level measurement (F) 1 = flat bottom 2 = conic bottom 3 = parabolic bottom 4 = spheric bottom 5 = flat slope bottom 6 = horizontal cylinder, flat ends 7 = horizontal cylinder, parabolic ends

8 = sphere

if P-30 ≠ 0, reading will be in percent of P-04 and analog output proportional to volume. For volumetric reading, set conversion factor into P-13.

31 Tank Dimension A

the height of the bottom section of tank shapes 2, 3, 4, 5 or the length of one end section in tank shape 7 (not required for other tank shapes). (F=----)

enter dimension, in units selected

A

P-04

A

P-04

A

P-04

P-04

P-04

P-04

P-04

LA

1 = flat bottom5 = flat sloped bottom

6 = horizontal cylinder,flat ends

7 = horizontal cylinder,parabolic ends

2 = conic or pyramidic bottom

3 = parabolic bottomor

4 = spheric bottom

8 = sphere

PL-270 7 – 6

32 Tank Dimension L

the horizontal length of tank shape 7 excluding parabolic ends (not required for other tank shapes). (F=----)

enter dimension, in units selected

33 to 37 spares

Refer to Troubleshooting\Advance Programming\Considerations for details on parameters 38 through 39.

38 Transmit Pulse Width

enter: 1 = 0.76 msec at 21 KHz or 0.36 mSec at 41.5 KHz 2 = 1.52 msec at 21 KHz or 0.73 mSec at 41.5 KHz (F) 3 = 2.29 msec at 21 KHz or 1.09 mSec at 41.5 KHz

39 Receiver Filter

enter: 0 = off 1 = low (F) 2 = medium 3 = full

Refer to Troubleshooting\Advance Programming\Echo Processing for details on parameters 40 through 43.

40 Algorithm

enter: 1 = largest echo above TVT 2 = slopes method 3 = largest area above TVT 4 = first echo above TVT (F)

41 Start Point

starting point of the TVT curve. (F=40)

42 Hover Level

the amount by which the TVT rides above the average of the echo profile. (F=20)

43 Slope

used only by algorithm 2. (F=3)

44 Threshold

minimum echo size to be accepted as a valid echo. May be set to 0 for algorithm 4, but should be set to 6 for other algorithms. (F=0)

PL-270 7 – 7

45 Agitator Discriminator

enter: 0 = Off1 = On (F)

46 Resolution

enter: 1 = low; 25 mm (1")2 = high; 1 mm (0.04") (F)

47 Distance Calculation Method

re-entering this parameter may reset the value of P-96.

enter: 1 = air temperature sensor (F)2 = fixed 20 °C

48 spare

49 Fuzz Filter

0 to 25% of span. Refer to Functional\Damping and Fuzz Filter. (F=0.5)

50 Software Revi sion Number (V)

51/52 RAM/EPROM Tests (V)

display shows "Pass", otherwise, it will show the address of the faulty RAM/EPROM.

53 Lamp Test (V)

all LED’s and LCD’s on front panel, main computer board and PS-20 board only will flash.

54 Scanner Test (V)

all relays on SM-15 board will energize/de-energize sequentially.

55 to 57 spares

PL-270 7 – 8

58 Analog Output Test

the mA value from the previous measurement will be displayed or a test value may beentered, ranging from 0.000 to 20.00. The displayed mA value is transmitted to the analog output terminals of the PS-20 board TB1-19/20 and to the optional A0-15.The A0-15 sets its output for the point selected to a value equal to the value entered

or displayed. If point number 00 is selected, all outputs of AO-15 will go to the same specified value. (F=0.00)

› select point› enter desired mA value

59 spare

60 Air Temperature, in °C (V)

as measured by the temperature sensor (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

61 Maximum Air Temperature, in °C (V)

records the maximum air temperature encountered as measured by the temperature sensor. Press CLEAR , ENTER to reset. (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

62 Minimum Air Temperature, in °C (V)

records the minimum air temperature encountered as measured by thetemperature sensor. Press CLEAR , ENTER to reset. (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

63 Liquid Temperature, in °C (V)

as measured by the liquid temperature sensor. (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

64 Maximum Liquid Temperature, in ’C (V)

records the maximum liquid temperature encountered as measured by the temperature sensor. Press CLEAR , ENTER to reset. (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

65 Minimum Liquid Temperature, in °C (V)

records the minimum air temperature encountered as measured by the temperature sensor. Press CLEAR , ENTER to reset. (F=20, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

66 Continuous Air Temperature, 0.1 °C Resolution (V) (F=20.4, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

67 Continuous Liquid Temperature, 0.1 °C Resolution (V) (F=20.4, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

68 Continuous Air Temperature Sensor Resistance, in K Ω (V) (F≈9.6 KΩ, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

69 Continuous Liquid Temperature Sensor Resistance, in K Ω (V) (F≈9.6 KΩ, with 9.56 KΩ resistor)

PL-270 7 – 9

70 Demonstration (V)

- set 1st 10 points in service- set P-03 and P-04 to some value, e.g. 50 ft- set P-08, 09, 18 and 19 to some value, e.g. 25 ft- set P-21 to some value, e.g. 999- enter P-70 - turn key to Run

The display will sequentially run through the first 10 points with fake readings and status. The display has no bearing on the data previously entered.

