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Revised: 26 Apr 07
Operating Manual
3. Set up 9. Calibration
3.1 Uncrating (July 2006) 9.1 UV Sensors (July 2006)
3.2 Location (July 2006) 9.1.1 CR10 Calibration Radiometer (July 2006)
3.3 Electrical (July 2006) 9.1.2 AutoCal Calibration Procedure (Apr 2007)
3.4 Water (July 2006) 9.2 Panel Temperature Sensor (July 2006)
3.4.1 Condensation System (July 2006)
3.4.2 Water Spray System (July 2006) 10. Data Logging (Virtual Strip Chart) (July 2006)
3.4.3 Water Drains (July 2006) 10.1 Connecting the QUV to a Computer (July 2006)
10.2 Viewing the Data on a Computer (July 2006)
4. UV Light System
4.1 Lamp Types (July 2006) 11. Maintenance
4.2 Irradiance Control (July 2006) 11.1 Replace Lamps (July 2006)
4.3 Lamp Cooling (July 2006) 11.2 Clean Water Pan (July 2006)
4.4 UV Baffle (July 2006) 11.3 Inspect Spray Nozzles (July 2006)
5. Moisture System (July 2006) 12. Troubleshooting & Repair (July 2006)
5.1 Condensation (July 2006) 12.1 Error Messages (Feb 2007)
5.2 Water Spray (July 2006) 12.2 Insufficient Water Volume (July 2006)
12.3 No Power (July 2006)
6. Temperature Control System 12.4 Loose Lamp Sockets (July 2006)
6.1 Panel Temperature Sensor (July 2006)
6.2 Lab Temperature Sensor (July 2006) 13. Replacement Parts (July 2006)
6.3 Water Temperature Sensor (July 2006)
6.4 During UV (July 2006) 14. Technical Support & Service (July 2006)
6.5 During Condensation (July 2006)
6.6 During Water Spray (July 2006) 15. Warranty Information (July 2006)
Whenever it is necessary to replace any parts on your QUV, it is important that you use only parts that
have been supplied or recommended by Q-Lab. Q-Lab accepts no responsibility for the consequences if
the operator uses other parts.
Sec 1 pg 1
Section 1: Safety Information
This symbol will be found in certain areas or on certain parts of the QUV. It
warns of electrical shock hazards. Only qualified service personnel should
attempt to service areas or parts of the QUV where this label appears.
The QUV uses 400 volts to operate its fluorescent UV lamps. When the QUV is in the UV Cycle, the
rubber lamp sockets are energized with this voltage. If a lamp is plugged into a lamp socket on one side,
but the socket is not attached on the other side, the exposed lamp pins may be energized with 400 volts.
This voltage can be extremely dangerous.
The QUV is equipped with interlock switches that cut off the power to the UV lamps anytime you open
either of the trapezoidal End Covers.
Sec 1.1 pg 1
Section 1: Safety Information
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in which
case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
Sec 1.2 pg 1
Section 1: Safety Information
Be sure you understand these hazards before you work with the tester.
Do not open the machine unless it is shut off or you are a qualified technician performing required
maintenance or operation procedures as detailed in this manual.
Shut off lamps before opening machine and removing test panels.
Dont be fooled by the lamps cool blue appearance or by the lack of heat and visible light. The
QUVs lamps are efficient generators of UV light similar to that in sunlight. These lamps require
safety precautions similar to the precautions for the sunlamps used for sun-tanning and medical
therapy. Exposure of a few minutes to unshielded lamps may cause painful sunburn or eye
inflammation. This eye inflammation is much like severe sunburn on the surface of your eyeball, and
is familiar to skiers as snow blindness. As with sunlight, extensive or repeated exposures may lead
to premature aging of the skin or permanent skin damage.
Sunburn and eye inflammation are delayed reactions. Symptoms (pain, redness, hot sensation) dont
appear until 4 to 12 hours after UV exposure.
After severe sunburn and eye inflammation, skin and eyes may be more sensitive to future UV
exposures, including sunlight.
There is no UV hazard from the QUV in normal operation with doors closed. With doors closed, UV
leakage from the QUV is less than 1/20 the intensity of the UV from sunlight transmitted through a
closed window. With doors open but with test panels in place, UV leakage is still less than sunlight
through a window. Note: the QUV does not produce any appreciable infrared radiation.
Burning effects of UV lamps depend on duration of exposure, distance from lamps, and percentage of
lamp surface that is visible. Figures show time of permissible daily exposure to light from the QUV
under various conditions. These times are based on Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for UV exposure
published by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Threshold Limit
Values represent conditions under which it is believed that nearly all workers may be repeatedly
exposed without adverse effect. These TLVs should not be used for determining exposure of
photosensitive individuals to UV. The TLVs should be used as guides in control of UV exposure, and
should not be regarded as a fine line between safe and dangerous levels. Note that 12 successive
exposures of 5 seconds during a day is the equivalent of a single exposure of 1 minute.
If exposure to UV lamps is necessary, wear UV absorbing goggles. Protect skin with opaque clothing
or a quality sunscreen lotion (e.g. 5 percent PABA), not a suntan lotion.
Individuals with light complexion are more susceptible to UV, and some individuals are allergic to UV.
Many common medications increase your sensitivity to UV (including sunlight).
Sec 1.3 pg 1
Section 1: Safety Information
Do not use the UV lamps for any purpose except QUV testing. When discarding the lamps, disable
them to prevent unauthorized use. To disable, remove two of the end-pins with a wire cutter or pliers
(do not break lamps). UV lamps are not useful for plant growth or similar purposes.
