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FAQs

In our FAQ area, you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions in regard to our vacuum gauges and vacuum components.

If you do not find an answer to your question in this category, please contact us directly.


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VD8 Product Family


VD8 Compact-Vacuum Meter

What is the Min/Max memory feature?

Extreme values (minimum and maximum pressure) recorded during the measurement process are stored directly in the instrument and can be shown on the display when the measurement is complete.

Is it possible to place a VD8 compact vacuum meter directly into the vacuum for measuring?

Yes, our VD8 compact vacuum meters can be directly placed into a vacuum chamber. With their data logger functionality the measurements are stored and can be sent to a PC for evaluation, when the measurement is complete.

What happens with the instruments’ parameters or stored data when the battery is changed?

A memory chip, which works independent from a battery, is used for storage of measurements and the instruments’ parameters. However, the extreme values (Min/Max memory) will be lost when the battery is changed.

Is the battery included in the shipment?

Yes, the fitting battery is included in the initial shipment. VD8 can also used with a plug-in power supply (optional accessessory).

What battery types are suitable for VD8 compact vacuum meters?

We recommend 9 V alkaline batteries. Alternatively, 9 V lithium batteries or 9 V rechargeable batteries can be used. Zinc coal batteries are not suitable for the VD8, due to its high internal resistance.

How often do I need to recalibrate the compact vacuum meter?

The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. Especially in cases of coatings and contaminations on the sensor-head or if it is used in extreme temperature conditions, readjust of the instrument can be neccessary. For quality assurance matters, we recommend to return the instrument for calibration every one or two years. We can offer a works calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT).

Do I have to mount the instrument into a specific position?

The instruments can be mounted in every position. The best accuracy is achieved if the flange of the instrument is mounted horizontally because the instruments are calibrated in this position. It is not recommended to mount the sensor at the bottom of a pipe as condensate and dirt could be collected in the sensor cell.

What possibilities for data storage are available with VD8?

Up to 2000 measurements can be stored in the instrument and sent to a PC when the measurement is complete with the integrated data logger. Alternatively, the data can be sent and evaluated with the PC during the measuring process (online measurement).

What is the function “Data logging at measurement change” used for?

To optimally use the memory, especially for long term measurements, the VD8 offers the function “Data logging at measurement change”. Measurements are only logged if the pressure changes, thus, reducing the amount of insignificant data.

Is the VacuGraph® software required for using a VD8 compact vacuum meter?

The VacuGraph® software is an useful accessory for the most efficient use of our vacuum meters. It serves for the communication between a PC and vacuum meter. So you can e.g. transfer the measurements stored in the data logger to a PC for evaluation or you can change parameters like the sample rate comfortable in the configuration board of the software.

Smartline Product Family


Smartline digital Vacuum gauges

How can I program parameters like switching points or gas type correctional factors?

The Smartline vacuum transducers are programmed via their RS485 interface. They respond e. g. on type requests, measurement requests, adjustment commands and commands for gas type correctional factor. It is also possible to program both relay switchpoints of the gauge via RS485.

Is the measuring signal independent of the gas type within the rough vacuum range?

Yes it is in the pressure range above 15 mbar.

Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt?

All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter. We recommend to keep the transducer continously switched on because a hot Pirani filament reduces the sensitivity against contamination.

Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor?

Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol. In order to do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removal of the fluid, it is necessary for the cell to completely dry out. Please note that if e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament, it is very tough or even impossible to clean.

Do I have to mount the instrument into a specific position?

The instruments can be mounted in every position. The best accuracy is achieved if the flange of the instrument is mounted horizontally because the instruments are calibrated in this position. It is not recommended to mount the sensor at the bottom of a pipe as condensate and dirt could be collected in the sensor cell.

How often do I need to recalibrate the compact vacuum meter?

The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. Especially in cases of coatings and contaminations on the sensor-head or if it is used in extreme temperature conditions, readjust of the instrument can be neccessary. For quality assurance matters, we recommend to return the instrument for calibration every one or two years. We can offer a works calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT).

Is it possible to exchange the sensor heads of the transducers?

The exchangeable, pre-adjusted Smartline replacement sensors can be exchanged fast and easy by the user to assure best compatibility. Loosen the attachment screws around the head, exchange the sensor-head and reattach the attachment screws. After a heating-up phase of 15 minutes press the “Adjust” button, the sensor system and the electronics will be aligned automatically and the transmitter is ready to use.

What is the difference in applications between a cold cathode and a hot cathode gauges?

Hot cathode transducers are mainly used for measurements where high precision (<15%) is needed. For measurements in the ultra-high-vacuum range down to 5e-10 mbar we also recommend our hot cathode. Cold cathode transducers are more durable in numerous applications and therefore relevant for environments where the sensor is exposed to dust, oil or other pollution. The cold cathode measuring cell can be partly disassembled and cleaned (e.g. with Scotch Brite). The VSM and VSI cold cathodes are not quite as precise as a hot cathode transducer. However, the resolution and precision of both gauges is still excellent for a cold cathode sensor (<25%). If necessary the sensor heads of all transducers can be changed to assure a high plant availability.

