Users Guide for the CableSoft Software Package

Transcription

1 Issue 1.4: January, 2007 REF: CABLESOFT SOFTWARE MANUAL.DOC Users Guide for the CableSoft Software Package For Use with the Modified IEC Chamber for Measuring Heat Release Rate and Smoke Production Rate Issued by: Fire Testing Technology Limited Incorporating Stanton Redcroft Charlwoods Road East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 2HL, U.K. Telephone: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) fire-testing.com Web:

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3 Contents 1 The FTT CableSoft Software Introduction Minimum PC Requirements Installation PCI-GPIB Series Board Application Software Hardware Installation Connections Between The IEC Apparatus and Data Logger Connection Between The Data Logger and PC Data Logger Setup Copyright Health and Safety Overview Of CableSoft Features Start Test Cable Test Test Information Pre-Run Calibrations Test Run After Test Conditions After Test Comments Daily Check Test Information Pre-Run Calibrations Daily Propane Check Status Calibrations Gas Analysers Differential Pressure Transducer Smoke System Mass Flow Meters All Transducers...20 i

4 2.4 Commissioning Flow Profile Step Routine Methanol Burn Reports Tools Print Report Configure About Exit Configuring CableSoft Lab Name and Directories Counters Equipment Fitted Smoke System Apparatus Specifications Transducer Calibrations ( Input Values ) Pre-Run Calibrations Saving Configuration Calibrating Instrument Transducers Gas Analysers Zeroing Spanning Differential Pressure Transducer Smoke System Laser Smoke System Zeroing Balancing White Light System Zeroing Spanning Ignition Burner Mass Flow Meters All Transducers...39 ii

5 5 Commissioning The IEC Apparatus Flow Profile Step Routine Step Step Step Table Display Area Processed Commissioning Results Criteria Saving Data Methanol Burn Processed Commissioning Results Criteria Saving Data Reports Flow Profile Step Routine Select a Different Calibration File Print The Data Exit Methanol Burn Select a Different Calibration File Print The Data Exit Commissioning Results Conducting A Test Daily Check Tests Check Test Information Check Test Run Step Step Step Table Display Area Processed Commissioning Results...81 iii

6 6.1.8 Criteria Saving Data Cable Tests Test Information Pre-Run Calibrations Test Run Start Test Ignite Burner Turn Off Burner End Test After Test Conditions After Test Comments Printing Reports Commissioning Tests Daily Check Tests Criteria Select a Different Data File Print The Data Exit Cable Tests Select A Different Test File Set Print Options Export The Processed Data Print The Data Exit Additional Tools Status Tools Oxygen Drift Calculator Collect Drift Data View and Print Oxygen Drift Data Smoke Drift Calculator For Laser Systems Collect Drift Data View And Print Smoke Drift Data iv

7 8.2.3 Smoke Drift Calculator For White Light Systems Collect Drift Data View And Print Smoke Drift Data Commissioning k t Value Calculator Calculate Gas Flows Calculate Gas Flow From Heat Release Rate Calculate Heat Release Rate From Mass Flow Rate Calculate Heat Release Rate From Volume Flow Rate Calculate Air Volume Flow Rate From Mass Flow Rate Calculate Air Mass Flow Rate From Volume Flow Rate A1 File Structures A1.1 Test Files A1.2 Propane Step Routine Calibration Files A1.3 Methanol Burn Calibration Files A1.4 Propane Daily Check Files A1.5 Flow Profile Data File A2 GPIB-32 Driver Installation Problems v

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9 1 The FTT CableSoft Software 1.1 Introduction The European Commission are to classify electric cables under the Construction Products Directive (CPD). The work is currently being finalised but it is likely that the classification will include assessments made utilising the results obtained from traditional IEC test equipment fitted with heat and smoke release measurement instrumentation. The former is calculated by continuous measurement of the oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide generated in the combustion process. Conversion of existing IEC apparatus to measure heat release is accomplished by fitting a small instrumented section of ducting into the exhaust system of the rig and using this with associated FTT gas analysis instrumentation and software and a modified test protocol. The duct section houses all gas sampling probes, temperature and mass flow probes needed, and the smoke measuring system. This modified IEC chamber uses sophisticated instrumentation and in order to make the calibration and use of the instrument as easy as possible, Fire Testing Technology supplies the CableSoft software package to complement the instrument. The software is based on the text of pren CPD-1 Draft 12, pren CPD-2-1 Draft 5 and pren CPD-2-2 Draft 7. Throughout this manual the modified IEC chamber (for heat and smoke measurements) will be referred to as the IEC apparatus. CableSoft is a powerful, yet easy to use, Microsoft Windows based application that allows the user to perform most operations required on the apparatus with the aid of a computer. Although the software is user friendly, please take a moment to read this manual. It will alert you to some features of the software that may not be immediately apparent. Note that this manual assumes the user is familiar with the Windows environment and the use of a mouse. Button names which appear in bold are those which appear on the screen of the PC, other buttons are those on the instrument. FTT recommends that the installation of software and computer hardware is conducted by an FTT engineer. If Fire Testing Technology have supplied a computer system with the instrument, or installed the software and hardware on a client-supplied PC, then the procedures described in Sections 1.3, 1.4 and 3 will have been conducted and the performance of the system checked. In such cases you can immediately start using the software go to Section 4. If the software and hardware has not been installed into the computer system then please follow the installation and configuring instructions given in Sections 1.3, 1.4 and 3. 1

10 1.2 Minimum PC Requirements Pentium 300 MHz processor 32 Mb RAM 4 Mb video memory 3.5" 1.44 Mb disk drive 15" SVGA Monitor One free PCI slot for the Agilent data logger system communication board Microsoft Windows 95 or higher running in resolution Microsoft Windows compatible mouse Microsoft Windows compatible printer 1.3 Installation FTT recommends that the installation of software and computer hardware is conducted by an FTT engineer. If Fire Testing Technology have supplied a computer system with the instrument, or installed the software and hardware on a client-supplied PC, then the procedures described in Sections 1.3, 1.4 and 3 will have been conducted and the performance of the system checked. In such cases you can immediately start using the software go to Section 4. If the software and hardware has not been installed into the computer system then please follow the installation and configuring instructions given in Sections 1.3, 1.4 and 3. If, for any reason, you have to re-install the software, or you are supplying your own computer then please follow these steps. All example file paths assume you will be using drive C as the hard drive and CAB_SOFT as the directory used to store the application files (these are the default settings.) The installation of the software consists of two stages: (1) installing the GPIB interface card and drivers, and (2) installing and configuring the CableSoft application. The GPIB-32 driver is supplied on one 3.5" HD floppy diskette or CD-ROM and the application is supplied on CD-ROM (the GPIB drivers can also be found on the CableSoft CD-ROM) PCI-GPIB Series Board The PCI-GPIB series boards are completely plug and play and are used to communicate with the Agilent 34970A Data Acquisition/Switch Unit. FTT supply a PCI GPIB interface to enable fast communication between the PC and Agilent and reduce the chances of interference. To install the PCI-GPIB board follow these instructions 1. Do NOT install the GPIB card in the computer. 2

11 2. Turn the computer on and start Windows 3. If the GPIB driver is supplied on floppy then go to step 4, if on CD go to step 5 4. Floppy installation: Place GPIB-32 Disk 1 of 1 installation disk in the floppy drive. Choose the Run command from the Start menu. In the Run dialogue box select or type a:\setup and push the OK button. (If the floppy drive used is drive B then type b:\setup.) Now go to Step CD-Rom installation: Place CD-Rom in the CD drive. The disc should automatically load. If it does not then choose the Run command from the Start menu; then in the Run dialogue box select or type d:\setup and push the OK button. (use the correct CD-Rom drive letter if different from D). Press the button labelled Install the GPIB-32 Library. Now go to Step Follow the instructions on the screen. When asked if you want to put the gpib-32.dll file in the Windows folder then answer Yes. Do NOT skip the card setup. Select GPIB0 as PCI-GPIB, and GPIB1 as None. 7. The installation will re-boot the computer. 8. After rebooting, shut down and turn the computer off. 9. Open the computer case. 10. Insert the PCI-GPIB series board into any available PCI slot. 11. Put the computer s case back on and restart Windows 12. Windows will then recognise the card and finish starting. Reboot the computer once again. 13. Choose Programs from the Start menu and then GPIB-32 Library. Run CBCONF Press the space bar and then select Edit GPIB0 Board Options 15. Select GPIB0 Board Options 16. Ensure that in the GPIB Board Options Menu the second entry is "Board is INSTALLED. If necessary then highlight this option and press the Enter key to change the setting. 17. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and choose Return to Board Menu, then in the GPIB0 menu scroll down to the bottom of the list and choose Return to Main Menu. 18. Now select Edit GPIB1 Board Options and then GPIB1 Board Options. 19. Ensure that in the GPIB Board Options Menu the second entry is "Board is NOT INSTALLED. If necessary then highlight this option and press the Enter key to change the setting. 20. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and choose Return to Board Menu, then in the GPIB1 menu scroll down to the bottom of the list and choose Return to Main Menu. 21. In the Main Menu select Save current configuration and then select Exit. 22. Choose Programs from the Start menu and then GPIB-32 Library. Run CBTEST32. 3

12 23. If any of the tests are indicated as FAILED then consult the PCI-GPIB series manual (also for users of Windows NT based system (NT, 2000 or XP) please see the patch information given in Appendix A2). 24. Connect the PC to the data logger using the GPIB cable supplied. Once the PCI-GPIB card has been installed correctly in a PC this installation routine will not need to be repeated Application Software To install the CableSoft application: 1. Start Windows and place CD-Rom in the CD drive. The disc should automatically load. If it does not then choose the Run command from the Start menu; then in the Run dialogue box select or type d:\setup and push the OK button. (use the correct CD-Rom drive letter if different from D). 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of the application files. A new folder will then appear in the Programs menu with shortcuts for the installed applications. Restart Windows when prompted. 3. Start the CableSoft Initial Setup application (in the FTT Applications folder), enter the requested information and push the Setup CableSoft button. (See Section 2.7 for an explanation of the requested information.) Figure 1.1: CableSoft Initial Setup 4. The setup utility will automatically install the required drivers and the ActiveX control for the data logger. 5. Ensure that Windows is set in resolution mode. (Refer to your display driver manual for information on setting screen resolution.) 4

13 6. To complete the installation procedure you must restart Windows. It is strongly recommended that you run the configuration routine in CableSoft the first time you run the software to ensure the system is set up correctly (the Configure process is described in Section 2.7). 1.4 Hardware Installation Connections Between The IEC Apparatus and Data Logger The data logger has three slots at the rear into which different data acquisition cards can be inserted. For the IEC Apparatus a HP34902A multiplexer card is inserted into slot 1 (the top slot). Slots 2 and 3 should be left blank. There are a maximum of 13 data channels to connect between the IEC apparatus and the data logger card in slot 1 and these are shown in Table 1.1. Channel Cable Transducer Initial volts Initial measurand zero span zero span 1 46 Oxygen analyser cell V V 0% 25% 2 40 Differential pressure transducer (DPT) 0 V 10 V 0 Pa 125 Pa 3 37 Carbon monoxide analyser cell V 9.98 V 0% 1% 4 38 Carbon dioxide analyser cell V 9.98 V 0% 10% 5 34 White light smoke system or Main photodiode for laser system 0 V 0 V 1 V 1 V 0% 0 100% Compensating photodiode for laser system 0 V 1 V No connection 8 32 Burner gas mass flow meter (Gas MFM) 0 V 5 V 0 mg/s 1200 mg/s 9 41 Ambient pressure transducer (APT) 0.4 V 2 V 80 kpa 120 kpa 10 No connection Cold trap thermocouple Measuring section thermocouple Measuring section thermocouple Measuring section thermocouple 3 15 No connection Burner air mass flow meter (Air MFM) 0 V 5 V 0 mg/s 4200 mg/s Table 1.1: Data logger channel connections Connection Between The Data Logger and PC Ensure that the data logger is turned off, then connect the logger to the interface card in the computer using the supplied GPIB cable Data Logger Setup Every time the CableSoft software is started the data logger channels will automatically be set up appropriately. The only setup required is that the correct communication protocol is selected. 1. Turn on the data logger. 5

14 2. The current communications protocol will be displayed for a short time. If the display shows Address 9 then no further action is required (the logger is already set for GPIB communication). 3. If the display shows RS-232 then press the Shift key and then the Interface key. 4. Use the jog dial to select GPIB / 488 and press the Interface button again. 5. Select Address 09 using the jog dial and press the Interface button again. 6. The logger will then flash Done to indicate that it is set for GPIB communication. Figure 1.2: Data Logger Important note: Always turn the data logger on BEFORE starting the CableSoft application and do not turn it off while the software is running. CableSoft automatically configures the 34970A when initiated. However, should the client wish to take advantage of the large range of features offered by this unit they should consult the proprietary manuals supplied by Agilent. During data collection all readings can be automatically time stamped and stored in a nonvolatile 50,000-reading memory. The non-volatile memory can hold your data even after power is removed so data uploading to a PC can be performed at a later stage should there be a power failure or computer crash during data collection. A separate data recovery package is required to recovery the data stored in memory. Please note that if there is a need to recover the data from the Agilent s memory then do NOT start CableSoft otherwise the data will be automatically cleared from memory. 1.5 Copyright Fire Testing Technology Limited and its suppliers own the licensed programs and the documentation provided, both of which are protected by copyright laws. Your right to use the licensed programs and documentation is limited to the terms and conditions described below: 6

