Particle Counting System for

Liquids
PAMAS SBSS/SBSS WG

Operation Manual

PAMAS Partikelmess- und Analysesysteme GmbH

PAMAS SBSS Instruction Manual 20110404

Operation Manual PAMAS SBSS/SBSS WG

REV 20100826SB
REV 20100920SB Changing the Syringe
REV 20110404SB Magnetic Stirrer

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation. All trademarks and product names mentioned
herein are properties of their respective owners and companies.

All information given herein may be changed without being

notified.

No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted by any

form or by any means without permission of PAMAS.

© 2011 PAMAS Partikelmess- und Analysesysteme GmbH

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PAMAS SBSS Instruction Manual 20110404

Table of Contents About this manual........................................................................... 5

1 Safety Precautions...…………………………………………………. 6
2 Laser Safety Information……………………………………………. 8
3 Unpacking………….…………………………………………………. 10
4 Description…………….……………………………………………… 11
4.1. Basic Features………………………………………………………. 11
4.2 Electrical Connection………………………………………………. 11
4.3 Technical Data……………………………………………………… 11
4.4 Software……………………………………………………………... 11
The SBSS………………………………………………………………….. 12
5 Installation……............................................................................ 13
Protecting the Instrument……………………………………………………………. 13
Connecting up…………………………………………………………………………… 14
Control via an external Computer…………………………………………………… 14
6 Making a measurement...…………………………………………… 15
Preparing to measure………………………………………………………………….. 15
Old Sample left in the System?............................................................................. 15
Open Dome………………………………………………………………………………. 15
All Settings done?.................................................................................................. 15
Starting Measurement…………………………………………………. 16
Terminating Measurement……………………………………………. 16
Printing…………………………………………………………………... 16
Shutting Down………………………………………………………….. 16
Displaying Measurement Results…………………………………….. 17
Differential Presentation……………………………………………. 17
Cumulative Presentation……………………………………………. 17
7 Settings via Soft-Keys……………..…………………………………. 18
7.1 Calling up the Set-up Menus……………………………………... 18
7.2 Setup Menu…………………………………………………………. 19
Sample ID……………………………………………………………… 19
Preparation Setup……………………………………………………. 19
7.3. Measurement Settings…………………………….……..………. 20
Sequence of Operations……………………………………………….. 21
7.4 Rinse Setup................................................................................ 22
7.5 Diameter Settings..……………………………………………….... 22
7.6 System Settings……….…………………………………………….. 23
7.7 User Authorization………………………………………………… 24
Changing Password……………………………………………………………………. 24
Standard Operator……………………………………………………………………… 24
Measurement Set-up…………………………………………………………………… 24
System Set-up……………………………………………………………………………. 24
Administrator…………………………………………………………………………… 24
Overview…………………………………………………………………………………. 25

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8 Maintenance ………………………………….……………………… 26
8.1. Rinsing………………………………………………………………. 26
Rinse Volume……………………………………………………………………………. 26
Rinse Rate………………………………………………………………………………… 26
Rinse Fluids …………………………………………………………………………….. 26
Start Rinse………………………………………………………………………………. 26
Checking Cleanliness………………………………………………………………….. 26
8.2 Back-flush of the System .………………………………………… 27
8.3 Changing Printer Thermo Paper Roll…………………………… 27
8.4 Changing the Syringe……………………………………………… 28
8.5 Setting Operation Voltage……………………………………….. 29
9 Service……………………………………………………………..…… 31
Appendix: SBSS Water-Glycol Systems............................................ 32
Results reporting to SAE AS 4059……………………………………………………. 32
SBSS set up for SAE AS 4059………………………………………………………….. 33
SBSS set up for NAS 1638….………………………………………………………….. 34
Declaration of Conformity………................................................... 35

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About this This manual gives a description what has to be done to use and
manual run the PAMAS SBSS in a way that gives the best safety and
makes the best use of its properties. We encourage you to read
thoroughly all the instructions given in this manual.

Please pay special attention to all safety instructions. Make sure

that you have understood the meaning of what is written herein
and that you are able to follow the instructions. Take care of all
governmental or administrative regulations and safety
precautions.

Please, do not abuse the instrument in a way that it is not in

compliance with the descriptions given herein or in special
written agreements with PAMAS.

In case of any problem you face when using a PAMAS SBSS

system, and if all description given in this manual is insufficient
to solve the problem, or you are in doubt, please feel free to
contact your local PAMAS dealer or PAMAS headquarter.

PAMAS is running a continuous improvement process.

Improvements only can be done when knowing about the
problems that come from applications or the use of certain
equipment. Please, give us support in improving our products:
Tell us what we can do better in future.

