Netzsch Manual - HFM436 Schling - Ruediger

HFM 436 General Information
TM
Operating Instructions HFM 436 Lambda
Contents
Chapter I General Information
Chapter II Installation
Chapter III System Components
Chapter IV Operating the Instrument
Chapter V Appendix
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HFM 436 Chapter I
General Information
03/07 J:\HFM436\Chapter1.doc
Information
In the design of your instrument, we endeavor to take individual

solutions into account and to include these in the documentation.
However, in order to keep the scope of the technical documentation

at a reasonable level, we must limit the description to a standard
model.
We ask for your understanding, if additional information particular

to your instrument is not included within the scope of the standard
instructions.
This additional information can always be found on the
corresponding information sheets.
Prior written permission from NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH is required

for electronic or mechanical duplication and distribution of these
instructions.
All technical data, instrument features and other information

described in these operating instructions are presented to the best of
our knowledge and in accordance with the technical standards of
the instrument at the time of printing.
We welcome any comments, suggestions or new ideas concerning

the instrument and these operating instructions. Please address
them to:
NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH
Wittelsbacherstraße 42
D - 95100 SELB
Telephon: 09287/881- 0
Telefax: 09287/881- 144
E-Mail: at@ngb.netzsch.com
Internet: http://www.netzsch-thermal-analysis.com
Maintenance and service must be carried out by NETZSCH Customer

Service personnel.
A service contract is available for our customers.
This instruction manual is provided to give the customer information

on proper operation of the instrument. NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH
will accept no liability for damage resulting from improper use.
03/07 J:\HFM436\Chapter1.doc 1
Notes on the Use of this Manual
In this manual, the symbols described below are used to simplify orientation.
NOTE
This sets particularly important information apart from

the rest of the text.
ATTENTION!
These instructions must be followed exactly to avoid injury

to the user and damage to the instrument.
This symbol refers to more detailed information which can

be found elsewhere, e.g. in the Software Manual.
The tools listed after this symbol are required for the
installation or modification of your instrument.
Basic Safety Information
State-of-the-Art Your instrument has been produced with state-of-the-art

technology and is safe to operate.
Authorized Any operation of the instrument other than as authorized

Operation requires consultation with NETZSCH.
Any use exceeding the (expanded) authorized operation is

considered unauthorized. The manufacturer will not be liable
for any damage resulting from such use.
Manufacturer's Authorized operation of the instrument includes compliance

Requirements with manufacturer's requirements regarding installation,
commissioning, operation and maintenance.
Training of Your instrument may only be operated and maintained by

Personnel authorized, trained and individually instructed personnel who
have been informed of possible sources of danger.
Responsibility Responsibility for commissioning, operation and maintenance

must be clearly defined and compliance must be ensured. The
resulting responsibilities can be clearly resolved under the
aspect of safety.
Unauthorized Access The operator must make sure that only trained personnel
work on the instrument.
Improper Operation Any type of operation which reduces the safety of the user
and the operability of the instrument should be avoided.
Unauthorized Unauthorized modifications and changes which effect the

Changes to the safety of the instrument are not permitted.
System
Obligation to Report The user is obligated to immediately report to the operator in

Changes to the charge any changes to the instrument which effect the safety
System of the system.
Maintenance The operator of the system must ensure that the instrument is
Obligation operated in perfect condition at all times.
Proper Set-up of the The operator must guarantee the openness and cleanliness of
Work Stations the work stations at the instrument through appropriate
instruction and inspections.
Shut-down For all maintenance work, the instrument must be switched

off and unplugged.
Removal of Protective devices may only be removed when the instrument

Protective Devices is switched off and unplugged. It is imperative that the
protective devices be replaced before starting the instrument.
Checks following After maintenance or repair work, a check should be made to

Maintenance or ensure that all protective devices are in place and operate
Repair Work properly. Only then should the instrument be started.
Industry-specific The operator must observe the relevant regulations and

Accident Prevention protective measures when handling the required gases. In
Regulations addition, possible reactions with the materials used must be
considered. At operating temperatures above 55°C,
protective gloves must be worn. In any case, the industry-
specific and local accident prevention regulations are also
valid for the instrument.
Disposal of Production materials are to be disposed of according to local

Production Materials regulations.
Maintenance or Products sent in for maintenance or repair should, to the

Repair extent possible, be free of harmful substances (e.g.
radioactive, toxic, caustic or microbiological materials).
Otherwise, the type of contamination must be declared.
Products not explicitly declared to be "free of harmful
substances" will be decontaminated at the expense of the
sender.
Operating Using the Operation Manual, the operator should prepare

Instructions operating instructions which specify the actions and tasks
required for safe operation.
The operating instructions should be placed in a suitable

location in the work place and complied with by the
employees.
Gases Observe the relevant regulations and protective measures

when handling the required gases.
Consider possible reactions with the materials.
Warning signs should be hung in the appropriate places in

accordance with national and regional regulations.
HFM 436 Chapter II
Installation
HFM 436 Installation
Contents
INSTALLATION............................................................................................ 1
PACKING AND DELIVERY .......................................................................... 1

LOCATION REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................ 2
INSTALLATION SCHEMATICS ...................................................................... 3
HFM 436/3/0 OR HFM 436/3/1 ....................................................................3
HFM 436/3/1E ............................................................................................3
HFM 436/6/1 ..............................................................................................4
CONNECTING THE COMPUTER SYSTEM ......................................................... 5
HFM 436/3/0 OR 436/3/1.............................................................................5
HFM 436/3/1E ............................................................................................6
HFM 436/6/1 ..............................................................................................7
CONNECTING THE COOLER ......................................................................... 8
HFM 436/3/1E ............................................................................................8
HFM 436/6/1 ..............................................................................................9
Installation
In most cases, your HFM is set up and commissioned by one

of our customer service engineers.
If you would like to set up your instrument yourself, please

read the following sections.
Packing and Delivery
We deliver all components in separate cartons. The

measuring unit, electronics, computer system etc. are
packed in form-molded foam to protect against damage
during transport.
We recommend keeping the original cartons. Should

repairs or an extension of the system become necessary,
the cartons can be reused, thus ensuring a relatively safe
return to the manufacturer.
Prior to shipping, we carefully test all components of the

system for mechanical and electrical operability.
After unpacking, please check all delivered components

for possible transport damage and compare the individual
items against the delivery note supplied.
Should an item be missing, please contact us immediately.
Location Requirements
Select the optimal component arrangement for the space

you have available.
The location of your instrument must meet the

following requirements:
For proper operation, the HFM 436 Heat Flow Meter

should be installed in an air conditioned laboratory where
ambient conditions are 23°C ±2°C and 50% relative
humidity (RH) or less.
If the unit is installed with an external computer, an

appropriate workspace should be provided.
no direct sunlight on the instruments
dust-free environment to the extent possible
measuring system A stable table with a working surface of approx. 2 m x 1

m, is required for the measuring device (HFM measuring
part, computer, printer).
An installation schematic of the measuring system follows

on the next page.
This instrument is not suitable for use in an

explosive or corrosive atmosphere.
Installation schematics
HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1

