Full Gauge Controls AHC-80 plus - User Manual

PSYCHROMETRIC CONTROLLER
OF AIR RELATIVE HUMIDITY
AND TEMPERATURE
AHC-80 plus
Ver.01
1. DESCRIPTION
The AHC-80 plus is a psychrometric controller that has two totally configurable stages. It is designed
to control the relative humidity of the air and temperature for the: acclimatization of stocking of fruits and
flowers, air conditioning, textile industry, laboratories, operating rooms, concrete durability trials, wood
drying, among other applications.
The measurement is made using the temperature difference between a dry bulb and a wet bulb. It is a
psychrometric, acknowledged as a precise and stable method for determining the relative humidity of
the air.
This controller is very user friendly, and offers the user a great deal of ease in adjusting the configuration
parameters.
2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
- Power supply: 115/230Vac (50/60Hz)
- Control temperature: -5.0 to 50.0°C (±0.1°C)
- Control humidity: 40 to 100%RH (±1%RH)
- Operating temperature: 0 to 50 ºC
- Operating humidity: 10 to 90%RH (without condensation)
- Maximum current per output: 8(3) A / 250Vac 1/4HP
- Dimensions: 71 x 28 x 71mm
3. CONFIGURATION
3.1 - Temperature and huimidity control (SETPOINTS)
- Press for two seconds until the following figure appears .
- If the function has a value of 0 or 1 will appear as well as with the values of the
adjusted temperature and humidity.
- If the function has a value of 2 or 3 will appear as well as with the value of the
adjusted humidity.
- Use the keys and to modify the values, and when ready, press to confirm.
3.2 - Parameters alteration (advanced functions)
- Acess the advanced functions by pressing simultaneously the keys and for 2 seconds until
appears , releasing after that. Soon appears , so press (short touch).
- Use the keys and to enter the acess code (123), when ready press .
- Use the keys and to acess the desired function.
- After select the function, press (short touch) to visualize the value configured for that function.
- Use the keys and to change the value and, when ready, press to save the configured value
and return to functions menu.
- To return the normal operation, press (long touch) until appears.
SET
SET
SET
SET
SET
SET
SET
Description
Minimum
Maximum
Unit
Access code (123)
Atmospheric pressure
Operating mode for the 1st stage
Minimum setpoint allowed for the 1st stage
Maximum setpoint allowed for the 1st stage
Control differential (hysteresis) for the 1st stage
Delay for restart of the output for the 1st stage
Operating mode for the 2nd stage
Minimum setpoint allowed for the 2nd stage
Maximum setpoint allowed for the 2nd stage
Control differential (hysteresis) for the 2nd stage
Delay for restart of the output for the 2nd stage
Cyclical timer for the 2nd stage - time on
Cyclical timer for the 2nd stage - time off
Preferential indication
Address of the instrument on the network RS-485
-
mmHg
-
°C (%RH)
°C (%RH)
°C (%RH)
sec.
-
%RH
%RH
%RH
sec.
sec.
sec.
-
-
-99
400
(*)
-5.0 (1.0)
-5.0 (1.0)
0.1 (1.0)
0
(**)
1.0
1.0
1.0
0
0
0
(***)
001
999
800
(*)
50.0 (100)
50.0 (100)
20.0
999
(**)
100
100
20.0
999
999
999
(***)
247
3.3 - Advanced functions
Fun
(**) Operating mode for the 2nd stage
Dehumidification
Humidification
(***)Preferential indication
Temperature / humidity
Only temperature
Only humidity
(*) Operating mode for the 1st stage
Refrigeration
Heating
Dehumidification
Humidification
4. STANDARDIZATION (LOCAL CALIBRATION)
Recommended execution when:
- the probe is substituted;
- the length of the sensor cable is altered.
In these cases, small deviations may arise when measuring temperatures, which may be compensated.
For this purpose, proceed in the following manner:
- Place the probe fully into a bucket of water that is a temperature similar to that of the chamber;
- Keep this water moving, and monitor the temperature using a good quality thermometer (reference).
- Wait a few minutes for the temperatures of the dry bulb and the wet bulb to stabilize and equalize to the
temperature indicated by the reference thermometer, pursuant to what is described below:
- Simultaneously press and for ten seconds until appears.
-Releasing the keys, the temperature will appear to be adjusted, according to the reference
thermometer.
- Use the keys and to adjust the value an, when ready, press to memorize the new value.
REMARKS 1 The length of the sensors cable may be increased by the user itself, using a PP 2x24 AWG
cable, additionally supplied by Full Gauge Controls upon request.
Substitute the cordon that covers the humid bulb by another one double cordon made of white cotton,
when necessary.
REMARKS 2: In order to obtain a reliable humidity indication, wait at least 20 minutes for the
temperatures to stabilize, then reinstall the probe.
5. VISUALIZATION OF THE TEMPERATURE OF THE WET BULB
To visualize the temperature of the wet bulb, all you have to do is touch the key .
The message will appear, and then the temperature measured by the wet bulb.
SET
SET
6. MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM LOGS
Press . The display will indicate followed by the maximum and minimum temperatures
registered. Then the will appear, followed by the minimum and maximum humidity levels
registered.
Note: To restart the records you just have to keep the key pressed during the viewing of the
minimum and maximum temperatures until is displayed.
7. VISUALIZATION OF THE OTHER VARIABLE
If the function is configured to only visualize the temperature or only visualize the humidity, you
may visualize the other variable through a simple touch of the key .
8. INSTALLATION OF THE PROBE FOR THE AHC-80 plus
1. Attach the stainless steel reservoir through the 2 holes. (fig. 01)
2. Fill the plastic recipient with water. (fig. 02)
3. Place the plastic recipient in the stainless steel
reservoir, as indicated in the figure.(fig. 03)
(fig. 01) (fig. 02) (fig. 03)
4. Leave the silicon hose (disconnected from the probe) with it pointing down, let the water run until you
notice bubbles of air rising in the plastic recipient. This process will guarantee that there is no air inside
the hose.
5. Slowly lift the end of the silicon hose (fig. 04), using the upper level of the water in the hose to
determine the level inside the reservoir. Using chalk, mark this level on the wall..
6. Use the mark made on the wall to position the probe (fig. 05) so that the stainless steel part (fig. 06) of
the probe has its middle positioned to the center of the mark. Guaranteeing that through communication
vessels, there is water up to half of the stainless steel part, and so we have the humid covering in the
liquid.
7.Connect the silicon hose to the probe. Take care that the covering is in contact with the water, and that
there is plenty of water in the plastic recipient.
(fig. 04)
(fig. 05) (fig. 06)
9. MESSAGES AND SIGNS
Sensor for the dry bulb is disconnected or is not in operating range
Sensor for the wet bulb is disconnected or is not in operating range
Excessive difference in temperature between the dry and wet bulbs
Temperature of the wet bulb is higher than the dry bulb
Atmospheric pressure (in mmHg):
The formula for calculating the atmospheric pressure based on the altitude is:
P (mmHg) 0,00000446171 x - 0,091019 x + 759,787
2
@
where x = altitude (in meters)
ST1
AHC-80 plus
ST2
Obs: The tube can not suffer
alterations in the cut.
AHC80PL1-09T-10842