Please, be aware that only well calibrated measurement systems

can give reliable results. We are ready to give you the needed
support for doing all the service and calibration you need for
your instrument.

PAMAS offers service on demand as well as service contracts. Feel

free to ask us what we can do for you. We will supply you with
the needed information if possible. This ensures you that your
PAMAS particle counter will give good service for the longest
possible period.

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PAMAS SBSS Instruction Manual 20110404

1 Safety
Precautions

This symbol highlights WARNINGs for dangerous situations with

risk of personal injury or damage.

This symbol highlights important information, which may make life

easier for you.

To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read all the instructions

given in the manual, on the product, or on safety sheets shipped
with tools, parts, or the product. Make sure that you understand all
instructions before attempting to operate any equipment.

Whenever you want to perform actions on that instrument, please

make sure that you checked possible risks first. You must satisfy
yourself that your planned actions are safe for you and others. We
only can give you advice in cases where tools, actions, and
procedures are defined by us. Make sure the product or its
environment will not be damaged or be made unsafe by any action
you perform.

Any person who will be allowed to work on this instrument,

perform any repair, installation, or calibration need to be trained
well and need to have the appropriate tools available. Otherwise
there is the risk of injury or damage to the system.

If any doubt arises about the correct, safe method of performing

any action on the instrument, do not proceed! Seek out expert
assistance or supervision from a qualified person. If needed, feel
free to contact PAMAS headquarter directly.

The safety information provided in this manual serves as a basic

guide in an attempt to prevent injury or death. Please, be aware
that PAMAS cannot anticipate every possible risk or circumstance
that might involve a possible hazard. This makes it impossible to
give warnings for every possible risk in this manual or on the
product.

All warranty is void in case of any other use than described in this
manual.
There is the risk of severe injury to man and even death in case of
abuse of the instrument.
There is the risk of damage to the instrument and any installation
in case of abuse of the instrument.
PAMAS will not be liable in case of any use other than described in
this manual and without written agreement from PAMAS.

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Avoid injury caused by slipping or falling. Do not allow tools or

parts lying around the work area. Remove and clean up spilled
fluids immediately.

Check tubes, hoses and connectors carefully. Follow basic safety

precautions when doing that. Do not use your bare hand to check
for potential leaks. Use a cardboard or some paper when checking
for a leak.

Personal injury or death can result from a fire. Flammable liquids

may cause fire hazards, especially when spilled on hot surfaces or
electrical components.
Do not smoke while working on or near any flammable fluid.
Clean up all leaked or spilled flammable fluid immediately.

Make sure you use all necessary protective equipment required to

do the job. Prevent sparks, flames, and smoking around dangerous
substances. Do not eat or drink around dangerous substances.

Use basic precautions when working with electrical components to

prevent injury or death. Contact with batteries or electrical
components may cause injury or death.

Water and other liquids conduct electric current and can create a
short circuit resulting in injury or death. Keep all liquids away from
electrical components and other sources of electricity.
Do not create a short circuit between a source of electricity and a
liquid by being in contact with both simultaneously.

The PAMAS SBSS is protected against damage by electrostatic

discharge (ESD) to a high extent. This is limited to a system, which is
connected to power supply with protective earth PE and
communication lines correctly, with the housing being closed.

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2 Laser Safety For your own safety take note of the following safety precautions.
Information

Laser Safety This product incorporates a sensor which operates by means of a

laser. There is no possibility of danger from the laser, provided that
the product is operated according to the instructions in this manual.

Since radiation emitted by the laser is completely confined within

protective housings and external covers, the laser beam cannot
escape from the device during any phase of user operation.

This product is certified as a Class 1 laser product under U.S.

Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation
Performance Standard according to the Radiation Control for
Health and Safety Act of 1968. This means that the product does
not produce hazardous laser radiation.

Internal Laser Radiation Maximum Average Power: 4.2 mW inside the sensor
Wavelength: 670 nm

This product employs a Class 3R laser diode that has a visible beam.
The laser diode is incorporated in a closed sensor unit. The sensor
unit is in the interior of the product. The laser beam is emitted
inside the long tube of the sensor unit and cannot escape from the
sensor housing during any phase of operation.

Warning! The sensor unit, which is incorporated inside the product,

should not be opened under any circumstances.

Laser Caution for United CDRH-Regulations: This product is certified as a Class I laser product
States Users under the Regulation Performance Standard according to the Food,
Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1990. Compliance is mandatory for laser
products marketed in the United States and is reported to the
Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) of the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Department of Health and
Human Services (DHHS). This means that the product does not
produce hazardous laser radiation. The label shown below indicates
compliance with the CDRH regulations and must be attached to
laser products marketed in the United States.