71 to 79 spares

80 Reading (V)

in the Program mode, this parameter gives the same readings as displayed in Run mode.

89 Echo Confidence (V)

a measure of echo reliability. Press MEAS. An ultrasonic measurement will be taken and the echo confidence updated. This feature is useful when aiming the transducer.

90 Noise (V)

the ambient noise measured includes acoustical and electrical noise being picked up by the transducer/receiver circuit when the transmit/receive cycles have been disabled during the Program mode. It should be 0 dB under optimum conditions. Levels of 20 to 40 dB are commonly due to improper wiring or noise such as made during emptying and filling. High noise levels effectively reduce the echo confidence (P-89).

91 to 95 spares

96 Sound Vel ocity

displays sound velocity in feet or metres per second, normalized to 20 °C. Refer to Functional\Sound Velocity. If the sound velocity of the medium at 20 °C is known, it may be entered into parameter 96 rather than doing a velocity compensation via parameter 29. (F=1129)

97 Reading in Feet or Meters (V)

displays measurement in linear units programmed.

That’s all folks!

PL-270 7 – 10

TROUBLESHOOTING

GENERAL

There are numerous adjustments for echo processing and they should be used judiciously. Transducerlocation and aiming are the most important factors affecting the reliability of the LiquidRanger . Inconjunction with Installation\Transducers, location and aiming may be optimized by entering the Programmode and observing P-89 while pressing MEAS.

TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

SYMPTOM CAUSE ACTION

Fail-safe, ‘F’ appears › open circuit › check xdcr wiringin display, neon L1 flashes, › refer to wiring diagrambut no pulsing is felt on › check P-89xdcr face › defective xdcr › check temp. P-61

or LiquidRanger › try a substitute

Fail-safe, ‘F’ appears › short circuit › check xdcr wiringin display, neon L1 off and, › check P-89no pulsing is felt onxdcr face › defective transducer › check temp. P-61 or LiquidRanger › try a substitute

Fail-safe, ‘F’ appears › level or target out › check xdcr specificationin display, neon L1 will of range › check parametersflash, pulsing is felt onxdcr face › application too dusty or steamy; › re-aim xdcr,

under these conditions range refer to xdcr installation may be adversely affected

› use polyethylene foamfaced xdcr for dusty applications, do not use on wet applications

› if condition occurs › increase fail-safe only during filling timer, P-11

› transducer face covered › inspect and clean, check that

shipping cardboard is removed› move xdcr to better location› mount in standpipe

› xdcr location or aiming › re-locate or re-aim xdcr› poor installation for max echo confidence, P-89› moved by material or vibration › refer to xdcr installation › flanging not level & mounting diagram

PL-270 8 – 1

Reading does not › LiquidRanger processing wrong echo; › re-aim xdcr, refer tochange, but level does i.e. vessel wall, structural member, installation & mounting

stationary agitator, material diagramhang-up or rat-tailing

› transducer ringing, › xdcr must not reading high level be in contact with metal

› mounting need only behand tight

› refer to mounting diagram

Reading consistently › reading offset › refer to P-28off by fixed amount

Reading error › temp. compensation › install temp. sensor, progressively worsens refer to Installationwith distance

› sound velocity compensation › P-29, e.g. 2.

Display blank, neon L1 › loss of power › check power wiring, not flashing jumpers & fuses.

Reading Erratic › echo confidence weak › check xdcr aiming› check noise, P-90 › check with oscilloscope

› liquid surface agitated › increase damping, P-12› set fuzz filter On, P-49

› material filling › relocate transducer› increase damping, P-12

› electrical noise › transducer cable must be in grounded metal conduit

› set discriminator On, P-45› refer to installation &

wiring diagram› check P-89

› agitator blades › set discriminator On, P-45

Reading ‘EEEE’ › reading to large › reduce conversion, P-13 › reduce decimal, P-14

Reading Response › damping too high › decrease P-12Slow

› fuzz filter On › set P-49 to Off

› discriminator On › set P-45 to Off

SYMPTOM CAUSE ACTION

PL-270 8 – 2

ADVANCED CALIBRATION

Advanced calibration should only be attempted af ter all the basic checks such as wiring, trans duceraiming, parameter entry and troubleshooting tips have been double checked and the desired resultsare not yet obtained.

The use of an oscilloscope is required to ef fectively use most of the echo processing parameters .

When perfor ming an advanced calibrat ion, work with one parameter at a ti me. If no i mprovement isobtained, return that parameter to its factory setting and try anot her applicable parameter.

Avoid altering more than one parameter at a t ime wi thout noting its effect.

PL-270 8 – 3

OSCILLOSCOPE

An oscilloscope can be used to view the transmit/receive and processed echo signals. Connect as follows:

oscilloscope location description (mode)

probe › J4, SCOPE, mother board › processed echo (Program)› TB1-32, PS-20 board › raw transmit/receive

(Program/Run)

external trigger › J5, SYNC, mother board › oscilloscope synchronization

ground › J3, COM, mother board › ground

Typical oscilloscope settings for viewing the processed echo are:› gain: 1 v/div› sweep: 2 msec/div

The LiquidRanger is factory set so that the processed echo is normally displayed. Displays are shown at x10 the actual oscilloscope sweep setting . To turn on other oscilloscope displays, press:› A# to turn display On› B# to turn display Off› C# to store an echo profile› D# to recall an echo profile

where: # = 0, processed echo profile 6, echo marker1, memory 1 5, window2, memory 2 9, real time scale3, memory 34, TVT curve or slope (P-40)

Although the beeper will acknowledge the keypad entry, it is not confirmed on the LiquidRanger display.The transmit and receive signals are best viewed while in the Run mode or with P-95, transmitter test, set tofire automatically in the calibrate mode. This may be useful when aiming the transducer to obtain the bestecho.