15 YOU MAY: (a) use the supplied licensed programs on a single computer; (b) physically transfer the licensed programs from one computer to another provided that the licensed programs are used only on one computer at a time, and that you remove any copies of the licensed programs from the computer from which the licensed programs are being transferred; (c) make copies of the licensed programs solely for the purposes of backup. The copyright notice must be reproduced and included on a label on any backup copy. YOU MAY NOT: (a) distribute copies of the licensed programs or their documentation to others; (b) rent, lease or grant your rights to the licensed programs; (c) translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble, or otherwise alter the licensed programs or their documentation without the prior written consent of Fire Testing Technology Limited except to the extent that the applicable law specifically prohibits such restriction; (d) ship or transit (directly or indirectly) any copies of the licensed programs to any entity or country destination. Fire Testing Technology Limited, Health and Safety This test method may involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. Therefore, we specifically exclude any liability whatsoever for claims arising from use or misuse of this equipment. It is the responsibility of whoever uses the equipment to consult and establish appropriate health and safety practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use Some specimens may produce severe flaming during a test. Therefore, adequate means of extinguishing the specimen should be available. Recommended means of extinguishment are a hand water spray or compressed nitrogen or carbon dioxide, which can be directed to the burning area along with any other means such as fire extinguishers, etc. The products of pyrolysis and burning of the materials under test may be carcinogenic, toxic, or otherwise hazardous. An auxiliary breathing device and protective glasses may have to be worn before opening the test room door. It may be noted that highly corrosive residues may permeate and degrade heat-protective gloves. Butyl gloves must be worn underneath the heatprotective gloves for complete protection in such cases. Refer to the operating manual for the IEC apparatus for further health and safety details. 7

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17 2 Overview Of CableSoft Features To run CableSoft, start Windows, and from the Start menu open the FTT Applications folder and click with the left mouse button on the CableSoft icon. (You can also put a shortcut on the Windows desktop and just double-click on this icon to start CableSoft). The application will then load and the Main panel will be displayed (see Figure 2.1). If any error messages are reported during the start-up of the program, then ensure that the GPIB board is placed inside the PC correctly, try setting the correct directories in the Configure panel (see Section 2.7) or, failing this, try re-installing the program. If the error messages still persist, please contact Fire Testing Technology. Figure 2.1: Main Panel The Main panel is used to access all the functions available in CableSoft. There are 9 buttons displayed across the bottom of the screen: Start Test Status Calibrations 9

18 Commissioning Tools Print Report Configure About Exit Position the cursor over one of these buttons and click on it with the left mouse button to push the button and select the command. Note: On any of the panels in CableSoft, if a button is greyed then the command is unavailable at that time. The following sections give a very brief overview of the panels opened by pushing the appropriate button from the Main panel, and any associated procedures. Please refer to Sections 3 8 for full details on using the software. 2.1 Start Test Please note that you must not start testing until a valid set of commissioning runs have been performed the demo commissioning details that come with the software should not be used for processing data. See Section 5 for details of the commissioning routines. Two types of test can be performed. 1) Each test day a set of dummy tests should be conducted to check the system is working correctly. This involves using the burner ONLY at 20.5 kw and/or 30 kw depending on the types or tests that will be conducted. 2) A test with the cable and ignition burner. When you push the Start Test button the Select Test panel is displayed. Figure 2.2: Select Test Panel 10

19 Push the Daily Check button to perform a test with the burner only to check the system performance or push the Cable Test button to perform a test Cable Test Test Information On pushing Cable Test the Test Information panel is displayed. Figure 2.3: Test Information Panel Here you set the file, to which the test data will be saved and enter information about the instrument and specimen, which will be included in the test report Pre-Run Calibrations Once all the details have been entered when you press the OK button you are asked if you want to perform pre-run calibrations. This step is optional but is recommended. In pre-run calibrations, 10 s of data is collected from the instrument transducers and the oxygen is spanned (i.e. the reading is set to ambient (20.95%)), the smoke system is spanned (i.e. set to 100% for a white light system or balanced for a laser system) and the mass flow meters are zeroed (i.e. set to 0 mg/s). These procedures can be turned on or off in the Configure panel (see Section 3.7 for further details). This procedure assumes that there is no fire in the test chamber and that there is no gas or air flowing through the mass flow meters (to the burner). 11

20 Test Run After the details of the test have been entered and the system calibrated then you are ready to start the test. The Test Run panel shows the readings from all the transducers in real time, the volume flow rate in the duct and the approximate heat release and smoke production rates. The values of these parameters displayed during the test are only approximate because they are not calculated on time-shifted gas data. The true values are calculated after the test (in the reporting section). Figure 2.4: Test Run Panel There is a message area at the top of the panel that alerts the user to key moments during the test (such as when to turn the burner on) After Test Conditions When the test is finished, the end conditions must be measured with no fire in the test chamber. It may be necessary to remove the specimen from the chamber to achieve end conditions within the limits specified in the Standard. 12

21 Figure 2.5: After Test Conditions Panel The panel shows the initial readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and smoke, the current readings of these three and the average over the last 60 seconds. If the smoothed reading is within the limits specified by the Standard then the display is green, if it is outside the criteria then it is red. When there are three green lights press the OK button to record the data and proceed After Test Comments Here the damage length and any comments about the test can be entered and specified observations required by the Standard such as flaming droplets or falling specimen parts can be noted using the check boxes. Figure 2.6: After Test Comments Panel Pressing OK saves all the data and returns you to the Main panel Daily Check Test Information On pushing Daily Check the Daily Propane Check Information panel is displayed. 13

22 Figure 2.7: Daily Propane Check Information Panel Here you set the file, to which the daily check data will be saved and enter information about the instrument and burner output, which will be included in the test report Pre-Run Calibrations Once all the details have been entered when you press the OK button you are asked if you want to perform pre-run calibrations. This step is optional but is recommended. In pre-run calibrations, 10 s of data is collected from the instrument transducers and the oxygen is spanned (i.e. the reading is set to ambient (20.95%)), the smoke system is spanned (i.e. set to 100% for a white light system or balanced for a laser system) and the mass flow meters are zeroed (i.e. set to 0 mg/s). These procedures can be turned on or off in the Configure panel (see Section 3.7 for further details). This procedure assumes that there is no fire in the test chamber and that there is no gas or air flowing through the mass flow meters (to the burner) Daily Propane Check After the details of the test have been entered and the system calibrated then you are ready to start the test. The Daily Propane Check panel shows the readings from several of the transducers in real time, the volume flow rate in the duct, the flow rate through the gas mass flow meter, and the heat release rate. The value of the heat release rate displayed during the test is only approximate because it is not calculated on time-shifted gas data. The true heat release rate is calculated after the test (in the reporting section). 14

23 Figure 2.8: Test Run Panel There is a message area below the graph that alerts the user to key moments during the test routine (such as when to turn the burner). 2.2 Status This panel displays the signals from all the transducers (in engineering units) and shows the volume flow rate, the heat release rate from the burner, the mean duct temperature and the extinction coefficient. Figure 2.9: Status Panel 15

24 2.3 Calibrations This feature allows the user to calibrate the transducers in the system. These are oxygen, carbon dioxide and (if fitted) carbon monoxide cells, differential pressure transducer, smoke system (white light or laser) and the gas and air mass flow meters (if fitted). Each transducer should be calibrated to ensure the validity of the test results. The calibrations take the form of a two or one point calibration. For a two point calibration a zero and span condition are recorded. Here two known quantities of the parameter are supplied to the transducer and the voltage from the transducer recorded under both conditions. For example for the oxygen analyser we can pass oxygen-free nitrogen through the cell and this has a defined concentration of 0% (this is the zero point), we can then pass dry air through the cell and this has a defined concentration of 20.95% (this is the span point). If we record the voltage from the cell under these two conditions then we have a two point calibration. For a one point calibration only the zero condition is recorded. Here one known quantity of the parameter is supplied to the transducer and the voltage recorded. It is assumed that the range of the transducer output remains constant and the span voltage is adjusted accordingly. For example if we fill the mass flow meter and block off both ends using on/off valves then there is zero flow through the meter by definition. We then record the meter output signal. If the range of the meter is 0-5 Volts and we have a voltage of V with zero flow then the upper voltage is changed to V to maintain a 5 V range for the transducer. Figure 2.10: Calibrations Panel 16

25 2.3.1 Gas Analysers The gas analysers two point calibration can be performed by pushing the Gas Analysers button. The zero values for each analyser is taken as zero and the actual span values for the calibration gases can also be entered. For setting the zero on all the gas analysers oxygen-free and carbon-dioxide free nitrogen is used. For setting the span of the oxygen analyser dry air is used (this has an oxygen concentration of 20.95%). For setting the span of the carbon dioxide analyser (and carbon monoxide analyser, if fitted) a calibration gas that has a CO 2 (and CO) concentration within the range of the analyser must be used. The balance of this calibration gas must be inert (usually nitrogen). This gas mixture will be supplied with a calibration certificate stating the actual concentrations in the bottle enter these values into the appropriate fields in the Span Values section. Figure 2.11: Gas Analyser Transducer Calibration Panel Differential Pressure Transducer The differential pressure transducer has a one point calibration which can be performed by pushing the DPT button. When there is zero flow in the duct then the differential pressure across the bi-directional probe is zero. Ensure that the fan is off and that there is no flow in the duct then press the Zero button to set the zero point of the pressure measurement. 17

26 Figure 2.12: DPT Transducer Calibration Panel Smoke System The smoke system two point calibration, for the laser or white light, can be performed by pushing the Smoke button. White Light When there is no light transmitted across the duct (lamp off or blocked with an opaque material) then the transmission is 0% (zero condition). When the light is on and there is no smoke in the duct (or soot on the lens/windows) then the transmission is 100% (span condition). Figure 2.13: Smoke System Calibration Panel: White Light Laser When there is no laser light transmitted across the duct (light is blocked with an opaque material) then the output from the compensating and main photodiodes (on either side of the duct) are set to zero (zero condition). When the laser light is on and there is no smoke in the duct (or soot on the lens/windows) then the output from the compensating and main photodiodes are set to one (span or "balance" condition). 18

27 2.3.4 Mass Flow Meters The propane and air mass flow meters (as part of the controllers, if fitted) both have a one point calibration which can be performed by pushing the MFMs button. When there is zero flow in the gas and air supply lines then the mass flow meter outputs are zero flow. Ensure that there is no gas and air flowing through the appropriate mass flow meter then press the corresponding Zero button to set the zero point. Note: Figure 2.14: Smoke System Calibration Panel: Laser A coalescing filter should be fitted in the gas and air lines to protect the mass flow controllers. Figure 2.15: MFM Calibration Panel 19

28 2.3.5 All Transducers For convenience all of the calibrations can be performed from one panel this is a combination of the separate transducer calibration panels and function in exactly the same way. Figure 2.16: Transducer Calibrations Panel 2.4 Commissioning Before using the IEC apparatus for testing cables and after any major changes a set of three commissioning routines need to be performed to determine the k t constant used in the calculation of the heat release rate. 20

29 Figure 2.17: Commissioning Panel These three sets of commissioning routines are determining the flow profile, conducting propane burns at three different heat release levels and a methanol pool burn. The commissioning results can also be viewed and reports printed from here Flow Profile The flow profile is measured using a hot-wire anemometer or a pitot tube. The linear flow must be measured at specific points in the duct (as detailed in the Standard) these positions are shown on the screen. Measure and enter the flows at each of the 20 positions. Once all 20 readings have been entered the velocity profile factor (k t,v ) is calculated. Figure 2.18: k t From Flow Profile Panel 21

30 2.4.2 Step Routine This procedure uses the standard burner (or two burners) at three different levels of heat output to determine three k t correction factors. The Step Routine panel shows the readings from all the transducers in real time and interpolated at 3 second intervals, the volume flow rate in the duct, the flow rate through the mass flow meter, and the heat release rate. There is a message area that alerts the user to key moments during the test (such as when to turn the burner on). Once the routine is complete the data is processed and results shown on the screen. The data can then be saved and a report produced. Figure 2.19: Step Routine Panel Methanol Burn This procedure uses a container of methanol to determine the liquid fuel burn k t correction factor and can also be used to check the performance of the smoke system. The Methanol Calibration panel shows the readings from all the transducers in real time and interpolated at 3 second intervals, the volume flow rate in the duct, and the heat release and smoke production rates. There is a message area that alerts the user to key moments during the test (such as when to ignite the methanol and when to stop the data collection). 22

31 Figure 2.20: Methanol Calibration Panel Once the routine is complete the data is processed and results shown on the screen. The data can then be saved and a report produced Reports The results from the three commissioning tests can be viewed and reports printed by pressing the Reports button, then selecting the required report. (See Section 5.4 for full details). 2.5 Tools This panel gives access to a number of useful tools: a) Oxygen analyser drift calculator used for determining the drift and noise of the oxygen analyser b) Smoke System drift calculator used for determining the drift and noise of the smoke measuring system c) Commissioning k t calculator enter the commissioning k t value, the three propane correction factors and the methanol correction factor and get the system k t value d) Gas flow calculator converts standard flow to flow at specific temperature and pressure and also calculates the heat release for a given flow of gas. 2.6 Print Report The results from a cable test, a daily check test or the three commissioning tests can be viewed and reports printed by pressing the Print Report button, then selecting the required report. (See Section 7 for full details). 23

32 2.7 Configure The Configure panel is where the settings for the software and system can be viewed and modified. The settings include: The name of the laboratory to be displayed on the specimen report. The directories where the application, test data and calibration data are stored. The transducer calibration information ( Input Values ). The optional equipment fitted. The apparatus specification. The test and calibration counters used for the automatic file naming system. Note that if these settings are incorrect the application will not function properly take care when making any changes. Figure 2.21: Configure Panel 2.8 About Displays the version number, contact numbers and copyright information for the software. 24

33 Figure 2.22: About Panel 2.9 Exit Closes the application and returns the user to the desktop. (To shut the computer down the user must exit from Windows before turning the PC power off.) 25

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35 3 Configuring CableSoft When you first start using CableSoft it is important to ensure that the software settings are correct. These settings should be checked regularly to ensure that valid results are being generated. To configure CableSoft, install the software as instructed in Section 1.3. Start the application and push the Configure button. The Configure panel is then displayed (see Figure 3.1). Figure 3.1: Configure Panel 3.1 Lab Name and Directories Enter the correct laboratory name and the directory where the application is stored (that is the directory you chose when installing the software) and the directories where you want the test data files, daily check files and calibration files to be stored. 3.2 Counters The software has been designed with an automatic file naming system for the test, propane step calibration and methanol calibration data files. When the software is first installed each of these counters will be 1. The automatic test file name consists of 8 characters the first two are the two-digit year (for 2002 this is 02 ), the next two is the month number (e.g. for March this is 03 ) and the final four is the test number (e.g. test 12 is 0012, so this test will have a file name ). 27