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Laser Safety Label

The laser safety label is located at the rear panel of the product.

CAUTION: Use of controls, adjustments or performance of

procedures other than those specified in this manual may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.

This is a semiconductor laser. The maximum power of the laser is 5

mW and the wavelength is 670 nm.

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3 Unpacking Report packing damage of your Pamas SBSS immediately to your

handling agent and PAMAS GmbH. Also, on removing the
instrument from the packaging, note and advise any instrument
damage.
Keep the packaging. It will be useful to you should you need to send
the instrument back for service or re-calibration.

Please check that the following items have been included:

• SBSS Portable Particle Analyser

• Power Cord
• Drain tube with hydraulic connector
• Calibration Table(s) and Certificate(s): it belongs
specifically to your instrument, please ensure that it is kept
safely
• Compressor/dryer unit with two pump tubes with pneumatic
connectors
• Package with 5 rolls of thermal printer paper
• in case you wish to drive the system from an external
computer: cable for an RS232 serial connection, CD-ROM
with the software and operation manual for the installation
of the software

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4 Description

4.1. Basic Features • particle counting system for contamination control of:
- hydraulic oils
- insulation- and turbine oils
- gear- and motor oils
- organic fluids
- solvents
• in combination with the USP software the system may be
used for pharmaceutical applications of higher viscous fluids
• constant sample flow and exact volume control by adjustable
piston movement against pressure
• pre-adjustable and automated sample evacuation
• hardcopies of measurement results with built-in printer
• results according to particles numbers, ISO, NAS and SAE
classes
• RS-232 serial port for connection to a PC

4.2. Electrical Power Supply 100V, 120V, 230V and 240V

Connection
Communication RS-232 serial port

4.3 Technical Data Weight 28 kg

Dimensions 400 mm x 280 mm x 600 mm
Ambient Temperature 5 °C – 40 °C
Relative Humidity max. 70 %
Calibration ISO 4402
ISO 11171
ASTM F 658-80,
other calibrations on request

Compatibility of the The housing is covered with resistant polyester.

Sample Fluid The main materials coming into contact with the sample fluids are:

• stainless steel 1.0161 (St 37-2) and 1.4571 (V4A)

• borosilicate glass
• PTFE (Teflon)
• NBR

Attention! When in doubt contact the service department of

PAMAS GmbH.

4.4. Software - PMA Software for contamination control of fluids

- USP Software for pharmaceutical applications
- ASD Software for size distribution analysis

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The SBSS

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5 Installation Choose a dry and clean location for the instrument to stand safely.

Protecting the Protect the instrument from

Instrument – strong sunlight
– high humidity
– strong vibration
– explosive or chemically aggressive environments
– heavy objects placed on top of the equipment.

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Connecting up Warning! Check the voltage selector setting! (see also chapter 8.5)
Connect a pump tube
– from the ‘Vacuum’ port of the SBSS to the vacuum input on the
compressor
– from the ‘Output’ of the dryer unit to the ‘Pressure’ input port
of the SBSS.
Connect the ‘Drain’ tube from the SBSS and lead it away to a
container for collecting the ‘dumped' sample fluid. To connect the
tube, first loosen the screw cap of the tube connector, fir the tube
and tighten the screw cap fitting, firmly.

Warning! When using sample fluids that can develop harmful

vapors: Vent ‘Exhaust’ port on the rear side of the SBSS unit
to a safe outside environment. If organic solvents are measured,
the delivered compressor with air dryer unit must not be used for
degassing the sample. The vapor of the solvent would damage the
material of the air dryer.

The power to operate the compressor is provided by connecting the

power cable to the connector on the back side of the SBSS.
Connect the power cable of the SBSS to the main supply.

Control via an Connect the RS232 serial port on the back side of the SBSS to the
external Computer serial port of the external computer using the serial cable provided.
For software installation see the relevant instruction manual.
Externally entered parameters overwrite those manually entered
into the SBSS.

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6 Making a In this chapter you will find a description how to perform a particle
measurement measurement of your sample.

Preparing to Prepare a liquid sample in a suitable beaker. Be sure that the liquid
Measure is mixed thoroughly. If the sample contents a lot of air bubbles it is
recommended to remove most of the air by the use of an ultrasonic
bath. Otherwise the sample may foam while degassing in the
pressure dome.

Stirrer In order to stir the fluid during the measurement, there is a

magnetic stirrer on the sample stage available.
Control of the stirrer speed is trough a rotatable knob on the back
side of the SBSS.

