Scribner Associates Incorporated
OPERATING MANUAL
Model 857
Redox Cell Test System
MODEL 857 REDOX CELL TEST SYSTEM
© Copyright 2012
Scribner Associates, Inc.
Southern Pines, North Carolina
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored
on a retrieval system or translated into any language, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Scribner Associates, Inc.
Scribner Associates, Inc. makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents hereof
and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose. Furthermore, Scribner Associates, Inc. reserves the right to revise this publication and to
make changes from time to time in the content hereof without obligation to notify any person of
such revision or changes.
SAFETY
This equipment and software must be operated and maintained only by trained
and qualified persons familiar with safe laboratory techniques. All users should
have adequate training and knowledge of the hazards associated with the use of
hazardous chemicals, pressurized gasses and all applicable laboratory
techniques before operation of this equipment.
MODEL 857 REDOX CELL
TEST SYSTEM
OPERATING MANUAL
Scribner Associates, Inc.
150 E. Connecticut Ave.
Southern Pines, North Carolina, USA 28387
Phone: 910-695-8884, Fax: 910-695-8886
E-mail: [email protected]
Support: [email protected]
Website: www.scribner.com Rev. C (11/2011)
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 1
1.1. System Requirements................................................................................................... 2 1.2. Technical Support ........................................................................................................ 2 1.3. Chapter Summaries ...................................................................................................... 3
CHAPTER 2 - SAFETY ................................................................................................................. 5
2.1. General ......................................................................................................................... 5
2.2. Material Safety Data Sheets ......................................................................................... 5 2.3. Computer Control and System Safety.......................................................................... 5 2.4. Grounding .................................................................................................................... 6 2.5. AC Supply Voltage ...................................................................................................... 6 2.6. Fuses ............................................................................................................................ 6
2.7. Avoid Unsafe Equipment ............................................................................................. 6
2.8. Live Conductors ........................................................................................................... 6
2.9. Equipment Modification .............................................................................................. 7
CHAPTER 3 - SYSTEM DESCRPTION & INSTALLATION .................................................... 9
3.1. General Description ..................................................................................................... 9 3.2. Potentiostat Ratings ..................................................................................................... 9
3.3. AC Power Requirements.............................................................................................. 9 3.4. 857 Controller Controls and Connections.................................................................. 10
3.4.1. 857 Controller Front Panel - Figure 1 ...................................................... 10
3.4.2. Rear Panel - Figure 2 ............................................................................... 12 3.5. Electrical Connections ............................................................................................... 13
3.6. USB Connections ....................................................................................................... 13 3.7. Flow Bench - Figure 3 ............................................................................................... 13
3.8. Flow Cell Test Fixture ............................................................................................... 15
CHAPTER 4 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS .................................................................................. 19
4.1. System Components................................................................................................... 19 4.2. Terminology – Polarity Convention and Designations .............................................. 19 4.3. Reactants and Flow Control - Figure 6 ..................................................................... 19 4.4. Purge Gas ................................................................................................................... 20
4.5. Potentiostat ................................................................................................................. 20 4.6. Data Acquisition ........................................................................................................ 21 4.7. System Software ........................................................................................................ 21
CHAPTER 5 - GETTING STARTED & OPERATION .............................................................. 23
5.1. Preparation of Reactant, Gas and Electrical Connections ......................................... 23 5.2. Check List Before Proceeding: .................................................................................. 23 5.3. Apply AC Power ........................................................................................................ 23
5.4. Storage and Shipping ................................................................................................. 24
CHAPTER 6 - DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................... 25
6.1. Features ...................................................................................................................... 25 6.2. Specifications ............................................................................................................. 25
CHAPTER 7 - TROUBLESHOOTING ....................................................................................... 29
7.1. Communication Problems .......................................................................................... 29
TABLE OF CONTENTS
7.2. Hardware Problems .................................................................................................... 29
CHAPTER 8 - SWAGELOK® TUBE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................ 31
8.1. Assembly Instructions for Standard Swagelok Metal Tube Fittings ......................... 31