470 500
625 depth 450 depth 500
depth 700
515
520
measuring part HFM 436 computer printer table
230 V, 10 A weight 10.5 Kg weight 8 Kg
monitor
weight 3.5 Kg
wide range power pack
100-240 V, 6 A
measures in “mm”
Option
or provided by the customer
floor
Figure 1: Installation schematic HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1
HFM 436/3/1E
470 500
400 625 depth 450 depth 500
depth 500 depth 700
490
515
520
measuring part HFM 436 computer printer table

cooler weight 10.5 Kg
230 V, 10 A weight 8 Kg
monitor
weight 3.5 Kg
100-240 V, 6 A
Option
floor
Figure 2: Installation schematic HFM 436/3/1E
HFM 436/6/1
~1000
depth ~850
470 500
depth 450 depth 500
400
depth 500 ~850
490
520
computer printer table
cooler measuring part HFM 436 weight 10.5 Kg weight 8 Kg
230 V, 10 A
weight ~186 Kg monitor
weight 3.5 Kg
100-240 V, 6 A
Option
floor
Figure 3: Installation schematics HFM 436/6/1
Connecting the computer system
Connect the computer system via the SERIAL interface.
HFM 436/3/0 or 436/3/1
PC
SERIAL
HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1 rear
PARALLEL SERIAL
RESET
power supply
Figure 4: Connecting computer system HFM 436/3/0 or 436/3/1
For connecting the computer system, see also the technical

documentation of the computer manufacturer.
HFM 436/3/1E
PC
SERIAL
HFM 436/3/1E rear
PARALLEL SERIAL
RS232
RESET
OUTLET
INLET
power supply
Figure 5: Connecting computer system HFM 436/3/1E

HFM 436/6/1
PC
SERIAL
HFM 436/6/1 rear
RS232 SERIAL PARALLEL
RESET
OUTLET
INLET
power supply
Figure 6: Connecting computer system HFM 436/6/1

Connecting the cooler
Connect the cooler via the RS232 interface.
HFM 436/3/1E
cooler
power supply
HFM 436/3/1E rear
OUTLET
INLET
PARALLEL SERIAL
RS232
RESET
power supply
Figure 7: Connecting the cooler for HFM 436/3/1E
For connecting the cooler, see also the technical documentation

of the cooler manufacturer.
HFM 436/6/1
Connect the cooler via the RS232 interface.
cooler
power supply
HFM 436/6/1 rear
OUTLET
INLET
SERIAL PARALLEL
RS232
RESET
power supply
Figure 8: Connecting the cooler for HFM 436/6/1
For connecting the cooler, see also the technical documentation

of the cooler manufacturer.
HFM 436 Chapter III
System Components
HFM 436 System Components
Contents
MEASURING UNIT....................................................................................... 1
DETAILS OF THE MEASURING UNIT ................................................................. 2
FRONT PANEL ......................................................................................... 2

HFM 436 UNIT CONTROLLER..........................................................................4
FRONT DOOR ................................................................................................5
BACK PANEL .......................................................................................... 7
HFM 436/3/0 OR HFM 436/3/1 ....................................................................7
HFM 436/3/1E ............................................................................................8
HFM 436/6/1 ..............................................................................................9
COOLER ............................................................................................... 10
Measuring Unit
height
515 mm
depth
700 mm
width
625 mm
height
850 mm
depth
850 mm
width
1000 mm
Figure 1: HFM 436 measuring unit
Details of the measuring unit
Front panel
A
POW ER
R ESET
R UN
1 2 3 ES C * ENTE R
R OUGH
4 5 6 Y SPAC E N
B 7
.
8
0
9
+/-
FINE
POINT
Figure 2: HFM Front View
A HFM Unit Controller
B Front Door
C Over-ride Switch (inside door opening)
D UP/DOWN Switch (inside door opening)
UP/DOWN Switch
Is used to raise (lower) the upper plate. When a sample is to be placed into the sample
chamber, the UP/DOWN switch should be pressed to raise the upper plate. After the
sample is correctly positioned, press the UP/DOWN switch again to lower the plate so
that it properly clamps the sample.
Over-ride Switch
Is used when it is necessary to realign the drive mechanism for the upper plate. Under
certain circumstances, the drive mechanism for the upper plate could become misaligned
and the upper plate will not be driven to the full upper (lower) position. If this happens,
press both the Over-ride button and the UP/DOWN switches to drive the plate to the
uppermost position so that proper operation of the system can be restored.
HFM 436 Unit Controller
POWER
RESET
RUN
1 2 3 ESC * ENTER
ROUGH
4 5 6 Y SPACE N
FINE
7 8 9
POINT
. 0 +/-
Figure 3: HFM Unit Controller
LEDs
POWER System is switched on.

RESET green LED: system provide power to the Thermal Electric Coolers (TEC)
red LED: system powerless
RUN System is performing a calibration or a run.
ROUGH System is performing a rough equilibrium process.
FINE System is performing a fine equilibrium process.
POINT System has reached the equilibrium point.
Keypad
ENTER
Key is used to accept information and go to the next step. If you are at
the end of the last step in a sequence, the controller will present the
previous step.
ESC
Key is used to return to the previous step. Any change that was made to
the present display will be erased.
SPACE
Key is used for erase character.
Y N
Keys are used for when employ a specific feature (yes or no decision).
Keys for moving the cursor to another line within the list.
*
Key is used for enter a point.
See chapter IV for starting a measurement via the HFM unit controller
(Q-Test).
Front door
The sample compartment is accessed by opening the door on the front of the unit.
• Open the front

door (fold it
down).
front
door
• The upper plate

can be raised or
lowered with the
upper plate Up/Down switch.
Up/Down
switch
• Close the front

door (fold it
upwards).
front
door
Back panel
HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1
A
PARALLEL SERIAL
C
RESET
Figure 4: Back panel HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1
A Serial port (for PC)
B Parallel port (for printer)
C Reset button (for reinitialization of the unit)
D ON/OFF switch / Power supply
HFM 436/3/1E
A
PARALLEL SERIAL
B
RS232
C
RESET
OUTLET
I
F
INLET
D E
Figure 5: Back panel HFM 436/3/1E
A Serial port (connection PC)
B Parallel port (connection printer)
C Reset button (for reinitialization of the unit)
D ON/OFF switch / Power supply
E RS 232 port (connection cooler)
F Cooler connection (inlet – outlet)
HFM 436/6/1
A
B RS232 SERIAL PARALLEL
C
RESET
OUTLET
D
F
INLET
Figure 6: Back panel HFM 436/6/1
A Parallel port (connection printer)
B Serial port (connection PC)
C RS 232 port (connection cooler)
D Reset button (for reinitialization of the unit)
E ON/OFF switch / Power supply
F Cooler connection (inlet – outlet)
Cooler
A cooler is required to operate the instrument HFM 436/3/1E and 436/6/1. This handles
thermostatic control of instrument components relevant to the measurement and
cooling of the thermoelectric system. The cooler is connected to the (inlet-outlet)
connections on the back panel of the measuring unit.
Technical data for the thermostat can be found in the accompanying operating
instructions.
If an active mode cooler is used, the temperature of the circulating bath is

set by the Heat Flow Meter control system and no additional user control is
required.
If a passive mode cooler is used, the temperature of the circulating bath
should be set to within +/- 15 °C of the desired mean sample temperature.
See Operating Instructions – Cooler!
HFM 436 Chapter IV
Operating the Instrument
HFM 436 Operating the Instrument
Contents
OPERATING THE INSTRUMENT........................................................................ 1
OPERATING PRINCIPLE ............................................................................. 1