Old Samples left in Make sure that the system is free of old material used in previous
the System? analyses. Previously analyzed material is likely to contaminate the
sample.
If necessary, rinse the system!
Also carefully wipe the take-up tube.

Open Dome Turn the handles in a clockwise direction. Loosen the base of the
pressure dome and move it down. Place the sample beaker on to the
dome base under the take-up tube and re-close the dome. Move the
handles in an anti-clockwise direction to close securely.
Note: The compressor will only operate when the pressure dome is
completely secure.

All Settings done? – Have you entered a sample number (ID)?

– Are all measurement parameters correctly set?
– Is the correct diameter set entered?
– Have you installed a container to catch the drained sample?
– Have you turned on the printer?

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Starting Press the ‘Start’ soft-key in the start-up screen.

Measurement Measurement values will be displayed on-line.
During the measurement you can change over to another form of
presentation.
Above left in the display is the current status in force.

Terminating To cancel the measurement process press the ‘Abort’ soft-key in the
Measurement start-up screen. The syringe stops immediately and the pressure is let
off.
Results of completed measurements are printed out. Results also
appear in the display of the last measurement.
A measurement is regarded as completed when the syringe piston
returns to its parked position.

Printing The SBSS automatically prints out the result of a measurement,

provided the printer is switched on prior to the end of the
measurement.
To turn on the printer, depress the soft-key ‘Print’ in the start-up
menu until you see a reverse image.
The print-out provides the results in tabular form for both
cumulative and differential format.
The results are referenced to the volume of the sample measured.
After a measurement ‘run’ of more than one measurement the
average of all measurements is given calculated on the preset
reference volume. Also printed are the ISO 4406 and NAS 1638
classes, or ISO 4406 (c ) and SAE AS4059D classes, depending on
which calibration type was selected and provided that the channel
boundaries have been correctly defined.

Shutting Down Clean the system and rinse out all traces of sample fluid if you do
not want to make further measurements. Flush the system after-
wards with a suitable liquid.

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Displaying The format of results presentation may be selected during or after

Measurement the measurement process.
Results
Previous results can be called up in the display by using the soft-key
until they are either overwritten or the instrument is switched off.
Tip! Results will not be lost if printed out.

Press the soft-key ‘Display’. You can call up the different formats of
presentation.
Tip! The soft-key always appears with the next available possibility

Table Tabular list of measurement results per channel

Graphics Measurement results shown as a bar chart

Particles Number of measured particles

Percent Measured particles per channel as a percentage of the total number

of particles measured in all channels

Cum./Diff. The soft-key ‘Display2’ enables results in cumulative or differential

format.

Differential The measurement results for a

Presentation given channel includes the
diameter of that channel as well
as the total number of particles
of all larger particles, but smaller
than the size of the higher
channel.
For example: You have selected for Channel 6: 25 µm and for
Channel 7: 50 µm.
In Channel 6 all particles between 25 µm and 50 µm will be counted.

Cumulative The measurement results for a

Presentation given channel includes the
diameter of that channel as well
as the total number of particles
of all larger sized particles.

For example: You have selected for Channel 6: 25 µm, for Channel
7: 50 µm and for Channel 8: 100 µm
In Channel 6 all particles of 25 µm and larger are counted.

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7 Settings via After delivery you will find your PAMAS SBSS with settings ready to
Soft-Keys make directly a measurement.

In this chapter you will find further information to adapt the systems
to your own needs and requirements.

7.1 Calling up the Press in the main screen the soft-key ‘setup’. This leads into sub-
Set-up Menu menus

Menu Selection For menu selection choose the menu-number via the number key-
pad.

Selecting To select pre-programmed values choose the required value via the
Pre-programmed number key-pad.
Values

Selecting Values To select values, use the number keys. Entry fields are laid out
inversely. To cancel existing numbers use the ‘Backspace’ key and
confirm using the ‘Return’ key.

Back to the next The change is effected by entering a ‘0’.

highest menu level

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7.2. Setup Menu Use the soft-key setup and find the following settings for the
measurement

Sample ID Allocate a maximum 8 digit number to identify the measurement.

Preparation Setup Tip! Experiment with your sample fluid in order to achieve the best
results. They are dependent on the make-up of your fluid.

Pre-fill Volume Volume in ml of sample fluid passed through the sensor prior to de-
gassing. Expels the air in the system.
Experience suggests a value of ca. 5 ml.

Pressure Up-time Time in seconds that the compressor needs to pressurize.

The compressor provided achieves ca.:
1 bar in 10 seconds, 6-7 bar in ca. 60 seconds.