8.2. Gageability ................................................................................................................. 31 8.3. Reassembly Instructions ............................................................................................ 32
CHAPTER 9 - FLOWCELL SOFTWARE INSTRUCTIONS .................................................... 33
9.1. Software Installation .................................................................................................. 33 9.1.1. Installing FlowCell Software: .................................................................. 33
9.2. Starting the FlowCell Software .................................................................................. 34 9.3. Setup Cell Menu ........................................................................................................ 34 9.4. Set-up Flow Menu...................................................................................................... 35 9.5. Main FlowCell Window ............................................................................................ 35
9.5.1. Control Buttons ........................................................................................ 36
9.5.2. Data Values .............................................................................................. 37 9.6. Background ................................................................................................................ 37
9.7. Graphs ........................................................................................................................ 38
9.8. Flow Select Menu ...................................................................................................... 39 9.8.1. Purge System / Drain Cell - Figure 8 ....................................................... 41 9.8.2. Fill Tanks – Figure 9 ................................................................................ 42
9.8.3. Operate Mode - Figure 10 ........................................................................ 43 9.8.4. Drain Cell and Tank - Figure 11 .............................................................. 44
9.8.5. Flush Cell and Pump - Figure 12 ............................................................. 45 9.9. Experiments ............................................................................................................... 46
9.9.1. Open Circuit ............................................................................................. 47
9.9.2. Constant Current ...................................................................................... 49 9.9.3. Constant Voltage...................................................................................... 51
9.9.4. Scan Current ............................................................................................ 53 9.9.5. Scan Voltage ............................................................................................ 56
9.9.6. Controlled Current Impedance................................................................. 59 9.9.7. Controlled Voltage Impedance ................................................................ 61
9.9.8. Change Cell.............................................................................................. 63 9.9.9. Change Flow ............................................................................................ 64
9.9.10. Run External Utility ............................................................................... 65 9.9.11. Repeat Loop ........................................................................................... 66
CHAPTER 10 - FLOWCELL DATA AND FILE FORMATS .................................................... 67
10.1. Data Value Definitions ............................................................................................ 67 10.2. Data File Format ...................................................................................................... 68
10.3. Analyzing Impedance Data ...................................................................................... 71
APPENDIX A – ROTOMETER DATA SHEET ......................................................................... 73
Chapter 1 Introduction
1
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION
This manual describes the installation, configuration, and operation of the Model 857
Redox Cell Test System with FlowCell software. The combination of this hardware and software
provides a complete system for testing the characteristics and operating parameters of various
types of electrochemical flow cells or redox flow batteries.
The 857 Redox Cell Test System provides a high level of real-time control and safety
monitoring using advanced hardware design. The 857 consists of two main components: the 857
Controller and the 857 Flow Bench.
The 857 Controller permits full control and/or measurement of the all key elements of the
flow cell, including the fluid flow rate and temperature, cell temperature, electrical parameters
such as voltage and current, and communication with the host PC and FlowCellTM
software. The
857 Controller includes a high-current, multi-range potentiostat which can switch between
current ranges to maximize the flexibility and accuracy of the test station.
The 857 Flow Bench connects to the 857 Controller and comprises the flow cell support
hardware such as precision peristaltic pumps, electrolyte storage tanks, purge gas connections,
valves and tubing.
As an option, the 892e Data Expansion Module can be used with the 857 to increase the
available monitoring channels. The 892e provides a means of real-time monitoring of
temperature, voltages and/or other parameters (e.g., pressure) of the flow cell and flow cell test
system. The Model 892e is intended primarily for use with test systems based on Scribner
Associates’ Model 840, 850e and 890e Fuel Cell Test Systems and the 857 Redox Cell Test
System. The Model 892e is controlled through the RS485 serial interface of the Model 857
Controller.
With the Model 857 and FlowCell software you can:
Control the liquid reactant electrolyte flow rate and temperature.
Control a purge gas for the negative and positive electrode reactants and storage
tanks.
Control the temperature of the flow cell.
Scale the flow cell operating parameters for area, current, voltage, power, and
number of cells.
Control and/or measure current or voltage of the flow cell under test.
Perform current-controlled or voltage-controlled experiments including constant,
scanned and stair-step measurements.
Monitor performance over a wide range of time intervals.
Display data using a variety of axis formats.
Measure flow cell characteristics such as ohmic or internal resistance, polarization
resistance, polarization behavior (V-I curves), charge/discharge characteristics,
and state-of-charge based on OCV of a secondary cell.