36 Once a new month starts the test counter is reset to 1. The automatic propane step calibration file name consists of 8 characters the first three are the characters HRR, the next two is the two-digit year (for 2002 this is 02 ), and the final three is the calibration number (e.g. test 9 is 009, so this test will have a file name HRR02009). Once a new year starts the propane step calibration counter is reset to 1. The automatic methanol calibration file name consists of 8 characters the first three are the characters MET, the next two is the two-digit year (for 2002 this is 02 ), and the final three is the calibration number (e.g. test 3 is 003, so this test will have a file name MET02003). Once a new year starts the methanol calibration counter is reset to 1. The test counters are automatically updated by the software, as required, after each test or calibration routine. If however there is a computer problem (such as a crash) then the update may not be performed in this case the counter can be manually updated. If a counter number is chosen such that a data file on the computer will be overwritten then a warning will be issued when the Configure panel is closed and the software can then determine the next free counter in the automatic naming system. 3.3 Equipment Fitted Some parts of the IEC apparatus instrumentation are optional and this section allows the user to specify which of these components are present. Seven check boxes are available. Place a cross in the appropriate box to indicate that the component is present. 1. carbon monoxide analyser 2. carbon dioxide analyser 3. smoke system indicates if a white light or laser smoke measuring system is present 4. gas mass flow controller indicates that a mass flow controller is present on the gas line to the burner, if a flowmeter is fitted then remove the cross 5. air mass flow controller indicates that a mass flow controller is present on the air line to the burner, if a flowmeter is fitted then remove the cross 6. 3rd duct thermocouple as standard there are two thermocouples in the duct section if a third is included then place a cross in this box 7. ambient thermocouple indicates if there is a thermocouple fitted to the data logger system to measure the ambient temperature in the laboratory 28

37 3.4 Smoke System If a smoke system is fitted (a cross is in the Smoke system check box) then the Smoke System selector switch becomes visible. There are two types of smoke system: laser and white light. Use the selector to indicate the type of system fitted in the duct. Figure 3.1 shows the laser system selected. 3.5 Apparatus Specifications This section contains information relating to the apparatus. The flow profile factor, k t value is the constant used in the calculation of the heat release rate. As default this is Once the three types of commissioning runs have been performed the specific instrument flow profile factor can be determined and entered/modified here. The bi-directional probe constant, k p, should be taken as 1.08 unless otherwise determined. The diameter of the exhaust duct is between m and 0.4 m. The default value is 0.4 m, if required a different diameter may be entered. Each of the gas analysers has a delay that can be determined by the propane step calibration routine. The delay times of each analyser can be modified as required. The default values are 0 s and these should be changed once the times are known. 3.6 Transducer Calibrations ( Input Values ) Each transducer within the IEC apparatus instrumentation has its unique calibration. This calibration information is vital for the correct operation of the CableSoft software. Each line in this section corresponds to the labelled transducer. There are two groups of two columns. The two columns are labelled Zero and Span and the two groups are Output and Measurand. The Output/Zero column is the transducer s voltage output corresponding to the measurement entered in the Measurand/Zero column. Similarly, the Output/Span column is the transducer s voltage output corresponding to the measurement entered in the Measurand/Span column. As an example, taking the Ambient pressure transducer shown in Figure 3.1, it tells us that At 80 kpa input to the transducer, the voltage output is 0.4 V At 120 kpa input to the transducer, the voltage output is 2.0 V. (Note that Zero and Span do not necessarily mean 0 parameter and full scale as in the case of the ambient pressure transducer above they just refer to the lower and upper calibration points.) These values are used by CableSoft in order to calculate the engineering parameter measured by the transducer (rather than just the raw voltage). 29

38 When transducer calibrations have been performed (see Section 4), several of these values may change slightly from the values inferred from the transducers characteristics. These changes reflect the zeroing and gain corrections carried out by the software. Only the ambient pressure and heat flux meter calibrations are fixed and the details from the calibration sheets supplied from the manufacturer must be entered. When the software is first installed check that the calibration information is the same as on the calibration sheets supplied with each of the transducers. 3.7 Pre-Run Calibrations Before every test (or commissioning routine) it is important to ensure that the transducers have been calibrated. This need only be performed once each day for most of the transducers, however if it is possible to quickly perform a calibration before every test then it seems wise to take advantage of this (especially if there can be changes in the measured values). A one-point calibration can be performed on four of the transducers before the start of every test: The oxygen analyser can be spanned at 20.95% because there is dry air passing through the cell The smoke system can be spanned because there is no smoke in the duct (transmission is 100% by definition) The gas mass flow meter can be zeroed because there is no propane flowing through the meter to the burners The air mass flow meter can be zeroed because there is no air flowing through the meter to the burners All other transducers are in a state where the parameter is not defined (for example dry air is flowing through the carbon dioxide analyser this typically contains between 0.03% and 0.05% CO 2 and since the concentration is not defined then the transducer cannot be calibrated at this time). Before each test (or commissioning routine) you are asked if you want to perform pre-run calibrations. If you say yes, then 10 s worth of data is collected and the average over this 10 s period is recorded. Select which of the pre-run calibrations you require by placing a cross in the appropriate check box. The default is to have all four on. 3.8 Saving Configuration Once the required information has been entered push the Accept button to save the configuration. The changes made will take immediate affect. To ignore any changes made and return to the Main panel push the Cancel button. 30

39 4 Calibrating Instrument Transducers Before performing any tests or commissioning routines the transducers on the IEC apparatus instrumentation must be calibrated. Ensure that the correct configuration and initial transducer calibration values have been entered into the Configure panel of the CableSoft software. Also ensure that the cold trap has been emptied and that it is operating at the required temperature and that there is fresh chemical drying agent in the gas sampling line before performing any gas analyser calibrations. To start a calibration push the Calibration button on the Main panel and then select the appropriate button from the Calibrations panel (see Figure 4.1). Each of these calibrations will be described below. Figure 4.1: Calibrations Panel 4.1 Gas Analysers Generally, a two-point calibration has to be performed on the gas analysers that is zeroing and spanning the analyser. These calibrations set two known points on the output from the analyser at zero gas species concentration and at a (known) concentration close to the full scale range of the analyser. The response of the analyser (i.e. the output as a function of the concentration of gas) is linear. Thus, with these two points known, it is possible to calculate the gas concentration at any other point from the output of the analyser. 31

40 Note that the oxygen analyser is sensitive to flow rate. Thus when calibrating it is important to ensure that the gas flow rate is the same as when the analyser is operating normally (with the sample pump switched on). The CO/CO 2 analyser is also sensitive to flow rate (but not at much as the oxygen), and therefore it is very good practice to match the sampling flow and the calibrating flow. Please refer to the instrument users guide for information on the actual flow rates required. To calibrate the oxygen and carbon oxide analysers push the Gas Analysers button. The Gas Analyser Transducer Calibration panel (Figure 4.2) displays the voltage transmitted for each of the analyser cells the concentration that this voltage relates to (calculated from the current zero and span traducer calibration details) Zero, Span and Reset buttons for each analyser Span values for each analyser Figure 4.2: Gas Analyser Transducer Calibration Panel Zeroing Set nitrogen flowing through the oxygen, carbon dioxide and, if fitted, the carbon monoxide analysers. Wait for the analysers to stabilise (this may take up to 5 minutes) and then perform the zeroing procedure for the carbon dioxide and, if fitted, the carbon monoxide, analyser. With the CO and CO 2 analysers reading 0% push the Zero button on the screen below the CO 32

41 Cell and CO 2 Cell displays to record the zero calibration conditions the CO and CO 2 readings on the screen will then be 0.000%. Allow the nitrogen to continue flowing and then perform the zeroing procedure for the oxygen analyser. With the oxygen analyser reading 0% push the Zero button on the screen below the Oxygen Cell display to record the zero calibration conditions the oxygen reading on the screen will then be 0.000% Spanning To span the CO/CO 2 analysers turn off the sample pump and nitrogen bottle and connect the calibrant gas mixture to the analyser. Ensure that the flow to the analyser is at the correct flow rate. Allow the system to stabilise and then adjust the span on the analyser unit (using analyser software or screw adjustment) so that it is equal to the value quoted on the calibration certificate supplied with the bottle. Then check that the concentrations in the Span Values section of the screen agree with the values quoted on the calibration certificate and change the values if necessary by typing the correct number in the appropriate Span Values box. Then push the Span button on the screen below the CO Cell and CO 2 Cell displays to record the span calibration conditions the CO and CO 2 readings on the screen will then be equal to the Span Values. Note: Once entered, the Span Values are saved and only require changing when the calibrant gases change. Figure 4.3: Spanned CO 2 Before spanning the oxygen analyser, ensure that the cold trap has been emptied, the drain tap is closed, the cold trap is operating at the required temperature and that there is fresh chemical drying agent in the sample line. To span the oxygen analyser turn on the sample pump and extraction fan (if not already set) and ensure that the flow to the analyser is at the correct flow rate. Allow the system to stabilise (this can take up to 10 minutes) and then adjust the span on the analyser so that it reads 20.95%. Check that the concentrations in the Span Values section of the screen for oxygen is 20.95% and then push the Span button on the screen below the Oxygen Cell display to record the span calibration conditions. Oxygen reading on the screen will then be equal to 20.95% (the span value). 33

42 Figure 4.4: Spanned Oxygen To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard all calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information for a particular analyser push the associated Reset button (this is useful if there is a problem during the calibration procedure). After pressing Reset the full calibration routine for the relevant analyser must be repeated (zero and span). If you then go to the Configure panel and look at the Transducer Calibrations section you will see that the zero and span voltages and measurand values have changed in accordance with the calibration routine. 4.2 Differential Pressure Transducer The differential pressure transducer (DPT) measures the differential pressure that exists across the bi-directional probe placed in the exhaust duct. This transducer has a one point calibration which can be performed by pushing the DPT button. The DPT Transducer Calibration panel (Figure 4.5) displays the voltage transmitted for the DPT the pressure that this voltage relates to (calculated from the current zero and span traducer calibration details) Zero and Reset buttons When there is zero flow in the duct then the differential pressure across the bi-directional probe is zero. Ensure that the exhaust fan and any room extraction is turned off and that there is no flow in the duct then press the Zero button to set the zero point of the pressure measurement the displayed pressure will then be approximately 0 Pa. 34

43 Figure 4.5: DPT Transducer Calibration Panel Note that the voltage output from the DPT that is displayed is not affected by zeroing, it is the reading that is adjusted to zero. To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard the calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information push the Reset button. After pressing Reset the calibration routine must be repeated. 4.3 Smoke System The CableSoft software is designed to work with either of two smoke measuring systems: laser or white light. The system that is fitted to the IEC apparatus exhaust duct is selected in the Configure panel (see Section 3.4). The calibration procedure for the two systems are similar and are described separately below Laser Smoke System To calibrate the laser smoke system, first open the Smoke System Calibration panel by pushing the Smoke button. This panel (Figure 4.6) displays the voltage output from the main and compensating photodiodes in the system the calibrated main and compensating photodiode signals (calculated from the current zero and span traducer calibration details) the transmission Zero, Balance and Reset buttons OK and Cancel buttons The voltage outputs from the main and compensating photodiodes are the readings taken directly from the two circuits. These are, in general, NOT the same voltages. The calibrated readings (PDM (-) and PDC(-)).are data which have been corrected such that when there is no 35

44 smoke in the duct the calibrated main and compensating values are equal to and when there is no light in the system the values are Figure 4.6: Smoke System Calibration Panel (For Laser System) Zeroing The dark current offset removal is necessary because under no-light conditions, the photodiodes may still produce a (small) output signal. Zeroing sets the photodiode output to be zero under no light conditions. This offset remains constant with time (assuming the correct functioning of the photodiodes) and zeroing need only be performed once a week or when the smoke system is serviced. To zero the smoke system, place an opaque material in the laser light path before the compensating diode beam splitter. Allow the readings of the photodiodes to stabilise and then press the Zero button. This sets the zero (dark) point for the photodiodes. The PDM (-) and PDC (-) values will then be and the transmission reading on the screen will be 0.00% Balancing Remove the opaque material from the light path. The amount of light falling on each of the two photodiodes will, in general, be unequal because of the optical system used. Also, the gains of the photodiodes will not be exactly matched. Balancing the system makes adjustments for these factors and ensures that under no smoke conditions, the (corrected) output from the photodiodes are equal and set to If the laser has been switched off and on again, it is advisable to allow it to stabilise for an hour before performing this calibration. 36

45 To balance the smoke system, ensure that the system has stabilised and then push the Balance button. This will apply corrections to the calibrated photodiode outputs. The PDM (-) and PDC (-) values will then be and the transmission reading on the screen will be % (as in Figure 4.7). Figure 4.7: Smoke System Calibration Panel (For Laser System) The laser system is now set. To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard the calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information push the Reset button. After pressing Reset the calibration routine must be repeated (zero and balance) White Light System To calibrate the white light smoke system, first open the Smoke System Calibration panel by pushing the Smoke button. This panel (Figure 4.8) displays the voltage transmitted from the smoke system the transmission that this voltage relates to (calculated from the current zero and span traducer calibration details) Zero, Span and Reset buttons OK and Cancel buttons 37

46 Figure 4.8: Smoke System Calibration Panel (For White Light System) Zeroing When there is no light transmitted across the duct then the transmission is 0% by definition. Turn off the lamp or place an opaque material in the light path. Allow the smoke system output to stabilise and then press the Zero button the transmission reading on the screen will then be 0.00% Spanning When the light is on and there is no smoke in the duct then the transmission is 100% by definition Ensure the lamp is on and that there is nothing in the light path (it may be necessary to clean the windows or lenses of soot deposits). Allow the smoke system output to stabilise and then press the Span button the transmission reading on the screen will then be %. To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard the calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information push the Reset button. After pressing Reset the calibration routine must be repeated (zero and span). 4.4 Ignition Burner Mass Flow Meters The propane and air mass flow meters (as part of the controllers) measure the flow of gas and air delivered to the burner(s). These transducers each have a one point calibration which can be performed by pushing the MFMs button. The MFM Calibration panel (Figure 4.9) displays the voltage transmitted from the propane and air mass flow meters the mass flows that these voltages relate to (calculated from the current zero and span traducer calibration details) 38