Summary

Product Description

Technical Specifications

Configuration and Settings

Setpoint Configuration

Setting target temperature and humidity values for control stages.

Advanced Parameter Adjustment

Accessing and modifying advanced configuration parameters.

Function List and Parameters

Details of advanced functions, parameters, and their ranges.

Local Calibration Procedure

Wet Bulb Temperature Visualization

Maximum and Minimum Logs

Other Variable Visualization

Probe Installation Guide

Messages and Signs

Electrical Connections

Environmental Information

Product Disposal

Warranty Terms

Warranty Exceptions

Loss of Warranty Conditions

Warranty Use Procedure

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Configuration
4. Visualization
5. Installation of the Probe
6. Electrical Connections
7. Maintenance Features
8. Standardization (Local Calibration)
9. Remarks on Reliability
10. Error Messages and Signs
11. Environmental Information
12. Warranty
13. Electrical Installation Best Practices

The AHC-80 plus is a sophisticated psychrometric controller designed for precise management of air relative humidity and temperature. It offers two fully configurable stages, making it suitable for a wide range of applications where environmental control is critical.

Function Description:

The core function of the AHC-80 plus is to measure and control both relative humidity and temperature. It achieves this by utilizing the psychrometric principle, which involves measuring the temperature difference between a dry bulb and a wet bulb. This method is widely recognized for its accuracy and stability in determining relative humidity.

The controller is designed for various applications, including:

• Acclimatization of stocking: For fruits and flowers, ensuring optimal conditions for preservation.
• Air conditioning: For precise climate control in various environments.
• Textile industry: Where specific humidity levels are crucial for material processing.
• Laboratories and operating rooms: Requiring stringent environmental stability.
• Concrete durability trials: To control curing conditions.
• Wood drying: To manage moisture content effectively.

The AHC-80 plus can be integrated into a network with other controllers via its RS-485 serial interface and connected to a computer running Sitrad software for centralized monitoring and control. This allows for comprehensive management of multiple devices and data logging.

Usage Features:

The AHC-80 plus is designed to be very user-friendly, offering straightforward adjustment of configuration parameters.