PREPARING THE SAMPLE ........................................................................... 4
SOLID SAMPLE ...............................................................................................4
SAMPLE FROM A LOOSE- FILL MATERIAL ...........................................................5
COMPRESSIBLE SAMPLES .................................................................................6
STARTING THE INSTRUMENT ...................................................................... 7
PUT IN THE SAMPLE ................................................................................. 9
Q-LAB SOFTWARE ................................................................................. 11
START A CALIBRATION MEASUREMENT ...........................................................12
START A SAMPLE MEASUREMENT ...................................................................17
HFM 436 UNIT CONTROLLER (Q-TEST) .................................................... 24
CALIBRATION RUN (START A CALIBRATION MEASUREMENT) ..............................25
TEST RUN (START A SAMPLE MEASUREMENT) ..................................................27
DEFINE MOVING..........................................................................................29
VIEW MENU ...............................................................................................31
CAL SET POINTS .......................................................................................32
CAL PARAMS VIEW ..................................................................................32
REFERENCE TYPE ......................................................................................33
TEST SET POINTS (SET POINTS) ...................................................................34
TEST PARAMS VIEW..................................................................................34
IDLE SET POINT ........................................................................................34
STATUS VIEW ..........................................................................................35
METERS VIEW .........................................................................................35
HEAT FLOW METERS ................................................................................36
RAW READINGS VIEW ...............................................................................36
EQUIP PARAMS SET ..................................................................................37

PID PARAMS SET .....................................................................................37
POWER SET .............................................................................................38
EQUILIBRIUM PARAMS ..............................................................................38
TEMPERATURE OFFSETS .............................................................................39
UNITS SET ...............................................................................................40
CAL RESULTS VIEW ...................................................................................40
PRINT OPTIONS SET ..................................................................................41
PRINTER MODEL SET.................................................................................41
MESSAGES VIEW ......................................................................................41
DATE/TIME SET........................................................................................42
DUMP TO PRINTER ...................................................................................42
SET CONFIG .............................................................................................42
VERSION VIEW.........................................................................................42
PRINT TEST RESULTS .....................................................................................43
CALIBRATE LVDT ........................................................................................44
SAVE SYSTEM DATA .....................................................................................45
SHUTDOWN ................................................................................................46
Q-LAB ......................................................................................................46
RESET ........................................................................................................46
MEASURING THE THICKNESS OF A SAMPLE ................................................ 47
MEASURING THE DENSITY OF THE SAMPLE ................................................ 47
Operating the instrument
Operating Principle
HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1
LVDT-system
Hoisting device
Upper heat sink
Electronics and data

acquisition system
Peltier system
Hot plate
Heat flux transducers
Direction of
Test sample
Heat Flow
Cold Plate
Peltier system
Lower heat sink
Forced air cooling system
HFM 436/3/1E or HFM 436/6/1
LVDT-system
Hoisting device
Upper heat sink
Electronics and data
acquisition system
Peltier system
Hot plate
Heat flux transducers
Direction of
Test sample
Heat Flow
Cold Plate
Peltier system
Lower heat sink
External chiller
for HFM 436/X/1E
versions
Figure 1: Measuring Principle HFM 436
The Sample is placed between two heated plates, set at different temperatures. The
heat flow (q) through the sample is measured by a (calibrated) heat flux transducer.
After reaching a thermal equilibrium, the test is done. Only the sample center (100x100
mm for the HFM 436/3/x versions) is used for the analysis. The heat flux transducer
output is calibrated with a standard.
The magnitude of the heat flow (q) depends on several factors:

• thermal conductivity of the sample (λ)
• thickness of the sample (∆x)
• temperature difference across the sample (∆T)
• area through which the heat flows (A)
The Fourier heat flow equation ( Equation 1) gives the relationship between these
parameters when the test section reaches thermal equilibrium.
• ∆T
Q = λA Equation 1
∆x
One or two heat flow transducers measure the heat flow though the sample
(see Figure 1). The signal of a heat flow transducer (in Volts (V)) is proportional to the
heat flow through the transducer. In the HFM 436 Heat Flow Meter instrument, the area
of the heat flow transducer represents the area through which the heat flows and is the
same for all samples; therefore:
•
Q = N ⋅V Equation 2
where N is the calibration factor that relates the voltage signal of the heat flow
transducer to the heat flux through the sample. Solving for λ we derive the thermal
conductivity:
V∆x
λ=k=N Equation 3
∆T
The heat flow meter method is a standardized test technique. The application
(insulating materials) is strongly connected with standards:
• ISO 8301:
Standard test technique for measurements of insulating materials using the
heat flow meter method.
• ASTM C518:
American standard for measurements of insulating materials using the heat
flow meter method.
• DIN EN 12667/12939:
European standard for measurements of insulating materials using the heat
flow meter method or the guarded hot plate technique.
• DIN EN 13163:
European standard for characterization of foam insulations for building
applications using the heat flow meter method or the guarded hot plate
technique.
Preparing the sample
The heat flow meter can be used to test solid or loose-fill samples.
Solid sample
Dimensions for the sample for a HFM 436/3:
Dimensions for the sample for a HFM 436/6:
Figure 2: Dimensions of a Solid Sample (HFM 436)
Sample from a Loose- Fill Material
The heat flow meter can be used to determine the thermal conductivity of a loose-fill
material (such as a powder or flakes) by using a frame to contain the material (see for
dimensions of the frame). A frame can be obtained from NETZSCH or can be made
locally. The height of the frame is dependent on the particle size of the material as
indicated in Table 1.
Particle Size of Material Frame Height
Less than 20 mm 25 mm
More than 20 mm 50 mm
Table 1: Suggested Frame Height
To construct a frame:
1. If the testing is to be performed below 70°C, the frame can be constructed from
Styrofoam. For temperatures above 70°C use a fibrous ceramic material.
2. Cut a piece of strong paper to fit across the base of the frame.
3. Attach the piece of paper to the frame using a high temperature adhesive.
frame
piece of strong paper

(e.g. aluminum foil)
Figure 3: Construct the frame
4. The loose-fill sample can be filled into the frame. The loose-fill sample should not
exceed the upper edge of the frame.
loose-fill material
frame
piece of strong paper

(e.g. aluminium foil)
Figure 4: Frame filled with loose-fill sample
Compressible Samples
It is possible to test compressible material with the HFM 436. It is very important that the
operator visually verify that there is good thermal contact between the sample and the
upper plate. With poor thermal contact the interface resistances increase or decrease
due to convection in the gaps dramatically which cause the measured Thermal
Resistance value to be off.
Starting the Instrument
1. Switch on the power to the heat flow meter, computer (if present), monitor (if
present), and printer.
• The LCD display on the instrument will show the message:
Run Back Up? (Y/N)

Normal Mode
• Do not press Y or N but allow the processor to continue its’ boot up

sequence. The display will present the initialization message:
Signing On IMS4831
• Initialization takes approximately 1 minute. After finishing the

initialization, the display will show the first four lines of the menu.
2. Press the RESET button on the rear of the instrument to provide power to the
heaters.
PARALLEL SERIAL
RESET
RESET
• The red RESET LED on the front panel of the HFM Unit Controller will be
turned off.
POWER
RESET RESET
RUN
1 2 3 ESC * ENTER
ROUGH
4 5 6 Y SPACE N
FINE
7 8 9
POINT
. 0 +/-
Starting the measurement via the HFM Unit Controller

Unit (Q-Test) is described on page 24 in this chapter!
Put in the Sample
• Open the front door.
front
door
• Put in the sample.
sample
• Push the UP/DOWN

switch down to move
the upper plate
downwards. The limit
UP/DOWN switches will stop the
Switch movement of the upper
plate automatically
when it makes contact
with a rigid sample. For
soft samples, the
movement should be
stopped manually after
contact.
• Close the front door.
front
door
Q-Lab software
• Double click on the Q-

LAB icon to start the
application program.
• The main screen of the

Q-LAB software is
presented after start-
up of the program. Q-
thermal conductivity
(W/mK) Lab begins displaying
three graphs that give
the operator a visual
indication of test
progress.
mean temperature
delta T between of two plates (K)
plates (K)
Status Measurement Mode (correction or Test)

Sample K Thermal Conductivity at the corresponding mean sample temperature
(W/m K).
Mean T The averaged temperature calculated from T Upper and T Lower (°C).
Delta T The Temperature difference between T Upper and T Lower (°C).
T Lower Temperature of the lower plate (°C).
T Upper Temperature of the upper plate (°C).
Q Lower The signal from the lower Heat Flux Transducer (µV). The signal from
the Heat Flux Transducers is reported in µV; however, it should be
understood that these values have a corresponding value in W/m2.
Q Upper The signal (amount of heat/ energy) flowing through the upper Heat
Flux Transducer. The signal from the Heat Flux Transducers is reported
in µV; however, it should be understood that these values have a
corresponding value in W/m2.
T Ref Thermocouple reference junction (°C).
Start a Calibration Measurement
• Select Test Definition

in the Run menu.
• Select Calibration as
Type of Measurement.
• Define your Run ID.

