40
holders are slowly dissolved by the flux when it is molten, but will quickly
degrade when cooling, as the ceramic parts could break.
1.3
The metal part that acts as a lid for the crucible may get dirty over time.
You can disassemble the lid by removing its two screws, and then soak
the lid in an ultrasonic bath filled with mild citric acid solution.
1.4
Similarly, the front of the crucible is fitted with a metallic part called the
spill protector, which can be removed and cleaned. Upon re-installing the
spill protector: first install a crucible in the heater, then prepare the
installation of the spill protector; slide the spill protector gently against
the crucible, then slide it back, to leave a gap of 0.5 to 1 mm between
the spill protector and the crucible. Then, tighten the spill protector
screws.
2.
If parts are found to be contaminated with flux deposits, Katanax
recommends to carefully disassemble the parts in question, and soak them for
a few hours in a citric acid ultrasonic bath. This does not apply to fibrous
ceramic parts, which cannot be cleaned easily, and must be scraped clean, or
replaced.
Visual integrity
of heating
elements
IMPORTANT
: Always disconnect the instrument from the power outlet when
working with panels removed. Risk of electrocution!
In the K1 Prime, heating elements build a surface oxide layer over the metallic
coil, which protects it from degradation and lengthens its lifespan. However, this
oxide is extremely sensitive to molten flux.
It is extremely important that no flux ever touch the element. Element life would
dramatically be reduced. This is why elements are protected by a clear or semi-
clear tube.
Always remove the crucibles from the instrument to weigh components, and
make sure that crucible external walls are clean before re-installing the crucibles
in their holder.
1.
Flux spills on elements
1.1
Visually verify that no flux (powdered or molten) is found on or near the
elements. Check both the crucible and the mold heaters.
1.2
If necessary, the clear tubes can be replaced independently from the
whole element assemblies.
2.
Wire diameter
2.1
Visually verify that diameter of wire is the same throughout the whole
length of the element. If a section of a heating element exhibits reduced
diameter, replace this element without delay.
If an element is found to be in a dubious state, it should be replaced as soon as
possible to prevent any failure of the instrument during a production peak.
Summary of Contents for K1 PRIME
Page 1: ...Automatic fluxer 1...
Page 2: ......