Sec 1.3 pg 2
Section 2: General Description
Sec 2 pg 1
Section 3: Set Up
3. SET UP
Caster Installation: To install casters, prop up one end of the QUV on a box and push the casters into the
sockets in the legs.
Sec 3.1 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Room Temperature: The optimal place for a QUV is in an air-conditioned lab or office. The QUV
operates best in a room where the temperature is between 70F (21C) and 80F (27C). Room
temperatures outside this range can cause poor control of test temperature. High room temperature can
also prevent proper condensation from forming on the test specimens because of inadequate specimen
cooling.
Ventilation: Each QUV generates an average of 700 watts of heat on a continuous basis. Thats
equivalent to 2400 BTU/hr. This should not strain ordinary air-conditioning because it produces only about
as much heat as two people. Each QUV also evaporates about 8 liters of water per day. The QUV should
be located away from strong drafts that can cause one end of the machine to be cooler than the other.
Relative Humidity: The maximum relative humidity in the room should be 80% for temperatures up to
31C decreasing linearly to 50% at 40 C.
Pollution Control: Rated as Pollution Degree II for protection against ambient pollution.
Sound Pressure Level: Sound Pressure Level does not exceed 74dBA.
Floor Space: When you get several QUV Weathering Testers in the same room, its very helpful to
maintain proper spacing between testers, and between testers and the wall. If the QUVs are jammed
together too tightly, it becomes difficult to open the doors, remove samples, and perform maintenance. The
figure below shows the spacing that we recommend from our experience.
Sec 3.2 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Voltage: The electrical voltage is shown on the nameplate on the rear of the QUV next to the power
switch. Two versions are available, 120v and 230v. The voltage supplied to the QUV must be within 10%
of the voltage shown on the nameplate.
Current: The maximum current draw for the 120 volt QUV/se and QUV/spray is 16 amps and the 120 volt
QUV/basic is 14 amps. The maximum current draw for the 230 volt QUV/se and QUV/spray is 8 amps and
the 230 volt QUV/basic is 7 amps.
Power Switch: The power switch has a built in circuit breaker, 20A for 120 volt machines and 10A for 230
volt machines. Therefore, if you connect several QUVs to a high capacity circuit, each QUV will still have
adequate over-current protection.
Power Receptacle: The power receptacle must be located in close proximity to the QUV and within easy
reach of the Operator. Do not use an extension cord. The power cord plug is the main disconnect device
on the QUV so it must be pulled from the receptacle when servicing the QUV.
Plug: A 3-prong grounding plug is provided for 120V testers. No plug is supplied with 230V machines.
The user must attach their own 3-prong grounding plug according to local electrical codes. The plug
terminals should be connected to the wires as shown below.
120V 230V
Power: Black Brown
Neutral: White Blue
Safety earth ground: Green Green/Yellow
Sec 3.3 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Note: If the QUV is going to run UV steps only, it is not necessary to connect water to the QUV.
Sec 3.4 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Water Feed
Purity: Ordinary tap water is sufficient. Distilled water is not required, since the water that contacts the
panels is distilled when it vaporizes from the water pan. However, a distilled or de-ionized water source
can reduce periodic clean-out of solids which collect in the bottom of the water pan.
Do NOT pre-treat the water with a water softener as this merely exchanges sodium ions for the ions
previously in your water supply. A water softener can increase the corrosiveness of the water.
Pressure: The water pressure should be at least 2 psi (13.8 kPa) but not more than 80 psi (550 kPa).
Connections: To make is easier to connect to your water system we have included the kit shown below.
With this kit you can easily connect to an existing water line. No drilling or soldering is necessary because
the saddle valve is self-piercing. Install the saddle valve as shown and then connect the saddle valve to
the QUV water feed valve with 1/4 inch (6 mm) tubing.
Sec 3.4.1 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Adjustment: Once the water is turned on, water will flow into the water feed and then into the water pan in
the QUV. Be sure the QUV is reasonably level so that water covers the entire bottom of the water pan.
The QUV water feed is adjusted at the factory so that the water level in the water pan is 10 mm to 15 mm.
Sec 3.4.1 pg 2
Section 2: General Description
Purity: Unlike the water for the condensation system, the water for the spray system should be purified.
The water should have a resistivity greater than 200 kohms-cm. This will require deionization, distillation,
or reverse osmosis and possibly filters. Less pure water can lead to spotting of the specimens and
clogging of the spray nozzles. To avoid contamination, all pipes, valves, and fittings between the
purification equipment and the QUV/spray should be stainless steel or plastic. Do not use iron, steel,
galvanized, copper, or brass. The pH of the water should be between 6.0 and 8.0.
Pressure: The water pressure must be at least 25 psi (172 kPa) so that the spray spreads out and
completely covers the test specimens. The maximum pressure should be less than 80 psi (550 kPa).
Volume: The water flow rate is 7 liters per minute (LPM). Most test cycles, however, call for water spray
only a few minutes per day.
Water Temperature: The temperature of the spray water may effect the severity of the test. Colder spray
water may cause more severe thermal shock. Warmer spray water might perhaps cause more severe
damage in long term erosion tests. The QUV/spray does not include provisions for heating or cooling the
spray water. Spray water temperature depends on the water system in your factory, your climate, and the
temperature of your water storage tank if any. If you have reason to believe that the spray water
temperature is significantly skewing your particular test results, it will be necessary to add heating or
cooling to the water supply before it enters the QUV/spray.
Sec 3.4.2 pg 1
Section 2: General Description
Water Feed Overflow Drain: The inch (12mm) hose supplied with the QUV should be connected to the
water feed overflow port and run to a floor drain. This is in case the water feed valve fails to shut off. If
water is ever seen in this hose the water feed valve should be replaced.