• Select tab Setpoints.
Setpoints are
conditions you specify
at the start of a test
for the series of data
points you want to
acquire (not for HFM
436/3/0).
• Enter the mean
temperature (Mean)
and temperature
difference (delta)
between hot and cold
plates and set the
check mark Enable for
the respective data
point.
Table for Setpoints • Idle Setpoint: the
Idle Setpoint defines
HFM HFM HFM HFM
the mean
436/0 436/3/1 436/3/1E 436/6/1
temperature and
Programmable 1 10 10 10
Data Points
temperature
difference (delta)
Max. 30 K 30 K 30 K 30 K the system moves to
DeltaT
after the
Min. Mean 10°C 10°C -20°C -10°C measurement is
Temp. finished.
Max. Mean 30°C 80°C 80°C 60°C
• For the HFM 436/3/0,
Temp.
only the Idle
Setpoint can be
defined for
measurement. There is
no table for the input
of different Set-points.
• Select tab Sample.

• Define Sample ID and
Material
Description.
• Select Gauge
Thickness (the
thickness is read by
the HFMs transducer
and displayed here)
• Define the Density
and the Ref. Type of
the calibration sample.
Ref. Type describes
the thermal
conductivity vs.
temperature for the
respective standard
sample.
• For Ref. Type you can
select a predefined
table for some
standard materials
(e.g. 1450c).
If no predefined table
is available, you can
select the option K vs
T and can enter the
calibration sample
values (thermal
conductivity vs.
temperature) in the
table. The values can
be taken from the
certificate of the
standard sample.
• Select tab
Equilibrium.
• Equilibrium
Settings:
This table contains
values used by the
software to determine
when test conditions
have reached
equilibrium. You
specify how often data
points are recorded,
how long the
averaging period
(block) should be, and
how tight a tolerance
the points in the block
must satisfy.
The figure shows an

example of useful
parameters! Small
errors stand for high
accuracy of the
measurement with an
increasing
measurement time.
• Select tab Offsets.

• Temperature
Offsets:
Set the check mark for
Auto Plate adjust.
• The adjustment of the

Parameters is done
automatically by the
software and must not
be changed manually.
• Select tab Misc.

• Define Operator and
Inst. S/N.
• Select SI in the Units
menu.
• Select BOTH in the
HFM Choice menu
(selection which heat
flow meter is used for
the analysis).
• Select Start Run to

start the calibration
measurement.
• After the calibration
measurement is
finished, you can save
the measurement.
Start a Sample Measurement
• Select Test Definition

in the Run menu.
• Select Test Run for

Type of Measurement.
• Define your Run ID.

• Select tab Setpoints.
• Enter the mean
temperature (Mean)
and temperature
difference (delta)
between hot and cold
plates and set the
check mark Enable for
the respective data
point (not for HFM
436/3/0).
• Idle Setpoint: the
Idle Setpoint defines
the mean
temperature and
temperature
difference (delta)
Table for Setpoints
the system moves to
after the
HFM HFM HFM HFM
436/0 436/3/1 436/3/1E 436/6/1 measurement is
finished.
Data Points
• For the HFM 436/3/0,
Max. 30 K 30 K 30 K 30 K
only the Idle Setpoint
DeltaT
can be defined for
Min. Mean 10°C 10°C -20°C -10°C measurement. There is
Temp.
no table for the input
Max. Mean 30°C 80°C 80°C 60°C of different Set-points.
Temp.
• Select tab Sample.

• Define Sample ID and
Material Description
of the sample.
• Select Gauge
Thickness (the
thickness is read by
the HFMs transducer
and displayed here).
• Define the Density of
the sample.
• Select tab
Equilibrium.
• Equilibrium
Settings:
This table contains
values used by the
software to determine
when test conditions
have reached
equilibrium. You
specify how often data
points are recorded,
how long the
averaging period
(block) should be, and
how tight a tolerance
the points in the block
must satisfy.
The figure shows an

example of useful
parameters! Small
errors stand for high
accuracy of the
measurement with an
increasing
measurement time.
• Select tab Offsets.

• Temperature
Offsets:
Set the check mark for
Auto Plate adjust.
• The adjustment of the

Parameters is done
automatically by the
software and must not
be changed.
• Select tab Misc.

• Define Operator and
Inst. S/N.
• Select SI in the Units
menu.
• Select BOTH in the
HFM Choice menu
(selection which heat
flow meter is used for
the analysis).
• Select tab Cal File.

• The calibration file
from the previous
calibration
measurement is
shown.
• If required, the
calibration file can be
saved.
• Select Start Run to

start the sample
measurement.
Show the measuring results
• Click on the Reading

menu (if required).
dX Thickness of the sample being tested (cm).

T upper Temperature of the upper plate (°C).
T lower Temperature of the lower plate (°C).
T mean The averaged temperature calculated from T Upper and T Lower (°C).
T delta The Temperature difference between T Upper and T Lower (°C).
Q upper The signal (amount of heat/ energy) flowing through the upper Heat
Flux Transducer. The signal from the Heat Flux Transducers is reported
in µV; however, it should be understood that these values have a
corresponding value in W/m2.
Q lower The signal from the lower Heat Flux Transducer (µV).
std dev The standard deviation of N(t). N is the calibration constant at the
mean sample temperature (t). This is only shown for calibrations. For
tests it would be the standard deviation of k(t). k is Thermal
Conductivity at the corresponding mean sample temperature (t).
pk/avg pk/avg stands for peak average. It is a measure of the average max
and min of N(t) or k(t) over some time period.
N(t) N is the Heat Flux Transducer calibration constant at the mean sample
temperature. When calibrating the HFM 436, the averaged signal of Q
upper and Q lower ((Q Upper + Q Lower) / 2) is corrected (W/m2).
Kref(t) This is only shown when running a calibration. The operator must
select the material (1450c, 1450b ect.) which is being used to calibrate
the instrument. The software then calculates what the value of k(t)
should be using a curve fit based on literature values for the
calibration material selected (W/m K).
K(t) Thermal Conductivity at the corresponding mean sample temperature
(W/m K).
K(avg) Averaged Thermal Conductivity over some time period (W/m K).
N(avg) Averaged calibration constant over some time period (W/m2).
HFM 436 Unit Controller (Q-Test)
The HFM 436 controller is used to carry out measurements without the software. It
provides a series of displays that can be used to enter operating parameters, calibrate
the system, initiate data collection, view the actual value of a number of parameters
during operation of the unit and shut the system down. The program is designed to be
very flexible and allows data entry and viewing of instrument settings in a logical,
structured manner.
Calibration Run *
Test Run
Define Moving
View
Print Test Results
Calibrate LVDT
Save System Data
Shut Down
Q-LAB
Reset
Figure 5: The Main Menu
Each entry on the main menu leads to a new display, which is used to set parameters,
initiate data collection or view data. To access a display, move the asterisk (*) to the
appropriate line and press Enter.
Calibration Run (Start a Calibration Measurement)
Main Menu
Calibration Run * 1. Select Calibration Run in the Main Menu and
Test Run
press Enter.
Define Moving
View
Print Test Results
Calibration LVDT
Save System Data
Shutdown
QLAB
Reset
MoveUp 5.000
2. The window shows preselected values which must
not be changed. Press Enter to skip the menu.
Move Down 2.600
Tolerance 0.010
CurrentDX 2.600
MoveUp
3. Select Continue Run and press Enter.
Move Down
Continue Run *
Material
4. Define Material (e.g. 1450C), I.D., Density,
Operator and Serial No.
I.D.
Thickness The thickness is read by the HFMs transducer and
displayed here.
Density
QMet Length QMet Length and QMet Width are preselected
QMet Width
and cannot be changed.
Operator
Serial No.
# MeanT°C DeltaT En
5. Enter the mean temperature (the averaged
temperature calculated from T Upper and T Lower)
1 10.00 20.00 Y
and temperature difference (delta) between hot
2 20.00 20.00 Y and cold plates and set the check mark Y or N (yes
3 30.00 20.00 Y or no) for the respective data point.
4 40.00 20.00 Y
HFM HFM HFM HFM
5 50.00 20.00 Y
436/0 436/3/1 436/3/1E 436/6/1
6 60.00 20.00 Y Programmable 1 10 10 10
7 70.00 20.00 Y Data Points
8 80.00 20.00 Y Max. 30 K 30 K 30 K 30 K
9 80.00 20.00 Y DeltaT
10 0 20.00 N Min. Mean 10°C 10°C -20°C -10°C