P-41slope start

P-41TVT start

P-05near blanking

window (A5)

time scale (A9):5 msec per small div.50 msec per large div.

slope (A4)

curve (A4)

echo profile (A0)

echo marker (A6)

or

or

PL-270 8 – 4

In order to operate the transceiver during the Program mode, press MEAS. A single pulse will be transmittedand processed. Pressing AUTO ADV. will cause the operation to repeat automatically until AUTO ADV. ispressed again. This can be done while viewing any parameter.

An echo profile is not reprocessed when it is recalled.

ECHO PROCESSING

1.8 msec = 0.3 m (1 ft) in air at 20 °C

Parameter 40 selects the algorithm used to extract the material echo from the echo profile.

The selected algorithm creates the TVT (time varying threshold) curve or slope for every measurment taken inorder to analyze the echo profile. The TVT curve or slope start point (P-41) is represented by a value rangingfrom 1 to 100 and is factory set to 40.

› flip the LiquidRanger power switch to Off.› connect the oscilloscope to the LiquidRanger.› flip the LiquidRanger power switch to On.› turn the key to Prog.› select the desired point.› set the desired oscilloscope displays to On.› press MEAS. to take an ultrasonic measurement. The oscilloscope will display the echo profile.› Reset the start point level of the TVT curve or slope (A4). This may be done manually or automatically. › manual: › select P-41, Reading field will display current start point.

› set the start point level of the curve or slope such that it is slightly above the start point level of the echo profile.

› press ENTER, the field will hold the entered value.› press MEAS., a new echo profile will be displayed showing the new start point level.

› automatic: › check that the liquid level is at least 3 m from the transducer face.› select P-41, the Reading field will display the current start point level.› press ENTER, the field will hold the entered value.› enter the value of 0; the field will display the auto start value.› press MEAS., a new echo profile will be displayed showing the new start point level.

› Set the hover (P-42) or slope (P-43) level. › select P-42 or P-43, Reading field will display the current level. › set the hover or slope level such that the curve intersects with the material echo. › press ENTER, the field will hold the entered value. › press MEAS., a new echo profile will be displayed showing the new level.

PL-270 8 – 5

Largest Echo Above TVT (P-40 = 1)

This algorithm should be used when the tank is narrow and deep. In this case, the echoes return not only fromthe liquid level, but also from a rough tank wall or obstacles such as ladders and small pipes close to the wall.However, the largest echo must be the one reflected from the liquid level. The TVT curve start point (P-41) isrepresented by a value ranging from 1 to 100 and is factory set to 40. The TVT curve hover level (P-42) isrepresented by a value ranging grom 1 to 50 and is factory set at 20.

Slopes Method (P-40 = 2)

Similar in application to algorithm 1; the slopes method may be used for narrow and deep tanks when theresults from using algorithm 1 prove to be unsatisfactory. From a starting point, a sloped line is drawn until itintersects an echo. The sloped line is then continued from the peak of that echo until it intersects anotherecho, and so on. The echo with the greatest rise from the intersection to the peak is considered to be the trueecho.. The slope (P-43) is represented by a value ranging from 1 to 10 and is factory set at 3

P-43slope

true echo

echo profile

P-41slope start

P-42hover level

largest echo

TVT curve

echo profile

P-41TVT start

PL-270 8 – 6

Largest Area Above TVT (P-40 = 3)

This is similar in operation to algorithm 1, but the selected echo is the one with the greatest area above theTVT curve; rather than the greatest amplitude. It is suitable when the LiquidRanger is used for the odd solidsapplication where the material has a large angle of repose. The TVT curve start point (P-41) is represented bya value ranging from 1 to 100 and is factory set to 40. The TVT curve hover level (P-42) is represented by avalue ranging from 1 to 50 and is factory set at 20.

First Echo Above TVT (P-40 = 4)

This is the standard algorithm (factory set) whereby the first echo to exceed the TVT curve is considered to bethe true echo. When the liquid level is close to the transducer (e.g. 2 m, the system usually detects the first(true) echo and many of its multiples. This algorithm makes sure that only the first echo will be processed,even if it is smaller than the multiples. The TVT curve start point (P-41) is represented by a value ranging from1 to 100 and is factory set to 40. The TVT curve hover level (P-42) is represented by a value ranging from 1 to50 and is factory set at 20.

P-41TVT start

P-42hover level

first echo

multiples

TVT curve

echo profile

P-42hover level

P-41TVT start

true echo

echo profile

echo profile

PL-270 8 – 7

CONSIDERATIONS

Receiver Filter

In applications with high acoustical and/or electrical noise, the amount of filtering in the receiver circuit can beadjusted using parameter 39. This technique can be applied to echo processing with any of the four availablealgorithms.0 = off (for high accuracy)1 = low2 = medium3 = high

Transmit Pulse Width

A high receiver filter tends to attenuate the true echo and degrade the measurement accuracy. A larger echocan be oftained by increasing the transmit pulse width via parametear 38.