Apply a controlled charge/discharge sequence to a cell to simulate a variety of
operating conditions.
Save data files and experimental setup parameters.
Chapter 1 Introduction
2
Optimize experimental parameters for maximum measurement capability.
Perform electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and high-frequency
resistance (HFR) under operating conditions.
1.1. System Requirements
Model 857 Redox Cell Test System - 857 Controller, 857 Flow Bench
Model 892e Data Expansion Unit (Optional)
Pressurized purge gas (e.g., N2)
Purge gas vent
Liquid reactants - Negative Electrode and Positive Electrode Electrolytes
Flow cell test fixture
FlowCell Software
Windows PC/compatible computer with minimum system requirements
o 1 GHz or greater Pentium or equivalent processor
o Microsoft Windows 2000/XP Pro/Vista/Windows 7 (32-bit version recommended
for Windows 7 systems)
o 512 MB RAM
o 10 GB available hard disk space - data file dependent
o CD ROM
o 1 available USB Port
o Or greater specifications as required by the operating system used
1.2. Technical Support
Please review the Installation and Start-up portions of this manual prior to calling for
support. Users of FlowCell software can receive technical assistance through the following
sources:
Contact your sales agent or the factory:
Scribner Associates, Inc.
150 E. Connecticut Ave.
Southern Pines, North Carolina, USA 28387
Telephone: 910-695-8884
Fax: 910-695-8886
E-mail: [email protected]
Chapter 1 Introduction
3
1.3. Chapter Summaries
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
Provides an overall description of the Model 857 Redox Flow Cell Test System and FlowCell
software.
CHAPTER 2. SAFETY
Describes basic safety issues pertaining to operation of the 857 Redox Cell Test System and flow
cells.
CHAPTER 3. SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS AND HARDWARE INSTALLATION
Explains how to install and connect the Model 857 Redox Cell Test System and the flow cell test
fixture electrical connections.
CHAPTER 4. SYSTEM COMPONETS AND CONFIGURATION
Describes the Model 857 Redox Flow Cell Test System components.
CHAPTER 5. GETTING STARTED AND OPERATION
Steps the user through start-up of the flow cell test hardware and discusses setting parameters,
system operating procedures, and taking measurements with a flow cell.
CHAPTER 6. 857 DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS
Describes the Model 857 Redox Cell Test System and its specifications.
CHAPTER 7. TROUBLESHOOTING
Provides solutions for common connection, startup, and operation problems.
CHAPTER 8. SWAGELOK® TUBE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS
Describes installation procedure and use of Swagelok fittings.
CHAPTER 9. FLOWCELL SOFTWARE INSTRUCTIONS
Describes FlowCell software operation.
Chapter 1 Introduction
4
Chapter 2 Safety
5
CHAPTER 2 - SAFETY
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
Users of this equipment should review all of the following material and other
safety standards deemed appropriate and apply all safety standards that may
be required in the user’s facility before proceeding. Safe operation of a flow
cell is the responsibility of the end user of this equipment and may not be
limited to the items below.
2.1. General
It is required that this equipment be operated only by trained and qualified persons
familiar with flow cell technology and safe laboratory techniques. All users should have
adequate training and knowledge of the hazards associated with the use of the relevant
chemicals and pressurized gasses, and all applicable laboratory techniques before
operation of this equipment.
The equipment described in this manual is supplied in a safe condition. To avoid injury to
an operator, the safety precautions given below and throughout the manual, must be strictly
adhered to whenever the equipment is operated. For specific safety details, please refer to the
relevant sections within the manual.
The equipment is designed solely for electronic measurement of an operating flow cell
and should not be used for any other purpose. Scribner Associates accepts no responsibility for
accidents or damage resulting from any failure to comply with these precautions.
2.2. Material Safety Data Sheets
It is recommended that all applicable material safety data sheets (MSDS) be read and
understood before proceeding. In the United States, the law requires that the vendor provide a
MSDS with each furnished chemical supply. MSDS are a required part of hazardous material
handling.
2.3. Computer Control and System Safety
Precautions should be taken to ensure sustained operation of the PC controlling the
Model 857. The use of an uninterruptible power supply is recommended to ensure continuous
electrical power to the PC used for the test system. If the electronics lose main power, an
automatic shutdown of the load and reactant flow will result. Operators are strongly
recommended to evaluate the operation and safety of the whole test system and laboratory
environment before performing any long term or unattended tests.