Configuration:

• Temperature and Humidity Control (Setpoints): Setpoints for temperature and humidity can be easily adjusted. Pressing the SET button for two seconds allows access to these settings. Depending on the configured function (0, 1, 2, or 3), the display will show the current temperature and humidity values, which can then be modified using the up and down arrow keys. Confirmation is done by pressing SET again.
• Advanced Functions: Accessing advanced parameters involves simultaneously pressing the up and down arrow keys for two seconds until "Fun" appears, followed by a short press of SET. An access code (123) is required to proceed. Once inside, users can navigate through various functions using the arrow keys. Each function's configured value can be viewed with a short press of SET and modified using the arrow keys. Saving changes and returning to the functions menu is done by pressing SET. To return to normal operation, a long press of SET is required until the main display appears.
• Operating Modes: The controller supports various operating modes for its two stages, including refrigeration, heating, dehumidification, and humidification. These modes can be configured to suit specific application needs.
• Control Differentials (Hysteresis): Users can set the hysteresis for both temperature and humidity control, allowing for precise management of the control loops.
• Delay for Restart: Delays for output restart can be configured, which is useful for protecting compressors or other equipment from short-cycling.
• Cyclical Timer: A cyclical timer for the second stage allows for timed on/off cycles, providing additional control flexibility.
• Preferential Indication: The display can be configured to preferentially show temperature/humidity, only temperature, or only humidity.

Visualization:

• Wet Bulb Temperature: The temperature of the wet bulb can be viewed by simply touching the SET key, which will display "t-2" followed by the measured wet bulb temperature.
• Maximum and Minimum Logs: The controller logs maximum and minimum temperature and humidity levels. These can be viewed by pressing the up arrow key. To reset these records, the up arrow key must be held down during viewing until "rES" is displayed.
• Other Variables: If the display is configured to show only temperature or only humidity, the other variable can be viewed with a simple touch of the down arrow key.

Installation of the Probe:

The installation of the psychrometric probe is a multi-step process designed to ensure accurate readings:

1. Attach the stainless steel reservoir using its two holes.
2. Fill the plastic recipient with water.
3. Place the plastic recipient into the stainless steel reservoir.
4. Ensure no air is trapped in the silicon hose by letting water run through it until bubbles cease.
5. Determine the water level inside the reservoir by slowly lifting the silicon hose and marking the level.
6. Position the probe so that the middle of its stainless steel part aligns with the marked water level, ensuring the humid covering is immersed in the liquid.
7. Connect the silicon hose to the probe, ensuring the covering is in contact with the water and that there is sufficient water in the recipient.

Electrical Connections:

The manual provides detailed diagrams for electrical connections, including power supply, sensor inputs (dry and wet bulb), and load outputs. It also outlines connections for serial communication (RS-485) for integration with Sitrad.

Maintenance Features:

Standardization (Local Calibration):

Local calibration is recommended in specific situations to compensate for small deviations that may arise in temperature measurements:

• Probe Substitution: When the probe is replaced.
• Sensor Cable Length Alteration: If the length of the sensor cable is changed.

The calibration process involves:

1. Placing the probe fully into a bucket of water at a temperature similar to the chamber's.
2. Keeping the water moving.
3. Monitoring the water temperature with a high-quality reference thermometer.
4. Simultaneously pressing the up and down arrow keys for ten seconds until "CAL" appears.
5. Releasing the keys, the adjusted temperature will be displayed, matching the reference thermometer.
6. Using the up and down arrow keys to adjust the value.
7. Pressing SET to memorize the new value.

Remarks on Reliability:

• The sensor cable length can be extended using a PP 2x24 AWG cable.
• The cordon covering the humid bulb should be replaced with a double cordon made of white cotton if necessary.
• For reliable humidity indication, it is crucial to wait at least 20 minutes for temperatures to stabilize before reinstalling the probe.

Error Messages and Signs:

The controller provides clear error messages to indicate potential issues:

• "Er": Dry bulb sensor disconnected or out of operating range.
• "Er2": Wet bulb sensor disconnected or out of operating range.
• "LLL": Excessive temperature difference between dry and wet bulbs.
• "HHH": Wet bulb temperature is higher than the dry bulb.

Environmental Information:

Full Gauge Controls emphasizes environmental responsibility:

• Packaging: Materials used are 100% recyclable, encouraging disposal through specialized recycling agents.
• Product: Components are designed to be recyclable and reusable if disassembled by specialized companies.
• Disposal: Users are advised not to burn or dispose of controllers at the end of their service life, but to follow local regulations for electronic waste disposal.

Warranty:

The product comes with a warranty against manufacturing failures, ensuring suitability for its intended applications. The warranty is limited to the maintenance of the instrument itself and does not cover shipping costs, natural wear, external damage, or issues arising from improper use, installation, or unauthorized repairs. To claim warranty, the product must be sent to Full Gauge Controls with the purchase receipt and detailed information about the defect.

Electrical Installation Best Practices:

To ensure product longevity and safety, the manual recommends:

• Installing overvoltage protectors on the power supply.
• Keeping computer signal cables separate from electrical conduits carrying power and load activation.
• Installing transient suppressors (RC filters) parallel to loads to extend relay life.

Full Gauge Controls AHC-80 plus Specifications