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Current version: F
OPERATOR’S GUIDE
TruFade Artificial Light Fastness & Weathering Tester
Model Number 1800
Covering Serial Numbers
1800/18/1001 & upwards
James H. Heal & Co. Ltd. Publication 290-1800-1$F.docx
Halifax, England © 2018
Published by:
JAMES HEAL
RICHMOND WORKS
HALIFAX
WEST YORKSHIRE
HX3 6EP
ENGLAND
TELEPHONE +44 (0) 1422 366355
FACSIMILE +44 (0) 1422 352440
E-mail info@james-heal.co.uk
Internet http://www.james-heal.co.uk
© 2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OPERATOR’S GUIDE 1
Table of Contents 3
JAMES HEAL 5
Setting the Standard 5
Areas of Expertise 5
Trufade – Artificial Light fastness & Weathering Tester 6
Standards 7
Safety 8
General 8
Quick Start - Trufade TestWise Touch 9
Trufade TestWise Touch – Exploring Other Options 13
Updating TruFade Software (Firmware) 18
Routine Maintenance by User 19
Air Filters 19
Test Chamber Air Exhaust 19
Optical Filters 19
Xenon Lamp 19
Water Supply 19
Test Chamber 19
Mounting Specimens and Blue Wools 20
Guide using the Tri-Sided Sample Holder 20
Specimen Holders and Masks 22
ISO Specimen Masks 23
AATCC Specimen Masks 24
TruFade Glassware 25
Installing or Replacing the Xenon lamp 25
Fitting or Replacing an Optical Filter 25
Replacing Borosilicate Cylinder 25
Accessing the Glassware 26
The Xenon Lamp 31
Fitting the Xenon Lamp 32
General Principles of Light Fastness testing 33
Specimen Temperature 33
SolarSens and Black Standard Thermometer 33
Black Panel Thermometer (BPT) 34
The Concept of Effective Humidity 35
Humidity Test Control Fabric 35
Obtaining 40% Effective Humidity 36
Determining Effective Humidity 36
Blue Wool Mode (Nominal Power Mode) 37
Controlled Irradiance Mode 37
Weathering Blue Wool Sample Holder 39
Installation 40
Operating Environment 40
Installation Requirements 41
Electrical Connection 41
Heat Output 42
Water Supply and Drains 42
Water Consumption 45
ISO 3696 - Requirements for Grade 3 Water 45
Unpacking 46
Technical Specification 50
EU Declaration of Conformity 52
Revision History 54
JAMES HEAL
At James Heal, we are dedicated to designing and developing high precision testing instruments and test materials for physical and colour fastness testing. Our worldwide
Service and Calibration division and expert technical assistance complement our product range, adding real value to your laboratory testing activities.
Setting the Standard
We are committed to forming close relationships and have established numerous partnerships within the textile industry, from trade and standards organizations, to test houses, customers and distribution partners.
With a heritage spanning more than 140 years, we have evolved and grown through a culture of continuous improvement, resulting in a thorough understanding of the applications, operating conditions and requirements of customers worldwide – from independent testing laboratories and test houses, to fabric suppliers, manufacturers and retailers.
Using knowledge and expertise, we consistently set the industry standard through product innovation and technology, with customer and user needs, present and future, driving our technological advancements. You can be assured that with James Heal, you will always receive the highest levels of product quality and customer service. We have Agents and Distribution partners all over the globe, ensuring locally available product whenever, and wherever you need it.
Areas of Expertise
Textile: Colour Fastness
• Chlorinated Water • Perspiration
• Dry Cleaning • Phenolic Yellowing
• Dry Heat • Print Durability
• Hot Pressing • Rubbing
• Laundering • Washing
• Light • Water
Textile: Physical
• Abrasion • Security of Attachments
• Bursting Strength • Seam Slippage
• Compression and Puncture • Shrinkage
• Crease and Wrinkle Recovery • Snagging
• Crimp • Spray Rating
• Drape • Stretch and Recovery
• Durability • Surface Deterioration
• Flammability • Tear Strength
• Mass per unit area • Tensile Strength
• Pilling and Fuzzing • Washing and Drying
Non-Textile
• Bursting strength of nonwovens, plastics, paper and medical products
• Micro-scratching of laminates, wooden, painted, automotive and high gloss surfaces
• Physical and colour fastness testing of leather
• Rubbing fastness of laminates and wooden surfaces
• Tear strength of paper and plastics
• Rubber testing – tensile strength and abrasion resistance
TRUFADE – ARTIFICIAL LIGHT FASTNESS & WEATHERING TESTER
TruFade 1800 is James Heals outstanding next generation Artificial Light Fastness & Weathering tester. Incorporating James Heals established Xenon arc lamp technology with a revolutionary Tri-Sided specimen holder. Compliant with textile and leather light fastness and weathering standards.
TruFade was the first James Heal instrument to use our latest touch screen control panel and wonderfully intuitive software. This instrument has been designed to combine the James Heal stylish product signature with user centred design for a superb user experience.
Features
• Sleek, ergonomically designed Artificial Light fastness & Weathering Tester.