47 the heat release from the flow of propane Zero and Reset buttons for both mass flow meters OK and Cancel buttons When there is zero flow in the gas and air supply lines then the mass flow meter outputs are zero flow. Ensure that there is no gas flowing through the propane mass flow meter and no air flowing through the air mass flow meter, by turning the supply off and closing any the ball valves around the mass flow meters then press the appropriate Zero button to set the zero point. The displayed flow will then be approximately 0 mg/s. Figure 4.9: MFM Calibration Panel To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard the calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information push the appropriate Reset button. After pressing Reset the calibration routine must be repeated. 4.5 All Transducers For convenience all of the calibrations can be performed from one panel this is a combination of the separate transducer calibration panels and functions in exactly the same way as described in Sections 4.1 to 4.4. All or some of the calibrations can be performed in the panel. 39

48 Figure 4.10: Transducer Calibrations Panel To save the calibration information, push the OK button. To discard the calibration information push the Cancel button. To revert to the previous stored calibration information for any of the transducers push the appropriate Reset button. After pressing Reset the calibration routine for that transducer must be repeated. 40

49 5 Commissioning The IEC Apparatus After setting the correct configuration the apparatus must be commissioned to establish the installation-specific k t value that is required for calculating the correct test results. This is determined from three routines. 1. Flow profile measurement 2. Propane step calibration routine 3. Methanol burn calibration To perform a commissioning routine push the Commissioning button on the Main panel and then select the appropriate button from the Commissioning panel (see Figure 5.1). Note that certain calibrations must be performed before conducting each commissioning test see each of following section for further details. Figure 5.1: Commissioning Panel 5.1 Flow Profile The flow profile is measured using a hot-wire anemometer or a pitot tube. Before performing this routine ensure that the DPT has been zeroed (see Section 4.2). Turn the exhaust fan on and push the Status button on the Main panel. Adjust the exhaust fan speed to obtain a volume flow rate in the exhaust of (1.00 ± 0.05) m 3 /s. Then push OK. Push the Commissioning button from the Main panel to open the Commissioning Panel. 41

50 Push the Flow Profile button and the kt From Flow Profile panel will be displayed. The duct diameter is automatically displayed and the positions at which the measurements must be taken are calculated and displayed. Figure 5.2: k t From Flow Profile Panel Measure the linear flow rate at each of the specific points in the duct (6 for each radius) and enter the flow rates in the appropriate input fields. Note: The routine can be aborted at any time by pushing the Back << button. Measure and enter the flows at each of the 20 positions. Once all of the flows have been entered for a given radius then the average flow at that radius is calculated (and displayed in the final column). When all of the flows have been entered then the profile factor, k t,v is calculated (see Figure 5.3). Figure 5.3: k t From Flow Profile Panel 42

51 The three buttons Save, Print and OK are now available (not greyed out). To save the flow profile data press the Save button. The data is added to a file called flow_kt.csv so that the most recent flow profile is at the top of the file. Note: Only one file stores the flow profile information. To print a record of the current flow profile press the Print button. To exit and return to the Commissioning panel push the OK button. When the OK button is pushed a check is performed to see if the results have been saved or printed. If the results have been saved and printed then the Commissioning panel is displayed. If the results have only been saved you are asked if you want to print the results. Figure 5.4: Print? Message Box If the results have only been printed then you are asked if you want to save the results. Figure 5.5: Save? Message Box If the results have not been saved and printed then you are asked if you want to discard the data. Figure 5.6: Abort? Message Box A report can be printed at a later stage if required see Section

52 5.2 Step Routine This procedure uses the standard propane/air burner at three different heat release levels to determine the three commissioning propane test correction factors. The mass of propane burned during the test must be measured so the bottle must be located on (or better still, hanging from) a load cell. Before testing ensure that the connecting pipes do not influence the mass measured. CAUTION: Propane is a colourless gas and has a sweetish odour. Note that it is stored as a liquefied gas under pressure. Propane is toxic by inhalation. In high concentrations it may cause asphyxiation or death. Symptoms may include loss of mobility and/or consciousness and the victim may not be aware of asphyxiation. In low concentrations it may cause narcotic effects, where symptoms may include dizziness, headache, nausea, and loss of co-ordination. In the event of inhaling propane, the victim should be removed to an uncontaminated area and kept warm and rested. Apply artificial respiration, if necessary, and seek medical advice. In the event of skin or eye contact from liquid spillage, flush with water for at least 15 minutes, apply a sterile, dry dressing and seek medical advice as soon as possible. Before performing this routine ensure that all of the transducer calibrations from Section 4 have been performed: Zero the DPT (Section 4.2) Calibrate the smoke system (Section 4.3) Zero the mass flow meters (Section 4.4) Calibrate the gas analysers (Section 4.1) Turn the exhaust fan on and set the air flow into the IEC chamber to (8000 ± 800) l/min. Push the Status button on the Main panel. Adjust the exhaust fan speed to obtain a volume flow rate in the exhaust of (1.00 ± 0.05) m 3 /s. Then push OK. Push the Commissioning button from the Main panel to open the Commissioning Panel. Push the Step Routine button and the Pre-test Information panel will be displayed (Figure 5.7). 44

53 Figure 5.7: Pre-test Information Panel The apparatus specifications are automatically displayed these can be edited if required. The ambient pressure is recorded and entered. Manually enter the relative humidity (in %) in the appropriate text field. Note: The default apparatus specifications are set in the software configuration. The full commissioning routine consists of four burn tests (3 different heat outputs from the propane burner and one methanol burn). For ALL of these tests the flow profile constant MUST be the same and should be that determined from the flow profile (k t,v ). The filename where the data will be stored is automatically generated. If a different filename is required then push the File button. A Windows Save As dialog box is displayed type in the filename required and press the OK button. The filename should start with HRR and have the file extension.csv, if a file extension is not entered then.csv will be added. 45

54 Figure 5.8: Save As Dialog Box This part of the commissioning requires that three step routines are conducted at different heat releases from the burner(s). Select the burner heat release to be used for the test from the HRR Level drop down box. As default these levels are 20.5, 30 and 50 kw. If a different heat release from the burner is required then this list can be edited. Push the Edit button to change the list in the selection. A table will be displayed (Figure 5.9) simply edit the list and push the OK button. To discard any changes push the Cancel button. To reset the list to the default (20.5, 30 and 50) push the Reset button. Figure 5.9: HRR Level Panel The E' value of a material is the amount of heat released from the material per cubic metre of oxygen consumed in a fire. This value is relatively constant for most organic materials and the average value is 17.2 MJ/m 3. For propane the E' value is known to be 16.8 MJ/m 3 and this value should be used and is automatically entered. When all the required information has been entered then press the OK button to advance to the Step Routine panel. To abort the routine press the Cancel button. On pressing the OK button you can then perform the pre-run calibrations. The message box in Figure 5.10 is displayed. 46

55 Figure 5.10: Pre-run Calibrations Press the Yes button to perform the pre-run calibrations or No to skip this step. If you select Yes then 10 s worth of data is collected (Figure 5.11 is displayed during this time) and the average over this 10 s period is recorded. The calibrations to be performed are selected in the software configuration (see Section 3.7). The Step Routine panel is then displayed. Figure 5.11: Pre-run Calibrations: Collecting Data The appearance of the Step Routine panel depends on whether the gas mass flow controller is fitted or not. Figure 5.12 shows the initial view of the panel if a propane mass flow controller is fitted. Figure 5.13) shows the initial view of the panel if s mass flow controller is not fitted. The common features on both views are: the time since the test was started the volume flow rate in the duct a display area that shows four sets of data: a) the readings from all the transducers in real time ( raw data ) b) the readings from all the transducers interpolated at 3 second intervals ( int. data ) c) a table of the times required to determine delay and response times d) the results of the calibration routine a button that cycles though the four options in the display area (note that the results section is blank until the routine is complete) If a propane mass flow controller is fitted then the following also appear on the panel: the propane mass flow and the theoretical heat release rate from this mass flow (yellow q,gas display) the approximate heat release rate calculated from the real time readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and differential pressure (red ~HRR display) 47

56 a graph area showing the approximate heat release rate measured by oxygen depletion (red line) and the theoretical heat release from the propane (yellow line) If there is no propane mass flow controller then the following also appear on the panel: the approximate heat release rate calculated from the real time readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and differential pressure (yellow ~HRR display) a graph area showing the approximate heat release rate measured by oxygen depletion (yellow line) Figure 5.12: Step Routine Panel: With Propane MFC Fitted Figure 5.13: Step Routine Panel: Without Propane MFC Fitted 48

57 The calibration routine is detailed in Annex C.3.1 of pren CPD-1. There are three steps to this routine. Messages are displayed on the screen during the routine, as advice, 30 seconds before each step Step 1 Ensure that there is no gas flowing to the burners and that the mass system is correctly set and tared if required. Then push the Start button and record the initial mass of the propane bottle. Baseline data is then collected between 0 s and 300 s. Figure 5.14: Step Routine: During Step 1 (with Propane MFC Fitted) Figure 5.15: Step Routine: During Step 1 (without Propane MFC Fitted) Step 2 At 300s record the mass of the propane bottle, then turn on the gas and air flow to the burner(s) and adjust as necessary to achieve the required heat release level. If a propane mass flow controller is fitted then the message on the panel will indicate the required mass flow 49

58 rate (see Figure 5.14). If a mass flow controller is not fitted then the message will indicate the required heat release rate (see Figure 5.15). The flow rates for the typical heat release levels are given in Table 5.1. The burner is left at this level of heat release for 10 minutes. Required HRR (kw) Propane mass flow rate (mg/s) Air mass flow rate (mg/s) Propane standard flow rate (slpm) Air standard flow rate (slpm) Table 5.1: Heat Release Rates and Associated Flow Rates Figure 5.16: Step Routine: During Step Step 3 At 900 s turn off the gas supply to the burner(s) and measure the mass of the propane bottle and determine the mass of propane used. Collect a further 300 s of data and then press the Stop button. Note: The Stop button will remain greyed out until enough data has been collected to process the results. However we do advise that the data is collected until at least 1260 s to ensure that all the calculations can be performed. 50

59 Figure 5.17: Step Routine: During Step 3 Then enter the mass of propane used during the burn in the box displayed and push Continue. Figure 5.18: Step Routine: Enter Propane Mass The data is then processed and the calibration results displayed. The Graph selector to the right of the graph then becomes available to show two different graphs these will be described below in Section At any time push the Cancel button to abort the procedure and return to the Commissioning panel Table Display Area At the beginning of the test routine, the table display area initially displays the raw data recorded from each transducer. Push the button labelled Show Int. Data to change to the data 51

60 interpolated at 3 second intervals. The button is now labelled Show Times push this button to display a table of the times required to calculate the response and delay times. The button is now labelled Show HRR Results push this button to display the commissioning results page (this page cannot be completed until the routine is finished). The button is now labelled Show Raw Data push this button to display the raw data. Table 5.2 summarises the button text and actions. Button Changes Table Display to Changes Button Text to Show Int. Data Interpolated Data Show Times Show Times Delay and Response Times Show HRR Results Show HRR Results Commissioning Results Show Raw Data Show Raw Data Raw Data Show Int. Data Table 5.2: Table Display Area Toggle Button The delay and response times page is updated in real time immediately each time can be determined. It displays the following times for steps 2 and 3: tt: the time of the first data point at which the temperature in the measuring section, T ms, has changed 2.5 K in comparison with the average value in the last two minutes of the previous step; to2: the time of the first data point at which the oxygen concentration has changed 0.05 % in comparison with the average value in the last two minutes of the previous step; tco2: the time of the first data point at which the carbon dioxide concentration has changed 0,02 % in comparison with the average value in the last two minutes of the previous step; to2-10%: the time of the first data point at which the oxygen concentration has reached 10 % of its deflection using the average values in the last two minutes of the previous and the current step; to2-90%: analogous to to2-10%, however for 90 % instead of 10 % deflection; tco2-10%: the time of the first data point at which the carbon dioxide concentration has reached 10 % of its deflection using the average values in the last two minutes of the previous and the current step; tco2-90%: analogous to tco2-10%, however for 90 % instead of 10 % deflection; tt-10%: the time of the first data point at which the temperature T ms has reached 10 % of its deflection using the average value in the last 15 s of the previous step and the average value between 15 s and 30 s after the start of the current step; tt-75%: analogous to tt-10%, however for 75 % instead of 10 % deflection; td-o2: the delay time of the oxygen analyser (= to2 tt) td-co2: the delay time of the carbon dioxide analyser (= tco2 tt) tr-o2: the response time of the oxygen analyser (= to2-90% to2-10%) tr-co2: the response time of the carbon dioxide analyser (= tco2-90% tco2-10%) tr-t: the temperature response time (= tt-75% - tt-10%) 52

61 the average delay and response times: delay time of the oxygen analyser as the average td-o2 for steps 2 and 3; delay time of the carbon dioxide analyser as the average td-co2 for steps 2 and 3; response time of the oxygen analyser as the average tr-o2 for steps 2 and 3; response time of the carbon dioxide analyser as the average tr-co2 for steps 2 and 3. temperature response time as the average tr-t for steps 2 and 3. Note 1: Due to the large filling times of the IEC apparatus system the response times in the table cannot be determined during the test and are left blank. The times are calculated and displayed when you view the results from the Step Routine Report panel (see Section 5.4.2). Note 2: The temperature response time is calculated to check for dysfunction of, and soot deposits on the thermocouples. The criterion for the thermocouple response time takes account of the influence of the thermal response of the exhaust system as a whole Processed Commissioning Results Immediately the Stop button is pressed the data is processed as described in the pren CPD-1 standard (with the gas data being shifted by the appropriate delay times determined) and the following are calculated: heat release rate (HRR) determined from the gas concentrations and DPT readings; theoretical heat release rate (q,gas) determined from the propane mass flow (if fitted); the average value of HRR between 8 and 13 minutes (480 s and 780 s); the total heat release between 0 s and 1200 s. (a) Commissioning Results with Real HRR (b) Delay and Response Times with Real HRR Figure 5.19: Step Routine: Results Two sets of graphical results can be displayed using the Graph selector: Test: HRR and q,gas (if propane MFC is fitted) determined during the test (as calculated during the test non-shifted data); Real HRR: HRR calculated on shifted gas data and q,gas (if propane MFC is fitted). (Figure 5.19 shows the graph in the Real HRR mode when a propane MFC is not fitted) 53

