STARDIST - NEW FEATURES
PreScan
The sample temperature and exact percentage of volume
are measured by the Volume Scan before the start of each
test. Receiving chamber temperature is then automatically
set to sample temperature to eliminate incorrect volume
measurement due to thermal expansion. Subsequently, the
actual measured volume is corrected to 100% volume.
Voc Cold Trap
Designed to minimize evaporation loss of volatile organic compounds, this
unique built-in feature ensures safer surroundings while improving the
accuracy and repeatability of distillation results.
Flask Installer
The simple and elegant flask holder design ensures easy
and correct positioning of the distillation flask for both 125
ml and 200 ml flasks. Moreover it ensures that the probe‘s
height in relation to the flask’s side arm is always correct.
Optical Dry Sense
This unique built-in feature for Dry Point Detection
eliminates the need for an external dry point sensor. It
ensures higher accuracy and easier handling while keeping
operating costs low. Especially suitable for tests in which
dry point detection is required (tests according to ASTM
D850 & D1078, but also D86 and other related methods).
Automatic Heater Lift
The new automatic heater lift applies the correct upward
pressure to the flask and shortens the after-test
cooling period by automatically lowering the heater when
the test is finished.
HD Volume Scan
The second generation Volume Scan is equipped with a HD CCD camera that
provides two times the precision and accuracy of its predecessor in the former
PAMv2 distillation unit. Includes Peltier controlled temperature regulation.
Technical specifications
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Methods |
ASTM D86, D1078, D850, E123, IP195, DIN51751, ISO 3405, GOST 2177, JIS K2254. |
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User interface |
iPad with STARDist app software. Available in App Store. App & updates are free of charge. |
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Operator support features |
PreScan: volume and temperature of sample-filled receiver are measured in the receiving chamber before each test. Actual measured volume is then corrected to 100% volume. Receiving chamber temperature is automatically set to sample temperature, provided it is whithin the method-prescribed limits.
START check: 1. Heater plate size. 2. PT-100 probe placed in flask. 3. Heater door closed. (Must be confirmed before test to start)
Results validation: quick pass / fail test validation against method-prescribed limits such as “time to IBP”, “FBP temp.”, etc.
Optimization: automatically optimizes program settings with fixed InHeat and Final Heat settings after first distillation test.
Flask Installer: ensures easy and correct upright flask positioning for both 125 ml and 200 ml flasks. The vapor probe’s height position relative to the flask’s side arm is always correct thanks to the vapor probe design in combination with the strict flask dimensions. |
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Heating control |
Kalman Filter technology: multiparameter-based algorithm calculates and applies the required heater settings for IBP, FBP and (4-5 ml/p min.) speed control in real-time. Suitable for unknown samples and/or complicated blends such as E20. |
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Heating system |
Low mass/low voltage heater. 2 user adjustable fans for extra fast cooling after test.
Automatic heater lift with correct flask pressure & positioning. Automatic shut-off in case of fire. |
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Condenser cooling |
Solid state: based on Peltier elements with heat-pipe assisted heat sinks and silent fans for heat dissipation. No liquids involved.
Condenser temperature can be increased during the distillation to deal with “light start / heavy end” products to prevent both evaporation loss and product waxing in the condenser tube. Temperature range: 0 – 65°C. Resolution 0.1°C. |
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Volume detection |
Smart HD CCD camera for accurate volume measurement. Detects actual bottom of meniscus. Suitable for “smoke producing” products. Each-test automatic calibration of the camera based on calibrated ring marks on receiver cylinder. Resolution: 0.01 ml, accuracy: 0.01 ml, charge volume: 0-105%. |
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Receiving chamber |
Built-in drop deflector. Cooling: similar to condenser cooling. 1 sensor for receiver chamber temperature and 1 sensor for sample temperature. Automatic lift moves receiver cylinder up to be sealed at the top, where a small hole ensures exposure to atmospheric pressure. A small tube, laid along the condenser tube and connected to this hole, acts as “VOC Cold Trap”, preventing vapors from escaping the receiver (loss). At the end of this tube a VOC extractor can be connected dissipate VOC emissions.
Temperature range: 0 – 45°C. Resolution 0.1°C. |
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Residue & Loss |
Various options: automatic prediction, automatic measurement, manual measurement and preset value. Loss correction is automatically applied to temperature readings. |
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Vapor temperature measurement |
PT-100 class A probe with 10-point calibration data storage and automatic probe ID detection. Calibration certificate standard supplied. True dynamic simulation of ASTM 7 & 8 in-glass thermometer behavior (lag time and emergent stem).
Range: 0 – 450°C ASTM / 0 – 500°C absolute. |
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Dry point detection |
Optical Dry Sense: IR sensor for automatic detection of the dry point. No dry point probe required. (Conventional dry point probe is still available as option) |
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Pressure |
Built-in pressure sensor. Automatic correction of temperature results to atmospheric pressure.
Range: 70 to 110 kPa, resolution 0.1 kPa. |
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Fire safety |
UV sensor for fire detection. Built-in fire extinguisher. N or CO2 supply required from lab (connection hose is supplied). |
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System health |
Automatic quick system health check before every distillation run to ensure all components are in excellent state. |
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Connectivity |
1 x RJ45 (LAN) for connection to LIMS, Windows PC, FTP server, Kiosk printer and/or connection between multiple STARDist units. |
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Dimensions |
Dimensions: 40cm x 40cm x 63cm (WxDxH), weight: 40 kg |
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Accessories |
Kiosk printer |
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Voltage |
100-240 VAC 50/60 Hz |
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Power |
1200 W |
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Lab conditions |
Environment temperature 10°C – 30°C. Environment humidity up to 80 % at 30°C. |
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