Chapter 2 Safety
6
2.4. Grounding
The equipment described in this manual relies on the connection of a protective
conductor to earth ground for equipment and operator safety. The power cable of the equipment
should only be inserted into an outlet that has the required earth ground contact. The protection
must not be disabled through the use of a two-conductor extension cord, an adaptor that does not
maintain earth ground continuity, or any other type of connection that does not maintain earth
ground continuity. The ground prong of the power cable must not be cut off or otherwise
modified.
2.5. AC Supply Voltage
Before first connecting the power to the equipment, make sure that the line voltage is
100-120 V at 50-60 Hz. (Note: 220 V option is available at the time of ordering.) Never operate
the equipment from a line voltage or frequency other than that specified. Install the 857
Controller such that access to the power switch located on the front panel is not obstructed.
WARNING! The equipment may be damaged by the application of incorrect line voltage.
DANGER! Voltage and current conditions inside the equipment described in this manual are
sufficient to cause injury and possibly death. Only qualified technicians should be
permitted to remove the cover, attempt repairs, or connect the unit to the external
gas distribution equipment.
2.6. Fuses
The rating of the AC line fuse (in the power inlet connector) must agree with the value
stated in Chapter 3.
2.7. Avoid Unsafe Equipment
The equipment may be unsafe to install or use if any of the following statements apply:
Equipment shows visible damage.
Equipment fails to perform properly.
Equipment has been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavorable conditions.
If there is any doubt as to the serviceability of the equipment, do not use it. Get it
properly checked out by a qualified service technician. If this equipment is used in a manner not
specified by Scribner Associates, the safety protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.
2.8. Live Conductors
Opening the cover or removing of parts from this equipment could expose live
conductors. The equipment must be disconnected from all power and signal sources before it is
opened for any adjustment, replacement, maintenance, or repair. Adjustments, maintenance, or
repair must be done only by a qualified technician.
Chapter 2 Safety
7
2.9. Equipment Modification
To avoid introducing safety hazards, never install non-standard parts in the equipment, or
make any unauthorized modification. To maintain safety, return the equipment to Scribner
Associates for service and repair.
Chapter 2 Safety
8
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
9
CHAPTER 3 - SYSTEM DESCRPTION & INSTALLATION
3.1. General Description
This chapter lists the specifications of the Model 857 and describes its installation, and
electrical, communication (USB), and gas connections.
The 857 Redox Cell Test System is a complete test station for operation and
measurement of redox flow cells and flow batteries. The 857 combines a computer-controlled
analytical instrument, multi-range programmable potentiostat, reactant flow and temperature
controls, and data acquisition functions, with pumps and other reactant handling hardware in an
integrated and compact bench-top unit.
The 857 has a state-of-the-art liquid reactant handling system that features independent
negative (anolyte) and positive (catholyte) electrolyte reactant flow paths and storage reservoirs
and purge gas, safety alarms, and check valves to prevent system contamination.
The 857 and FlowCell software permit long term performance testing of a redox single
cell flow cell or small stack under user defined conditions, coupled with real time monitoring of
the whole cell and half-cell potentials, ohmic-resistance corrected whole and half cell potentials,
current, power, internal resistance, reactant flow rate, and cell and reactant temperature.
3.2. Potentiostat Ratings
The ratings given below are for nominal flow cell outputs. Note that flow cell open
circuit voltages (OCV) must fall within the maximum voltage ratings of the 857 potentiostat.
Current, A
Max. Power, W Max. Voltage, V ±7, ±0.7, ±0.07 21 ±3.0
3.3. AC Power Requirements
100-120 VAC / 50-60 Hz, 10 A maximum*
* 220-240 V operation is available as an option at the time of ordering
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
10
3.4. 857 Controller Controls and Connections
NOTE: COOLING AIR INTAKE AND EXHAUST
Cooling air for the 857 Controller enters through bottom and right side of the case and exits
through the left side of the case. Allow at least 30 cm (12 inches) of clearance on either side of
the unit and do not obstruct air flow around the lower edges of the case to ensure adequate air
flow.
Do not place this instrument in a fume hood and avoid corrosive atmospheres.