Water Pan Overflow Drain (QUV/spray only): The 1- inch (32 mm) hose supplied with the QUV must
be attached to the large hose barb fitting under the QUV that extends from the bottom of the water pan. In
order to attach this hose, first soak it for several minutes in hot tap water. Soaking it in hot water will make
it more flexible. Next, lubricate the hose barb fitting. Use alcohol or oil for lubrication. Then, gently work
the 1- inch (32 mm) drain hose onto the hose barb fitting and run the other end to a floor drain.
Water Feed
Overflow Water
Drain Pan
Overflow
Drain
clamp
Water Pan
Cleaning
Drain
Sec 3.4.3 pg 1
Section 4: UV Light System
4. UV LIGHT SYSTEM
The lamps differ in the total amount of energy emitted and in the wavelength spectrum. Differences in
energy output or wavelength spectrum can cause significant differences in test results. The particular
application determines which lamp should be used.
UVA Lamps
UVA lamps are especially useful for comparing different types of polymers. Because UVA lamps do not
have any UV output below the normal solar cutoff of 295nm, they usually do not degrade material as fast
as UVB lamps. However, they usually provide better correlation with actual outdoor weathering.
UVA-340: The UVA-340 provides the best possible simulation of sunlight in the critical short wavelength
region from 365 nm down to the solar cutoff of 295 nm. Its peak emission is at 340 nm. UVA-340 lamps
are especially useful for comparison tests of different formulations.
UVA-351: The UVA-351 simulates the UV portion of sunlight filtered through window glass. It is most
useful for interior applications, the testing of some inks and for polymer damage that can occur to
products in an environment near a window.
UVB Lamps
UVB lamps emit unnatural, short wavelengths of UV below the solar cutoff of 295 nm. As a result, they
typically cause materials to degrade faster than UVA lamps. Consequently, they are popular for QC tests
and for testing very durable materials. Since they emit unnaturally short wavelengths, however, they can
produce anomalous results compared to actual outdoor weathering. Two types of UVB lamps are
available. They have the same spectral distribution but the emit different amounts of total UV.
QFS-40: Also know as FS-40 or F40 UVB, this is the original QUV lamp. FS-40 lamps have been used
for many years, and are still specified in some automotive test methods, particularly for coatings. QFS-40
lamps should only be used in the QUV/basic.
UVB-313 EL: Compared to the QFS-40 lamp, the UVBV-313 EL produces substantially higher UV and,
therefore, faster test results. Also, the UVB-313 EL can be used in place of the QFS-40 in the QUV/se
and QUV/spray to decrease the output of the UVB-313 EL to mimic the irradiance of the QFS-40. This
allows longer lamp life and minimizes lamp replacement costs.
Do Not Mix Different Types of Lamps: Mixing different types of lamps in a QUV will produce major
inconsistencies in the light falling on the samples. It also complicates calibration. Some users want to
put UV-A lamps on one side of the QUV and UV-B lamps on the opposite side. Do not do this either. A
small amount of UV from the lamps in each bank travels across the chamber and adds to the UV striking
the samples on the other side. If you have different types of lamps on opposite sides of your QUV, you
will get stripes of different types and severity of degradation (usually visible as a striped pattern).
Sec 4.1 pg 1
Section 4: UV Light System
1.2
UVB-313 EL Sunlight
(0.67 W/m2 @ 310nm)
1.0
UVA-340
(0.68 W/m2 @ 340nm)
0.8
QFS-40
(0.48 W/m2 @ 310nm)
Irradiance (W/m2)
0.6
Sunlight thru Glass
0.4
UVA-351
(0.45 W/m2 @ 340nm)
0.2
0.0
260 280 300 320 340 360 380 400
Wavelength (nm)
1.8
1.4
1.2
Irradiance (W/m2)
1.0
Cool Whites in QUV
(20,000 lux)
0.8
0.6
0.2
0.0
300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700
Wavelength (nm)
Sec 4.1 pg 2
Section 4: UV Light System
Like any lamps, the QUV lamps loose output as they age. QUVs that do not have Solar Eye irradiance
control (QUV/basic) use a lamp replacement and rotation system to compensate for lamp aging. See
section 11.1 for this procedure. This system works well for many applications but it has an inherent
limitation. The replacement/rotation system cannot compensate for lot-to-lot differences in lamps or for
differences in ambient temperature. Also, there is always some small drop in irradiance between
rotations (for a detailed discussion see Q-Lab Bulletin LU-8010, Controlled Irradiance in Laboratory
Weathering).
Ballast 1
Ballast 2
Ballast 3
Ballast 4
channel feedback loop system compensates for any
variability by adjusting the power to the lamps.
1 3 Detector
2 4
Sec 4.2 pg 1
Section 4: UV Light System
The irradiance level can be set from very low to very high. If you wish to run a particular test method, and
the irradiance is specified in the test method, then use that irradiance. If youre not interested in running a
particular test method, then set the irradiance based on the following suggestions.
UVA-340 Lamps
UVB-313 Lamps
Sec 4.2 pg 2
Section 4: UV Light System
Sec 4.3 pg 1
Section 4: UV Light System
Sec 4.4 pg 1
Section 5: Moisture System
The swing-up door covering the panels does not seal, but instead allows room air to reach the backs of
the test panels. However, the swing-up door does regulate the way that convection currents cool the
panels, and it reduces fluctuations in panel temperature due to drafts and room temperature changes.
Thick specimens of insulating material, such as wood or rubber, may exhibit inadequate condensation
because of poor heat transfer. To increase condensation, increase heat transfer by moving the QUV to an
air-conditioned room or increasing the condensation cycle temperature.