• Proven, high performance, air cooled Xenon Lamp Technology.
• Nominal Power and Irradiance controlled operating modes.
• SolarSens radiometer, incorporating Black Standard Thermometer (BST).
• Spacious design featuring easy loading and unloading of specimen holders.
• Up to 27 sample holder faces giving a total exposure area of 1640cm2.
• Complies with International Testing standards for textiles.
• Close control of chamber temperature and humidity.
• Easy editing of pre-programmed standards and creation of bespoke testing conditions.
• Simple and intuitive touch screen control panel.
• ‘Three Clicks’ to start testing !
Service and Calibration
• Worldwide Service
• ISO 17025 based Calibration Service
• 18 Months’ Warranty Technical Assistance
• Operator Training
• Knowledge transfer
• Applications Support
• Engineering Support
STANDARDS
TruFade is pre-programmed with the following standards:
AATCC 16.3 – 2017 Option 3
AATCC Test Method 169 – 2017 Option 4
ISO 105-B02: 2014 Cycle A1
ISO 105 B02: 2014 Cycle B
ISO 105-B04: 1997
ISO 12040: 1997 (2003)
GB/T 8427 – 2008
M&S C9 – 2015
M&S C9A – 2015
Next TM1
Should you wish to use TruFade for a standard or test method not specified above, or for a variation of the pre-defined parameters for any of the standards above, the user has the option to create or amend methods.
SAFETY
General
TruFade has been specifically designed with the Operator's health and safety in mind.
All touch points are engineered to give an excellent and safe user experience.
To ensure your safety, please observe the following points at all times:
• Read and refer to this Operator's Guide carefully before operating the instrument
• Observe the installation requirements for correct instrument performance
• Items in the test chamber can become hot during a test – exercise caution when handling and use gloves where necessary
• Always allow the instrument to cool down sufficiently before handling the lamp and other glassware
• Never place flammable or explosive materials in the test chamber
• Never operate the TruFade without a full complement of optical filters, specimen holders and borosilicate cylinder
• Only use James Heal approved spare parts and consumables
• Have the TruFade serviced at least once a year by a James Heal Service and Calibration Engineer
• Following good health and safety practice, before removing or replacing the Lantern assembly, Optical Filters or Xenon Lamp, always isolate the electrical supply to avoid danger of electrical shock
QUICK START - TRUFADE TESTWISE TOUCH
The TruFade TestWise Touch user interface has been designed with the user in mind.
The following section will guide you quickly through the simple steps of carrying out a Light Fastness test to either ISO 105-B02 or AATCC Method 16.3.
When the electrical power connected the TruFade will initialise and display the Test screen.
The Standard which was used last will be displayed.
To select a new Standard, tap the Standards button
Standards Groups
Standards
To select an AATCC standard, tap the AATCC button
Tap on the required Standard
Parameter values currently setup for the selected Standard
Tap the Accept button
For AATCC 16.3 Option 3, ensure the Black Panel Thermometer is placed in TruFade.
If the Start button is pressed at this point (Hours 00:00) then the test will run indefinitely until stopped.
Next, enter a Duration for the test
Tap the Hours button
Backspace
"Radio Buttons" with preset Durations (hours).
Accept/Enter
Enter the test Duration required
To enter a Duration which includes minutes, enter the hours, then the colon key, then the minutes required
Tap the tick button to accept/enter
The test is now ready to Start
At this point, Test End displays only the set Duration
After the test is started, the Test End display will update with the estimated end day and time
Press the Start button
After a few seconds the display will update.
The Dials display the set and actual conditions.
The Test End day and time is now updated.
After 10 minutes …
The Dials are now showing that the Irradiance and Relative Humidity are now correct.
However, the Black Panel Temperature is still increasing to the set point.
After 20 minutes …
The Black Panel Temperature is still increasing.
After 30 minutes …
The conditions in the Test Chamber have now stabilized.
Notice the progress of the test (elapsed time) is also indicated on the Pause Dial.
If the Rain or Dark Cycles are active, their progress will also be indicated.
To pause the test, tap the Pause button
The test stops and the Xenon Lamp is switched off.
To terminate the test, press and hold the Resume button.
To continue the test then tap ""
To terminate / end the test then tap ""
When the test Duration time has elapsed, the Test End will display ""
Congratulations - you have successfully started using TruFade
TRUFADE TESTWISE TOUCH – EXPLORING OTHER OPTIONS
In the previous section we were given the express tour of TruFade TestWise Touch.
This section explores other options.
When the electrical power connected the TruFade will initialise and display the Test screen.
The Standard which was used last will be displayed.
To select a new Standard, tap the Standards button.
The Standard which was used last will be displayed.
To changes to ISO 105-B04, tap the ISO group, then tap the required Standard in the list.
To change the parameter setting values for Relative Humidity, Temperature and Irradiance, tap the required Dial.
Use the numeric keyboard and tap the "" key to accept the new value.