3.4.1. 857 Controller Front Panel - Figure 1
Power Switch
Controls the AC line power to the Model 857 Controller.
Emergency Stop - Press the RED BUTTON to activate
Pressing this switch removes power to the 857 Flow Bench pumps (i.e., stops flow),
removes heat from the electrolyte storage tanks and cell, and disconnects the potentiostat from
the cell (turns cell OFF so that current is zero). If this switch is pressed while in operation, the
FlowCell software will display an alarm condition on the screen to notify the user that the fuel
supply has been shut off.
Turn button clockwise 1/8 turn to reset. Note arrows on button. Do not force.
Temperature Controllers
The Anode (Negative Tank), Cathode (Positive Tank), and Cell temperature controllers
are used to monitor and control the temperature of anolyte (negative side solution), catholyte
(positive side solution), and cell body, respectively. The set points, read back, and alarms are
controlled by FlowCell. These temperature controllers are programmed at the factory, and the
user should not alter their internal settings. DO NOT enter temperature set point values from the
front panel of the controllers.
Figure 1 – 857 Controller front panel.
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
11
857 Cell Cable and Connector
The cell cable provides electrical connection of the potentiostat to the flow cell. The cell
cable connects to the 857 Controller through the Cell Interface connector on the front of the 857
Controller.
It is important to use only the cable provided with unit for connection to the flow
cell. Failure to use the furnished cell cable will reduce the performance of the 857 and/or flow
cell.
The potentiostat has a MAXIMUM VOLTAGE rating at its terminals and should
not be subjected to input voltages (applied to the main current or voltage sense terminals)
in excess of ±3 V. Any cell used must be electrically isolated from earth ground (including
metal chassis of instrument). This is best done by operating the cell in the supplied plastic drip
tray as shown in Figure 3. Damage to the electronics can result if these precautions are not
followed, which may require that the 857 be returned to the factory for repair.
The 857 Cell Cable includes the following leads:
Main Leads – Positive Current (+I) and Negative Current (-I)
Whole Sense Leads – Positive Voltage Sense (+V) and Negative Voltage (-V)
Auxiliary Voltage - Positive Aux (+Aux) and Negative Aux (-Aux)
State-of-Charge (SOC) Sense Leads - Positive SOC (+V) and Negative SOC (-V)
The Negative Whole Sense lead MUST be connected directly to the negative end plate or
current collector of the flow cell because it provides a reference point for all flow cell potential
measurements.
The Negative Auxiliary Sense leads may be connected to an internal reference electrode
if desired and the Positive Auxiliary Sense connected to either the Negative or Positive end plate
depending on the electrode of interest. Alternatively, the Auxiliary Sense leads can be connected
to a single cell or subset of cells within a stack.
Cell Thermocouple Connector and Heater Outlet
The Cell Heater Outlet provides 120 VAC at up to 200 W for powering the flow cell
heater (220 volt model provides 400 watts at 220 V from an IEC320 outlet). The positive and
negative cell electrodes must be electrically isolated from the heater using electrical insulation
from an earth grounded metal part between the heater and electrodes or at least two insulation
systems with ratings suitable for the heater voltage must be used between the live heater element
and the cell electrodes. Any substantial metal parts of the cell not connected to the cell
electrodes (including the shell of cartridge-type heaters) should be earth grounded through the
heater cable ground wire. The grounding and insulation systems of the cell should be checked
periodically to prevent operator hazards and damage to the test system.
A thermocouple input and a temperature controller are provided to regulate and control
the temperature in the cell. A standard Type T (blue) thermocouple with miniature OMEGA
brand (blue Type T) male connector is required. The cell thermocouple should be appropriately
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
12
installed in the flow cell and connected to the thermocouple jack on the front of the 857
Controller.
3.4.2. Rear Panel - Figure 2
Figure 2 –857 Controller rear panel.
AC Power Connector
The Model 857 is supplied with a standard IEC power input socket and filter for
connection to 100-120 VAC, 50-60 Hz.
A 3AG size time delay fuse should be in the AC line fuse holder which is part of the
input socket. The fuse rating is 10 A. To replace the fuse, carefully open the holder and remove
the red insert. Before replacing, determine the reason for failure of the fuse, such as a shorted
flow cell heater. Reinstall in the same position with a new fuse after the problem has been
corrected.