During the condensation cycle, the water is heated by a heating element located under the water pan.
Water vapor fills the test chamber, which reaches 100 percent humidity at equilibrium. Vapor continually
condenses on the test panels, which are kept at a lower temperature by room air on their back surface.
Condensation runs off the test panels and back into the water pan.
The condensation on the test panels has a high degree of chemical purity because the water becomes
distilled as it vaporizes from the pan. A vent slot around the top of the water pan assures that the
condensing vapor is saturated with oxygen. Some vapor will escape through this vent and some will be
lost from around the panels.
Sec 5.1 pg 1
Section 5: Moisture System
Spray Flow Rate Adjustment: The recommended flowrate is 7 LPM. This is enough flow to cause the
spray to fan out and cover the entire specimen area. At lower flow rates, the spray will not cover the
entire area. The water flow is regulated by the following components on the lower part of the machine.
All are located in the lower rear, except the Flow Meter, which is on the lower front of the QUV. See the
Plumbing Diagram at the back of the Operating Manual for a detailed description of all the system
components.
Sec 5.2 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Sec 6.1 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Sec 6.2 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Sec 6.3 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Blower. The blower is located on the underside of the unit. It operates continuously throughout
the UV cycle.
Air Heater. The air heater is located in the air tube above the blower. It heats the air from the
blower when necessary.
Air Distribution. Air from the blower enters the test chamber through the air tube in the center of
the water pan. An air deflector directs the air throughout the test chamber. A water pan cover
insulates the air from the cooling effects of the water. The air eventually vents to the room through
the air vent slot around the top of the water pan.
The minimum panel temperature is about 45C. This is due to the heat from the lamps. To reach higher
temperatures, the controller turns on the air heater based on the set point and actual panel temperature.
Sec 6.4 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Sec 6.5 pg 1
Section 6: Temperature Control System
Sec 6.6 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
7. CONTROLLER OPERATION
Sec 7.1 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
I r ra d i an c e 2
W /m @ C ontr ol W a v el e ngth C S tep Tim e Test T ime To tal Time S tatus
QUV/basic Displays
Irradiance (QUV/se & QUV/spray): This shows the irradiance for the current step running. The bottom
line shows the irradiance set-point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual irradiance
for each of the four pairs of lamps. The irradiance is displayed in W/m2 at 310nm for UV-B lamps and
340nm for UV-A lamps.
Lamps (QUV/basic): This shows if the lamps are on or off. The bottom line shows the bottom lamps
and the top line shows the top lamps.
Lamps (QUV/cw): This shows the irradiance for the current step running. The bottom line shows the
irradiance set-point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual irradiance for each of the
four pairs of lamps. The irradiance is displayed in lux x104 for cool white lamps.
C: This shows the panel temperature for the current step running. The bottom line shows the
temperature set point as programmed by the user. The top line shows the actual black-panel
temperature. If the temperature is followed by *, this indicates that a heater is currently on.
Step Time: This shows the time for the current step in the test cycle. The bottom line shows the time
required to perform the current step (hours : minutes) as programmed by the user. The top line shows
the elapsed time
Test Time: This shows the time for a particular test. The bottom line shows the desired duration as
programmed by the user (0 to 9999 hours). The top line shows the amount of time the test has run.
Total Time: This shows the total number of hours that the QUV has operated.
Status Display: This tells the user if the machine is running and what test cycle it is running. A typical
status message is RUNNING CYCLE A = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1. The status line is also used for
programming.
Message Display: This tells the user what step in the test cycle is running. A typical message is
A/STEP 1 UV 60C 0.89W/M2 0:00/8:00. The meaning of this message is described in the
programming section. The message display is also used for error/warning messages. Many are intended
to be informational and do not indicate there is something wrong with the QUV. A typical message is
OUTER COVER IS OFF. When the covers are replaced, the message disappears.
Sec 7.2 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
Irrad ian ce
Calibration
RUN: This key is used to start running a test. When pushed, the QUV will resume exactly where it was
when the stop key was pushed, unless the user has selected a different test cycle or step in the program.
The selected test cycle will repeat itself in an endless loop. A green LED on the key lights up when in
RUN mode.
STOP: This key is used to stop a test. When pushed, the QUV blower runs for one hour to cool down
and dry-off the test specimens so they are not exposed to further degradation from heat or moisture. A
blue LED on the key lights up when in STOP mode.
SILENCE: This key silences the alarm beeper when an error occurs to prevent the beeper from annoying
the user. It does not clear the error, it only silences it. If there are multiple errors, the alarm may
immediately sound again.
CLEAR: This key is used to cancel an error message. After pressing the CLEAR key you must press
the ENTER key. If there are multiple messages, each must be cleared separately.
PROGRAM: This key is used to enter the Program Mode. Pressing the PROGRAM key allows the user
to set a test duration, select a test cycle, modify or create a test cycle, calibrate the temperature sensor,
set the alarm volume, or set an Ethernet address to connect to a computer. Programming instructions
are in section 7.4.
UP/DOWN ARROWS: These keys are used to change a parameter in the status display when in the
program mode.
LEFT/RIGHT ARROWS: These keys are used to move the cursor in the status display when in the
program mode.
?: This key is used to enter the Diagnostic Mode. Pressing the ? key allows the user to obtain
information such as how much the air heater is on, the software version, the number of hours since the
UV sensors were last calibrated, etc. The complete list of diagnostic messages is shown in the
diagnostics section.
ENTER: This key is used to accept the current selection when programming, and moves forward one
level in the program menu.
