Description

The instrument is pre-configured to carry out the ASTM D5001 test method. This application will allow all test parameters (motor speed, test duration, fuel temperature, air temperature and humidity) to be recorded during the test and provide a summary confirming that all parameters were within the specified limits.

Operating the ABS Software

The user can enter the data file name at any time prior to the test starting by selecting the ‘Browse’ button.

A valid filename should be entered prior to the start of the test. This will bring up the standard ‘SAVE AS’ dialogue box shown below. The test file will have the extension *.dat (data file).

Once the test is underway, the status will display the following sequence:

• D5001 Stabilising Fuel Temperature
• D5001 Stabilising Humidity
• D5001 Conditioning Fuel
• D5001 Running Test

Note that the test data will only be displayed on the graph once the test is actually underway (i.e. once the Conditioning fuel stage has been reached). During the test, the fuel temperature and relative humidity are displayed using the left hand axis and the motor speed is displayed using the right hand axis. The step time is displayed in minutes and seconds. The ambient temperature refers to the temperature of the air inside the test rig and is therefore likely to be a few degrees higher than the ambient air temperature.

Entering the Wear Scar

The wear scar can either be measured using the wear scar camera option or manualy through a microscope. Press the “Wear Scar...” button to bring up the following dialogue box. The user should enter the X and Y dimensions of the wear scar as described in the test procedure. The dimensions of the wear scar are quoted in microns. Then press Calculate and Save.

Examples of wear scars can be found in the ABS operation section.

Exporting the data file

The ABS test data is saved in a binary format. The test data can be converted into a text format by using the ‘Export Test ’ option. This will allow the data to be opened using spreadsheet packages such as Excel, Star Office, Lotus, Open Office etc. The new output data file is saved with a .txt extension.

Recommended Computer Specification

Any current entry level PC will be sufficient. Please note that a serial port is required to communicate with the ABS.

Processor (CPU)	1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64)
Memory (RAM)	2 GB
Hard Drive Storage	20 GB (minimum disc space to install 160MB)
Display	Display resolution set to a minimum of 1024 x 768 pixels
Operating System	Windows XP or Windows 7
Other	RS232 Serial Port (9 pin connector) eg: COM1
	USB port