To cancel, close the keyboard by tapping ">"
Etc …
Etc …
To changes from Controlled Irradiance mode to Blue Wool mode (nominal power), press and hold the Irradiance Dial
To change the Rain Cycle time,
tap the Rain Cycle button
Swipe up or down on the spinners
(scroll wheels) to the required values.
Changing the Duration Radio Buttons
There are five (5) Duration radio buttons which can be customized to suit user requirements.
For example, to change button #3 from 24 hours to 20 hours …
Type 20 (or the time required) and then press and hold button #3.
After a few seconds the radio button will be updated.
Viewing the Events Log
To view the Events log, tap the Events button
Test events are recorded here. These include when tests are started or stopped, and any system messages.
Up to 100 events can be viewed over five pages. The events will automatically overwrite so you can always review what’s been going on when the machine has been left unattended.
Settings
To access the Settings, tap the Settings button
The Settings General tab will be displayed.
The Calibration1 and Calibration2 tabs are not accessible to users, they are used by James Heal Engineers only.
Change the Temperature units from °C to/from °F
Auto-Restart
Automatically resumes the test should the power fail mid-test.
Increase or decrease the speaker Volume and display Brightness.
View and reset (zero) the Xenon Lamp and Filter timers.
Please note that the user must manually view the timers.
Change the Language used.
Languages available:
English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Turkish, Vietnamese
Set clock as 24 hours or 12 hours.
If 12 hour display selected, ensure correct AM or PM is selected.
Select the Day of the week.
TruFade serial number and Firmware version
Updating TruFade Software (Firmware)
USB ports are found on the rear of TruFade.
They are usually protected with rubber covers.
USB1 Type A (Top) is used to update the TruFade Software (Firmware) via a USB flash drive.
USB2 Type B is used by James Heal Engineers only.
To update the TruFade Software (Firmware), you will require access to the rear/back side of the TruFade instrument.
Switch off the electrical power to TruFade.
Insert the USB Flash Drive containing the software update into the USB1 socket (the upper/top socket).
Switch on the electrical power to TruFade.
TruFade will detect the new software and make the update. Please wait as the process will take a few minutes to complete.
During the update, the TruFade screen will display its progress using white text on a black background.
No interaction with the software will be required during the update.
When the update is complete, the updated software will start and TruFade will be ready for use.
Remove the USB Flash Drive from the USB1 socket. If the USB Flash Drive remains in the USB1 socket then each time the TruFade is powered up it will make the update again.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE BY USER
Air Filters
Two air filters are used to protect the optical system from contamination by dust. These are inside the large front door. Dependant on the operating environment all air filters should be inspected at regular intervals and replaced as necessary.
The filters are accessed inside the large front door and then unscrewing the filter retaining mesh.
Test Chamber Air Exhaust
Do not obstruct the air exhaust from the test chamber. If the temperature of the exhaust air exceeds 70°C then the TruFade will shut down.
If a flexible exhaust pipe is used, ensure it is not kinked, over bent, twisted, or dropped to the floor obstructing the outlet. Checked the final exit point for blockages.
Optical Filters
KG1 and UG11 filters are sensitive to moisture and should only be cleaned with a clean dry lint free cloth. If water has to be used then do not soak the filters, then remove excess water and dry as soon as possible.
The Borosilicate Cylinder and Window Glass Filters can be cleaned with a mild detergent solution or glass cleaner that does not contain silicone, followed by rinsing with pure water to remove any residue. Allow to dry naturally.
Finger marks on optical filters should be avoided. Use cotton gloves for handling or hold them by the edges.
Xenon Lamp
Never touch the quartz envelope of the xenon lamp. If the xenon lamp has been inadvertently handled you should clean the quartz envelope with isopropanol or methylated spirit (consult chemical suppliers MSDS) before running. Failure to do so will result in the lamp being permanently marked and potentially damaged.
Water Supply
Use only (ISO 3696 grade 3) deionized water for the humidification system.
Failure to do so will invalidate your warranty.
Test Chamber
The test chamber may be cleaned with a liquid cleaning agent that does not contain chlorine or silicone. Rinse well to remove traces of cleanser with deionized water.
MOUNTING SPECIMENS AND BLUE WOOLS
Guide using the Tri-Sided Sample Holder
The TruFade uses a revolutionary Tri-Sided specimen holder in order to maximise the available test area.
Specimens are mounted on OBA-free white specimen card and placed in the specimen holder with a mask to ensure that comparison can be made between the irradiated and non- irradiated section of the specimen.
The easy to assemble Tri-Faced specimen holder consists of 3 main parts.
1. The main body
2. The specimen masks
3. The specimen mask clips
Your specimens and Blue Wool Wools are mounted on James Heal OBA free specimen card. This card has been designed to fit perfectly in to the Tri-Sided Specimen Holder.
Specimens are positioned between the main body of the specimen holder and the specimen mask.
Next fit the specimen masks to the main body of the specimen holder.
Do this by locating the notched edge on the specimen mask on to the location pin on the main body of the specimen holder.
This is highlighted by the blue circle on the picture.¬¬
Next attach the thumb screws in to the screw holes in the main body of the specimen holder.