ESCAPE: This key is used to cancel the current selection when programming, and moves back one level
in the program menu.
Sec 7.3 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
Alarm: The alarm LED is a red indicator light that flashes when most errors or messages occur. In
addition to the light, an audible alarm will usually sound. The alarm will also beep whenever a key is
pushed.
Irradiance Calibration: This is a port used to connect the CR10 calibration radiometer to the QUV when
calibrating the UV sensors. This is described in the calibration section.
Sec 7.3 pg 2
Section 7: Controller Operation
Press the ENTER key to move one level deeper into a program. Once inside each level, use the arrow
keys to move around and to change parameters. Use the ENTER key to move to the next level and to
save the changes to any program. Use the ESCAPE key to move back one level or to exit the program.
Sec 7.4 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the Up/Down arrows until the display says P1.
P1 SET TEST DURATION
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
34 56
4. Press the Up and Down arrows to change the Test Time
Set, which is the total number of hours you want to run the
test. If you want to reset the elapsed hours, for example, to TEST TIME SET = 1000;
begin a new test, use the Left and Right arrow keys to move ELAPSED = 0000 HOURS
over to the elapsed hours and use the Up and Down arrows to
change it.
ENTER
Sec 7.4.1 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the up or down key until the display says P2.
P2 SELECT CYCLE/STEP TO RUN
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
56
4. Press the up or down key until you find the desired test RUN CYCLE A
cycle. NAME = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1
6. Press the up or down key to find the step you want to begin
with. Press the right or left key to scroll over to the time into
the step. Press the up or down key to set this to the desired
34 5 6
time (usually this will be 0:00). A/STEP 1 UV 60C 0.89W/M2 0:00/8:00
ENTER
Sec 7.4.2 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the up or down key until the display says P3.
P3 MODIFY OR CREATE CYCLE
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
56
4. Press the up or down key until you find the desired test RUN CYCLE A
cycle. Press the left or right key to scroll over to the name of NAME = ASTM G154 CYCLE 1
the test cycle. Press the up or down arrows to scroll through
the alpha numeric characters to program the name.
34 5 6
ENTER
Sec 7.4.3 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
Subcycles: The subcycle function can be used to repeat a sequence of steps before advancing to another
step. For example, lets say you want to simulate intermittent light and rain during the day and dew at night.
This could be simulated by programming alternating periods of UV and spray followed by one period of
condensation. The program would look like this:
The QUV will run the UV and spray steps three times before the condensation step.
Multiple subcycles can be programmed in a test cycle. However, the controller will not allow one of the steps in
a subcycle to be another subcycle.
Sec 7.4.3 pg 2
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the up or down key until the display says P4.
P4 CALIBRATE PANEL TEMPERATURE
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
IS REFERENCE THERMOMETER
IN PLACE?
4. Press ENTER (refer to the calibration section for the actual ENTER
calibration procedure).
ENTER
Sec 7.4.4 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the up or down key until the display says P5. P5 SET ALARM VOLUME
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
5 6
4. Press the up or down key to raise or lower the volume.
ALARM VOLUME = 10
ENTER
Sec 7.4.5 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
1. Press the PROGRAM key to get into the Program Mode. PROGRAM
5 6
2. Press the up or down key until the display says P6. P6 SET ETHERNET ADDRESS
ENTER
3. Press ENTER.
Sec 7.4.6 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
ENTER
Sec 7.4.6 pg 2
Section 7: Controller Operation
QUV Programming
Rev. 10 MAR 05
ENTER Enter ke y accep ts current se ctio n & moves one leve l d eepe r in to pro gram.
ESCAPE Escape key ca ncels current sel ecti on & moves back one le ve l in program.
V-2061-L
Up/Dow n a rro ws sel ect prog ram 1 , 2, or 3 and cha nge test setti ngs.
Left/R ight a rrows scrol l across di splay to sel ect pa ra mete rs show n i n
BOLD . Acti ve pa rameter fla sh es.
PROGRA M
P1
SET TEST ENTER DURATION SET = 100 0; ENTER ACTION AT END OF TEST: STOP ENTER ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ENTER
ELAPSED = 000 0 HOURS ESCAPE = CANCEL
DURATION
P2
SELECT CYCL E/ ENTER RUN CYCL E A NAME = ENTER ENTER = SAVE CHANGES
ASTM G1 54 CYCLE 1 A/STEP 1 UV 50C 0.68W/M2 2:41/4:0 0 ENTER ESCAPE = CANCEL ENTER
STEP TO RUN
P3
MODIFY OR MODIFY CYCLE A NAME = ENTER = SAVE CHANGES
ENTER ENTER A/STEP 1 UV 5 0C 0 .6 8W/M2 4:00 ENTER ENTER
CREATE CYCL E ASTM G1 54 CYCLE 1 ESCAPE = CANCEL
P4 IS REFERENCE
CALIBRATE PANEL ENTER THERMOMETER ENTER CALIBRATE PANEL ENTER ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ENTER
IN PL AC E? TEMPERATURE = XX.XC ESCAPE = CANCEL
TEMPERATURE
P5
ENTER ALARM VOLUME ENTER ENTER = SAVE CHANGES ENTER
SET ALARM = 10 ESCAPE = CANCEL
VOL UME
Sec 7.4.7 pg 1
Section 7: Controller Operation
Sec 7.5 pg 1
Section 8: Running a Test
8. RUNNING A TEST
In addition to the test cycle, an important part of any test -maybe the most important - is the type of lamp
to use. Refer to section 4.1 for a description of the various types of lamps and what type to use for a
particular application. Make sure the correct lamp type is installed before starting a test. The lamp type is
printed on the wall of the lamp near one of the ends. If you need to change lamps refer to section 11.3.