1 = 0.76 msec at 21 KHz or 0.36 msec at 41.5 KHz2 = 1.52 msec at 21 KHz or 0.73 msec at 41.5 KHz3 = 2.29 msec at 21 KHz or 1.09 msec at 41.5 KHz

Scan Period

In situations where there are only a few points in service, if echoes from the previous scan cycle are stillactive, the minimum scan period (P-21) can be increased allowing echoes to die out before the next scancycle. If the scan period can not be sacrificed, decreasing the transmit pulse width may resolve the problem.

PL-270 8 – 8

SOUND VELOCITIES

GASES (0 °C) m/sec ft/sec

air, dry 331 1086ammonia 415 1362argon 308 1010carbon dioxide 259 850carbon monoxide 338 1109chlorine 206 676deuterium 890 2920ethane (10 °C) 308 1010ethylene 317 1040helium 965 3166hydrogen 1284 4213hydrogen bromide 200 656hydrogen chloride 206 676hrydrogen iodide 157 515hydrogen sulfide 289 948illuminating (coal gas) 453 1486methane 430 1411neon 435 1427nitric oxide (10 °C) 324 1063nitrogen 334 1096nitrous oxide 263 863oxygen 316 1037sulfur dioxide 213 699

VAPOURS (97 °C)

acetone 230 755benzene 202 663carbon tetrachloride 145 476chloroform 171 561ethanol 269 883ethyl ether 206 676methanol 335 1099water vapour (134° C) 494 1621

PL-270 9 – 1

GLOSSARY

beam angle: › angle between the opposing one-half power limits (-3dB) of the sound beam

blanking: › zone in which received echoes are ignored.

EEPROM: › electrically erasable programmable read only memory.

EPROM: › erasable programmable read only memory.

LCD: › liquid crystal display.

measurement: › each time a transmit pulse or set number of pulses is sent to the transducer.

ringing: › the inherent nature of the transducer to continue vibrating after the transmit pulse has ceased.

ullage: › the remaining spatial volume of a vessel or the volume required to fill a vessel.

PL-270 9 – 2

agitator discriminator P-45alarm, acknowledge P-16alarm, high P-08alarm, high high P-09alarm, low P-18alarm, low low P-19algorithms P-40analog output P-15analog output, averaging P-25ASCII nulls P-54baud rate P-17blanking P-05confidence P-89confidence threshold P-44convert display P-13damping P-12decimal point P-14demonstration P-70empty calibration P-29empty distance P-03fail-safe mode P-10fail-safe timer P-11filter, fuzz P-49filter, receiver P-39full calibration P-28full reading check P-07measurement, linear reading P-97measurement, mode P-05measurement, reading P-80noise P-90point in service P-02pulse width P-38

range extension P-62rate display P-42rate filter P-43resolution P-46software revision P-50sound velocity at 20 °C P-96span P-04tank dimension A P-31tank dimension L P-32temperature, air P-60temperature, air, continuous P-66temperature, air, max P-61temperature, air, min P-62temperature, liquid P-63temperature, liquid, continuous P-67temperature, liquid, max P-64temperature, liquid, min P-65temperature sensor, air P-68temperature sensor, liquid P-69tank shape P-30test, analog output P-58test, EPROM P-51test, lamp P-53test, RAM P-52test, scanner P-54test,LCD and transducer relay P-92threshold P-44TVT curve, hover level P-42TVT curve, slope P-43TVT curve, start point P-41units P-01

ALPHABETICAL PARAMETER LISTING

PARAMETER # PARAMETER #

PL-270 9 – 3

MAINTENANCE AND SPARE PARTS

MAINTENANCE

The LiquidRanger requires very little maintenance. However, a program of periodic preventive maintenanceshould be initiated. This should include regular inspection, general cleaning and good housekeeping practices.

Enclosures and circuit boards should be cleaned only when the power is disconnected at the min breaker. Using a vacuum and clean, dry paint brush, check all electrical terminals for corrosion and arcing.

If the LiquidRanger is mounted in a dusty or oily environment, make sure that the front cover window is keptclean, so that readings and LED status lights can be properly observed.

It is also a good idea to periodically check the face of the transducer. It should be free of material build-upcorrosion or deformation.

The LiquidRanger has a battery protected memory which should be replaced yearly (refer to Figure 1). Toprevent the loss of memory, the new battery should be installed with care as per the following instruction:

> flip the power switch to Off> insert the new battery in the spare socket> remove the old battery from the other socket> flip the power switch to On

SPARE PARTS

Item Part No.

battery 20200020fuse, 2A, Fast-Act 22550030fuse, 1A, Slo-Blo 22550085motherboard 51013281power supply board, PS - 20 51013281relay, PS-20 25000135transceiver board, 21 KHz 51013292transceiver board, 41.5 KHz 51013291transducer as required

PL-270 9 – 4

ERROR MESSAGES

display message

Er 1 an essential parameter is missingEr 2 the parameter value is too largeEr 3 the parameter value is too small

PL-270 9 – 5

PL-270

Program Log not included in 'Soft Manual'.