Temp.
Max. Mean 30°C 80°C 80°C 60°C

Temp.
Start Test *
6. Select Start Test to start the calibration
measurement.
Stop Test
Test Run (Start a Sample Measurement)
Main Menu
Calibration Run 1. Select Test Run in the Main Menu and press
Test Run *
Enter.
Define Moving
View
Print Test Results
Calibration LVDT
Save System Data
Shutdown
QLAB
Reset
MoveUp 5.000
2. The windows shows preselected values which
must not be changed. Press Enter to skip the
Move Down 2.600
menu.
Tolerance 0.010
CurrentDX 2.600
MoveUp
3. Select Continue Run and press Enter.
Move Down
Continue Run *
Material
4. Define Material, I.D., Density, Operator and
Serial No.
I.D.
Thickness The thickness is read by the HFMs transducer
and
Density
displayed here.
QMet Length
QMet Width
QMet Length and QMet Width are preselected
and cannot be changed.
Operator
Serial No.
# MeanT°C DeltaT En
5. Enter the mean temperature (the averaged
temperature calculated from T Upper and T
1 10.00 20.00 Y
Lower) and temperature difference (delta)
2 20.00 20.00 Y between hot and cold plates and set the check
3 30.00 20.00 Y mark Y or N (yes or no) for the respective data
4 40.00 20.00 Y point.
5 50.00 20.00 Y
HFM HFM HFM HFM
6 60.00 20.00 Y 436/0 436/3/1 436/3/1E 436/6/1
7 70.00 20.00 Y Programmable 1 10 10 10
8 80.00 20.00 Y Data Points
9 80.00 20.00 Y Max. 30 K 30 K 30 K 30 K

DeltaT
10 0 20.00 N
Min. Mean 10°C 10°C -20°C -10°C
Temp.
Max. Mean 30°C 80°C 80°C 60°C

Temp.
Start Test *
6. Select Start Test to start the sample measurement.
Stop Test
Define Moving
The Define Moving menu allows you to set the distance between the upper and lower
plates. This function is generally used when testing compressible samples. The
recommended procedure is as follows:
1. Measure the thickness of your sample by taking the average thickness of at

least 5 measurements (1 thickness measurement at the center and 1
measurement at each corner).
2. Subtract 1% from the measured thickness value:
Calculated Sample Thickness = Measured Thickness – (Measured

Thickness * 0.01)
3. Enter your calculated sample thickness on the Move Up or Move Down line.
Be sure when running your test you select the correct thickness, entered in
Move Up or Move Down.
4. You should visually check to make sure there is good contact between the
upper plate and the test sample. It might be necessary to subtract 2% or 3%
from the average sample thickness to ensure good contact between the
sample and the top plate.
5. Once the test is finished and the apparent Thermal Resistance is measured it
is recommended this value be adjusted by the % compression of the sample.
This will give you an accurate measure of the apparent Thermal Resistance of
the sample when not compressed. The relationships are as follows:
R = dT / K
R = Thermal Resistance
dT = Measured thickness of the sample by the thickness transducer.
K = Thermal Conductivity
Since Thermal Conductivity does not change strongly with a small change in
thickness or volume of the sample it is acceptable to use the measured
apparent Thermal Conductivity value from the same test where the apparent
Thermal Resistance was measured. Therefore:
R = dM / K
R = Thermal Resistance
dM = Measured thickness of the sample by the operator
K = Thermal Conductivity
In Figure 6 a value of 5.00 cm has been entered on the Move Up line and a value of 2.50
cm has been entered on the Move Down line.
Move Up 5.00
Move Down 2.50
Tolerance 0.01
No. Iter 3
Figure 6: The Define Moving Menu
Move Up/Down allows defined movement or placement of the upper plate during
sample change. Move Up defines a position the upper plate moves to before a sample is
removed or put in. Move Down defines the position after the sample is put in the
system. This feature is ideal to measure compressible samples at well defined thicknesses.
The allowable Tolerance and the number of adjustments (No. Iter) can also be entered in
this menu. The factory setting for the allowable tolerance is 0.01 cm and the number of
adjustments is set to 3. After the top plate has been adjusted once the % error is
checked between the desired position (entered by the operator on the Move Up or
Move Down line) and the measured position of the thickness transducer. If the % error
is greater than 0.01 cm then the HFM 436 will make two more adjustments to achieve
the desired position. It is not recommended to change the allowable tolerance beyond
0.01cm; however, the number of adjustments the top plate is allowed to make can be
set to the operator’s choice.
Once these values are set they will appear in the first menu of the Calibration Run or
Test Run menus. The second menu under Calibration Run or Test Run will allow you to
move the top plate to the desired position.
View Menu
The View menu (Figure 7) can be accessed before a run or during a run. It is used to
present a number of displays, which are used to view and/or set parameters.
Cal Set Points (a) *