Sec 8.1 pg 1
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.1.1 pg 1
Section 8: Running a Test
Cycle I: EN 927-6
Lamp type: UVA-340
Models: spray
Step Function Irradiance (W/m2) Temperature (C) Time (hours:minutes)
1 condensation n/a 45 24:00
2 Subcycle repeat steps 3-4 48x
3 UV 0.89 60 2:30
4 spray n/a n/a 0:30
5 Final step - Go to step 1
Sec 8.1.1 pg 2
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.1.1 pg 3
Section 8: Running a Test
1
0.68 W/m2 at 340 nm is the maximum irradiance of sunlight (CIE 85 table 4).
2
0.87 W/m2 at 340 nm is a typical irradiance of UVA-351 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUVs
3
0.67 W/m2 at 310 nm is a typical irradiance of UVB-313 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUVs
4
0.48 W/m2 at 310 nm is the irradiance specified in SAE J2020 and is a typical irradiance
of QFS-40 lamps in non-Solar Eye QUVs
Lamp Life: The irradiance set point effects lamp life. The higher the set point - the shorter the lamp life.
Typically, lamps will maintain maximum irradiance for about 1,000 hours and normal irradiance for much
longer. However, lamps should always be changed once a year, even if they are still maintaining the
irradiance set point. This is because they get dirty due to the condensation and air flow through the
chamber and, as a result, the spectral power distribution is affected.
Correlation: The irradiance set point can have an effect on correlation. Theoretically, tests run at normal
irradiance may correlate with natural outdoor exposures better than tests run at maximum irradiance
(although we have not yet observed this in practice). This is because the maximum irradiance is much
higher than natural sunlight.
Tests run at normal irradiance will also correlate with tests run in non-solar eye QUVs better than tests
run at maximum irradiance. This is because the typical irradiance in non-solar eye QUVs is about the
same as the normal set points shown.
Sec 8.1.2 pg 1
Section 8: Running a Test
Black Panel Temperature Range: Although temperature is controlled by the air heater, the irradiance set point
has an effect on the minimum and maximum temperature the QUV can achieve. This is because the
lamps give off considerable heat, and the higher the irradiance the more heat they give off. Therefore, to
achieve black panel temperatures above 75C, you may need to set a high irradiance. To achieve black
panel temperatures below 55C, you may need to set a low irradiance.
Spray and Condensation (QUV/spray models only): Thermal shock can be produced on test specimens by
programming short periods of water spray. Usually only a few minutes of water spray is needed to rapidly
cool the specimens. Because the sprays operate for only a few minutes, a relatively small amount of
purified water is consumed. After the spray step, a condensation step usually follows for maximum
acceleration of the damaging effects of moisture.
Spray only (QUV/spray models only): Mechanical erosion and can be produced on test specimens by
programming long periods of water spray. This has been found particularly useful for wood coatings.
During spray steps, the specimen temperature is relatively cool because the specimens assume the
same temperature as the spray water. This type of cycle uses large volumes of DI water.
Sec 8.1.2 pg 2
Section 8: Running a Test
A small cylindrical stop keeps the test panels from falling down.
Install the panel holders with this stop at the bottom.
Sec 8.2 pg 1
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.2 pg 2
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.2 pg 3
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.2 pg 4
Section 8: Running a Test
Sec 8.3 pg 1
Section 9: Calibration
9. CALIBRATION
Sec 9.1 pg 1
Section 9: Calibration
The CR10 is designed to measure fluorescent UV lamps only. It should not be used to measure sunlight,
xenon arc lamps or other visible light lamps. It has been calibrated to measure UV-A lamps at 340nm
and UV-B lamps at 310nm in W/m2.
The CR10/cw is designed to measure cool white fluorescent lamps in a QUV/cw only. It has been
calibrated to measure in the units of 104 lux. Therefore, if the CR10 reads 0.60 this is really 0.60 x104 lux
or 6000 lux.
The radiometer itself must be returned to Q-Lab periodically for re-calibration. This is to adjust for any
changes that may occur over time. We recommend that it be re-calibrated be every year.
Sec 9.1.1 pg 1
Section 9: Calibration
Warning:
Make sure that all panel holders are in place and filled, so that the
operator is not exposed to any UV light during calibration.
Note: On QUVs equipped with door interlocks, the lamps would normally turn off when the door is
opened to calibrate the UV sensors, thus making calibration impossible. However, when the calibration
cord is plugged into the controller, a special override circuit allows the lamps to remain on even if the door
is open. Do not leave the CR10 plugged in when the CR10 is not in use.
2. For the most accurate results, make sure the QUV is stable at the normal operating temperature before
inserting the CR10 sensor. For example, if the QUV is normally run at a 70C UV temperature, make
sure it is at 70 before starting the calibration procedure.
3. Plug the CR10 connection cable into the radiometer and into the control panel. The radiometer gets
its power from the controller.
Sec 9.1.2 pg 1
Section 9: Calibration
6. Push and hold down the Cal 1 button until the two
lights next to the cal button flash and you hear an
audible beep. This sends a signal to the controller telling
it the actual irradiance. The controller automatically
updates the calibration for that sensor. In a few
seconds, the irradiance shown on the QUV and the
irradiance shown on the CR10 should match the set
point. If not, push the cal button again.
7. Repeat this process for each of the other three sensors. Make sure you push the cal button that
corresponds to the port that the CR10 sensor is in.
Note: Make sure you push the cal button even if the irradiance shown on the CR10 is the same as that
shown on the QUV. If you dont push all four cal buttons, the time to calibrate message will not disappear
and the time to calibrate timer will not be reset.