This is highlighted by the Blue arrow on the picture.
Finally lower the clips down to securely attach the specimen mask to the main body of the sample holder.
Your specimens are now ready to test.
Specimen Holders and Masks
• The standard specimen holders are designed to accept specimens with a maximum test area 100 mm x 45 mm, and up to 3 mm thick.
• Samples can be mounted to all 3 sides of the specimen holder and up to 9 specimen holders can be inserted into the carousel at any one time, giving a total of 27 specimen faces.
• Note: if using SolarSens for ‘Black Standard Temperature (BST) Control’ and/or ‘Controlled Irradiance Mode’, then only 8 specimen holders will be available.
• To insert specimen holders, open the test chamber door and locate the specimen holders on the triangular blocks on the machine carousel. There is a triangular recess on the bottom of the specimen holder that this fits over the triangular blocks to secure the specimen holder to the carousel.
• Press the Jog button to rotate the carousel to access the blocks at the back of the chamber.
• When handling the specimen holders, ensure that you do not touch the specimen face as this may soil the test specimens and affect results obtained.
• Specimens are usually mounted onto OBA-free white specimen card via use of small staples, unless otherwise specified in the test method.
• Any material placed between the specimen and specimen holder may affect the specimen surface temperature and may ultimately affect the results obtained.
• If specimens are not being used in every specimen holder during the test, ensure that OBA-free card is placed in the unused specimen holders, unless otherwise specified in the test. This will ensure reproducible exposure and that the thermodynamics and light reflection within the test chamber remains relatively constant.
• A variety of masks are available to ensure that comparison may be made between the irradiated and non-irradiated sections of the specimens. Masks are specified within the test methods. See the next page for range of masks available.
• Masks, Specimen Mounting Card and other Test Materials should be ordered separately.
ISO Specimen Masks
Specimen masks allow you to make comparisons between exposed and un-exposed areas of the specimen and any control materials used.
Masks for ISO 105-B02: Method 1
571-152
Double slot masks giving 1/3 cover 571-155
Single slot mask giving 2/3 cover
Masks for ISO 105-B02 : Method 2 are available as an optional accessory
571-157
Single slot mask giving quarter (¼) cover 571-154
Single slot mask giving half (½) cover 571-156
Single slot mask giving three-quarters (¾) cover
AATCC Specimen Masks
Special AATCC masks are available to ensure that the exposed areas conform to AATCC specifications.
571-158
Double slot mask with exposed areas 30x30mm 571-159
Double slot mask with exposed areas 30x15mm
TRUFADE GLASSWARE
This section describes how to fit the Xenon Lamp, access the Lantern Assembly and change Optical Filters and Borosilicate Cylinder.
Installing or Replacing the Xenon lamp
When your Xenon Lamp has performed approximately 1500 hours of testing it is time to replace the lamp.
Fitting or Replacing an Optical Filter
According to ISO 105-B02, the infra-red (heat absorbing) optical filter has a life of 3500 hours. TruFade has 7 infra-red optical filters (KG1), therefore the standard states that 1 filter shall be replaced in turn every 500 hours. This avoids testing conditions switching instantaneous from old filters to new filters, they are in a continuous state of renewal.
Replacing Borosilicate Cylinder
The Borosilicate Cylinder only needs replacement if it is damaged (cracked or broken) or shows visible signs of solarization, which is, it begins to lose transparency and shows any degree of opaqueness.
If the Borosilicate Cylinder becomes soiled with minerals from the water spray or because of poor quality water for humidification, then it can be washed in a solution of detergent (such as Neutracon - http://www.decon.co.uk/english/neutracon.asp) followed by rinsing with deionized water and air drying.
Accessing the Glassware
First, switch of the TruFade and isolate from the electrical supply.
If the TruFade has been in use then wait for at least 10 minutes to allow the xenon lamp and glassware to cool down sufficiently so that it can be handled safely.
The following scheme shows how to access the glassware components.
To access the glassware, the Exhaust Cover or Cowl needs to be removed.
You may require a step ladder to aid access to the top of TruFade.
Push the Cowl towards the back of TruFade.
Note: the Cowl is interlocked – if opened during testing then power to the Xenon Lamp will be shut down immediately.
Lift the Cowl upwards and out of the four (4) positioning holes.
Place the Cowl on top of the TruFade to the right hand side.
Exhaust Air Temperature Sensor
Xenon Lamp Electrode Connector (Ceramic)
Lift the Ceramic Connector to disconnect from the Xenon Lamp
Move the Ceramic Connector to one side.
PTFE Electrode Holder
Rotate the PTFE Electrode Holder anti-clockwise by ¼ turn
Lift the PTFE Electrode Holder vertically out of the TruFade. It will separate easily from the Xenon Lamp Electrode.
Xenon Lamp Electrode
Place the PTFE Electrode Holder to one side.
Xenon Lamp Electrode
Take hold of the Xenon Lamp Electrode and lift the Xenon Lamp vertically out of the TruFade – there will be a small resistance as the lower electrode separates inside TruFade.