COMMUNICATIONS

Components of the LiquidRanger system consist of:

› LiquidRanger› RSM-60› SAM-30› SM-15› AO-15› BIC› SPD

With the exception of the SM-15, communication between these components is via a bipolar current loop withthe following conventions:

idle = mark = logic 1 = +20 mA space= logic 0 = – 20 mA

Each ASCII character is transmitted as follows:

This format is: 7 bits, even parity, 1 stop bit. The least significant bit of data is transmitted first, following thestart bit.

The baud rate (P-17) may be set to 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 or 9600. A baud rate of 2400 is recommended tostart. If the lower baud rate is selected, the LiquidRanger may generate information faster than it can betransmitted. This will cause the transmit buffer to fill up, with a resulting delay between ultrasonicmeasurement and the information being transmitted to peripherals. This may in turn be corrected by slowingdown the scan rate using parameter 21.

The following table gives minimum values for parameter 21 to prevent buffer overflow.

Baud Minimum P-21 value(sec)

300 41200 12400 0.54800 0.259600 0.0

start

+ 20 mA

0

– 20 mA

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

5th

6t

7th

parity

stop

PL-270 9 – 8

Parameter 27 can be used to insert ASCII null characters between messages. This should be done withcaution because too many null characters will require that the scan rate be slowed down even further, for thereason discussed previously.

The following ASCII characters are used:

ASCII Hexadecimal BinaryCharacter

STX* 02 0000 0010CR** 0D 0000 1101

0 30 0011 00001 31 0011 00012 32 0011 00103 33 0011 00114 34 0011 01005 35 0011 01016 36 0011 01107 37 0011 01118 38 0011 10009 39 0011 1001A 41 0100 0001B 42 0100 0010C 43 0100 0011D 44 0100 0100E 45 0100 0101F 46 0100 0110

NULL 00 0000 0000

*STX = Start of Text **CR = Carriage Return

Each time the LiquidRanger scans a point the following 27 character message is sent.

STX Start of Message

00 Message type, always 00

027 Point number, 000 to 099. Example shown: point 027

2743 Reading, 0000 to 9999, or DDDD if out of service, or EEEE of overflow. Example shown: 2743

E Status A, $0 to $F high bit = 1 if point is in service next bit = 1 if scanned once next bit = 1 if new reading low bit = 1 if on priority loop Example shown: in service, scanned once, new reading

PL-270 9 – 9

4 Status B, $0 to $F high bit = 1 if damping exceeded next bit = 1 if filling next bit = 1 if lost echo low bit = 1 if fail safe timer expired Example shown: filling

2 Status C, $0 to $F high bit = 1 if high high alarm next bit = 1 if high alarm next bit = 1 if low alarm

next bit = 1 if low low alarm Example shown: low alarm

2 Status D, $0 to $F high bit = 1 if high high alarm ackn next bit = 1 if high alarm ackn next bit = 1 if low alarm ackn next bit = 1 if low low alarm ackn Example shown: low alarm acknowledged

0 Status E, $0 to $F high bit = 1 if battery low next bit = reserved next bit = reserved low bit = reserved Example shown: battery is OK

3 Status F, $0 to $F high bit = reserved

next bit = reserved two low bits = number of digits after the decimal Example shown: 3 digits after decimal 1 Confidence, 00 to 99

2 Example shown: 12

400 12 bits for analog output, $000 to $FFF. Example shown: $400 = 5.000 milliamps 85 Air Temperature (+100C), $00 to $FF. Example shown: $85 – 100 = 120 – 100 = 20C

50 Liquid temp (+100C), $00 to $FF. Example shown: $50 – 100 = 80 – 100 = – 20C

LF Line feed

CR Carriage return and end of message

PL-270 9 – 10

When the key is turned from RUN to PROG the following message is transmitted:

STX01

LFCR

When the key is turned from PROG to RUN the following message is transmitted for each point which is notin service.

STX 0 3

0 3 4 Example shown: point number 34

LF CR

To acknowledge an alarm the RSM-60, BIC or customers computer will send the following message to theLiquidRanger.

STX 1

1

0 2 8 Example shown: point number 28

CR Optional LF before CR

The LiquidRanger will respond by transmitting the main message for that point. In this message the "newreading" bit will be set to 0.

PL-270 9 – 11

The LiquidRanger and its peripherals transmit each message twice. This is done to improve the probabilitythat at least one copy of the message reaches its destination without error. Only one message needs to bereceived correctly in order to carry out the command. All components of the LiquidRanger system aredesigned to ignore a message which is identical to the previous message. This allows double transmissionwithout burdening the receive device by having it perform the same task twice. If it is desired to have theLiquidRanger perform the same task twice, a padder message can be sent between identical messages.