Pressure Regulation The pressure regulator ‘Pressure’ regulates the operating pressure in
the pressure dome:
Closing the valve by turning clockwise increases the pressure.
Opening the valve by turning anti-clockwise reduces the pressure.
Observe the manometer ‘Pressure’ and note the time that the
compressor needs to reach the required pressure. Set the
corresponding pressure built up time in the ‘Menu’.
Tip! The air pressure is sufficiently high when the syringe pulls in the
sample fluid without bubbles being present.
In most case the pressure regulator ‘Vacuum’ can remain completely
open. For sample fluids with low vapor pressure the operating value
of the vacuum may be regulated.
Hints for Trials Low viscosity fluids: 2 bar in 15 seconds
High viscosity fluids: 4 to 5 bar in 40 seconds.

Pressure Down-time Time in seconds need for de-pressurization.

Dependent on pressure, ca. 3 to 5 seconds.

Vacuum Period Time in seconds which is needed to remove air bubbles from your
sample.
Note: Time should be set such that no bubbles can be seen rising to
the liquid’s surface.
If organic solvents are measured, the delivered compressor with air
dryer unit must not be used for degassing the sample. The vapors
of the solvent would damage the material of the air dryer.

Vacuum Down-time Time in seconds required for vacuum to reach atmospheric pressure,
usually ca. 1 second suffice.

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7.3 Measurement
Settings

Pre-run Volume Prior to measurement the volume of de-gassed liquid drawn into the
system.
Experience suggests a value of ca. 3 ml.

Measurement The amount of fluid in ml passed through the sensor during a

Volume measurement period.

Analysis Volume The average of the measurement shows the particle count related to
this volume.

Measurements/Run Number of automatic sequenced measurements in a run.

Fill Rate Speed in ml/min at which the sample passes through the sensor and
syringe during measurement.
Important! Never change! Value must agree with the calibration
table. Otherwise false measurement values may be obtained.

Emptying Rate Speed in ml/min at which the sample is emptied from the syringe.
Higher values of fill rate are possible in order to save time.
Warning! For reasons of safety observe maximum values! There is
a danger that the syringe could burst.

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Sequence of Operations

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7.4 Rinse Setup Please see chapter 8.1

7.5 Diameter
Setting

Choosing Type of Select ‘Diameters’ in the main menu. Select ‘Calibration’ and choose
Calibration the requested type of calibration: AC (calibration according to ISO
4402) or NIST (calibration according to ISO 11171).

Selecting Diameter For each type of calibration 4 different diameter sets are stored.
Set Select ‘Diameters’ in the main menu and view the actual diameter
set selected.
Select a number between 1 and 4 in order to change to another
diameter set.

Editing/ Select ‘Diameters’ in the main menu. Selecting ‘Edit Set’ will now
Changing Diameter show all four stored diameter sets. By choosing a diameter set you
Set will see a table listing of the individual diameters and their
respective threshold voltage values.
Enter the following values in ascending order:
– The diameter in µm to two decimal places
– The respective voltage value in mV to one decimal place.
Important! For the diameters, use the mV threshold settings found
in the calibration table.
Using the soft-keys ‘UP’, ‘DOWN’, ‘PREV’ and ‘NEXT’ call up the
diameter and relevant mV threshold values.
Using the soft-key ‘EXIT’ you may re-select one of the four ‘Diameter
Sets’.

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7.6 System Settings Press the key ‘Setup’ in the main screen, select then the key ‘Misc.
Setup’.

Syringe Size/ Please see chapter 8.4

Install Syringe

Date and Time Time and date are printed with the results.
To set them select ‘Misc Settings’ in the main menu and find them in
a sub-menu.

Display Language Results are printed in German or English.

To set one of them select ‘Other Settings’ in the main menu and find
them in a sub-menu.
Selecting one of them closes the menu.

Computer Baudrate Serial communication port speed with an external computer.

Default: 9600 Baud
In order to change the rate select ‘Misc Settings’ in the main menu.
In the sub-menu select ‘Host Baudrate’. Rates available are: 110, 300,
600, 1200, 1800, 2400, 4800 and 9600 Baud.
Selecting one of them closes the menu.

Number of Channels Select ‘Misc Settings’ in the main menu and find ‘Channels’. In the
active entry field it is possible to reduce the number channels of your
SBSS. Minimum are 4 channels.
The number of channels of your SBSS has may be read off the built-
in microprocessor.
The 3rd and 4th number defines the channels, e.g. SYS-3216 v4.0
denotes that is has 16 channels.

