Carbolite VCF Series - Manual (Page 5)

VCF
3.0 O PERATION
The instructions for operating the temperature controller are given in a separate manual.
If the furnace is fitted with a time switch, see also the supplementary manual MS03.
If cascade control is fitted, see the supplementary manual MS07.
3.1 Operating Cycle
The furnace is fitted with an Instrument switch. The switch cuts off power to the controller(s) (and
contactor when fitted).
Connect the furnace to the electrical supply.
Operate the instrument switch to activate the temperature controller. The controller becomes
illuminated and goes through a short test cycle.
Close the furnace door and adjust the temperature controller – see the controller manual.
Overtemperature option only. If the overtemperature controller has not yet been set as required, set
it and activate it according to the instructions in the appropriate manual.
Unless a time switch is fitted and is off, the furnace starts to heat up. The Heat light(s) glow
steadily at first and then flash as the furnace approaches the desired temperature or a program
setpoint.
Overtemperature option only. If the overtemperature trip operates then an indicator in the
overtemperature controller flashes, and the heating elements are isolated. Find and correct the
cause before resetting the overtemperature controller according to the instructions supplied.
To turn the furnace off, set the Instrument switch to it’s off position; the controller display will go
blank. If the furnace is to be left off unattended, isolate it the electrical supply.
3.2 General Operating Notes
Heating element life is shortened by use at temperatures close to maximum. Do not leave the
furnace at high temperature when not required. The maximum temperature is shown on the furnace
rating label and on the back page of this manual.
When heating large objects, in particular poor conductors, avoid shielding the thermocouple from
the heating elements. The thermocouple is intended to sense the temperature near the heating
element, but if a large object is placed in the chamber it may record the average temperature of the
object and the elements, which can lead to overheating of the elements. Allow large objects to gain
heat at a lower temperature and then reset the controller to a temperature close to the desired
maximum.
When heating materials which produce smoke or fumes, the chimney must be correctly fitted and
unobstructed. Otherwise, soot accumulates in the chamber and could possibly cause an electrical
breakdown of the heating element.
If the furnace is used to heat materials which emit smoke or fumes, regularly heat it up to
maximum temperature for one hour without load to burn away the soot.
Materials such as case hardening compounds and other reactive salts may penetrate the furnace
chamber lining and attack the wire elements, causing premature failure. Use of a hearth tile may be
advisable: please consult our technical department.
Lightweight ceramic fibre insulation can easily be marked by accidental contact. Some fine cracks
may be visible on the surface of the insulation, or may develop in the surface of the chamber due
to progressive shrinkage of the insulation materials. Cracks are not usually detrimental to the
functioning or the safety of the furnace.