STX 9 9 CR Optional line feed before carriage return

PL-270 9 – 12

STANDARD ENCLOSURE - OUTLINE AND MOUNTING

LIQUIDRANGER

356 mm(14")

203 mm(8")

mounting holes,11 mm (0.44") dia.,4 places

489 mm(19.25")

457 mm(18")

140 mm(5.5")

STANDARD NEMA 4 ENCLOSURE

BACKPAN ASSEMBLY WITH SWING OUT PANEL(open style)

mounting slot, 7 x 12 mm (0.26 x 0.5 "),4 places

optional SM-15 board,refer to manual PL-274,Peripherals

PS-20power supply

transceiver board

daughter board

406 mm(16")

battery sockets,refer to Installation\Internal Checks

117 mm(4.6")

19 mm(0.75")

298 mm(11.75")

FIG. 1

PL-270 10 – 1

LARGE ENCLOSURE - OUTLINE AND MOUNTING

LIQUIDRANGER

762 mm(30")

610 mm(24")

mounting hole,11 mm (0.44") dia,4 places

642 mm(25.25")

610 mm(24")

254 mm(10")

LARGE NEMA 4 ENCLOSURE

BACKPAN ASSEMBLY WITH SWING OUT PANEL(open style)

optional SM-15 board,refer to manual PL-274,Peripherals

PS-20 power supply

transceiver board

daughter board

533 mm(21")

battery sockets, refer to Installation\Internal Checks

137 mm(5.4")

482 mm(19")

686 mm(27")

635 mm(25")

mounting hole,9.5 mm (0.38") dia,4 places

FIG. 1A

PL-270 10 – 2

radiatingsurface

120 mm(4.7")

84 mm(3.3") dia.

STANDARD ST-25 TRANSDUCER

1" NPT

cable

ST-25/50 SERIES TRANSDUCER - OUTLINE AND WIRING

cable

radiatingsurface

STANDARD ST-50 TRANSDUCER

140 mm(5.5")

125 mm(4.9")

1" NPT

1" NPT

ST-25 120 mm (4.7")or

ST-50 125 mm (4.9")

Dia. A radiatingsurface

cable

bolt hole

25 mm(1")

factory bondedassembly

Dia. B

FLANGED MOUNTED ST-25 or ST-50 TRANSDUCER

SHIELD

HOT

CONNECTION VIA CUSTOMERJUNCTION BOX

transducercable

RG-62Ucoaxial cable

blackwhite

shield hot

LiquidRanger(note 6)

Notes: 1. Do not route cable openly in raceways.

2. Cable length: › standard: › 1m ( 3’ )› optional: › consult Milltronics

3. Radiating surface: › standard: › polyurethane› optional: › polyethylene, for dusty, non-corrosive, non-condensing applications

› CPVC, for corrosive applications› telfon (flanged), for highly corrosive applications

4. Cable must be run in a grounded metal conduit with no other cabling (except temp. sensor cable). Ground shield only at LiquidRanger. Insulate shield at junctions to prevent inadvertent grounding.

5. Transducer wiring must be done in conjuction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

6. For single point interconnection, refer to figure 11. For multipoint interconnection, refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM-15.

Dimensions are to North American standards.Optional dimensions to European and Asians standardsare also available.* Minimum flange size for ST-50 transducer.

Flange Size Dia. A Dia. B Holes Holes (dia.)

mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch

102 4 191 7.5 229 9 8 19 3/4

*152 6 241 9.5 279 11 8 22 7/8

203 8 299 11.75 343 13.5 8 22 7/8

305 12 432 17 483 19 12 22 7/8

FIG. 2PL-270 10 – 3

LR - 21 TRANSDUCER - OUTLINE AND WIRING

1" NPT

267 mm( 10.5" )

178 mm( 7.0" )

NOTES: 1. Do not route cable openly in raceways.

2. Cable length: › standard: 4.5 m (15’) › optional: consult Milltronics.

3. Radiating surface is polyethylene and styrofoam.

4. Cable must be run in a grounded metal conduit with no other cabling (except temperature sensor cable) Ground shield only at LiquidRanger. Insulate shield at junctions to prevent inadvertent grounding.

5. Transducer wiring must be done in conjunction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

6. For single pint interconnection, refer to Figure 11. For multipoint interconnection, refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM15.

FIG. 3

HOT

SHIELD

terminal blockin junction boxred (hot)

black

to approved ground ofjunction box and conduit

green

transducercable

RG62U cable

LiquidRanger(note 6)

Transducer interconnection with local junction box

shield

hot

shield

PL-270 10 – 4

152 mm( 6.0" )nominal

229 mm( 9.0" )

mounting hole,13 mm (0.5") dia,3 places

51 mm( 2.0" )

radiating face

284 mm( 11.2" )

102 mm( 4.0" )

HOT

SHIELD

terminal block injunction boxred (hot)

black

to approved ground of junctionbox and conduit

green

transducercable

RG-62U cable

Transducer interconnect ion with lo-cal junction box

shield

hot

shield

LiquidRanger(note 7)

NOTES: 1. Do not route cable openly in raceways.

2. Cable length: › standard: 4.5 m ( 15’ )› optional: consult Milltronics.

3. Radiating surface: › standard: › polyurethane› optional: › CPVC for corrosive applications

› Teflon (flanged) for highly corrosive applications› polyethylene foam for dusty, non-condensing applications.

4. Cable must be run in a grounded metal conduit with no other cabling (except temperature sensor cable). Ground shield at AiRanger XPL only. Insulate shield at junctions to prevent inadvertent grounding.