It is good practice not to touch the glass part of the Xenon Lamp with bare hands – use the cotton gloves provided if required.
Place the Xenon Lamp in a safe place.
Inside the Test Chamber:
Borosilicate Cylinder
Optical Filters
Sample Holder Positions
Carousel / Turntable
Humidity Sensor
Humidity Sensor Baffle
Xenon Lamp Cooling Air Outlet
Chamber Air Outlet
Lantern Assembly
Chamber Floor
– Slopes Downwards Towards Back
Spray Nozzle for Weathering Testing
Calibration Port
(James Heal Engineers only)
To remove the Lantern Assembly from the Test Chamber, first tilt the top of the Lantern backwards.
With the Lantern Assembly remaining in the tilted position, withdraw the Lantern from the Test Chamber.
Note the Locating Pin which mates with the notch on the underside of the lower ring of the Lantern Assembly.
Place the Lantern Assembly on a flat and clean bench
Unscrew the three (3) knurled brass nuts by hand, and place on the bench
Lift out the top Locator and place on the bench
Carefully lift out the Optical Filter(s) and place on the bench.
To access the Borosilicate, lift off the top ring of the Lantern Assembly, taking care to keep the seals.
Note the seals are required to keep the Lantern Assembly water tight.
Lift out the Borosilicate Cylinder, taking care to keep the seals.
Note the seals are required to keep the Lantern Assembly water tight.
Reverse the process to re-assemble the Lantern Assembly and replace in the Test Chamber, then reverse the process to replace the Xenon Lamp.
The Xenon Lamp
Stock Code: 106-800
The light source in TruFade is a long arc 2200 watt, air cooled xenon lamp, which requires special handling. Never touch the glass envelope, always handle the lamp by the metal connectors at each end.
The xenon lamp (often referred to as a xenon burner) is positioned as shown in the diagram below.
The xenon lamp has a typical working life of 1500 hours. Normally the intensity of the light reduces as the lamp ages. This fall off of intensity is compensated for by gradually increasing the lamp power through the life of the lamp when operating in irradiance mode.
For your safety it is not possible to have the xenon lamp switched on and the chamber door open, the front access door open or the top cover open.
The chamber access door has special optical properties that attenuate and remove the potentially harmful ultraviolet radiation from the xenon lamp.
Fitting the Xenon Lamp
If replacing the lamp then ensure the TruFade is cool before attempting to carry out the lamp replacement.
Switch the isolator to the off position.
Open the top cover of the TruFade.
Remove the new lamp from the packaging, taking care not to touch the quartz glass envelope. Handle by the metal ends only using the cotton gloves provided in the package.
Carefully push the xenon lamp into the lower connector. Check the lamp is correctly located via viewing its position through the lantern arrangement. It should appear in the middle of the lantern.
The Operator must place the xenon lamp with the larger diameter connector in first (at the bottom) and ensure that the lamp electrodes fits correctly, and tightly, onto the top end connection of the lamp.
Damage may occur if the lamp is not fitted correctly.
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF LIGHT FASTNESS TESTING
Specimen Temperature
Including setting black standard or black panel temperature.
Specimen temperature is important as it has an effect on the rate of fade of the specimen. There are two methods of controlling and/or monitoring specimen temperature:
1. Black Standard Thermometer (BST) via SolarSens
2. Black Panel Thermometer (BPT)
Both are designed to show the maximum surface temperature a specimen could reach.
Prior to running test specimens, it is recommended that the test programme is run to ensure that the black standard/black panel temperature is correct. Please see below for more details.
SolarSens and Black Standard Thermometer
SolarSens may be utilised to automatically control the Black Standard Temperature (BST).
Photovoltaic Panels
Help to charge the battery and operate the device
The SolarSens communicates with TruFade via Bluetooth™ technology
794-103 – SolarSens for TruFade 1800
Black Standard Thermometer (BST)
Broadband Radiometer
300 – 400 nm
SolarSens
Serial Number
Black Panel Thermometer (BPT)
The Black Panel temperature is controlled by the Chamber Temperature setting in the selected Standard. If the Black Panel temperature is too low, increase the Chamber Temperature setting in the Standard definition.
To check the maximum specimen temperature, ensure either the SolarSens or BPT are in the test chamber and run the TruFade for at least 60 minutes. After this warm-up period, the Black Standard Thermometer or Black Panel Thermometer temperature reading will have stabilised.
When using BPT, view the temperature on the panel, through the chamber door window.
Due to the high temperatures these thermometers may reach, it is advisable to wear gloves when handling them. Use SolarSens/BST or BPT regularly to check the temperature, or whenever a Standard is changed.
BPT Sensor
BPT
Serial Number
Analogue Dial
Temperature Display
Display in degrees Celsius (°C) only
Back View Front View
(Sensing) (Display)
751-250 Black Panel Thermometer
The Concept of Effective Humidity
ISO 105 B02 specifies that users should set and check the Effective Humidity every 3 months. Annex E in EN ISO 105-B02: 2014 says:
The frequency of verification is likely to vary according to the volume of testing and frequency of testing. Constant use or infrequent use interrupted by periods of disuse can both lead to potential changes in the effective humidity and, if allowed to go unchecked, would cast doubt on the validity of the test results produced.