Cal Params View
Reference Type
Test Set Points (a)
Test Params View (b)
Idle Set Point (a)
Status View
Meters View
Heat Flow Meters
Raw Readings View
Equip Params Set
PID Params Set
Power Set
Equilibrium Params
Temp. Offsets
Units Set
Cal Results View
Print Options Set
Printer Model Set
Messages View
Date/Time Set
Dump to Printer
Set Config
Version View
Figure 7: The View Menu
a) The HFM 436/1/0 system will not present the Cal Set Point, Test Set Point and Idle
Set Point entries.
b) The HFM 436/1/0 systems will present the Set Point entry after the Test Params
View entry.
Cal Set Points
Cal Set Points presents a listing of the set points, which are to be used to calibrate
the system (Figure 8).
o
# Mean T C DeltaT En
1 24.00 20.00 Y
2 0.00 0.00 N
3 0.00 0.00 N
4 0.00 0.00 N
5 0.00 0.00 N
6 0.00 0.00 N
7 0.00 0.00 N
8 0.00 0.00 N
9 0.00 0.00 N
10 0.00 0.00 N
Figure 8: The Cal Set Point Display
Any value can be edited and enabled (disabled) as desired. At least one line must be
enabled to calibrate the system.
The Cal Set Points entry is not presented for HFM 436/1/0 system. In this situation,
the Set Point entry (which is presented after the Test Parameters View entry),
provides for entry of a single mean/Delta T pair.
Cal Params View
Cal Params View presents the parameters used for calibration of the system
(Figure 9).
Material 123_
I.D. 456
Thickness 2.54
Density 130
QMet Length 10.16
QMet Width 10.16
Operator 789
Serial No. 776
Figure 9: The Cal Params View Display
The Parameters cannot be edited at this juncture.
Reference Type
Reference Type presents the options for the calibration reference (Figure 10).
1450c *
1450b
1451
K VS T
Figure 10: The Reference Type Display
The reference type display is used to indicate the reference, which is used for
calibration of the system. The calibration curves for NIST 1450C, 1450B and 1451 are
incorporated into the program; if another reference is used to calibrate the system,
select K VS T.
If K VS T is selected, the display provides for manual entry of data for your reference
sample (Figure 11).
o
# KValue Temp C
1 0.0000 0.00
2 0.0000 0.00
3 0.0000 0.00
4 0.0000 0.00
5 0.0000 0.00
6 0.0000 0.00
7 0.0000 0.00
8 0.0000 0.00
9 0.0000 0.00
10 0.0000 0.00
Figure 11: The Reference Sample Data Display
Test Set Points (Set Points)
Test Set Points presents a listing of the set points, which are to be used to
determine the thermal conductivity of the sample (Figure 12).
o
# MeanT C DeltaT En
1 24.00 20.00 Y
2 0.00 0.00 N
3 0.00 0.00 N
4 0.00 0.00 N
5 0.00 0.00 N
6 0.00 0.00 N
7 0.00 0.00 N
8 0.00 0.00 N
9 0.00 0.00 N
10 0.00 0.00 N
Figure 12: The Test Set Points Display
Any value can be edited and enabled (disabled) as desired. At least one line must be
enabled to calibrate the system.
The Test Set Points entry is not presented for HFM 436/1/0 system. In this situation,
the Set Point entry (which is presented after the Test Parameters View entry),
provides for entry of a single mean/Delta T pair.
Test Params View
Test Params presents a display similar to that for Cal Params (Figure 9), which lists
the Test Parameters. The parameters cannot be edited at this juncture.
Idle Set Point
Idle Set Point presents the Idle Set Point conditions, which refer to the conditions
that the instrument should be set to when the system is at rest (i.e. waiting for the
next test) (Figure 13).
o
MeanT C DeltaT
Idle 23.000 20.00
Figure 13: The Idle Set Point Display
The entries can be edited at this juncture.
Users of systems which include fixed temperature (HFM 436/1/0) operation cannot
set the Idle set Point, and this command is not presented.
Status View
Status View presents the operational status of the system (Figure 14).
Equilib Idle
SetPoint # 0
Elapsed 00:00
Figure 14: The Status View Display
The Status View display indicates the present operation of the system (e.g. Idle,
Rough or Fine), the present set point and the period of time that has elapsed since
the start of the operation of the unit. The display will update automatically.
Meters View
Meters View provides a table that includes the present value for a number of
instrumental parameters (Figure 15).
K-User 0.03449
dXUser 2.53
K 0.03422
deltX 2.54
deltT 28.00
meanT 45.00
DelTC 28.20
MeaTC 45.01
TUpPl 59.00
TLwPl 31.00
QUpr 1200
QLwr 1225
VDelt 1.23
VMean 23.00
TCldJ 23.00
Figure 15: The Meters View Display
The Meters View display will update automatically. The parameters are not editable.
A detailed description of the various entries is presented in Chapter V (Parameter
Definitions for HFM Controller).
Heat Flow Meters
Heat Flow Meters is used to select the Heat Flow meter(s) that should be
employed during the measurement (Figure 16).
Use Upper Q-Meter *

Use Lower Q-Meter
Use Both Q-Meters
Figure 16: The Heat Flow Meters Display
The desired option can be selected via this display.
Raw Readings View
Raw Readings View presents the value for a variety of devices in the format in
which they are actually measured by the instrument (Figure 17). As an example, the
temperature values are expressed in terms of µV, rather than in oC or oF. To view the
data in the more customary format, refer to Meters View.
TDeCo -57
TMeCo -190
TUpPl -206
TLwPl -185
QUpr 0
QLwr 3187
LVDT 993420
Offst -35154
TCldJ 34224
Figure 17: The Raw Readings Display
The Raw Readings View display will update automatically.
A detailed description of the various entries is presented in Chapter V (Parameter

Definitions for HFM Controller).
Equip Params Set
Equip Params Set presents three parameters, which relate to the specific instrument
to which the controller is connected to (Figure 18).
ATTENTION!
The values for this display can be edited. It should be noted, however, that they are
set at the factory during the manufacture of the system and should not be edited
during normal operation.
Gain(x) 0.9402
Filter 0
OffSet(µV) 425
T adj.(µV) 0
Figure 18: The Equip Parameters Set Display
PID Params Set
PID Params Set provides information about the Proportional Integral Derivative
control (Figure 19). A detailed description of the various entries in the display is
presented in Chapter V (Parameter Definitions for HFM Controller).
ATTENTION!
The values for this display can be edited. It should be noted, however, that they are
set at the factory during the manufacture of the system and should not be edited
during normal operation.
Coarse Smooth
RateDlt 0.00 0.00
ResetDt 3.80 0.10
PropDlt 27.00 0.00
PBandDt 5.00 5.00
LBandDt 0.10 0.02
RateMea 0.00 0.00
ResetMn 15.00 20.00
PropMea 300.00 150.00
PBandMn 1.00 1.00
LBandMn 0.20 0.05
Figure 19: The PID Params Set Display
The parameters can be edited at this juncture.
Power Set
Power Set is used to indicate the minimum and maximum potential, which should
be applied to the controller channels (Figure 20).
Max Control Voltages

Delta Cntrl Min 0.15
Delta Cntrl Max 1.35
Mean Cntrl Min 0.15
Mean Cntrl Max 1.35
Figure 20: The Power Set Display
ATTENTION!
Although the operator can use this menu to change power settings, they should
never be changed from the factory settings without consulting a qualified NETZSCH
Instruments service engineer!
Equilibrium Params
Equilibrium Params is used to set a variety of parameters that relate to the

equilibration process (Figure 21).
UpdateRate (minutes) 0.25

Rough Blk Size 40
Max Rough % Err 2.0
Fine Blk Size 40
Max Fine % Err 0.2
Figure 21: The Equilibrium Params Display
The parameters can be edited at this juncture. The values that are selected for these
parameters have an impact on the period of time that it takes for the equilibration
and the accuracy of the measurement. If you select a short update rate, small Blk sizes
and high % Error values; the system will perform the measurement more quickly,
however the accuracy of the measurement will be reduced.
Temperature Offsets
Temp. Offsets is used to set temperature offset options and parameters. There is
an inherent temperature difference between the specified control temperatures
and the temperature at the plates because the system controls the mean and Delta
T independently from the plate temperature. The HFM 436 heat flow meter controls
the system so that each control thermocouple is controlled at its set point plus its
offset.
This feature is provided so that the user can obtain the desired temperature at the
plates by adjusting the control temperature offsets. The operator can adjust these
temperature offsets manually; however, this is not recommended unless you are
very familiar with the performance of the instrument. The “Automatic Mode”
should be used to let the system adjust them automatically (Figure 22).
Auto Plate Adjust Y