5. Transducer wiring must be done in conjunction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

6. Refer to Figure 8 for mounting details.

7. For single point interconnection, refer to Figure 11. For multipoint interconnection, refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM-15.

FIG. 4

ST-100 SERIES TRANSDUCER - OUTLINE AND WIRING

PL-270 10 – 5

cable,Belden 8760

TEMPERATURE SENSORS - OUTLINE AND WIRING

305 mm( 12 " )

3/4 " NPT

21 mm(0.8")dia.

227 mm( 9 " )

13 mm(0.5")dia.

3/4 " NPT

1/4 " NPT

60 mm( 2.3 " )

41 mm( 1.7 " )

dia.

1" NPT

TS-2CPVC plastic

LTS-1 LTS-1C304 Stainless Steel

1/2 " NPT

CSAFM, BASEEFA

NOTES :

1. The temperature sensor should be mounted in a location which represents the temperature fluctuationslikely to occur between the transducer and the target. To avoid false readings, mount the sensor out of directsunlight. Radiant heating can cause a significant differential between air and sensor temperatures.

2. Temperature sensor cable can be run with transducer cable in a grounded metal conduit. Ground shield onlyat LiquidRanger. Insulate shield at junctions to prevent inadvertent grounding.

3. Temperature sensor wiring must be done in conjunction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

4. Cable lengths : › standard : 1 m ( 3’)› optional : consult Milltronics

5. For single point interconnection, refer to figure 11.For multipoint interconnection, refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM-15. FIG. 5

SHLD

WHT

BLK BLK

WHT

SHLD

sensor cable

to LiquidRanger(note 5)

customer’s junction box

Temperature Sensor Wiring

PL-270 10 – 6

TRANSDUCER MOUNTING - LIQUID APPLICATIONS

Bracketflexible conduit

steel channel

* 1 " NPT PVCcoupling

transducerST-25 & ST-50

series

Plywood

* 1 " NPT PVCcoupling

Plywood mounting provides excellentisolation, but must be rigid enough toavoid flexing if subjected to loading.

Flexible conduit mounted transducer shouldnot be subjected to wind, vibration or jarring.

Flexible Conduit

Flange, gasket and hardware supplied by customer.Refer to Applications\Applications with Standpipes.

** nylon bolt5/8 " - 11

** nylon nut

*** flat face flange only

* 1" NPT PVCcoupling

Customer flanged standpipe. If metal flange, must be welded topipe. Refer to Applications\Applications with Standpipes.

* 1" NPT PVCnipple

** neoprene gasket( min. 1/4 " thk. )

Blind Flange Flanged Transducer

* Items supplied with all ST-25 & ST-50 transducers.** Items supplied with flanged transducers.

GUIDELINES :

1. Do not mount transducer directly to metal. Use PVC coupling and nipple as provided.

2. Do not overtighten mounting. Hand tightening of nylon bolts and nuts or PVC coupling and nipple is sufficient.

3. In liquid applications, transducer mount ( flange, bracket, conduit or plywood ) must keep transducer perpendicular to liquid surface.

4. Transducer installation, whether in non-hazardous ( as shown ) or hazardous areas, must be done in conjunction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

5. Flanges must be flat face only. ***Do not use raised face or lap joint flanges.*** Inner standpipe surface and ends must be smooth and free of burrs, ridges or seems.

FIG. 6PL-270 10 – 7

FIG. 7

hand tightenonly!

TRANSDUCER MOUNTING - SOLIDS APPLICATIONS

0

0 330

300

27

024

0

210

180150

120

90

60

30

conduit clamping screws ( 1/4" - 20 x 1/2" ),use 1/8" allen key to adjust

transducer direction 0° to 360°

sighting block binding screws

angle block binding screws

transducer angle 0° to 20°

mounting holes - 3 places 11 mm ( 7/16 " ) dia. on 157 mm( 6.2 " ) bolt centre dia.

angle block

sighting block

mounting block

3/4 " x 1 "reducing coupling

transducer( ST or LR series, except ST-100 )

76 mm( 3 " )

178 mm( 7 " )

3/4 " NPT aluminum conduitx 300 mm ( 12 " ) long

customer mounting plate. Refer totransducer outline for dimension details

minimum 90 mm ( 3.5" ) dia. clearance for transducer aiming

3/4 " locknut

cast aluminum

In solids applications, the t ransducer should be mounted so that it is aimed toward the low leveldraw point. To facil itate this mo unting, it is suggested that the optional Milltronics Easy Aimer Kitbe used.

PL-270 10 – 8

EASY AIMER KIT INSTALLATION

1. Assemble transducer to conduit via reducing coupling supplied and feedconduit through center hole of aiming fitting, secure assembly with the conduit clamping screws.

2. Install locknut onto top end of threaded conduit

3. Bolt down mounting block ( i.e. to access plate of bin ) in a location away fromfill points or structural members that may intersect the sound’s path toward the low level draw point.

4. Leaving the sighting block binding screws fastened, loosen the angle blockbinding screws. Rotate angle block until transducer is pointing at the desiredangle. Angle reference graduations on the sighting block are 3.3° apart; e.g. ifline at 0° on angle block is 2 graduations past the 0° on the sightingblock, then transducer is angled at 6.6° from vertical.

Re-fasten angle block binding screws.