62 The first page in the table display area to be shown after the Stop button is pushed is the Commissioning results. This page shows the following parameters: the average value of HRR between 8 and 13 minutes (480 s and 780 s); the total heat release (THR) calculated between 0 s and 1200 s; initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; Note: the initial conditions are taken as the average between 0 and 60 s and the final conditions are taken as the average over the last 60 s of step 3. the mass of propane burned; the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; the total heat release propane correction factor C i : mgas hc, net, prop Ci = THR where: m gas is the mass of propane gas used (kg) h c,net,prop is the net heat of combustion of propane (= MJ/kg) THR is the total heat release calculated from the oxygen depletion system [MJ] i is the propane output level (1, 2 or 3) The initial k t and propane mass used can be changed by editing the number in the appropriate field and pressing Enter the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. Note: changing the initial k t value may be required to obtain results meeting the specified criteria. Push More parameters to change the parameters shown in the Commissioning results section of the panel. Several parameters are displayed that affect the way that the heat release rate and total heat release are calculated. E': the E' value for propane may be changed if required; THR from and to: sets the times between which the total heat release is calculated. The default is 0 s to 1200 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; HRR from and to: set the times between which the average heat release rate is calculated. The default is 480 s to 780 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; O2 delay and CO2 delay: these are the delay times used to time shift the gas analyser(s) data during the heat release rate calculation. The default values are the delay times determined from the response of the analysers. Three different sets of delay times may be used a) The times calculated from the response of the analyser for the test run conducted push the Calc times button to automatically set these times; b) The "original" delay times that were entered in the Pre-test Information Panel (Figure 5.7) push the Orig times button to automatically set these times; c) User entered times just enter a number for the delay time in the appropriate text box. 54

63 (a) Commissioning Results with calculated delay times (b) Commissioning Results with original delay times Figure 5.20: Step Routine: Results After changing any of these parameters then push the Process button to re-process the data and display the new results Criteria The following criteria must be met: a) the average heat release rate between 480 s and 780 s shall be within 10% of the required burner heat output; b) the total heat release calculated from the calibration shall be within 10% of the theoretical total heat release calculated from the mass loss and net heat of combustion of propane; c) the difference between the initial and final concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02%; d) the difference between the initial and final transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1%; e) the difference between the initial and final HRR values shall be less than 2 kw; The displays that show each of these parameters will be coloured green if the criteria is met or red if the criteria is not met Saving Data To save the data push the Save button, then push the Exit button to return to the Commissioning panel. Push the Cancel button to exit the panel without saving the data. If you push the Exit button without saving the data OR after changing any of the parameters from those in the saved data then you will be prompted to save the data. The whole procedure must be repeated for all three heat output levels from the burner(s). 55

64 5.3 Methanol Burn This procedure uses a container of methanol to determine the methanol correction factor.. The mass of methanol burned during the test must be measured so a load cell or set of scales must be available. Before performing this routine ensure that the following transducer calibrations from Section 4 have been performed: Zero the DPT (Section 4.2) Calibrate the smoke system (Section 4.3) Calibrate the gas analysers (Section 4.1) Turn the exhaust fan on and set the air flow into the IEC chamber to (8000 ± 800) l/min. Push the Status button on the Main panel. Adjust the exhaust fan speed to obtain a volume flow rate in the exhaust of (1.00 ± 0.05) m 3 /s. Then push OK. Push the Commissioning button from the Main panel to open the Commissioning Panel. Push the Methanol Burn button and the Pre-test Information panel will be displayed (Figure 5.21) The apparatus specifications are automatically displayed these can be edited if required. The ambient pressure is recorded and entered. Manually enter the relative humidity (in %) in the appropriate text field. Note: The default apparatus specifications are set in the software configuration. The full commissioning routine consists of four burn tests (3 different heat outputs from the propane burner and one methanol burn). For ALL of these tests the flow profile constant MUST be the same and should be that determined from the flow profile (k t,v ). 56

65 Figure 5.21: Pre-test Information Panel The filename where the data will be stored is automatically generated. If a different filename is required then push the File button. A Windows Save As dialog box is displayed type in the filename required and press the OK button. The filename should start with MET and have the file extension.csv, if a file extension is not entered then.csv will be added. Figure 5.22: Save As Dialog Box The E' value of a material is the amount of heat released from the material per cubic metre of oxygen consumed in a fire. This value is relatively constant for most organic materials and the average value is 17.2 MJ/m 3. For methanol the E' value is known to be MJ/m 3 and this value should be used and is automatically entered. 57

66 When all the required information has been entered then press the OK button to advance to the Methanol Calibration panel. To abort the routine press the Cancel button. On pressing the OK button you can then perform the pre-run calibrations. The message box in Figure 5.23 is displayed. Figure 5.23: Pre-run Calibrations Press the Yes button to perform the pre-run calibrations or No to skip this step. If you select Yes then 10 s worth of data is collected (Figure 5.24 is displayed during this time) and the average over this 10 s period is recorded. The calibrations to be performed are selected in the software configuration (see Section 3.7). The Methanol Calibration panel is then displayed. Figure 5.24: Pre-run Calibrations: Collecting Data The Methanol Calibration panel (Figure 5.25) shows the time since the test was started the volume flow rate in the duct the approximate heat release rate calculated from the real time readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and differential pressure (instantaneous value and graph) the approximate smoke production rate calculated from the real time smoke signal and differential pressure (instantaneous value and graph) the initial oxygen concentration, carbon dioxide concentration and light transmission (calculated as the average between 0 s and 60 s) the oxygen concentration, carbon dioxide concentration and light transmission at the end of the test (calculated as the average over the last 60 s of the test) a display area that shows three sets of data: a) the readings from all the transducers in real time ( raw data ) b) the readings from all the transducers interpolated at 3 second intervals ( int. data ) 58

67 c) the results of the calibration routine a button that cycles though the three options in the display area (note that the results section is blank until the routine is complete) The table display area initially displays the raw data recorded from each transducer. Push the button labelled Show Int Data to change to the data interpolated at 3 second intervals. The button is now labelled Show Results push this button to display the commissioning results page (this page cannot be completed until the routine is finished). The button is now labelled Show Raw Data push this button to display the raw data. Table 5.3 summarises the button text and actions. Button Changes Table Display to Changes Button Text to Show Int. Data Interpolated Data Show Results Show Results Commissioning Results Show Raw Data Show Raw Data Raw Data Show Int. Data Table 5.3: Table Display Area Toggle Button Figure 5.25: Methanol Calibration Panel The calibration routine is detailed in Annex C.3.2 of pren CPD-1. There is a message area that alerts the user to key moments during the test (such as when to ignite the methanol and when to stop the data collection). 1. When the test is prepared push the Start button to start the collection of baseline data. 2. After 60 s the Start Conditions will be determined and displayed. 59

68 Figure 5.26: Methanol Calibration: Collecting Baseline Data 3. After 240 s then pour the methanol into the tray, wait a further 120 s and then ignite the fuel. Record this time as t 1. The software will attempt to determine the time of ignition based on the temperature data. The estimated time to ignition will be displayed below the Start Conditions group and the message area will inform you that the ignition has been detected and the methanol is burning. Figure 5.27: Methanol Calibration: Methanol Burning 4. When the methanol stops burning then push the Flameout button. This will record the time when the flameout time (t fo ). 60

69 Figure 5.28: Methanol Calibration: Flameout Recorded 5. Collect at least 300 s worth of data after flameout. A countdown is provided in the message area which will inform you when to finish the test. During this countdown the End Conditions are determined and updated in real time. If the End Conditions are within the requirements of the standard then they are displayed in green. If they do not meet the criteria then they are displayed in red. Figure 5.29: Methanol Calibration: Collecting End Baseline 6. When enough data has been collected then the Stop button becomes available. Push the Stop button to stop data collection. 7. Then enter the mass of methanol used during the burn in the box displayed and push Continue. 61

70 Figure 5.30: Methanol Calibration: Enter Methanol Mass 8. The data is then processed and the calibration results displayed. At any time push the Cancel button to abort the procedure and return to the Commissioning panel Processed Commissioning Results Immediately the Stop button is pressed the data is processed as described in the pren CPD-1 standard and the following are calculated: heat release rate (HRR) determined from the gas concentrations and DPT readings; total heat release (THR) over the whole test; the theoretical total heat release determined from the mass of methanol; smoke production rate (SPR) determined from the smoke and DPT readings; total smoke production (TSP) over the whole test 62

71 Figure 5.31: Methanol Calibration: Results The first page in the table display area to be shown after the Stop button is pushed is the Commissioning results. This page shows the following parameters: the total heat release (THR) over the time interval between the Calc from and to boxes; total smoke production (TSP) over the time interval between the Calc from and to boxes the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; the mass of methanol burned; the time to ignition; the time to flameout; initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; the total heat release methanol correction factor C m : mmethanol hc, net, meth Cm = THR where: m methanol h c,net,prop THR is the mass of methanol used (kg) is the net heat of combustion of methanol (= MJ/kg) is the total heat release calculated from the oxygen depletion system [MJ] The initial k t, mass of methanol, ignition and flameout times can be changed by editing the number in the appropriate field and then pressing Enter the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. There are also Calc from and to edit boxes. These set the times between which the total heat release and total smoke production are calculated. Three different sets of times may be used 63

72 a) the whole test: calculates THR and TSP between 0 s and the last data point (the default setting) if the button next to the times is labelled Whole Test then push it to automatically set these times (see Figure 5.31); b) the "burn time": calculates THR and TSP between ignition (t 1 ) and flameout s (t 2 = t fo +300) if the button next to the times is labelled Burn Time then push it to automatically set these times (see Figure 5.32); c) user entered times: calculates THR and TSP between any time interval just by entering the times in the Calc from and to boxes After changing any of these times the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. Figure 5.32: Methanol Calibration: Results over "Burn Time" Criteria The following criteria must be met: a) the total heat release calculated from the calibration shall be within 10% of the theoretical total heat release calculated from the mass loss and net heat of combustion of methanol; b) the difference between the initial and final concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02%; c) the difference between the initial and final transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1%; d) the difference between the initial and final HRR values shall be less than 2 kw; The displays that show each of these parameters will be coloured green if the criteria is met or red if the criteria is not met. 64

73 5.3.3 Saving Data To save the data push the Save button, then push the Exit button to return to the Commissioning panel. Push the Cancel button to exit the panel without saving the data. If you push the Exit button without saving the data OR after changing the initial k t value, the mass of methanol used, the time to ignition, flameout or the calculation period from the values in the saved data then you will be prompted to save the data. 5.4 Reports The results from the three commissioning tests can be viewed and reports printed, at any time after they are conducted, in two ways: From the Main panel push the Commissioning button and then push the Reports button; From the Main panel push the Print Report button and then push Commissioning button. Figure 5.33: Commissioning Reports Panel Flow Profile Push the Flow Profile button to display the kt from Flow Profile panel (Figure 5.34). This panel is similar to the panel displayed during the flow profile measurement and should therefore be familiar. 65

74 Figure 5.34: kt from Flow Profile Report Panel The most recent flow profile determination is automatically loaded and all the displays filled. To print the report for this profile push the Print button. To select a different profile then push the down arrow in the Profile list box and select the required profile from the list (this list gives you the data and time of the profile). Figure 5.35: Select A Profile To exit the panel press the Back << button Step Routine Push the Step Routine button to display the Step Routine Report panel (Figure 5.36). This panel is similar to the panel displayed during the propane step calibration routine and should therefore be familiar. 66

75 Figure 5.36: Step Routine Report Panel (Commissioning Results) The most recent step calibration file is automatically loaded. The Step Routine Report panel shows two sets of results tabular and graphical Three sets of data can be viewed in the tabular display area: a) the results of the commissioning routine (Figure 5.36); b) the readings from all the transducers at 3 second intervals (not shown); c) a table of the times that can be used to determine the delay and response times (Figure 5.37). Push the button in the bottom left of the screen to change the tabular display (the button name will cycle between Show Data to Show Times to Show HRR Results). On the graph up to three sets of data are shown: a) the HRR calculated on shifted gas data and duct flow measurements (red line), b) the average HRR between the specified times (black line); c) q-gas the theoretical HRR from the burner determined from the mass flow rate of gas (blue line) [this line is only present if a mass flow controller was fitted during the commissioning routine]. 67

76 Figure 5.37: Step Routine Report Panel (Delay and Response Times) The Commissioning results text page shows the following parameters: the average value of HRR between 480 s and 780 s (or another specific time if specified see below); the total heat release (THR) calculated between 0 s and 1200 s (or another specific time if specified see below) (or another specific time if specified see below); initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; Note: the initial conditions are taken as the average between 0 and 60 s and the final conditions are taken as the average over the last 60 s of step 3. the mass of propane burned; the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; the total heat release propane correction factor C i : mgas hc, net, prop Ci = THR where: m gas is the mass of propane gas used (kg) h c,net,prop is the net heat of combustion of propane (= MJ/kg) THR is the total heat release calculated from the oxygen depletion system [MJ] i is the propane output level (1, 2 or 3) 68