To Within Degs 1.00
Secs to Settle 300
Delta Offset 0.00
Mean Offset 0.00
Figure 22: The Temperature Offset Options Display
The Auto Plate Adjust entry is used to indicate if the automatic feature should be
enabled (Y) or disabled (N).
The To Within Degs field is used to specify a temperature tolerance. If automatic

mode is enabled, the system will adjust the offsets until the plate temperatures are
within the tolerance. If automatic mode is disabled, this item has no effect.
The Secs to Settle field is used to specify the minimum amount of time between
offset adjustments. The system will make adjustments only when rough equilibrium
has been achieved and this minimum duration has elapsed. Normally this value is
set to 300 (5 minutes). The parameter has no affect if automatic mode is disabled.
The Delta and Mean Offsets fields are used to set the temperature offset (zero
should be used if no offset is desired). If automatic mode is enabled, the system will
adjust these values as a run progresses. If automatic mode is disabled, the offsets
are used for control but are not adjusted by the software.
Units Set
Units Set is used to indicate the data format to be used in the system (Figure 23).
S.I. *
British
Figure 23: The Units Set Display
Cal Results View
Cal Results Set displays the calibration data (Figure 24) and this display can be
used to manually enter calibration data. This feature is especially useful if the
calibration data is determined using two (or more) samples.
o
# NValue Temp C
1 0.03 40
2 0.032 50
3 0.035 60
4 0.038 70
5 0.041 80
6 0.044 90
7 0.047 100
8 0.050 110
9 0.054 120
10 0.057 130
Figure 24: The Cal Results Set Display
ATTENTION!
If you are entering the calibration data manually, use care to ensure that the data is
correctly entered. An error in entering calibration data may have a serious impact
on the accuracy of the results reported by the instrument.
Print Options Set
Print Options Set is used to indicate what is to be displayed on the printer

(Figure 25).
No Printer *
Data Points
Just Results
Figure 25: The Printer Options Display
Select the desired option using the asterisk.
Printer Model Set
The Printer Model Set (Figure 26) is used to indicate the printer that is used to
output the results directly from the measurement port.
HP *
Epson
Figure 26: The Printer Model Set Display
The setting is not relevant if No Printer was selected on the Printer Options display
(Figure 25).
Messages View
Messages View presents a series of status messages that may be useful in

determining the cause of difficulties in using the system. A series of typical messages
is shown in Figure 27.
Enable Test Point

OfflineOrPaper Out
Using Saved Defaults
Lawson Reset
Figure 27: The Messages View Display
The display can be scrolled to view additional messages. The last 20 messages are
saved in memory. The most recent message is presented on the top of the display.
When a message is presented, all previous messages are scrolled down one position.
A detailed discussion of all messages that are provided by the system is presented in
Appendix 3.
Date/Time Set
Date/Time Set is employed to set the present time and date (Figure 28).
Year 1996
Month 7
Day 19
Hour 10
Min 44
Sec 33
Figure 28: The Date/Time Display
A 24 hour clock is employed by the system (e.g. 3 AM = 3, 3 PM = 15).
Dump to Printer
The Dump to Printer selection on the View menu presents a series of diagnostic
information on the printer. The information provided by this command is
potentially useful in determining the cause of a difficulty, but is not of utility to the
operator under normal circumstances.
Set Config
Set Config is employed to access a number of configuration settings during

manufacture and does not provide any information of interest to the user. These
values are set at the factory during the manufacture of the system. This entry is
password protected. If it is selected, press Esc to return to the View menu.
Version View
Version View presents information about the configuration of the system

(Figure 29).
Version V1.20
MachineType 1
Min Mean -15
Max Mean 215
Max Delta 30.00
Figure 29: The Version View Display
The values for this display are set at the factory during the manufacture of the
system and cannot be edited during normal operation.
Print Test Results
Print Test Results leads to the printing of the results from the determination of the
thermal conductivity of the sample. When this option is selected, the operator is asked
to enter information about the last test run. The results from the completed test is then
printed in a standard format. The system stores only one set of test results in active
memory. When a new test is started or the system is rebooted, the results from the last
test are removed. Therefore, if the standard report is required, this report procedure
should be executed, by the operator, immediately after the completion of a test. A
typical printout is shown in Figure 30.
Figure 30: A Typical Test Report Printout
Calibrate LVDT
The Calibrate LVDT (Thickness Transducer) entry presents a display to permit

calibration of the LVDT (Figure 31).
Version V1.20
MachineType 1
Min Mean -15
Max Mean 215
Max Delta 30.00
Figure 31: Cal LVDT Display
When Enter is pressed, the display will present instructions regarding the calibration
(Figure 32).
1) Install Spacer A
2) Wait 8 seconds
3) Press Enter
4) Install Spacer B
5) Wait 8 seconds
6) Press Enter
7) Done
Figure 32: Cal LVDT Information
After you have installed spacer A and the time indicated above has elapsed, press Enter.
Repeat the process for spacer B. After the system has been calibrated with spacer B, the
display will present Figure 32 again to indicate that the calibration is complete.
When the calibration is complete, press Esc to return to the main menu. If you press
Enter again, the calibration will be repeated.
Save System Data
Save System Data is used to save the operating conditions (equilibrium parameters,
temperature offsets, set points, instrument constants, etc.) and calibration data in non-
volatile memory. When the system is powered up, the stored operating conditions and
calibration data will be employed. When using Q-Test exclusively, you must Save
System Data after every calibration or this data will be lost when the
instrument is turned off.
Shutdown
Shutdown is used to access the display that leads to shut down of the instrument
(Figure 33).
Don’t Shut Down *

Sure... Shut Down
Figure 33: The Shutdown Display
Don’t Shut Down returns the display to the main menu (Figure 5). All parameters and
data are maintained.
Sure Shut Down presents the display shown in Figure 34.
System Shut down

Reset to Restart
Exit
Figure 34: The Final Shutdown Display
This display indicates that the system has been properly shut down. All parameters and
data will be lost unless they were saved via Save System Data.
The reset button on the back of the instrument should be pressed to reinitialize the unit.
Q-LAB
Q-LAB provides a display to select whether the unit should be operated under remote
control (e.g. via a PC running Q-Lab) as shown in Figure 35.
Disable Q-LAB *
Enable Q-LAB
Figure 35: The Remote/Local Display
When you enable Remote Control, the last LED will be illuminated. Additional LEDs will
be illuminated during the handshake procedure. When the system is under Remote
Control (i.e. the handshaking procedure is complete), all LEDs will be illuminated.
Reset
Reset is used to reinitialize the controller. This command has no effect on the
instrument.
Measuring the Thickness of a Sample

The thickness (∆xactual) of the sample should be measured with calipers or a universal test
apparatus before you test it in the heat flow meter. During the test, the heat flow meter
uses a thickness transducer to measure the sample thickness. This thickness value
measured by the thickness transducer or a value entered manually is used for the test
(either value can be used for testing). When the sample is positioned in the test section,
use the UP/ DOWN Switch (rocker switch) on the front of the heat flow meter to lower
the upper plate until it makes firm contact with the sample. The limit switches will stop
the movement of the plate at this point. The thickness transducer now reads the test
thickness (∆xtest). The values ∆xtest and ∆xactual may differ.
If the thermal conductivity of a rigid sample such as urethane foam or a loose fill
material in a frame is being measured, the thickness reported by the transducer should
be used for the test. For compressible samples, caution should be taken not to over
compress the sample.
Measuring the Density of the Sample

