Using the guarded hot plate apparatus λ-Meter EP500e (guarded hot plate apparatus) is ideal in combination with the PC-test and evaluation software "EP500-Control Program" which can be run on all windows versions. To this end the tool must be linked to a PC workstation (via a Bluetooth or RS232-interface).
The software can be used in various languages on the same guarded hot plate apparatus λ-Meter EP500e (German, English, French, Czech, Russian).
Multiple guarded hot plate apparatus units can be run by one PC using the same software (Multisession).
Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden provides an ideal support for tool users in case of problems or tool errors. If the tool user has opted for the software, he can have Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden do a remote examination of his guarded hot plate apparatus and respective reports will be sent to him (e.g. reports in accordance with ISO 9000)
The "EP500-Control Program" facilitates an easy and convenient operation of the Thermal Conductivity Test Tool λ-Meter EP500e as well as a comprehensive processing, evaluation and storage of test results.
The tool can be set to process and transfer test results to other networks immediately after each test or following a preselection if the company has a separate or centralised data processing system.
The text below will outline the software scope.
The start-up menu is for data entry of specimen and test parameters. The following information needs to be defined:
- Test identification, specimen designation
- Single or serial test (number of test temperatures)
- Test temperature(s)
- Temperature difference between sensor-plates
- Criterion for automatic test termination (time period for which the test result must show constant behaviour and may not exceed a percentage margin)
- Optional calculation of thickness effect with EPS in accordance with EN 13163 table
- Key for calculating the declared value of thermal resistance (e.g. nominal thickness)
- Selection of database files for saving the test results
- Input of all additional information on the specimen to be tested
The raw density can be entered or will automatically be computed from other parametrical data (specimen mass and size).
Specimen thickness and test pressure will be provided by the the test tool.
If the temperature coefficient of thermal conductivity for the specimen to be tested is known it can be entered. This will help you to get the value of λ10 as extra test result well for a random test temperature (e.g. Tm = 23 °C).
Menus can be saved and reused to keep the data input at a minimum. Parameters of similar tests can be searched, selected and then copied to reduce redundant data entry.
It is also possible to enter these data for successive tests at once and in advance, so that for carrying out the tests only the physical changing of the specimen will be required. This can then be done by almost any staff without special training as no accompanying data entry is needed.
The test or test series can be monitored on-line on the screen of a PC workstation (with a test update every 30 seconds). It can also be mapped in the background if the monitor is being used otherwise. All three test of a serial test can be mapped together or individually. A close-up and enhanced presentation can be done by zoom.
The graph of the settling time includes green lines representing the deviation range (e.g. ±1 % of current value) from the set termination criterion. This facilitates a sound decision as to when the test has sufficiently settled and can be terminated.
The test results are shown after completion of the test and include the specimen designation, the test no., the test temperature, time and date of termination as well as the measured thermal conductivity.
All lambda-time graphs can be saved, printed and retrieved for comparative purposes.
The test results are shown after termination of a single or serial measurement together with the most important parameters of a test. The results include the computed values for λ10, R10 and TK based on linear regression.
By clicking "Save" the menu "Additional information" will open and allow the entry of additional test data. All this will be part of the selected database file and saved accordingly.
The number of database files that can be created is unlimited. The columns for the test parameters and results are predefined and standardised. With saving the test results a line record is given to each test and the results, parameters, entry data and additional information will be entered in the respective column. This allows an in-depth and comparative review of results and their pertinent information. Database files can also be transferred into another software, e.g. EXCEL. All lines and columns can be individually selected, sorted and re-arranged in order or size for printing or gaining a wider view.
The database software will automatically calculate the λ90,90-value and the declared value for conductivity λD as well as R90,90 and declared value for thermal resistance RD in accordance with appendix A of the European Insulating Materials Standards (EN 13162 ... 13171). It will instantly recalculate these values as soon as a new reading is included. If a manufacturer of insulating materials wants to qualify for CE-certification, selective results may be put together and desired λ90,90-values can be reached more readily. Similarly results can be saved in multiple files, file records can be copied or cut and pasted, divided and added randomly. It is also possible to include external results (e.g. a test institute). The removal of a single or multiple file records may positively influence the λ90,90-value and unwanted records can be deleted temporarily as well as permanently.
