The Flexi-Cool series of immersion coolers, specifically the FC55/FC100 models with EDC control, are designed for high heat removal and fast cool-down capabilities. These refrigerated units utilize probes that can be placed directly into a fluid or vapor to achieve temperatures from ambient down to -100°C. A key design principle is maximum efficiency, achieved by expanding the refrigerant directly inside the probe, thus eliminating secondary mediums or pumping that would introduce additional heat loads. The chillers are built with innovative design, high-quality construction, and dependable components to ensure reliable cooling performance.
Function Description:
The Flexi-Cool units are immersion coolers that provide direct cooling and heat removal. They are controlled by an EDC digital control package, which allows users to fine-tune operational parameters to suit specific applications. The system operates by circulating refrigerant through a flexible delivery line to a probe, which then directly cools the target substance. The EDC controller manages temperature setpoints, alarms, and various proportional control parameters to maintain precise temperature control.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Temperature Range: Ambient to -100°C.
- Control System: Digital / RS-232 Control (EDC).
- Probe Configurations:
- P1 - Cartridge (0.75" dia. x 7"): Well-suited for cooling vapors.
- P2 - Flexible (0.46" dia. x 24"L): A corrugated stainless steel flex-line, versatile for various applications.
- P4 - Coil (5" OD x 8"L): Provides the highest surface area for maximum cooling of immersion baths.
- Delivery Line: 60-inch flexible delivery line, made of corrugated stainless steel tubing.
- Voltage Options: 120V/60Hz (A) or 220V/50Hz (D).
- Low Temperature Options: -50°C Max Low Temperature or -100°C Max Low Temperature.
- User-Settable Temperature Alarms: High Alarm (HA) and Low Alarm (LA) with user-defined setpoints.
- Proportional Control Parameters:
- Ramp Rate (rr): Programmed transition rate from old to new setpoint (degrees per minute).
- Cooling Band (CPb): Temperature span across which cooling is proportionately applied (degrees).
- Integral Time (It): Time constant for adjustment of proportioning action to correct deviations from setpoint (seconds).
- Derivative Time (dt): Time constant for adjustment of proportioning action to reduce slew rate as setpoint is approached (seconds).
- Cool Cycle Time (Cct): Period of operation for cool/bypass refrigeration valves (seconds), with a minimum of two seconds total and 0.25 seconds for On/Off duration.
- Communications: RS-232 interface with user-definable Baud Rate (300, 1200, 2400, 9600), Stop Bits (1, 1.5, 2), Data Word Length (7-bit or 8-bit), and Parity (none, odd, even).
Usage Features:
- Small Footprint: Designed for efficient use of space.
- Digital Control: The EDC controller allows for precise temperature management and customization.
- User Menu Navigation: Parameters are adjusted via three front-panel buttons, allowing users to navigate menus (Proportional Control, Span, Miscellaneous, Communications) and modify values.
- Setpoint Adjustment: Users can easily adjust the target temperature using the Up/Down keys, with values automatically accepted after 4 seconds of inactivity.
- System Start-up and Shut-down: Simple I/O button press to start or put the unit in Idle mode. A rocker switch controls the main power (EMO/off).
- Temperature Alarms (HA/LA): User-settable high and low temperature alarms provide alerts and can trigger system responses (e.g., full cool, stop refrigeration) to prevent damage. These alarms require manual reset.
- Parameter Lock (PLOC): A feature to lock menu values, preventing changes from the control panel while the system is running, especially in "local" operation.
- Power Fail Recovery (PF): Selection for automatic power recovery algorithm (disabled/enabled).
- Temperature Scale (dEg): User-selectable temperature scale (Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin).
- Decimal Point (dP): Option to display temperature with or without a decimal point (0.1 resolution).
- Remote Control: The unit supports RS-232 communication for remote control and monitoring, allowing integration with host systems.
Maintenance Features:
- Routine Cleaning: Recommended weekly to monthly, depending on the operating environment. Involves disconnecting power, wiping exterior surfaces, checking switches, vacuuming dust from the condenser, removing cabinet panels, blowing compressed air, checking for frosted areas, and replacing panels.
- Probe Care:
- Flexible Probes: Avoid dragging on rough surfaces, do not wrap around the main coil, never chip ice, and minimize unnecessary flexing, especially when cold, to prevent abrasion or puncture.
- Cartridge and Coil Probes: Constructed from Type 304 or 316 stainless steel for durability. If contamination with free iron occurs, treat with a 20% Nitric Acid solution (avoiding brazed connections).
- Troubleshooting Guide: Provides symptoms, possible causes, and remedies for common issues such as compressor shutdowns, failure to restart, or gradual loss of temperature. Issues like low voltage, high ambient temperature, dirty/blocked condenser fins, fan malfunction, high refrigeration pressure, or loss of refrigerant are addressed.
- Service Support: FTS provides a dedicated Service Division with trained technicians for electrical, refrigeration, liquid, vacuum, air, and vapor control systems. They offer factory support, a worldwide network of service organizations, and various service options including extended warranties, preventative maintenance plans, and service contracts.
- Return Authorization (RA): For equipment returns, an RA number is required, obtained by contacting the FTS Service Division. Units must be returned freight prepaid with the RA number clearly marked.
The Flexi-Cool series is designed for robust and precise temperature control in demanding applications, with comprehensive features for both operation and maintenance.
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