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HFRR (High Frequency Reciprocating Rig)
/ Calibration
On this page: Calibration Components | Verifying using Reference fuels | Video Instructions
It is strongly recommended that calibration is performed using HFRPC software as this provided a record of calibration on the computer, although the calibration can be performed in standalone mode if needed. Although there is no mandatory calibration schedule for the HFRR we recommend 3 month calibration intervals.
Calibrating the HFRR can be performed in approximately 5-10 minutes. We recommend that the HFRR rig is calibrated before starting the high and low lubricity reference fuel tests as required by the relevant test method [described later in this section]. We also recommend the calibration device is re-calibrated every two years. The alarm RTD does not have to be recalibrated once set.
After each calibration, the new calibration constants are saved in the instrument's flash memory. These can be accessed either directly using the keypad, or, if the system is attached to the PC by downloading the calibration information. Note that the calibration values cannot be changed manually.
The list below shows what can be calibrated/checked on the HFRR rig.
- Stroke Length - Calibrates mechanical unit LVDT that will control the stroke length of the pushrod.
- Force Transducer - Calibrates the mechanical unit force transducer that will calculate the friction.
- Film Sensor - Calibrates the ECR (electrical contact resistance) of the HFRR. This is measured between the mechanical unit pushrod and heater block.
- Main Temperature Probe (RTD) - Two temperature calibration plugs (0°C and 62°C) are used to calibrate the HFRR so the temperature to the lower specimen holder can be read accurately.
- Alarm Temperature Probe (RTD) - Sets the maximum heat allowed to the heater block and will shut down the heaters if exceeded. This is normally set to 10°C above the test temperature as a safety feature of the rig..
- Stroke Length Check - Checks that the HFRR is measuring the stroke length correctly.
Calibration Components
The table below describes the calibration components that are supplied with the HFRR system:
Calibration component
HFRR Calibration device
(Part Code: HFRCAL)
Temperature calibration plugs
(Part code: HFRCAL2)
Description
The HFRR is supplied with a combined calibration device for stroke length,
force transducer and
contact resistance calibration.
These temperature calibrators simulate the resistance of the RTD temperature probe at the
lower calibration set point of 0°C and higher set point of 62°C.
Calibration device including screws, pillar and gauge (HFRCAL)
Temperature calibration plugs 0°C & 62°C (HFRCAL2)
Reference fuels
The HFRR system should be verified at regular intervals by running two types of reference test using the reference fuels specified in the relevant test method. Both CEC and ASTM reference fuels can be purchased from PCS Instruments.
HFRR Reference Fluid Datasheet
If a reference test result is outside the limits specified for the fuel, full recalibration should be carried out. The instrument should also be recalibrated if it is moved to another location.
Below is a brief description of the statuary requirements for use of reference fuels using the complied standard. For a full description please consult your copy of the test method.
CEC F-06-A-96
Every 25 tests or every 10 test days (perform one of each High and Low reference fuel). Current CEC reference fuels available are High Lubricity - RF-90-A-92 and Low lubricity - DF-70-08.
ISO 12156-1
Every 25 tests or every 10 test days (perform one of each High and Low reference fuel). The ISO has found the CEC and ASTM reference fuels to be satisfactory. Current CEC reference fuels available are High Lubricity - RF-90-A-92 and Low lubricity - DF-70-08. Current ASTM reference fuels available are High lubricity - ASTM D6079 Fluid A and Low Lubricity - ASTM D6079 Fluid B.
ASTM D6079-02
Every 20 tests (perform two tests with High and Low reference fuels). If a difference 0.08mm for either test fluid is found then further tests are required. Current ASTM reference fuels available are High lubricity - ASTM D6079 Fluid A and Low Lubricity - ASTM D6079 Fluid B.
IP 450/2000
Every 25 tests or every 10 test days (perform one of each High and Low reference fuel). The IP 450/2000 method requires a current ISO accredited reference fuel. These are the CEC reference fuels available are High Lubricity - RF-90-A-92 and Low lubricity - DF-70-08.
Videos
Below are some short videos explaining how to calibrate the HFRR using the components supplied.