Test reports can be compiled for test series of up to six individual tests (A4 format) in any chosen language, the template complies with the format used by established test institutes (according to EN 12667 paragraph 9, test report). Reports can be saved and printed. They typically list all test results, parameters and conditions. They also show lambda-temperature-graph with the corresponding values and polynomial line.
The company logo of the tool manufacturer Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden will appear in the top right hand corner of the report. In the top left hand corner the company logo of the tool owner may be inserted.
The report may be altered to the individual needs of the owner (e.g. add a line for signature).
Test report for download (*.pdf, ~ 18 kB)
The "EP500-Control Program“-package also includes a module on service thus guaranteeing a quality service at all levels.
If the tool operator has difficulties with the tool (e.g. no test value or a test value other than expected) he can contact the tool manufacturer by simply clicking the mouse on the button “contact tool manufacturer”:
By clicking the key „Attach test data“ will retrieve any test data file records (few A4 pages with numerical data) of the last maximum 12 single or serial test including detailed internal data on all test and regulation circuits of the guarded hot plate apparatus λ-Meter EP500e and add it to the report.
By clicking the function “Attach signal-time-graph” the entire time-graphs of all relevant test signals will be retrieved from the latest and most recent test and attached to the problem report. These include the graphs of all (17!) temperature and heat-flow test signals, of the current and voltage of the heater and of thermal conductivity from start to end of test. This is needed for analysing the performance of the guarded hot plate apparatus λ-Meter EP500e.
All these data are saved in the tool for random access. They will only be written over and updated by new data.
A saved lambda-time-graph can be selected from the shown list of “temporary graphs” and be added to the problem report. Another database file (and its index file) can also be included in the report. If the guarded hot plate apparatus λ-Meter EP500e controlling PC is linked to the internet the problem report can be sent to the laboratory of Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden for further action. If however there is no direct link to the internet the report can be saved by clicking the “save” button. It can then be transferred onto another PC workstation and e-mailed from there to the laboratory of Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden.
The “problem report for error analysis” contains all relevant data for identifying the error and enables the tool supplier to do a qualified diagnosis of the error over distance for immediate remedy.
For using this service you don’t need to make phone calls. Knowledge of the German or English language is not necessary.
The “problem report for error analysis” will be processed by our staff immediately after receipt. You will have our response within a few hours.
The review of the “problem report for error analysis” is done free of charge not just within the warranty period but for many years after the warranty has lapsed.
We will know if the problem was caused by incorrect operational action or input (e.g. during tool operations training). In such case we will provide an immediate response by telephone or e-mail and give appropriate support for remedy.
Similarly we will be able to identify a tool failures.
We can remedy tool failures in many cases without on-site repair or service. The tool is fitted with a number of redundant components which will be activated in case of a tool down by changing the customised software.
Or else we will provide detailed instructions so that you can remedy the failure yourself. Alternatively you may disassemble the printed circuit board and return it to us for repair.
The printed circuit boards of the tool are mounted and arranged in systematic order. They cannot be mistaken. The user will nevertheless get detailed instructions for disassembly with illustrations and explanations in his mother language. Even an unexperienced layman can easily carry out the replacement.
In case of an error or a tool down a return of the tool to Dresden will only be necessary in exceptional cases. And this also applies to the time long after expiry of warranty.
If a tool has been returned to us in Dresden, we will take care of its service immediately. We will do the repair and send it back to you as soon as possible. We try to keep tool-down times at a minimum. If necessary a replacement tool can be provided for the interim.
The tool user may also use the “problem report for error analysis” for proving and documenting that his tool has not had any test errors during the operations period (e.g. reports according to ISO 9000). The results of the tests on the reference specimen, which are done at regular intervals are e-mailed in the format of the „problem report for error analysis” and to the laboratory of Lambda-Meßtechnik GmbH Dresden for evaluation. The laboratory will then analyse these data. The report helps to identify internal tool deviations for the individual variables that are used to calculate the conductivity even if the test values have no significant discrepancy. All results of this examination will be documented in another report. If actual discrepancies will occur anytime the tool user will of course get the best support possible to remedy the deviation and the tool will be restored to maximum accuracy.