Is it possible to clean the sensor head of the VSM?

Yes, it is possible to partly disassemble the sensor head and clean it with Scotch Brite. Metallic debris and minor pollution can be cleaned like this easily.

Is it possible to clean the sensor head of the VSH?

Hot cathode sensors are not suited for cleaning.

Analogline Product Family


Analogline Vacuum Gauges

What does “piezoresistive” mean?

By changing the pressure, a thin membrane deforms on which a resistor bridge is mounted on the rear. These piezoresisitive resistors change with strain and pressure. The resulting deformation is used to measure the absolute pressure.

Which advantages does the “ramp-impulse method” offer against the standard Pirani sensor?

The patented “ramp-impulse method“ measures conductivity by timing the duration of heating of the Pirani filament. It works at lower filament temperatures, therefore uses less power and offers a wider measurement range.

Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt?

All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter.

Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor?

Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol.In order to do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removal of the fluid it is necessary for the cell to completely dry out. Please note that if e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament and is very tough or even impossible to clean.

Do I have to mount the instrument into a specific position?

The instruments can be mounted in every position. The best accuracy is achieved if the flange of the instrument is mounted horizontally because the instruments are calibrated in this position. It is not recommended to mount the sensor at the bottom of a pipe as condensate and dirt could be collected in the sensor cell.

How often do I need to recalibrate the compact vacuum meter?

The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. Especially in cases of coatings and contaminations on the sensor-head or if it is used in extreme temperature conditions, readjust of the instrument can be neccessary. For quality assurance matters, we recommend to return the instrument for calibration every one or two years. We can offer a works calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT).

Analogline Passive Sensors

Which output-signal is supplied by the sensor?

The VSP841/2 itself does not supply an output-signal. It is a passive pirani-sensor without evaluation electronics. On request, we are happy to provide an evaluation switching suitable for your application.

Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt?

All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter.

Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor?

Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol. In order to do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removal of the fluid it is necessary for the cell to completely dry out. Please note that e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament and is very tough or even impossible to clean.

Do I have to mount the instrument into a specific position?

The instruments can be mounted in every position. The best accuracy is achieved if the flange of the instrument is mounted horizontally because the instruments are calibrated in this position. It is not recommended to mount the sensor at the bottom of a pipe as condensate and dirt could be collected in the sensor cell.

How often do I need to recalibrate the compact vacuum meter?

The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. Especially in cases of coatings and contaminations on the sensor-head or if it is used in extreme temperature conditions, readjust of the instrument can be neccessary. For quality assurance matters, we recommend to return the instrument for calibration every one or two years. We can offer a works calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT).

Analogline Controller

What is the difference between the VD6 and the VD12 gauge sets?

The VD6 is a compact 1 canal display and control unit suited for instrument panels (48×96 mm) for the transducers VSC43MA4 and VSP63MA4 only. The instrument has a USB-port for communication with a PC. Power supply and switching output are connected via phoenix strip terminal.

Vakuum Switches

What does “piezoresistive” mean?

By changing the pressure, a thin membrane deforms on which a resistor bridge is mounted on the rear. These piezoresisitive resistors change with strain and pressure. The resulting deformation is used to measure the absolute pressure.

How to set the switching point?

After the disassembly of the case which prevents accidental adjustment, the setting of the switching point is done with a potentiometer. The value of the switching point is displayed as a 0-1V analog signal for control purposes.

Can you display the measurement values?

Yes, the measurement values are displayed as a 0-10 V analog signal.

Vakuum Software & Apps

Why do I need the VacuGraph® software?

The parameters of the controller as well as the parameters of the transducers (e.g. units, output characteristics, gas type correction factors, switch points, etc.) can be easily adjusted using VacuGraph Windows software (lite version available free of charge) or alternatively via software command.

What are the limitations by the VacuGraph® Lite-Version?

Measurement data cannot be saved, exported and printed. The maximum measurement time is limited to 5 minutes and only one live measurement tab/window can be used. The reading from a datalogger is not possible.

Is it possible to export the measurements into Excel?

Yes, this is possible, but only with the license key.

Calibration

What is the validity period of a works calibration?

A works calibration documents the current status of a device at the time of calibration by recording the pressure readings of the test gauge compared to the real pressure reading of a reference gauge.
Depending on the application, the calibrated instrument can remain within the specified variation for a long time. However, in specific applications (e. g. with a high amount of oil vapors) contamination can happen quite fast which may result in a change regarding the characteristics of the gauge. Hence, a period of validity cannot be specified for any calibration. Based on our long-term practical experience we recommend an annual calibration.