LCD Setup Adjust the contrast of the LCD-display. You might increase –
decrease the contrast or invert the display brightness.

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7.7 User Select ‘Misc Setup’ from the main menu and choose ‘User Level’. You
Authorization may choose one of four user levels of authorization.
– Standard Operator
– Measurement Set-up
– System Set-up
– Administrator
To change from the current status to a higher level requires the use
of a password.

Changing Password Passwords can only be changed under the user-level ‘Administrator’.
In the sub-menu ‘Edit Password’ valid password names are indicated
in parentheses.
Select the password you wish to change. Enter in the field ‘Please
enter Password’ the new password of your choice of up to four
characters and confirm with ‘Enter’.

Standard Operator In the user-level ‘Operator’ only the following are available:
– ID number allocation
– Operation of soft-keys

Measurement Set-up In the user-level ‘Measurement Set-up’ the following measurement

parameters cannot be set: Fill rate, Emptying rate, Diameter, Date,
Time, Language, Computer-Baudrate, LCD and number of channels.
Neither can a different syringe size be changed nor the syringe size
value may be entered.

System Set-up In the user-level ‘System Set-up’ all functions except the changing of
passwords are permitted.

Administrator In the user level ‘Administrator’ all functions are permitted.

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Overview

System Set-up
Measurement

Administrator
Operator

Set-up
Soft-keys X X X X
Sample Number X X X X
Pre-run Volume X X X
Measurement Meas. Volume X X X
Measurements/R X X X
un
Fill Rate X X
Emptying Rate X X
Pre-fill Volume X X X
Preparation Pressure Up- X X X
Setup time
Pressure Down- X X X
time
Vacuum Period X X X
Vacuum Down- X X X
time
Rinsing Rinse Volume X X X
Set-up Rinse Rate X X X
D.-set Select X X
Diameters
D.-set Edit X X
Syringe Size X X
Install Syringe X X
Date X X
Time X X
Other Language X X
Settings Host Baudrate X X
Channels X X
Authorization X X X X
Passwords X
LCD Set-up X X

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8 Maintenance

8.1.Rinsing Select ‘Rinse Set-up’ in the main menu. Here you will find the menu
items ‘Rinse Volume’ and ‘Rinse Rate’.

Rinse Volume Volume in ml, required for rinsing the sensor.

Values are dependent of sample fluid type and contamination of
previous sample.

Rinse Rate Speed in ml/min in which the sample fluid is drawn through the
system. Values are dependent of sample fluid type; select the lowest
value so that the fluid is transported throughout the system.
Warning! For safety reasons do not exceed the maximum flow-rate.
Otherwise there is a danger of the syringe bursting.

Place a beaker of fluid into the pressure dome.

Note: During the rise sequence the compressor is not working and
no air pressure builds up. Should it be necessary, carry out a
measurement cycle with rinse fluid.

Rinsing Fluids Rinsing agents must be miscible and compatible with the sample
material last used!
In case that your sample fluid is not miscible with the previous
sample, rinse with suitable solvents in a sequence of compatibility.
Example: You want to measure an aqueous based liquid after having
measured on oil sample. Rinse with petroleum spirit and then
ethanol or isopropylalcohol. Allow the sample to run so that air is
drawn into the system in order to remove most of the solvent. Start
a measurement cycle without any solvent.
Tip! If you wish to flush your system with a new sample fluid, put
your new material in a special beaker! Old sample fluid can run back
down the take-up tube and contaminate the sample.

Start Rinse Press the soft-key ‘Clean’ in the start-up menu. The status is shown
upper left in the display and indicates the rinse sequence.

Check Cleanliness Carry out a measurement cycle using filtered fluid.

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8.2 Back-flush of To remove a blockage in the measurement cell of the sensor caused
the System by big particles select ‘Misc. Setup’ in the main menu and then
‘Install Syringe’.

The soft-keys ‘A-S’ and ‘B-S’ regulate the flow direction through the
syringe and may be used for rinsing the sensor against the normal
flow direction.
• Press the softkey ‘A-S’, the valve is moving so that liquid is
sucked from the drain
• Move the piston downwards by pressing ‘Down’ (2 or 3
times)
• Press then the softkey ‘B-S’, to the other exit of the valve
(sensor)
• Move the syringe piston with the softkey ‘Up’ to its final
position.

8.3 Changing Slide the clear plastic printer cover upwards until it can be swung
Printer Paper Roll out and open the gray roller-lift, to the right of the rubber roller.
Remove the paper holder. Place it into the new printer paper poll
and ensure that the paper hangs down the rear of the holder.
Replace the paper holder. Lead the paper end into the rubber roller
and close the roller lift.
Advance the paper by pressing the ‘Feed’ key until approximately a 1
cm length appears below the rubber roller. Bend the paper down
and close the printer cover over it.