It is recommended that verification should be carried out at least every three months. For machines which have not been used or verified within the last three months, it is strongly recommended that this is carried out prior to using the machine or at the same time as the testing is performed. Test results obtained at the same time as verification will be invalid if the verification does not meet the required conditions.
Irrespective of the frequency of verification, it is recommended that the test cards are retained for later reference and to allow visual comparison of different test cards over a prolonged period of time. This can act as a useful tool in detecting any drift in control of the effective humidity over time. All test cards should be stored in the dark.
In order to make light fastness testing instruments from different manufacturers comparable, Test Methods generally refer to measurable parameters rather than specific machine settings. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between Effective Humidity and Chamber Humidity. The Effective Humidity, as measured by the Humidity Test Control Fabric, is the level of humidity the test specimen experiences at its surface. Chamber "Relative Humidity" is measured electronically and monitored continuously. It is not practical to continuously monitor the Humidity Test Control Fabric and so the Chamber Humidity is used as an indirect means of achieving the desired Effective Humidity.
In TruFade, an Effective Humidity of 40% is achieved (when the instrument is located in an air conditioned room at 20ºC and 65% RH) with the Chamber Humidity set at approximately 40%. Chamber Humidity is a set point used to achieve the desired Effective Humidity.
Humidity Test Control Fabric
Described in EN ISO 105-B02 is a method for determining the effective humidity of a test chamber. This is based on the use of cotton fabric dyed with a red azoic dye. This method is summarized below.
Obtaining 40% Effective Humidity
Mount and partially cover a strip of the Humidity Test Control Fabric (red azoic dyed cotton fabric) and Light Fastness Standard 5 in the normal manner and expose until one or both have faded to an extent visually equal to Grey Scale Grade 4. Compare the amount of fading on the two strips.
If both have faded to the same extent, the lamp was operating at the preferred effective humidity of 40%.
If the Humidity Test Control has faded more than Standard 5, the effective humidity is too high and the chamber humidity must be lowered and the exposure repeated.
If Standard 5 has faded more than the Humidity Test Control, the effective humidity is too low and chamber humidity must be raised and the exposure repeated.
James Heal Stock Code Description
766-476 ISO Humidity Test Control Fabric - per pack (25 x 15cm)
766-315 ISO Blue Wool Standard No. 5 - per pack (1 piece 23 x 15cm)
766-200 Grey Scale for Assessing Change in Colour ISO 105-A02
Determining Effective Humidity
Determine the colour fastness to light of the Humidity Test Control Fabric by the method described in EN ISO 105-B02: 2014. The effective humidity during the period of exposure can be obtained from the graph below.
Blue Wool Mode (Nominal Power Mode)
Blue Wool Reference standards have been utilized for many years to determine the end point of testing and to assess specimen fade. Typically, two sets of Blue Wools Reference standards are available:
• European (Blue Wool 1-8)
• USA (L2-L9).
Note: at December 2018, only L2 is commercially available.
The Blue Wool Reference standards are mounted on OBA free card and exposed to light and weathering procedures simultaneously with the tested specimens. At the end of testing, the specimens are compared to the Blue Wool Reference Standards and assessed accordingly.
To operate in Blue Wool mode (also known as nominal power mode), select the required Standard, then before starting the test, press and hold the Irradiance button, after a few seconds it will display "BW" (Blue Wool). The xenon lamp will then run at a nominal 75% power and the irradiance will not be controlled.
Note: SolarSens is still required so that the Black Standard Thermometer readings can be taken and controlled.
While the test is running, the Irradiance Dial will look similar to this, the actual irradiance value being displayed in the halo.
Controlled Irradiance Mode
Although many light fastness standards use blue wools as a means of grading the amount of fade, defining the level of irradiance is now becoming more popular.
SolarSens is used to measure the light. It then uses this data in a continuous feedback loop to keep the light output constant by adjusting the lamp power as required. In line with AATCC and ISO test methods, SolarSens uses a broadband sensor measuring at a wavelength range of 300-400nm. Ensuring the correct lamp power output is consistently maintained during the entire test and the entire life of the lamp.
Tests can be performed to a specific total irradiance (dosage), or again, Blue Wool Reference Standards can be utilized at the same time as SolarSens to determine the end point of the test. The Blue Wool Reference Standards are also used to assess the fading of the specimens.
When using SolarSens to control the level of irradiance, testing times are more predictable as the light is dosed continuously at the same rate.
Weathering Blue Wool Sample Holder
When Blue Wool References are used in a weathering test, contrary to the expected, they are not exposed to the effects of the water spray but are protected in a special Weathering Blue Wool Sample Holder.
Chamber air can ciruculate through the gaps
Cap
Cap
Mask/Cover
Optical Glass Filter
With Cap Off With Cap On
794-102 Weathering Blue Wool Sample Holder
When conducting weathering tests with water spray, the Cap must always be in place to prevent ingress of water from above. The Cap is loose fitting to allow the chamber air to circualte into the Weathering Blue Wool Sample Holder.