Sec 9.1.2 pg 2
Section 9: Calibration
Housing
Sec 9.2 pg 1
Section 9: Calibration
6. Place the QUV temperature sensor in an insulated cup (or thermos) of hot water along with a
calibrated reference thermometer. The temperature of the water should be approximately the same as
the highest temperature set point in the test cycle being run. Allow 10 minutes for the sensors to
stabilize. Compare the readings. The water will be cooling during this process so be sure to read the
two sensors at the same time. A large insulated cup will minimize this problem. If the QUV
temperature sensor does not agree with the reference thermometer then the QUV temperature sensor
should recalibrated.
Sec 9.2 pg 2
Section 10: Data Logging
Note: The computer must use the Microsoft Windows XP operating system.
Sec 10 pg 1
Section 10: Data Logging
a) Directly to a computer.
Hub
c) To a local area network (LAN) to monitor one or more QUVs on one or more computers.
Router
Sec 10.1 pg 1
Section 10: Data Logging
This is an example of the data in tabular form. The data can also be exported to a spreadsheet such as
Microsoft Excel and manipulated or graphed as desired.
Contact Q-Lab for the software and detailed installation instructions if you would like to continuous record
all QUV operating parameters.
Sec 10.2 pg 1
Section 11: Maintenance
11. MAINTENANCE
With the Solar Eye Irradiance control, the only time the lamps need to be changed before one year is if
they no longer reach set point. This should only happen if you are running a higher than normal
irradiance set point. Lamps may only last about 1,000 hours if run at maximum set point but should last
the full year if run at normal set point. An error message will appear when the irradiance falls 0.10 W/m2
below the set-point. If this happens, replace the pair of lamps that is low. It is not necessary to replace
all the lamps. Always re-calibrate after changing lamps.
QUV/basic: Like any lamps, the light output of fluorescent lamps decreases with use. During the first 100
hours of lamp's operation, there is a rapid decline in lamp output, followed by a more gradual decline over
the remaining life. To compensate for this decline, the QUV/basic requires a simple rotation/replacement
system. This system involves replacing the oldest lamp in each bank after every 400 hours of lamp
operation. At that time the remaining six lamps are rotated as shown below. Thus, each bank will have
lamps near the following ages: 0 hours, 400 hours, 800 hours, and 1200 hours. The irradiance that the
test specimen receives is therefore an average of lamps at four different points on the age/output curve.
The total output from the bank is an average of several lamps and is relatively stable. An interval of 400
hours of light operation works out to about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the UV/Condensation cycle
chosen. An error message will remind you every 400 hours to rotate lamps.
Sec 11.1 pg 1
Section 11: Maintenance
Occasionally very new lamps will flicker or spiral for the first few days of operation. Do not be alarmed,
this does not effect their spectral power distribution or the overall light intensity.
Sec 11.1 pg 2
Section 11: Maintenance
You will notice a magnesium anode in the water pan when you are cleaning out the pan. This provides
cathodic protection to the pans iron substrate in case the glass lining on the pan chips. The anode is
immersed in the water and electrically connected to the pan by a wire. If the glass lining chips, exposing
the iron substrate, a galvanic cell will form with magnesium as the anode, iron as the cathode, and water
the electrolyte. This cell is in effect an iron/magnesium battery generating an E.M.F. of about 1 volt. The
voltage causes sacrificial corrosion of the magnesium and cathodic protection of the iron. Under these
conditions, the iron cannot rust. The magnesium anode should be replaced whenever it corrodes
completely away.
Sec 11.2 pg 1
Section 11: Maintenance
11.3 Check Spray Nozzles - every 3 months (QUV/spray only) (Revised July
2006)
Over time, spray nozzles may become clogged and not spray properly. The spray nozzles can be
inspected using the two glass panels supplied with every QUV/spray. Simply remove the panel holders
from one side of the QUV and insert the glass panels in their place. Run a spray step and check to see
that the entire surface of the glass panels are wet. If a portion of the glass panel is not wet, the spray
nozzle in that area should be removed and cleaned.
A spray nozzle can be removed from the spray bar using a wrench. Once the nozzle is removed, it can
be taken apart for cleaning with an air hose or small brush.
Sec 11.3 pg 1
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
Sec 12 pg 1
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
Some messages indicate a true failure. For example, M33 WATER PAN TOO HOT XXC will appear if
the water pan runs out of water. The XXC at the end of the message will show the temperature that
the pan reached before the controller shut the test off.
Contact the Q-Lab Technical Services Department for guidance in solving any problems at 440/835-8700
or fax your inquiries to 440/835-8738 .
Sec 12.1 pg 1
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
M33 WATER PAN TOO HOT XXC - MAY BE Water supply is shut off.
EMPTY
M34 CONTROLLER TOO HOT XXC Lab is too hot.
M55 RELAY CHECK IN PROGRESS This message occurs when the controller is
checking for bad relays.
M60 LAMP FAULT BALLAST 1 1. Rubber lamp socket is off or loose (see
the figure below for tightening
procedure).
2. Lamp is burned out.
3. Ballast is broken.
Sec 12.1 pg 2
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
M61 LAMP FAULT BALLAST 2 1. Rubber lamp socket is off or loose (see
the figure below for tightening
procedure).
2. Lamp is burned out.
3. Ballast is broken.
M62 LAMP FAULT BALLAST 3 1. Rubber lamp socket is off or loose (see
the figure below for tightening
procedure).
2. Lamp is burned out.
3. Ballast is broken.
M63 LAMP FAULT BALLAST 4 1. Rubber lamp socket is off or loose (see
the figure below for tightening
procedure).