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8.4. Changing the To change the syringe value select ‘Misc. Set-up’ in the main menu.
Syringe

Syringe Size You have the choice of 1 ml, 10 ml and 25 ml size values.
Important! Ensure that the value selected is the same as the actual
syringe size being used, otherwise false measurement results may be
obtained.

Installing Syringe To change the size of the syringe select the sub-menu ‘Misc. Set-up’
from the main menu and then select ‘Install Syringe’. Here there are
soft-keys ‘Up’ and ‘Down’ in order to move the syringe body.
Warning! Ensure that the body of the syringe piston moves freely.
The movement of the syringe could trap your hand.
• To change the syringe, press the key ‘Down’ to move the
piston at least half way down
• Then use a 2.5mm Allen key to remove the 4 screws holding
the Perspex window covering the syringe recess
• With a 5mm flat screw driver open the bolt at the lower end
of the piston rod, connecting the piston rod to the module
• Now unscrew the syringe ccw. carefully, without tool - only
by hand, at the knurled metal part
• By pushing the other syringe lightly towards the 3 way valve
turn the syringe cw. until the end. Make sure the thread
enters easily otherwise it might get damaged
• Now pull up the syringe towards the black 3 way valve in
order to screw it into the thread provided for the syringe
thread
• After tightening the syringe the piston rod retainer screw
has to be fully tightened with a 5mm flat screw driver
• Press the key ‘EXIT’ to move the syringe back to the home
position
• Close Perspex window again

Important! Under no circumstances use tools in order to screw in

the syringe, hand tight is sufficient.

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8.5. Setting Remove the power cable from the SBSS.

Operating Voltage Loosen the cover with a screwdriver or similar tool. Remove the
cover and the attached fuse holder. Using a flat pair of pliers,
carefully pull out the voltage selector card by the selector pin.

Turn the voltage selector card, so that you can read the desired
voltage on the lower edge. Align the moveable selector pin upwards
and into the required voltage slot.

Replace the voltage selector with the printed side towards the
socket and refit the cover.
On the enclosed socket you should now be able to read off the
selector pin the voltage selected.

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Changing Fuses The compressor fuse is located on the rear side of the SBSS.

To check the instrument fuses, loosen the cover of the voltage

selector with a screwdriver. The fuse block is attached to the cover
by a screw. It has two sides in order to accommodate different fuses.
Fit the fuse holder to the cover so that the correct voltage fuse can
be inserted.

6,3 x 32 Fuse

5 x 20 Fuses

Current Loads
Voltage 110 V/120 V 230 V/240 V

Instrument Fuse 2,5 A

5A

Use only “Slow Blow” fuses.

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9 Service Warning! Do not attempt to repair or rebuilt the instrument. If you

have problems consult the service department of PAMAS GmbH.

Warning! For transport the system should be free of any flammable

liquids. The instrument must be free of all contamination; e.g.
radioactive, poisonous or bacteriological substances.

Before shipment close all in- and output ports with the covers. Use
the original packaging for return consignment and attach also the
filled shipping instructions.

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Appendix SBSS Water-Glycol Systems

Result reporting to The cleanliness standard SAE AS 4059 has been designed with six
cumulative size bands designated as A, B, C, D, E, and F. Each band is
SAE AS 4059
subdivided into numerical classes, the lower the class number
equating to the number of particles within that size band the
cleaner the fluid. This offers certain advantages over the NAS 1638
standard from which it is derived, insomuch as it facilitates the
option to specify cleanliness requirements within specific size bands,
typically within the oil & gas industry bands B to F are specified and
the latest Pamas SBSS units have the facility to select B to F result
reporting. In addition NAS 1638 referred to particle maximum
length, whereas SAE 4059 is designed specifically for automatic
counters and refers to the particle effective area

Size band A classifies the number of particles that have an effective

area greater than 4 micron, generally these particles are considered
to be inconsequential. Size band B classifies the number of particles
that have an effective area greater than 6 micron and equates to the
smallest particle range that is taken into account within NAS 1638.

The overall SAE 4059 classification of a sample is reported as the

highest band number, for instance result; 9,6,7,6,5,3 would be
classified as SAE AS 4059 class 9, however if B to F is specified, this
then becomes SAE 4059 class 7 B-F
The PAMAS SBSS has the facility to test reporting results B to F. other
units depending on model may not have this facility and all 6 six
channels are reported i.e; A to F.
This will report the highest channel which in most cases will be
channel A as in the above example. Results will have to be manually
adjusted to report B to F.