INSTALLATION
Operating Environment
To achieve the widest range of chamber performance, we recommend ambient conditions of 20ºC and 65% RH.
It is therefore recommended that TruFade is installed in a standard conditioned environment suitable for textile testing.
TruFade will operate satisfactorily within the following environmental limits:
• Recommended Ambient Temperature Range 16 - 24ºC
• Recommended Ambient Humidity Range 30 - 70%RH (non-condensing)
The TruFade should be installed at least 2 metres away from the direct impact of any heating devices such as hot air heater or blower and/or air conditioning system to ensure the smooth and consistent running of the instrument at all times.
Installation Requirements
Footprint The TruFade 1800 has a footprint of 760 mm width x 760 mm depth.
Please note that sufficient free space must be allowed at the front of the TruFade to allow the chamber door to open to inset or remove specimen holders and to open the large front door to access the Water Tank and Air Filters.
Height The TruFade 1800 is 1812 mm in height. Please note that the user must allow sufficient free height about the TruFade to replace the Xenon Lamp.
Height: 1812 mm Footprint: 760 mm x 760 mm
Electrical Connection
• The unit is designed for a single-phase mains supply of nominally 230V 50/60 Hz with a maximum power consumption of 3.25kW. Where 110V is the nominal supply voltage, TruFade must be connected across two phases to achieve 220V.
One single-phase 110V supply is not suitable.
• Attach the mains inlet cable to a fused isolator rated at 16A. A plug and socket can be used in addition to the fused isolator if required.
It is advisable to discuss these requirements with your works electrician.
• Prior to installation, check the serial number plate on the rear of the unit to confirm the voltage, frequency and phase are in accordance with your local requirements.
Heat Output
• The xenon lamp is air-cooled and the heat generated is exhausted at the rear of the TruFade.
• The warm air is discharged at a rate of 600 m³/h at approximately 50ºC.
• The discharge does not contain ozone.
• The exhaust should be vented outside the testing room with 100 mm internal diameter hose to reduce the work load on the laboratory air conditioning unit.
• A 1.5m length of flexible hose is available as an optional extra – stock code 327-290.
• Where an exhaust hose of greater than 1.5 m is required, the heat discharge must be fan assisted.
Water Supply and Drains
• A continuous supply of distilled water or water complying with ISO 3696, minimum Grade 3 is required. For example, ISO 3696 Grade 3, 2 & 1 are all acceptable. It may be piped directly into the TruFade via the water inlet highlighted by the blue circle above, or through the internal water reservoir.
Incoming water connection: 8 mm
• Water consumption is dependent on ambient humidity and the desired effective humidity. The maximum water consumption is 1.6 litres/hour when using humidification only. Under normal laboratory conditions, consumption is approximately 200 ml/hour to achieve ISO 105-B02 normal humidity conditions.
• The TruFade has 2 overflow outlets highlighted by the blue circle on the image above these are for the internal water reservoir and the humidity tank. These require connection to a drain. If a nominal 32mm (1¼") diameter free drain is not available a container can be used, but this will need emptying periodically.
• The internal water reservoir can hold up to 39 litres (10 US gallons) of deionised water. This can be accessed and filled by following the diagrams below. The water overflow will operate at 40 litres.
Open the large lower door on the front of the TruFade.
This will allow access to the internal water tank (reservoir).
Lift the Cover of the Water Tank to view the level or manually fill with grade 3 deionised water.
View inside the Water Tank.
Red article is the Ball Cock Float.
• The water reservoir inside the unit feeds water in to the humidity tank in the same way as a direct water feed would. If the water level is low in the water reservoir, the TruFade will display a warning.
• Should there be a failure in the water supply either direct or from the internal reservoir, the humidity tank will maintain running. Should the humidity tank run low, the test will stop and a warning will be displayed. Once the water supply has been restored, the test can be resumed by touching the ‘Start’ button.
If using deionised water from a gravity feed system, the feed outlet should be greater than 1metre from floor level, that is, above the water inlet connection on the back of TruFade.
TruFade utilises common push-fit connections for which 5 metres of *8mm (water supply) and 5m of *12mm (water drain) tube are supplied.
• Should you require water purification equipment we can offer details of a suitable package, which satisfies the requirements of TruFade.
There are four (4) connections *12mm for water drains.
ALL 4 connections should be connected, via the pipe supplied, to the drain.
Water Consumption
The Water Tank has a maximum capacity of 39 litres.
Typical water consumptions are:
ISO 105-B02 Method 1 0.2 litres/hour (humidification only)
ISO 105-B04 Method 1 0.5 litres/hour (2 minutes of water spray per hour)
Maximum consumption 1.6 litres/hour (system maximum)
ISO 3696 - Requirements for Grade 3 Water
Grade 3 Water is suitable for most laboratory wet chemistry work and preparation of reagent solutions and should, for example, be produced by single distillation, by deionization, or by reverse osmosis. Unless otherwise specified, it should be used for ordinary analytical work.