5. Loosen the sighting block binding screws and rotate sighting block untiltransducer is pointing in the desired direction. Direction reference graduationson the mounting block are 30° apart.

Re-fasten sighting block binding screws.

NOTE : It may take several attemps at various angles/directions to obtainoptimum results. Refer to sections Installation\Transducers andTroubleshooting\General for guidelines in aiming the transducer.

FIG. 7APL-270 10 – 9

FIG. 8

TRANSDUCER MOUNTING - ST-100

standpipe mounting :- mimimum dia. 318 mm ( 12.5 " )

Typical Solids Application

mounting plate or blind flange

washer

rubber washersor grommet

to junction box,Refer to Fig. 4 mounting plate

refer to mounting detail

Typical Liquid Appl ication

Mounting Detail

transducer

threaded studs provideadjustment for sightingtransducer

bolt

washer

to junction box,Refer to Fig. 4

refer to mounting detail

nut

blind flange

gasket

NOTES :

1. In liquid applications, mounting must keep face parallel to liquid surface.

2. In solids applications, mounting should allow transducer to be aimed at the draw point at the bottomof the bin.

3. Transducer installation, whether in non-hazardous ( as shown ) or hazardous areas, must be done in in conjunction with approved conduit, boxes and fittings and to procedures in accordance with all governing regulations.

4. For single point interconnection, refer to Figure 11.For multipoint interconnection, refer to manual PL-274, Peripherals\SM-15.

5. All mounting hardware supplied by customer.

PL-270 10 – 10

FIG. 9

TYPICAL VOLUME APPLICATION

3

4

1

2

run

rise

tank manufacture’s full level

axis of transmission

span: corresponds to tankmanufacture’s capacity specification

tank manufacturer’s empty level

Maximum empty level forempty calibration. Below thislevel, transducer may read binbottom and not liquid level.

discharge

Maximum full level for fullcalibration. Above this levelerroneous readings willresult as level has enteredblanking zone.

beam angle

inletnear blanking ( P-05 )

- 3 dB

1. Beam should not detect bin bottom. If this occurs, use range extension (P-26) to omit false echoes. Refer to section Applications\Applications with Standpipes for rise to run ratio of transducer beams. In most tanks, the transducershould be centered as much as possible ( without interference from inlet ) for optimum reading range.

2. Transducer face must be parallel to liquid surface. If standpipe is used, refer to section Applications\Applications withStandpipes and Figure 8 or 10.

3. Echo has missed improperly leveled transducer.

4. When performing an empty or full calibration, tank must contain its normal vapour and be at its normal temperature.

PL-270 10 – 11

FIG. 10

TYPICAL SOLIDS APPLICATIONS

1

2

1

1

emptying profile

bin wall seams

optional aiming fitting

1. Transducer too close to materialinlet. Falling material will intersectsound beam and cause erroneousreadings or loss of echo.

1. Transducer angled to avoid seams in bin wall and aimed at discharge in order to read bin when empty.

2. Avoid intersecting bin wall seams,structural members and wall irregularities. Otherwise, refer toTroubleshooting\Advanced Calibation.

1. On fluid like solids, aim transducerperpendicular to material surface.

On dual discharge bins, aim eachtransducer at the discharge point belowand select average analog output.

transducer

minimal angle of repose

discharge

filling profile

PL-270 10 – 12

FIG. 10A

TYPICAL SOLIDS APPLICATIONS (cont’d)

3 2 1

infeed

agitator

STORAGE BIN WITH AGITATOR

1. Transducer should be kept away from infeed2. Where agitators are in use, set P-45 = 13. Transducer should be aimed away from wall projections

PL-270 10 – 13

FIG. 11

PS-20 power supply board

SINGLE POINT INTERCONNECTION

24 V DC

ON

POWER

OFF

LIQ. TEMP.

LOW

HIGH

NEUT. INNEUT. OUT

TRANSDUCER OUT

TRANSDUCER IN

AIR TEMP.

mA OUT

TRANSMIT

RECEIVERC1

TB1

GR. OUTGR. IN

L1 OUTL1 IN115 V AC230 V AC115 V AC

43

4142

40393837363534

33323130292827262524232221201918

1716151413121110987654321

HOT

HOT

SHIELD

SHIELD

+_

SHIELD

SHIELD_+

SHIELD

SHIELD_+

+_

_+SHIELD_+

+_SHIELD

SHIELD_+

customer’sjunction

liquid temp sensor (note 3)

air temp sensor (note 3)

main power(see note 2)

if a liquid temperature sensor is notused, terminate TB1-24/25 with a9.53 KΩ resistor

if an air temperature sensor is notused, terminate TB!-27/28 with a9.53 KΩ resistor

from LiquidRanger motherboard RC2, factory connectedfrom transceiver

board, factory wired

transducer(note 3)

NOTES: 1. wiring by customer unless otherwise noted.

2.. For 115 V AC operation, wire jumper across TB1 terminals 34 to 35 and 36 to 37. For 230 V AC operation, wire a jumper across TB1 terminals 35 to 36 only. Refer to PS-20 silkscreen.

3. For multipoint systems, refer to instruction manual PL-274, Peripherals.

PL-270 10 – 14

PL-270

Schematics not included in 'Soft Manual'.