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SBSS set up for

SAE AS 4059 4.0 µm, 6.0 µm, 14.0 µm, 21.0 µm, 38.0 µm, 70.0 µm, according to the
(Stand-alone-mode) ISO 11171 calibration:

1. Switch on SBSS unit. The main operating screen with channel

sizes will be displayed.

2. Select the white button under Setup on the screen.

3. From Main Menu screen, select Option 5 – Diameters.

4. Info: In option ‘2 – Select set (current # )’, Diameter set 1 has

been pre-set for NIST, Diameter set 2 has been pre-set for
AC.

When changing the SBSS unit between these standards, you

should select the correct options for both ‘1 – Calibration’
and also for ‘2 – Select set’ from this menu, as follows:

From the Diameters screen, select the following options:

1 – Calibration

This displays which calibration the unit is currently working

to. Select 1 for NIST. The screen reverts back to the Diameters
menu and should be showing Option 1 as ‘Calibration :
NIST’.

Next…

2 – Select set (it will show in brackets which set is in current

use).

You should select 1 – Diameter set 1. The screen reverts

back to the Diameters menu and should be showing Option
2 as

‘2 – Select set (current: 1 )’.

3 – Edit Please do not use this option. It is for

calibration purposes and is not user-adjustable.

5. Select 0 – Back, to return to the Main Menu, then

Select 0 – Leave Menu, to return to the main operating

screen.

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SBSS set up for

NAS 1638 5.0 µm, 15.0 µm, 25.0 µm, 50.0 µm, 100.0 µm
(Stand-alone-mode)

(For the convenience of switching from AS SAE 4059 to NAS 1638, an

extra channel has been added, 10.0 µm. This in no way affects the
classification results and, if required, can be removed).
1. Switch on SBSS unit. The main operating screen with channel
sizes will be displayed.

2. Select the white button under Setup on the screen.

3. From Main Menu screen, select Option 5 – Diameters.

4. Info: In option ‘2 – Select set (current # )’, Diameter set 1 has

been pre-set for NIST, Diameter set 2 has been pre-set for
AC.

When changing the SBSS unit between these standards, you

should select the correct options for both ‘1 – Calibration’
and also for ‘2 – Select set’ from this menu, as follows:

From the Diameters screen, select the following options:

1 – Calibration

This displays which calibration the unit is currently working

to. Select 2 for AC. The screen reverts back to the Diameters
menu and should be showing Option 1 as ‘Calibration : AC’.

Next…

2 – Select set (it will show in brackets which set is in current

use).

You should select 2 – Diameter set 2. The screen reverts

back to the Diameters menu and should be showing Option
2 as

‘2 – Select set (current: 2 )’.

3 – Edit Please do not use this option. It is for

calibration purposes and is not user-adjustable.

5. Select 0 – Back, to return to the Main Menu, then

Select 0 – Leave Menu, to return to the main operating

screen.

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PAMAS SBSS Instruction Manual 20110404

Declaration of Conformity
Rutesheim, 19.01.2011

Manufacturer: PAMAS GmbH

Dieselstr. 10
71277 Rutesheim

Product description: Particle counter

Product part number: PAMAS SBSS

On behalf of PAMAS Partikelmeß- und Analysesysteme GmbH, we do hereby declare that

the above product complies with the following transposed harmonized standards:

Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit 2004/108/EG

Maschinenrichtlinie EG-RL 2006/42/EG
Niederspannungsrichtlinie 2006/95/EG
Druckbehälterrichtlinie 2009/105/EG

The following national Standards, Rules and Specifications are in use:

6.GPSGV
Gesetz über elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
9.GPSGV
1.GPSGV
DIN EN ISO 12100-1+2 Sicherheit von Maschinen - Grundbegriffe, allgemeine
Gestaltungsleitsätze
DIN EN 60204-1 Sicherheit von Maschinen - Elektrische Ausrüstungen von Maschinen

This compliance is sufficient to meet the requirements of the EC Machinery Directive

2006/42/EG, the low voltage Directive 2006/95/EG and the EMC Directive 2006/95/EG.

This product must be regularly serviced by PAMAS and/or their approved agent for the
declaration to remain effective after shipment.

Responsible for technical documentation

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PAMAS SBSS Instruction Manual 20110404

PAMAS Partikelmess- und Analysesysteme GmbH

Dieselstrasse 10
D- 71277 Rutesheim
Germany

Telefon: +49-7152-99630
Telefax: +49-7152-54862
e-mail: [email protected]
www.pamas.de

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