Note: It is assumed that the initial feed stock water is potable (drinking quality) and reasonably pure. If it is heavily contaminated in any respect, some pre-treatment may be necessary.
Parameter Grade 3
pH value at 25ºC inclusive range 5.0 to 7.5
Electrical conductivity mS/m at 25ºC, max. 0.5
Oxidisable matter, Oxygen (O) content mg/l, max. 0.4
Residue after evaporation on heating at 110ºC mg/kg, max. 2
UNPACKING
• See Technical information for dimensions and weight.
• Read all of these instructions before beginning to unpack the instrument.
• Before unpacking, transport the box to the room where the instrument is to be located.
• Sufficient free space must be allowed at the front of the TruFade to allow the chamber door to open to inset or remove specimen holders.
• The user must allow sufficient free height about the TruFade to replace the Xenon Lamp.
Read all of these instructions before beginning to unpack the instrument.
Before unpacking, transport the box to the room where the instrument is to be located.
Place the feet of the air outlet into the slots on the top of the machine
Slide the air outlet in the slot to secure it in place.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
LIGHT SOURCE 2200W Air-cooled ozone free xenon lamp
Adjustable from 1400W to 2200W
Cooling: Centrifugal blowers 600 m3/h
IRRADIANCE SolarSens UV radiometer and BST
300-400nm Broadband Sensor: 25.0 to 200.0 W/m2
Automatic selection via test parameters
TruFade Operating range 40 - 50W/m2
Optical filter arrangement utilizing infrared absorbing glass.
STANDARDS
The following standards are pre-programmed:
AATCC 16.3 – 2017 Option 3
AATCC Test Method 169 – 2017 Option 4
ISO 105 B02: 2014 Cycle A1
ISO 105 B02: 2014 Cycle B
ISO 105-B04: 1997
ISO 12040: 1997 (2003)
GB/T 8427 – 2008
M&S C9 – 2015
M&S C9A – 2015
Next TM1
TEST CHAMBER ENVIRONMENT Fully automatic setting and control of all test parameters, including:
Temperature and humidity, turntable speed and irradiance, with continuous monitoring of test conditions.
Automatic re-start after power failure and lamp cool-down period at end of test (default setting is off – no re-start).
CHAMBER TEMPERATURE Cooling:
Variable speed waterproof centrifugal fans
Variable position air-vane to re-circulate air in chamber to stabilize conditions.
Measurement:
Chamber Temperature Sensor 0 to 100oC
Readability:0.1oC Accuracy: ±0.4oC.
Interchangeable sensor.
TruFade Operating range. Ambient - 70°C
Black Standard Thermometer (BST) 0 to 100oC.
Readability: 0.1oC.
TruFade Operating range. Ambient - 70°C
CHAMBER HUMIDITY Humidification:
3 x Ultrasonic transducers, Oscillating @1.6MHz.
Mist Output: 0 to 1425 ml/h (maximum).
Measurement:
Chamber Relative Humidity Sensor.
0 to 100 %RH ± 1.5 %RH.
Readability 0.1 %RH Accuracy: ± 1.5 %RH.
Interchangeable sensor.
TruFade Operating range. Ambient – 55 %RH
Water consumption: 1.6 litres per hour (max).
TURNTABLE (CAROUSEL) 9 position platen giving a maximum test area of 1640 cm2
Programmable 2 to 7 rpm in 1 rpm steps.
Accuracy: Self tuning speed adjustment.
SPECIMEN EXPOSURE 9 x Tri-Sided specimen holders (maximum 135 x 45 mm each side).
Run continuously setting for manual checking.
Automatically calculates irradiation dosage.
SOFTWARE User selectable languages:
English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Turkish, Vietnamese
USB ports USB1 Type A (Top) used to update TruFade firmware
USB2 Type B used for debug / AutoTest data output
SAFETY Safety interlock on all access doors.
Toughened NG4 Neutral density viewing window for safe viewing.
Built-in self-diagnostics & warnings.
Machine complies CE Directives for machine safety, low voltage and EMC.
ELECTRICAL RATING 3.5KW max. 230V ±15% 50-60Hz.
Low electrical running cost due to high efficiency PFC lamp power supply.
DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT Width:760 mm Depth: 760 mm Height:1815 mm
Shipping: 1120 x 930 x 2030 mm (crate dimensions)
Weight: 280 kg (dry weight - no water in tank)
Shipping Weight: 425 kg
AMBIENT CONDITIONS The recommended operating environment is 20oC and 65%RH
DIAGNOSTICS Built-in service utilities for James Heal Service and Calibration engineers only
EU Declaration of Conformity
REVISION HISTORY
Rev Date Originator Details of revision
A 18/01/2019 PG Original release
B 26/02/2019 PG Added more detail to the "Updating TruFade Software" section (p.18)
Added stock codes to specimen mask images (p.23-24)
C 22/07/2019 PG Updated Unpacking instructions
D 13/08/2019 PG Added information about installing xenon lamp
E 11/12/2019 PG Operating Environment updated and moved to page 40
F 02/06/2020 SEW Standards update