2. Lamp is burned out.
3. Ballast is broken.
M65 SERVICE LAMPS Time to change lamps (QUV/basic only).
Occurs every 400 hours.
M66 CALIBRATE UV SENSORS Time to calibrate UV sensors (QUV/se &
QUV/spray only). Occurs every 500 hours
M69 LAMPS ON - SHOULD BE OFF Ballast relay is stuck closed.
M70 HEATER ON - SHOULD BE OFF Run relay and heater relay are stuck closed.
M80 FLASH MEMORY ERROR Indicates a problem with the controller. Turn
the QUV off and back on. If the problem
persists, contact Q-Lab.
M81 FLASH DATA CORRUPT Indicates a problem with the controller. Turn
the QUV off and back on. If the problem
persists, contact Q-Lab.
M82 RAM CORRUPTED, RAM RELOADED Indicates a problem with the controller.
Press the clear and enter buttons, if the
problem persists, contact Q-Lab.
M92 PANEL TEMPERATURE SENSOR FAIL Panel temperature sensor is broken
To clear an error message, key in CLEAR, then ENTER. Repeat for each message you want to clear.
Alarm and message will reoccur if fault persists.
Sec 12.1 pg 3
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
Sec 12.2 pg 1
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
Sec 12.3 pg 1
Section 12: Troubleshooting and Repair
Sec 12.4 pg 1
Section 13: Replacement Parts
Part Number
100V-120V 200V-240V Description basic se spray cw
V-131.0-X V-131.0-X 3 Tensile Bar Adapter
V-130.12-X V-130.12-X 3 end seal assy - right side
V-130.11-X V-130.11-X 3 end seal assy left side
V-131.3-X V-131.3-X 3 Panel Holder w/rings
V-130.13-X V-130.13-X 4 end seal assy - left side
V-130.14-X V-130.14-X 4 end seal assy - right side
V-131.4-X V-131.4-X 4 Panel Holder w/rings
V-130.16-X V-130.16-X 6 end seal assy - right side
V-130.15-X V-130.15-X 6 end seal assy- left side
V-131.6-X V-131.6-X 6 Panel Holder w/rings
CV-256 CV-257 Air Heater
IC-1308-K IC-1308-K Ballast
V-2048 V-2048 Ballast
CV-153 CV-154 Blower
CR10 CR10 Calibration Radiometer
CR10/cw CR10/cw Calibration Radiometer for QUV/cw
V-4049-K V-4049-K Control Board
V-4086 V-4086 Controller Battery
V-2077-X V-2078-X Controller Transformer
IC-1065 IC-1065 CR10 to Controller Cable
IC-1440 n/a CR10 Wall Plug Adapter (9V)
V-4040-K V-4040-K Current Sensor Board
V-2292-X V-2292-X Flow Switch
V-2285 V-2285 Flowmeter
V-2342 V-2342 Fuse, 0.5A
IC-8999 IC-8999 Interlock Switch
V-4041-K V-4041-K Keypad/Radiometer Interface Board
IC-1500 IC-1505 Lamp Cooling Fan
V-106 V-106 Lamp Gasket
UVB-313 EL UVB-313 EL Lamp UVB-313
QFS-40 QFS-40 Lamp QFS-40
UVA-340 UVA-340 Lamp UVA-340
Sec 13 pg 1
Section 13: Replacement Parts
Part Number
100V-120V 200V-240V Description basic se spray cw
UVA-351 UVA-351 Lamp UVA-351
V-2089 V-2089 Lamp cool white
V-4051-X V-4051-X LCD Display
V-131.3T-X V-131.3T-X Long Tensile Bar Holders
CV-207 CV-207 Magnesium Anode
V-2202 V-2200 Main Power Switch/Circuit Breaker
CV-234 n/a Power Cord
IC-1520 n/a Power Cord
n/a CV-234.1 Power Cord
IC-1525 n/a Power Cord Plug
HS-4650 HS-4650 Pressure Regulator
F-8385 F-8385 Relay
V-132-3 V-132-3 Retaining Ring for 3" Holders
V-132-4 V-132-4 Retaining Ring for 4" Holders
V-132-6 V-132-6 Retaining Ring for 6" Holders
V-155 V-155 Rubber Lamp Socket
V-141 V-141 Safety Goggles
HS-4680 HS-4680 Shut Off Valve
V-4059-K V-4059-K Software/Processor Board
HS-4660 HS-4661 Solenoid Valve
V-440-K V-440-K Space Saver Frame
V-4116 V-4116 Spray Nozzle
V-2156-X V-2156-X Temperature Sensor
V-133-K V-133-K Thick Panel Retainers, Set of 50
IC-1124-X IC-1124-X UV Sensor
CV-218 CV-218 Water Feed Assembly
F-8887-X F-8887-X Water Feed Filter Assembly
CV-218V CV-218V Water Feed Valve Only
V-2287-X V-2287-X Water Filter Assembly
V-2288 V-2288 Water Filter Element
CV-230 CV-231 Water Heater
CV-210-K CV-210-K Water Pan
HS-4550-K HS-4550-K Water Pan
Sec 13 pg 2
Section 14: Technical Support and Service
Sec 14 pg 1
Section 15: Warranty Information
Q-Lab makes no other warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular
purpose, except as may be expressly provided by Q-Lab in writing. Q-Lab shall not be liable for any
incidental, consequential, special, or contingent damages arising out of the sale or use of any product.
Copyright 1997
QUV, Solar Eye, UVA-340 and UVB-313 are trademarks of Q-Lab Corporation.
Sec 15 pg 1