77 The initial k t and propane mass used can be changed by editing the number in the appropriate field and pressing Enter the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. Note: changing the initial k t value may be required to obtain results meeting the specified criteria. Push More parameters to display several parameters that affect the way that the heat release rate and total heat release are calculated (see Figure 5.38). E': the E' value for propane may be changed if required; THR from and to: sets the times between which the total heat release is calculated. The default is 0 s to 1200 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; HRR from and to: set the times between which the average heat release rate is calculated. The default is 480 s to 780 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; O2 delay and CO2 delay: these are the delay times used to time shift the gas analyser(s) data during the heat release rate calculation. The default values are the delay times determined from the response of the analysers. Three different sets of delay times may be used a) The times calculated from the response of the analyser for the test run conducted select Calc times in the Revert to selector to automatically set these times; b) The "original" delay times that were entered in the Pre-test Information Panel before performing the commissioning routine (Figure 5.7) select Initial times in the Revert to selector to automatically set these times; c) User entered times select User times in the Revert to selector and then enter a number for the delay time in the appropriate text box. Figure 5.38: Step Routine Report Panel (Additional Parameters) Press the More> button to display four further parameters that were entered in the Pre-test Information Panel before performing the commissioning routine (Figure 5.7) Amb. pressure: the ambient pressure in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; Relative humidity: the relative humidity in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; Probe constant, kp: this is the bi-directional probe constant and should be taken as 1.08 unless otherwise determined; Duct diameter: the internal diameter of the exhaust duct. After changing any of these parameters then push the Process button to re-process the data and display the new results. 69

78 If the average HRR, THR and the differences between initial and final readings are within the limits specified in pren CPD-1 then they are displayed in green, if they are outside the limits then they are shown in red. Figure 5.36 shows a set of results that are all within the criteria. The names of the parameters and criteria used are detailed in Sections and Once the data has loaded you have three options as given below Select a Different Calibration File To select a different calibration run push the File button and select the file from the Open dialog box. The data for this run will then be loaded and the results displayed on the screen Print The Data Push the Print button to print a report from CableSoft Exit To leave the Step Routine Print panel push the Close button Methanol Burn Push the Methanol Burn button to display the Methanol Calibration Report panel (Figure 5.39). This panel is similar to the panel displayed during the methanol burn calibration routine and should therefore be familiar. Figure 5.39: Methanol Calibration Panel (HRR Graph and Results) The most recent methanol calibration file is automatically loaded. 70

79 The Methanol Calibration Report panel shows two sets of results textual and graphical Two sets of data can be viewed in the textual display area: a) the results of the commissioning routine, the changes in parameters between the start and end of the routine and if the criteria of the pren CPD-1 standard are met (Figure 5.39) b) the readings from all the transducers at 3 second intervals. Push the button in the bottom left of the screen to change the textual display (the button name will change between Show Data and Show Results). Two graphs can be displayed in the graphical display area using the Graph selector: a) HRR: heat release rate calculated on shifted gas data (red line); b) SPR: smoke production rate (blue line). The Commissioning results page shows the following parameters: the total heat release (THR) over the time interval between the Calc from and to boxes; total smoke production (TSP) over the time interval between the Calc from and to boxes the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; the mass of methanol burned; the time to ignition; the time to flameout; initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; the total heat release methanol correction factor C m : mmethanol hc, net, meth Cm = THR where: m methanol h c,net,prop THR is the mass of methanol used (kg) is the net heat of combustion of methanol (= MJ/kg) is the total heat release calculated from the oxygen depletion system [MJ] The initial k t, mass of methanol, ignition and flameout times can be changed by editing the number in the appropriate field and then pressing Enter the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. There are also Calc from and to edit boxes. These set the times between which the total heat release and total smoke production are calculated. Three different sets of times may be used: a) the whole test: calculates THR and TSP between 0 s and the last data point (the default setting) if the button next to the times is labelled Whole Test then push it to automatically set these times (as in Figure 5.39); b) the "burn time": calculates THR and TSP between ignition (t 1 ) and flameout s (t 2 = t fo +300) if the button next to the times is labelled Burn Time then push it to automatically set these times (as in Figure 5.40); 71

80 c) user entered times: calculates THR and TSP between any time interval just by entering the times in the Calc from and to boxes After changing any of these times the data will be re-processed and the new results displayed. Figure 5.40: Methanol Calibration Report Panel (Burn Times Used) Push More parameters to display several parameters that affect the way that the heat release rate and total heat release are calculated (see Figure 5.41). Ambient pressure: the ambient pressure in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; Relative humidity: the relative humidity in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; E': the E' value for methanol may be changed if required; Figure 5.41: Methanol Calibration Report Panel (Additional Parameters) Probe constant, kp: this is the bi-directional probe constant and should be taken as 1.08 unless otherwise determined; Duct diameter: the internal diameter of the exhaust duct; O2 delay: the delay time used to time shift the oxygen gas analyser data during the heat release rate calculation; CO2 delay: the delay time used to time shift the carbon oxide gas analyser data during the heat release rate calculation. After changing any of these parameters then push the Process button to re-process the data and display the new results. If the THR and the differences between initial and final readings are within the limits specified in pren CPD-1 then they are displayed in green, if they are outside the limits then they are shown in red. Figure 5.39 shows a set of results that are all within the criteria. 72

81 The names of the parameters and criteria used are detailed in Sections and Once the data has loaded you have three options as given below Select a Different Calibration File To select a different calibration run push the File button and select the file from the Open dialog box. The data for this run will then be loaded and the results displayed on the screen Print The Data Push the Print button to print a report from CableSoft Exit To leave the Methanol Calibration Print panel push the Close button. 5.5 Commissioning Results When you have performed the four commissioning tests then the overall commissioning k t value can be calculated using the initial k t value and the four correction factors. Further details are given in Annex C.3.3 of pren CPD-1. Remember that ALL of these tests MUST use the same flow profile constant and should be that determined from the flow profile (k t,v ). The commissioning k t value is given by: k t = k t, i C1 + C2 + C C m where: k t,i C 1,C 2,C 3 C m is the initial k t value for all four commissioning tests is the total heat release propane correction factor for burner output levels 1 (20.5 kw), 2 (30 kw) and 3 (40 to 50 kw) total heat release methanol correction factor This k t value must then be entered into the software. From the Main panel push Configure and enter the value in the Flow profile text box. 73

82 74

83 6 Conducting A Test Before conducting a test, ensure that the software has been configured correctly (see Section 3) and that the commissioning routines have been conducted (See Section 5). Then ensure that all of the transducer calibrations from Section 4 have been performed: Zero the DPT (Section 4.2) Calibrate the smoke system (Section 4.3) Zero the mass flow meters (Section 4.4) Calibrate the gas analysers (Section 4.1) Turn the exhaust fan on and push the Status button on the Main panel. Adjust the exhaust fan speed to obtain a volume flow rate in the exhaust of (1.00 ± 0.05) m 3 /s. Then push OK. Also ensure that there is enough desiccant ( Drierite ) to last the test. Then from the Main panel push the Start Test button. Figure 6.1: Select Test Panel 6.1 Daily Check Tests Before conducting a cable test a check test must be performed to ensure that the apparatus and analysis system are working correctly. These tests are very similar to the commissioning step routines, except that the mass loss of propane is not required and only two levels of burner heat output are used. 75

84 The test must be conducted at the level the burner will be set to during testing (i.e. either 20.5 kw or 30 kw). From the Select Test Panel push Daily Check to display the Daily Propane Check Information Panel (Figure 6.2) Check Test Information (a) 20.5 kw (b) 30 kw Figure 6.2: Daily Propane Check Information Panel The apparatus specifications are automatically displayed these can be edited if required. The ambient pressure is recorded and entered. Manually enter the relative humidity (in %) in the appropriate text field. Note: The default apparatus specifications are set in the software configuration. This daily check must be conducted at one of two different heat releases from the burner (20.5 kw or 30 kw) depending on the test(s) to be conducted. Select the burner heat release to be used for the test from the HRR Level drop down box. The E' value of a material is the amount of heat released from the material per cubic metre of oxygen consumed in a fire. This value is relatively constant for most organic materials and the average value is 17.2 MJ/m 3. For propane the E' value is known to be 16.8 MJ/m 3 and this value should be used and is automatically entered. The filename where the data will be stored is automatically generated. 76

85 This automatic file name consists of 8 characters the first two are the two-digit year (for 2003 this is 03 ), the next two is the month number (e.g. for January this is 01 ), the next two are the two-digit day (e.g. for 20 th this is 20 ), the next character is the heat level (1 for 20.5 kw, 2 for 30 kw) and the final character is the test number (starts from 1, goes through to 9 and then A through Z). So the first 20.5 kw check performed on 20 January 2003 will have filename CSV and the filename of the first 30 kw check performed on the same day will be CSV. Once a new day starts the counter for the final character is reset to 1. If a different filename is required then push the File button. A Windows Save As dialog box is displayed type in the filename required and push the OK button. The filename must have the file extension.csv, if a file extension is not entered then.csv will be added. When all the required information has been entered then press the OK button to advance. To abort the routine press the Cancel button. On pressing the OK button you can then perform the pre-run calibrations. The message box in Figure 6.3 is displayed. Figure 6.3: Pre-run Calibrations Press the Yes button to perform the pre-run calibrations or No to skip this step. If you select Yes then 10 s worth of data is collected (Figure 6.4 is displayed during this time) and the average over this 10 s period is recorded. The calibrations to be performed are selected in the software configuration (see Section 3.7). The Daily Propane Check panel is then displayed. Figure 6.4: Pre-run Calibrations: Collecting Data Check Test Run The appearance of the Daily Propane Check panel depends on whether the gas mass flow controller is fitted or not. Figure 6.5 shows the initial view of the panel if a propane mass 77

86 flow controller is fitted. Figure 6.6 shows the initial view of the panel if s mass flow controller is not fitted. The common features on both views are: the time since the test was started the volume flow rate in the duct a display area that shows four sets of data: a) the readings from all the transducers in real time ( raw data ) b) the readings from all the transducers interpolated at 3 second intervals ( int. data ) c) a table of the times that can determine delay and response times d) the results of the calibration routine a button that cycles though the four options in the display area (note that the results section is blank until the routine is complete) If a propane mass flow controller is fitted then the following also appear on the panel: the propane mass flow and the theoretical heat release rate from this mass flow (yellow q,gas display) the approximate heat release rate calculated from the real time readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and differential pressure (red ~HRR display) a graph area showing the approximate heat release rate measured by oxygen depletion (red line) and the theoretical heat release from the propane (yellow line) If there is no propane mass flow controller then the following also appear on the panel: the approximate heat release rate calculated from the real time readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and differential pressure (yellow ~HRR display) a graph area showing the approximate heat release rate measured by oxygen depletion (yellow line) Figure 6.5: Daily Propane Check Panel: With Propane MFC Fitted 78

87 Figure 6.6: Daily Propane Check Panel: Without Propane MFC Fitted The routine is detailed in section 8.3 of pren CPD-1. There are three steps to this routine. Messages are displayed on the screen during the routine, as advice, 30 seconds before each step Step 1 Ensure that there is no gas flowing to the burners. Then push the Start button and record the initial mass of the propane bottle. Baseline data is then collected between 0 s and 300 s. Figure 6.7: Daily Propane Check Panel: During Step Step 2 At 300s turn on the gas and air flow to the burner and adjust as necessary to achieve the required heat release level. If a propane mass flow controller is fitted then the message on the panel will indicate the required mass flow rate (see Figure 6.7). If a mass flow controller is 79

88 not fitted then the message will indicate the required burner heat output. The flow rates for the typical heat release levels are given in Table 6.1. The burner is left at this level of heat release for 10 minutes. Required HRR (kw) Propane mass flow rate (mg/s) Air mass flow rate (mg/s) Propane standard flow rate (slpm) Air standard flow rate (slpm) Table 6.1: Heat Release Rates and Associated Flow Rates Figure 6.8: Daily Propane Check Panel: During Step Step 3 At 900 s turn off the gas supply to the burner. Collect a further 300 s of data and then press the Stop button. Note: The Stop button will remain greyed out until enough data has been collected to process the results. However we do advise that the data is collected until at least 1260 s to ensure that all the calculations can be performed. 80

89 Figure 6.9: Daily Propane Check Panel: During Step 3 The data is then processed and the check results displayed. The Graph selector to the right of the graph then becomes available to show two different graphs these will be described below in Section At any time push the Cancel button to abort the procedure and return to the Commissioning panel Table Display Area At the beginning of the test routine, the table display area initially displays the raw data recorded from each transducer. Push the button labelled Show Int. Data to change to the data interpolated at 3 second intervals. The button is now labelled Show Times push this button to display a table of the times required to calculate the response and delay times. The button is now labelled Show HRR Results push this button to display the commissioning results page (this page cannot be completed until the routine is finished). The button is now labelled Show Raw Data push this button to display the raw data. Table 5.2 summarises the button text and actions. Button Changes Table Display to Changes Button Text to Show Int. Data Interpolated Data Show Times Show Times Delay and Response Times Show HRR Results Show HRR Results Results Show Raw Data Show Raw Data Raw Data Show Int. Data Table 6.2: Table Display Area Toggle Button Processed Commissioning Results Immediately the Stop button is pressed the data is processed as described in the pren CPD-1 standard and the panel updated to display the check results. 81

90 Figure 6.10: Daily Propane Check Panel: Results Two sets of graphical results can be displayed using the Graph selector: Test: HRR and q,gas (if propane MFC is fitted) determined during the test (as calculated during the test non-shifted data); Real HRR: HRR calculated on shifted gas data and q,gas (if propane MFC is fitted). (Figure 6.10 shows the graph in the Real HRR mode when a propane MFC is fitted) The first page in the table display area to be shown after the Stop button is pushed is the Results. This page shows the following parameters: the average value of HRR between 10 and 15 minutes (600 s and 900 s); initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; Note: the initial conditions are taken as the average between 0 and 60 s and the final conditions are taken as the average over the last 60 s of step 3. the drift in the oxygen concentration, smoke transmission and HRR during the first 5 minutes; the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; HRR from and to: set the times between which the average heat release rate is calculated. The default is 600 s to 900 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; After changing the initial k t or HRR times the data is automatically processed the new results displayed Criteria The following criteria must be met: a) the average heat release rate between 600 s and 900 s shall be within ±5% of the required burner heat output; 82