For some reference standards (such as the SRM 1450b or SRM 1450c reference standard),
the thermal conductivity is a function of the density. For these reference standards, it is
very important that you accurately measure the correct density and enter it in the
appropriate location. For reference standards, a density measurement should be
completed every 6 months.
For test samples and other reference standards, it is not necessary to accurately measure
the density (but it should be entered when requested). Although the thermal
conductivity calculation does not depend on the density, the density that is entered will
appear in the test reports.
To obtain an accuracy of ±5% or better, it is necessary to use a reference standard with a
thermal resistance (∆x/λ that is between 50 % and 200 % of the thermal resistance of
the sample to be measured. It is possible to stack several reference standards to make
one reference standard of greater thermal resistance. Additional reference standards
can be obtained from NETZSCH Instruments. As an alternative, samples of a
homogeneous material can be stacked to increase the value of the sample’s thermal
resistance.
If a calibration standard (or sample) is abrasive, take care when placing it inside the
chamber and do not drag it or it may scratch the plates.
Make certain that the conditions that are used to determine the thermal conductivity of
the sample are the same as those which were used for calibrating the heat flow meter.
As an example, if the thermal conductivity of a sample is to be measured over a certain
temperature range, make certain that the calibration file was generated with the same
temperature range. It is not necessary, however, to use exactly the same temperatures
for the calibration and test, provided that you calibrate the heat flow transducer at
intervals no greater than 25° C (40° F). The ASTM C518 protocol recommends that a
calibration file should be used for no longer than six months.
HFM 436 Chapter V
Appendix
HFM 436 Appendix
Contents
TECHNICAL DATA ....................................................................................... 1
PARAMETER DEFINITIONS FOR HFM CONTROLLER (Q-TEST) .............................. 2
MESSAGES IN THE MESSAGE VIEW DISPLAY (Q-TEST)...................................... 3
HFM 436 Appendix
Technical Data
Specification HFM 436/3/0 HFM 436/3/1 HFM 436/3/1 E HFM 436/6/1
Plate 0 to 40°C 0 to 100°C -30 to 90°C -20 to 70°C

Temperature (1 programm- (10 programm- (10 programm- (10 programm-
Ranges able datapoint) able datapoints) able datapoints) able datapoints)
Cooling System Forced Air Forced Air External Cooler External Cooler
Plate Peltier System Peltier System Peltier System Peltier System

Temperature
Control
Data Points
Specimen Size 300x300x100 300x300x100 300x300x100 600x600x200

mm3 mm3 mm3 mm3
Thermal 0.1 to 8.0 0.1 to 8.0 m2K/W 0.1 to 8.0 m2K/W 0.1 to 8.0
Resistance m2K/W m2K/W
Range
Thermal 0.005 to 0.50 0.005 to 0.50 0.005 to 0.50 0.005 to 0.50

Conductivity W/mK W/mK W/mK W/mK
Range
Repeatability 0.5 % 0.5 % 0.5 % 0.5 %
Accuracy ± 1 to 3 % ± 1 to 3 % ± 1 to 3 % ± 1 to 3 %
Dimensions 625x700x515 625x700x515 625x700x515 1000x850x850

3 3 3 3
mm mm mm mm
Weight 64 Kg 64 Kg 64 Kg 186 Kg
HFM 436 Appendix
Parameter Definitions for HFM Controller (Q-Test)
RateMea Derivative factor of PID for mean heater
ResetDlt Integral factor of PID for delta heater
ResetMn Integral factor of PID for mean heater
Rough Blk Size Length of rough equilibrium buffer
Secs to Settle Minimum time between automatic plate offset

adjustment
TCldJ Temperature of cold junction
TDeCo Temperature difference between the two control

thermocouples
TLwPl Temperature of lower plate
TMeCo Average temperature of the two control thermocouples
To Within degs Temperature tolerance for auto plate offset adjustment
TUpPl Temperature of upper plate
Upper Ctrl Max Maximum control voltage for upper heater
Upper Ctrl Min Minimum control voltage for lower heater
VDelt Control voltage for delta heaters
VMean Control voltage for mean heaters
HFM 436 Appendix
Messages in the Message View Display (Q-Test)
The Messages View selection of the View menu presents a list of information about the
operation which may be useful if a problem is observed in the system, along with the
action that should be taken by the operator.
The following messages may be reported:
Lawson Reset The DAC board was reset during normal operation.
There maybe a problem with the DAC board or the
connection between the board and the controller.
Send Queue Full Data Overrun has occurred.
Menu: Out of Memory The memory for the controller has been exceeded.
Range Error The operator attempted to enter a number that is

outside the appropriate range for a parameter. It is
suggested that the operator verify each parameter
entry.
Offline or Paper Out The printer was not connected to the instrument or it
ran out of paper when a print command was presented.
Factory Defaults Set Original (Factory Set) default factors have been
implemented.
Using Saved Defaults Operator set default factors to be implemented.
Temperature Out of A temperature is out of the range of the instrument and

Range Skipping Set Point was skipped during operation.
Enable Test Point The operator attempted to exit the Run Set point display
without enabling any Mean T/Delta T line.
Enable CAL Point The operator attempted to exit the Calibration Set point
display without enabling any Mean T/Delta T line.

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HFM 436 General Information

Chapter I General Information

Chapter III System Components

Chapter IV Operating the Instrument

In the design of your instrument, we endeavor to take individual

However, in order to keep the scope of the technical documentation

We ask for your understanding, if additional information particular

Prior written permission from NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH is required

All technical data, instrument features and other information

We welcome any comments, suggestions or new ideas concerning

Maintenance and service must be carried out by NETZSCH Customer

A service contract is available for our customers.

This instruction manual is provided to give the customer information

Notes on the Use of this Manual

This sets particularly important information apart from

These instructions must be followed exactly to avoid injury

This symbol refers to more detailed information which can

Basic Safety Information

State-of-the-Art Your instrument has been produced with state-of-the-art

Authorized Any operation of the instrument other than as authorized

Any use exceeding the (expanded) authorized operation is

Manufacturer's Authorized operation of the instrument includes compliance

Training of Your instrument may only be operated and maintained by

Responsibility Responsibility for commissioning, operation and maintenance

Unauthorized Unauthorized modifications and changes which effect the

Obligation to Report The user is obligated to immediately report to the operator in

Shut-down For all maintenance work, the instrument must be switched

Removal of Protective devices may only be removed when the instrument

Checks following After maintenance or repair work, a check should be made to

Industry-specific The operator must observe the relevant regulations and

Disposal of Production materials are to be disposed of according to local

Maintenance or Products sent in for maintenance or repair should, to the

Operating Using the Operation Manual, the operator should prepare

The operating instructions should be placed in a suitable

Gases Observe the relevant regulations and protective measures

Consider possible reactions with the materials.

Warning signs should be hung in the appropriate places in

PACKING AND DELIVERY .......................................................................... 1

In most cases, your HFM is set up and commissioned by one

If you would like to set up your instrument yourself, please

Packing and Delivery

We deliver all components in separate cartons. The

We recommend keeping the original cartons. Should

Prior to shipping, we carefully test all components of the

After unpacking, please check all delivered components

Should an item be missing, please contact us immediately.

Select the optimal component arrangement for the space

The location of your instrument must meet the

For proper operation, the HFM 436 Heat Flow Meter

If the unit is installed with an external computer, an

no direct sunlight on the instruments

dust-free environment to the extent possible

measuring system A stable table with a working surface of approx. 2 m x 1

An installation schematic of the measuring system follows

This instrument is not suitable for use in an

HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1

Figure 1: Installation schematic HFM 436/3/0 or HFM 436/3/1

measuring part HFM 436 computer printer table

Figure 2: Installation schematic HFM 436/3/1E

Figure 3: Installation schematics HFM 436/6/1

Connecting the computer system

Connect the computer system via the SERIAL interface.