91 b) the difference between the initial and final concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02%; c) the difference between the initial and final transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1%; d) the difference between the initial and final HRR values shall be less than 2 kw; e) the drift in transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1% during the first 5 minutes; f) the drift in concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02% during the first 5 minutes; g) the drift in HRR values shall be less than 2 kw during the first 5 minutes. The displays that show each of these parameters will be coloured green if the criteria is met or red if the criteria is not met Saving Data To save the data push the Save button, then push the Exit button to return to the Main panel. Push the Cancel button to exit the panel without saving the data. If you push the Exit button without saving the data OR after changing any of the parameters from those in the saved data then you will be prompted to save the data. A report can be printed by pushing Print Report and then Daily Check kw or Daily Check - 30 kw see Section 7.2 for further details. 6.2 Cable Tests Once a successful daily check test has been conducted then prepare the ladder with the test cable as specified in pren CPD-2-1 or pren CPD-2-2 depending on which test you wish to conduct. From the Select Test Panel push Cable Test to display the Test Information Panel (Figure 6.11) Test Information Here you set the file, to which the test data will be saved and enter information about the specimen and apparatus, which will be included in the test report and used to process the data. A filename will automatically be displayed in the Data Filename field (this will be the file name in the automatic counter system see Section 3.2 for a description of the automatic file naming system. 83

92 Figure 6.11: Test Information Panel If you wish to change this file push File to access a standard Windows Save As panel. In the top left hand field, type the name of the file. The file extension is.csv. It is not necessary to add this extension it will be automatically added. The data directory will automatically be set to the data directory specified in the Configure panel. For the Operator select your choice from the drop down menu. Push the Edit button to change the list in the selection. A table will be displayed (Figure 6.12) simply edit the list and push the OK button. To discard any changes push the Cancel button. Figure 6.12: Operator Panel 84

93 Enter the specimen information (and laboratory name if different to that displayed) in the appropriate text boxes. Note if the cable has more than one conductor then the maximum size must be entered in the Conductor size entry For the Mounting method select your choice from the drop down menu. Push the Edit button to change the list in the selection in the same way as for the operator. If a non-combustible backing board is used on the ladder then ensure that Backing board on ladder? is checked. Only then do the Name of board fields become available. Select the name of the board (or edit the list in the same manner as for the operator). If the cable has been conditioned, ensure that Conditioned is checked. The bottom part of the Specimen Details section then changes to display the conditioning environment fields (see Figure 6.13). Push the Hide button to hide the environment details. To display the conditioning environment details again push the Show Parameters button that is now visible (see Figure 6.14). If the cable has not been conditioned, ensure that Conditioned is unchecked (no cross). Figure 6.13: Test Information Panel: Conditioning Environment Visible The apparatus specifications are automatically displayed these can be edited if required. The ambient pressure is recorded and entered. Manually enter the relative humidity (in %). Note: The default apparatus specifications are set in the software configuration. There are two cable tests specified in the standards pren CPD-2-1 and pren CPD-2-2. These have defined, and different, test durations, flame application times and burner output levels. Figure 6.11 shows the settings when pren CPD-2-1 is selected and Figure 6.14 shows the settings when pren CPD-2-2 is selected. Also note that for tests to pren CPD-2-1 the air supply into the test chamber should be (5000 ± 500) l/min and for tests to pren CPD-2-2 the air supply should be (8000 ± 800) l/min. Smoke data should be collected during the cable tests, if you do not want to collect smoke data then remove the cross in the Collect smoke data check box. 85

94 Figure 6.14: Test Information Panel: Conditioning On and Test pren CPD-2-2 Selected Once all the specimen information has been entered push OK. A message box then asks if you want to perform pre-run calibrations (see Figure 6.15). Is it recommended that this is performed before every test. If the routine is by passed then the Test Run panel (Figure 6.17) appears. Figure 6.15: Pre-run Calibrations To leave the Test Information panel at any time push the Cancel button Pre-Run Calibrations Ensure that the burner is off and that the sample pump has been running for at least 10 minutes so that the analysers are stable. In pre-run calibrations, 10 s of data is collected from the instrument transducers (Figure 6.16 is displayed during this time) and the average over this 10 s period is recorded. The calibrations to be performed are selected in the software configuration (see Section 3.7 for further details). 86

95 Figure 6.16: Pre-run Calibrations: Collecting Data Test Run After the details of the test have been entered and the system calibrated then you are ready to start the test. The Test Run panel shows the readings from all the transducers in real time, the volume flow rate in the duct and the approximate heat release and smoke production rates. Note: These values are only approximate because they are not calculated on time-shifted data. The true values are calculated after the test (in the reporting section). There is a message area at the top of the panel that indicates key moments during the test (such as when to turn the burner on) Start Test Put the prepared cable ladder in the test chamber and ensure that the burner is connected. Then press the Start button to commence data collection. Baseline data is collected between 0 s and 300 s. Figure 6.17: Test Run Panel: Collecting Baseline Data 87

96 After 60 s the initial HRR and transmission values are displayed (these are the average values between 0 s and 60 s). At 270 s the HRR and transmission are determined as the average values between 255 s and 270 s and displayed on the screen: If a baseline condition is within the criteria specified in the appropriate part of pren CPD-2 then the parameter is displayed in green, if the criteria is not met then the parameter is displayed in red. If any of the parameters are outside the criteria then an Abort button is displayed press this button to cancel the data collection before igniting the burner and exposing the cables Ignite Burner At 300 s turn on the propane and air supplies to the burner and ignite the gas. Adjust the flow rate of gas as necessary to give the correct heat output from the burner. Figure 6.18: Test Run Panel: Burner Just Ignited Observe the burning behaviour of the cable, in particular the presence of burning droplets and parts falling from the cable Turn Off Burner For tests to pren CPD-2-1 the burner flame is applied to the cables for 1200 s. For tests to pren CPD-2-2 the burner flame is applied to the cables for 2400 s. At the appropriate time (1500 s for 1 tests and 270 s for 2 tests) the burner must be turned off End Test Collect data for at least 5 minutes after the burner is turned off. 88

97 The data collection automatically stops when the time reaches the Max. Test Duration or when the Finish button is pushed. Note During the test the maximum test duration may be changed by editing the Max. Test Duration field After Test Conditions When the test is finished the standard specifies that the end conditions be measured with no fire in the test room. It may be necessary to remove the cable from the chamber to achieve end conditions within the limits specified in the standard. Figure 6.19: After Test Conditions Panel This panel shows the initial readings of oxygen, carbon dioxide and smoke, the current readings of these three and the average over the last 60 seconds. If the smoothed reading is within the limits specified by the standard then the display is green, if it is outside the criteria then it is red. When there are three green lights press the OK button to record the data and proceed After Test Comments Here any comments about the test can be entered and specified observations required by the standards such as flaming droplets or falling specimen parts can be noted using the check boxes. The damage length of the cable must also be entered. 89

98 Figure 6.20: After Test Comments Panel Push OK to save all the data and return to the Main panel. A test report can then be printed. 90

99 7 Printing Reports The results from the cable tests, daily check tests and the three commissioning tests can be viewed and reports printed, at any time after they are conducted. From the Main panel push the Print Report button to display the Print Report panel (Figure 7.1) and then push the appropriate button. Figure 7.1: Print Report Panel 7.1 Commissioning Tests To view and print the commissioning reports: From the Main panel push the Commissioning button and then push the Reports button; From the Main panel push the Print Report button and then push Commissioning button. See Section 5.4 for full details on printing the commissioning test reports. 7.2 Daily Check Tests To view and print the daily check test reports from the Main panel push the Print Report button and then push either the Daily Check kw or Daily Check - 30 kw button. The most recent check file (for the chosen heat output) is automatically loaded and the data processed. 91

100 The Propane Daily Check Report panel shows two sets of results tabular and graphical Three sets of data can be viewed in the tabular display area: a) the results of the daily check test; b) the readings from all the transducers at 3 second intervals; c) a table of the times that can be used to determine the delay and response times. Push the button in the bottom left of the screen to change the tabular display (the button name will cycle between Show Data to Show Times to Show HRR Results). On the graph up to three sets of data are shown: a) the HRR calculated on shifted gas data and duct flow measurements (red line), b) the average HRR between the specified times (black line); c) q-gas the theoretical HRR from the burner determined from the mass flow rate of gas (blue line) [this line is only present if a mass flow controller was fitted during the check test]. (Figure 7.2 shows the graph when a propane MFC was fitted) Figure 7.2: Propane Daily Check Report Panel (30 kw Check with Propane MFC) The Results text page shows the following parameters: the average value of HRR between 10 and 15 minutes (600 s and 900 s); 92

101 initial, final and difference between initial and final values for the concentration of oxygen, HRR and transmission measured by the smoke measuring system; Note: the initial conditions are taken as the average between 0 and 60 s and the final conditions are taken as the average over the last 60 s of step 3. the drift in the oxygen concentration, smoke transmission and HRR during the first 5 minutes; the initial k t value used in the calculation of the HRR; HRR from and to: set the times between which the average heat release rate is calculated. The default is 600 s to 900 s but a different period may be chosen by changing the times; After changing the initial k t or HRR times the data is automatically processed the new results displayed. Push More parameters to display several parameters that affect the way that the heat release rate and total heat release are calculated (see Figure 7.3). E': the E' value for propane may be changed if required; O2 delay: the delay time used to time shift the oxygen gas analyser data during the heat release rate calculation; CO2 delay: the delay time used to time shift the carbon oxide gas analyser data during the heat release rate calculation; Amb. pressure: the ambient pressure in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; Relative humidity: the relative humidity in the laboratory at the beginning of the test; Probe constant, kp: this is the bi-directional probe constant and should be taken as 1.08 unless otherwise determined; Duct diameter: the internal diameter of the exhaust duct. Figure 7.3: Propane Daily Check Report Panel: Additional Parameters After changing any of these parameters then push the Process button to re-process the data and display the new results Criteria The following criteria must be met: a) the average heat release rate between 600 s and 900 s shall be within ±5% of the required burner heat output; 93

102 b) the difference between the initial and final concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02%; c) the difference between the initial and final transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1%; d) the difference between the initial and final HRR values shall be less than 2 kw; e) the drift in transmission from the smoke measuring system shall be less than 1% during the first 5 minutes; f) the drift in concentration of oxygen shall be less than 0.02% during the first 5 minutes; g) the drift in HRR values shall be less than 2 kw during the first 5 minutes. The displays that show each of these parameters will be coloured green if the criteria is met or red if the criteria is not met. Once the data has loaded you have three options as given below Select a Different Data File To select a different calibration run push the File button and select the file from the Open dialog box. The data for this run will then be loaded and the results displayed on the screen Print The Data Push the Print button to print a report from CableSoft Exit To leave the Daily Propane Check Report panel push the Close button. 7.3 Cable Tests To view and print the cable test reports from the Main panel push the Print Report button and then push the Test button. The most recent test file is automatically loaded and the data processed a progress bar indicates the progress of the data processing. The Print Test Report panel initially shows two sets of textual results (see Figure 7.4): The Test Results area shows: a) the FIGRA index calculated with a threshold of 0.2 MJ and with 0.4 MJ (FIGRA(0.2) and FIGRA(0.4) respectively); Note the thresholds may be set different from these default values using the print options (see Section 7.3.2) b) The total heat release between 300 s and 900 s (THR(600)) for pren CPD-2-1 tests or between 300 s and 1500 s (THR(1200)) for pren CPD-2-2 tests; c) The SMOGRA index; 94

103 d) The total smoke production between 300 and 900 s (TSP(600)) for pren CPD-2-1 tests or between 300 s and 1500 s (THR(1200)) for pren CPD-2-2 tests. Figure 7.4: Print Test Report Panel The Test Summary area shows three pages of information push the More button to cycle between the pages: a) Page 1 shows information about the specimen, laboratory and the apparatus specification (see Figure 7.4); b) Page 2 shows the baseline and end data and additional apparatus specifications (see Figure 7.5); c) Page 3 shows additional test details concerning the burning behaviour (flaming droplets and falling specimen parts), the flame application time, damage length and peak HRR and SPR data (see Figure 7.6). 95

104 Figure 7.5: Print Test Report Panel: Test Summary Page 2 Five sets of graphical results can be displayed on the screen (only one at a time) by selecting the appropriate setting in the Graph selector: a) HRR Plot (see Figure 7.4): heat release rate calculated on shifted gas data (HRR) and the 30-s smoothed heat release rate (HRR(30)). There are two sets of heat release rate calculated one including the heat output from the burner (direct calculation from the gas data) and a second excluding the burner (i.e. just the heat release rate from the cable). The lines are coloured as follows: HRR including the burner green, HRR(30) including the burner blue, HRR excluding the burner black, HRR(30) excluding the burner red; b) MHRR Plot (see Figure 7.7(a)): the HRR and HRR(30) curves excluding the burner output; c) THR Plot (see Figure 7.7(b)): total heat release (THR, black line) and FIGRA function (red line); Note: Figure 7.6: Print Test Report Panel: Test Summary Page 3 the FIGRA function is as calculated on the 0.2 MJ threshold. d) SPR Plot (see Figure 7.7(c)): smoke production rate (SPR, black line) and the 60-s smoothed smoke production rate (SPR(60), red line); e) TSP Plot (see Figure 7.7(d)): total smoke production (TSP, black line) and SMOGRA function (red line). 96

105 (a): MHRR (b): THR (c): SPR (d): TSP Figure 7.7: Print Test Report Panel: Different Graphs The time axis on all graphs can be displayed and printed in seconds and minutes use the Time axis slide switch to change between the two units. Once the data has loaded you have five options as given below Select A Different Test File To select a different test run push the File button and select the file from the Open dialog box. The data for this run will then be loaded and the results displayed on the screen Set Print Options There are several options associated with the calculation of FIGRA and SMOGRA that can be set. Push the Print Options button to display the Print Options panel (Figure 7.8). The print options are split into two sections 1) FIGRA Calculation 2) SMOGRA Calculation The FIGRA and SMOGRA parameters are only calculated if certain threshold limits are exceeded. The default settings for these thresholds are shown in Figure 7.8. If different thresholds are required then the numbers can be edited in the appropriate text box. 97

106 Figure 7.8: Print Options Panel Push Save to save any changes and re-process the data using the new threshold values or Cancel to return to the Print Test Report panel Export The Processed Data The processed data can be saved so that it can be imported into another application such as a spreadsheet program for further analysis. Push the Export Data button. A Windows Save As dialog box then appears for you to enter a filename for the exported file. As default CableSoft automatically appends _red to the end of the filename. Do NOT overwrite the original data file otherwise the data will be lost. Note We recommend that the exported data is stored in a different folder to the test data. Then push OK to export the data Print The Data Push the Print button to print a test report from CableSoft Exit To leave the Print Test Report panel push the Close button. 98

107 8 Additional Tools There are two sets of additional tools available in CableSoft as described below. 8.1 Status From the Main panel push the Status button to display the Status panel. This panel displays the signals from all the transducers (in engineering units) and shows the volume flow rate the heat release rate from the burner, the mean duct temperature and the extinction coefficient. This panel is useful when troubleshooting and setting the volume flow rate before performing any tests or calibration runs. Figure 8.1: Status Panel 99

108 8.2 Tools From the Main panel push the Tools button to display the Tools panel (Figure 8.2). Figure 8.2: Tools Panel This panel gives access to a number of useful tools: a) Oxygen analyser drift calculator used for determining the drift and noise of the oxygen analyser; b) Smoke system drift calculator used for determining the drift and noise of the smoke measuring system; c) Commissioning k t calculator enter the initial k t value and four commissioning correction factors and get the system k t value; d) Gas flow calculator converts standard flow to flow at specific temperature and pressure and also calculates the heat release for a given flow of gas Oxygen Drift Calculator To calculate the oxygen drift a data file is required with column 1 as the time (in seconds), column 2 as the oxygen concentration (in %) and column 3 as the ambient pressure (in kpa). The first two lines of the file are reserved for heading information line 1 is the date and line 2 is the column headings ( time (s), oxygen (%), APT (kpa) ). Push the Oxygen Drift Calculator button to display the Oxygen Drift panel. From here you can either perform a drift test or look at previous drift test data. 100

109 Figure 8.3: Oxygen Drift Panel Collect Drift Data Push the Perform Test button to display the Oxygen Drift Test Setup Analyser panel. Data collection will start automatically. Figure 8.4: Oxygen Drift Test Setup Analyser Panel 101

110 Purge the oxygen analyser with nitrogen in the same way as for setting the zero calibration (see Section 4.1). Allow the signal from the analyser to stabilise and then push the Zero button. The average signal over the next 10 s is taken as the zero reading and the oxygen zero calibration is performed (the oxygen reading on the screen will then be 0.00%). Note 1: The Standard says that the analyser should be purged with nitrogen for at least 60 minutes. Note 2: The zeroing routine can be skipped by pushing the Bypass Zero button. Then turn the sample pump on and purge the analyser with dry air. (Note that the cold trap should be operating and chemical drying agent fitted.) Allow the signal from the analyser to stabilise and then push the Span button. The average signal over the next 10 s is taken as the span reading and the oxygen span calibration is performed (the oxygen reading on the screen will then be %). Then push the Next >> button to proceed to the data collection phase. Maintain the flow of dry air through the oxygen analyser for this procedure. The panel shows the time, oxygen concentration in the cell and a graph of the oxygen concentration with time. Figure 8.5: Oxygen Drift Test Collect Data Panel 102

111 During the test the drift and noise over the whole test are calculated and displayed in the Drift and Noise displays. From the drift over the whole test, the equivalent drift over a 30 minute period is calculated (for example if the drift is 4 ppm over 5 minutes this is an equivalent drift of 24 ppm over 30 minutes). After 30 minutes of data has been collected the drift over the last 30 minutes is also calculated and displayed. To end the test push the Finish button. Then a filename can be entered in order to save the data. Push the File button and then enter a filename. Start the filename with OXY to denote an oxygen drift data file. Then push OK. Figure 8.6: Oxygen Drift Save As Panel Finally push Save Data to store the data to the file. The panel is automatically closed and the Oxygen Drift panel displayed from here you can analyser the data and print a report as explained in the next section View and Print Oxygen Drift Data Push the Analyse Data button to display the Oxygen Drift Calculator panel. Push the File button and select the required file containing the oxygen drift information. The data will be read and the drift and noise calculated over the first 1800 s of the test. Figure 8.7: Oxygen Drift Calculator Panel 103

112 Change the From and To time fields to recalculate the drift and noise over a different time period. This time period does not have to be 1800 s. The drift over the selected time period and the projected drift over 1800 s are both calculated. The graph is updated to show the oxygen concentration over the selected time period. Note: The maximum that can be entered in the To time is the total time. Oxygen concentration is affected by pressure in the cell (and ambient pressure). A correction for changes in ambient pressure can be made. This correction is on by default (note that if the same pressure is recorded throughout the test then the pressure-corrected and non-pressurecorrected results will be identical as with the demo file supplied with the software). Set the Pressure Correction switch to the desired position and the data will be analysed appropriately. Push the Print button to generate a report and the Back << button to return to the Tools panel Smoke Drift Calculator For Laser Systems To calculate the smoke drift a data file is required with column 1 as the time (in seconds), column 2 as the main photodiode signal (-) and column 3 as the compensating photodiode signal (-). The first three lines of the file are reserved for heading information line 1 is the date, line 2 is the smoke system ( Laser ) and line 3 is the column headings ( time (s), PDM (-) and PDC (-) ). Push the Smoke Drift Calculator button to display the Smoke Drift panel. From here you can either perform a drift test or look at previous drift test data. Figure 8.8: Smoke Drift Panel 104

113 Collect Drift Data Push the Perform Test button to display the Smoke Drift Test Setup panel. Data collection will start automatically. Block the laser light to both photodiodes. Allow the photodiode outputs to stabilise and then press the Zero button. The average signals over the next 10 s are taken as the zero readings and the smoke system zero calibration is performed (the PDM (-) and PDC (-) readings on the screen will then be 0.000). Note: The zeroing routine can be skipped by pushing the Bypass Zero button. Figure 8.9: Laser System Smoke Drift Test Setup Panel Remove the blank and close all filter slots. Allow the photodiode outputs to stabilise and then press the Span button. The average signals over the next 10 s is taken as the span readings and the smoke measuring balance routine is performed (the PDM (-) and PDC (-) readings on the screen will then be 1.000) Then push the Next >> button to proceed to the data collection phase. 105

114 The data collection panel shows the time, transmission (smoke system output), and a graph of the transmission with time. The calibrated signals from the photodiodes can also be viewed on the graph push the Switch Graph button to switch between transmission and photodiode outputs. During the test the drift and noise over the whole test are calculated and displayed in the Drift and Noise displays. From the drift over the whole test, the equivalent drift over a 30 minute period is calculated (for example if the drift is 0.01% over 5 minutes this is an equivalent drift of 0.06% over 30 minutes). After 30 minutes of data has been collected the drift over the last 30 minutes is also calculated and displayed. Figure 8.10: Laser System Smoke Drift Test Collect Data Panel To end the test push the Finish button. Then a filename can be entered in order to save the data. Push the File button and then enter a filename. Start the filename with SMK to denote an smoke drift data file. Then push OK. 106

115 Figure 8.11: Smoke Drift Save As Panel Finally push Save Data to store the data to the file. The panel is automatically closed and the Smoke Drift panel displayed from here you can analyser the data and print a report as explained in the next section View And Print Smoke Drift Data Push the Analyse Data button to display the Smoke Drift Calculator panel. Push the File button and select the required file containing the smoke drift information. The data will be read and the drift and noise calculated over the first 1800 s of the test. Figure 8.12: Smoke Drift Calculator Panel Change the From and To time fields to recalculate the drift and noise over a different time period. This time period does not have to be 1800s. The drift over the selected time period and the projected drift over 1800s are both calculated. The graph is updated to show the transmission (smoke signal) over the selected time period. Note: The maximum that can be entered in the To time is the total time. Push the Print button to generate a report and the Back << button to return to the Tools panel. 107

116 8.2.3 Smoke Drift Calculator For White Light Systems To calculate the smoke drift a data file is required with column 1 as the time (in seconds), column 2 as the smoke signal (in %). The first three lines of the file are reserved for heading information line 1 is the date, line 2 is the smoke system ( White Light ) and line 3 is the column headings ( time (s) and smoke (%) ). Push the Smoke Drift Calculator button to display the Smoke Drift panel. From here you can either perform a drift test or look at previous drift test data. Figure 8.13: Smoke Drift Panel Collect Drift Data Push the Perform Test button to display the Smoke Drift Test Setup panel. Data collection will start automatically. Turn off the lamp or place an opaque material in the light path. Allow the smoke system output to stabilise and then press the Zero button. The average signal over the next 10 s is taken as the zero reading and the smoke system zero calibration is performed (the transmission reading on the screen will then be 0.00%). Note: The zeroing routine can be skipped by pushing the Bypass Zero button. Ensure the lamp is on and that there is nothing in the light path (it may be necessary to clean the windows or lenses of soot deposits). Allow the smoke system output to stabilise and then press the Span button. The average signal over the next 10 s is taken as the span reading and the smoke measuring span calibration is performed (the transmission reading on the screen will then be %.) Then push the Next >> button to proceed to the data collection phase. 108

117 Figure 8.14: White Light Smoke Drift Test Setup Panel The data collection panel shows the time, transmission (smoke system output), and a graph of the transmission with time. During the test the drift and noise over the whole test are calculated and displayed in the Drift and Noise displays. From the drift over the whole test, the equivalent drift over a 30 minute period is calculated (for example if the drift is 0.01% over 5 minutes this is an equivalent drift of 0.06% over 30 minutes). After 30 minutes of data has been collected the drift over the last 30 minutes is also calculated and displayed. 109

118 Figure 8.15: Smoke Drift Test Collect Data Panel To end the test push the Finish button. Then a filename can be entered in order to save the data. Push the File button and then enter a filename. Start the filename with SMK to denote an smoke drift data file. Then push OK. 110

119 Figure 8.16: Smoke Drift Save As Panel Finally push Save Data to store the data to the file. The panel is automatically closed and the Smoke Drift panel displayed from here you can analyser the data and print a report as explained in the next section View And Print Smoke Drift Data Push the Analyse Data button to display the Smoke Drift Calculator panel. Push the File button and select the required file containing the smoke drift information. The data will be read and the drift and noise calculated over the first 1800 s of the test. Figure 8.17: Smoke Drift Calculator Panel Change the From and To time fields to recalculate the drift and noise over a different time period. This time period does not have to be 1800s. The drift over the selected time period and the projected drift over 1800s are both calculated. The graph is updated to show the transmission (smoke signal) over the selected time period. Note: The maximum that can be entered in the To time is the total time. Push the Print button to generate a report and the Back << button to return to the Tools panel. 111

120 8.2.4 Commissioning k t Value Calculator Push the Commissioning kt value calculator button to display the Commissioning kt Value Calculator panel. Enter the initial kt value and the four correction factors from the appropriate commissioning runs and the overall Commissioning kt value is displayed at the bottom of the panel. Note: This does not affect the kt value entered in the Configure panel if you wish to enter a new kt value into CableSoft use the Configure routine. Push the Back << button to return to the Tools panel. Figure 8.18: Commissioning kt Value Calculator Panel Calculate Gas Flows Push the Calculate gas flows button to display the Flow Calculator panel. Figure 8.19: Flow Calculator Panel Push the Back << button to return to the Tools panel. 112

121 There are then five options as described below Calculate Gas Flow From Heat Release Rate Push the Gas flow from HRR button, then enter the heat release rate required and the gas, enter the reference temperature and pressure for the volume flow and push Calculate. Figure 8.20: Gas Flow from HRR Panel The mass flow rate of the gas and the volume flow rate at the given temperature and pressure are then displayed. You can change any of the entry fields and then push Calculate to investigate another heat release rate or reference conditions. Note: You must push Calculate after making a change to update the displays the calculation is not automatically performed when a setting is changed. Push the Back << button to return to the Flow Calculator panel Calculate Heat Release Rate From Mass Flow Rate Push the Gas HRR from MFR button, then enter the mass flow rate required and the gas, enter the reference temperature and pressure for the volume flow and push Calculate. 113

122 Figure 8.21: Gas HRR from MFR Panel The heat release rate from the entered mass flow rate of gas, the standard flow rate (i.e. referenced to 0 C and 1 atm) and the volume flow rate at the given temperature and pressure are then displayed. You can change any of the entry fields and then push Calculate to investigate another mass flow rate or reference conditions. Note: You must push Calculate after making a change to update the displays the calculation is not automatically performed when a setting is changed. Push the Back << button to return to the Flow Calculator panel Calculate Heat Release Rate From Volume Flow Rate Push the Gas HRR from VFR button, then enter the volume flow rate required, the reference temperature and pressure, and the gas and push Calculate. Figure 8.22: Gas HRR from VFR Panel The standard flow rate (i.e. referenced to 0 C and 1 atm), mass flow rate and heat release rate are then displayed. You can change any of the entry fields and then push Calculate to investigate another flow rate. 114

123 Note: You must push Calculate after making a change to update the displays the calculation is not automatically performed when a setting is changed. Push the Back << button to return to the Flow Calculator panel Calculate Air Volume Flow Rate From Mass Flow Rate Push the Air Volume Flow from MFR button, then enter the mass flow rate of air required, enter the reference temperature and pressure for the volume flow and push Calculate. You can change any of the entry fields and then push Calculate to investigate another flow rate. Note: You must push Calculate after making a change to update the displays the calculation is not automatically performed when a setting is changed. Push the Back << button to return to the Flow Calculator panel. Figure 8.23: Air Volume Flow Panel Calculate Air Mass Flow Rate From Volume Flow Rate Push the Air Mass Flow from VFR button, then enter the mass flow rate required, the reference temperature and pressure, and the gas and push Calculate. 115

124 You can change any of the entry fields and then push Calculate to investigate another flow rate. Note: Figure 8.24: Air Mass Flow Panel You must push Calculate after making a change to update the displays the calculation is not automatically performed when a setting is changed. Push the Back << button to return to the Flow Calculator panel. 116