USB Interface The USB port connects the 857 Controller to a compatible PC for control and data
acquisition by the FlowCell software.
Anode (Negative Tank) and Cathode (Positive) Tank Thermocouple Connectors
These are for connecting the 857 Flow Bench tank thermocouples in order to measure
and control the Anode (Negative Tank) and Cathode (Positive) Tank temperatures.
Warning: Do NOT reverse or exchange these two connections. This will result in
loss of heating control and potential damage to the electrolyte tanks on the 857 Flow Bench.
892 Com Input
This serial port connects the 857 Controller to an 892e Data Expansion Module. Use the
furnished serial cable.
892 Power Supply If used, the 892e is powered through the 857 Controller. Use the included IEC male-to-
female power cable to connect to the AC power connector on the rear of the 892e.
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
13
Pump Interface
The pump control signals and power are provided from the 857 Controller to the pumps
in the 857 Flow Bench through this cable and interface. Attach the cable that is attached to the
857 Flow Bench to this connector.
Tank Heaters Interface
Power for the tank heaters on the 857 Flow Bench is provided from the 857 Controller
through this cable and interface. Attach the cable that is attached to the 857 Flow Bench to this
connector.
3.5. Electrical Connections
If 220-240V AC 50-60 Hz power is available, the 857 may be configured to operate on
220-240V at the time of manufacture. Otherwise you must use a step-down transformer of
appropriate capacity to supply 120V AC to the 857.
It is recommended that a UPS device be used to avoid test interruption in the event of a
power glitch.
3.6. USB Connections
A USB cable is necessary to interface the computer and the 857 Redox Test System.
Connect the 857 Controller to the computer with the furnished USB cable.
3.7. Flow Bench - Figure 3
The 857 Flow Bench provides the supporting hardware needed to operate the flow cell.
The flow bench includes two independently-controlled pumps, two electrolyte reservoirs with
heaters and thermocouples, purge gas input and outlet to a vent with manual flow rate control
and connections. All components are non-metallic.
The pumps and heating of the tanks is controlled through the 857 Controller and
FlowCell software. Operation of the purge gas flow rate is manually using the respective
rotometers. Likewise, operation of the upper and lower three-way valves on each tank are also
manual. The valves in combination with the direction of the pump (clockwise or counter-
clockwise) are used to control the flow mode of the cell.
IMPORTANT!
The 857 Flow Bench is composed of two independent flow paths. Facing the
front of the 857 Flow Bench, the LEFT side is designated the Negative Side
and should contain the anolyte solution (Negative Electrolyte) and feed to the
negative side of the flow cell. The RIGHT side is designated the Positive Side
and should contain the catholyte solution (Positive Electrolyte) and feed to the
positive side of the flow cell.
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
14
See also Figure 6 for a schematic of the 857 Flow Path.
The 857 Controller and FlowCell software are designed for this configuration
and the system should not be used in a reverse configuration.
The system should be used with the drip tray as shown in Figure 3. The cell should be
placed inside the drip tray.
Materials of construction for the wetted parts of the system are polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
polypropylene (PP), and perfluoroalkoxy (PFA).
The maximum operating temperature of the tanks is 50
oC.
The Tank Heater Interface Cable, Pump Interface Cable, and Negative Tank (Anode) and
Positive Tank (Catholyte) thermocouples should be connected to the rear of the 857 Controller
prior to start-up and operation. Note that all power and control of the 857 Flow Bench
components is via the Tank Heater Interface and Pump Interface cables.
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
15
Figure 3 – 857 Flow Bench.
3.8. Flow Cell Test Fixture
The 857 electrical connections consist of a set of cables to carry the cell current and sense
lead connections to measure voltage of the cell. Leads must be attached directly to the cell
terminals for accurate measurement. All flow cells have at least two electrical connections: the
negative electrode and the positive electrode.
The 857 cell cable assembly attaches to the Cell Interface connector on the front of the
857 Controller. Leads are furnished with a banana plug which may be replaced with termination
suitable for the cell. Independent current and voltage inputs are provided for accurate
measurement of the voltage at the cell end plates or current collectors.
It is very important that these leads be used and connected properly. Cell voltage
and internal resistance measurements are performed between the sense leads, so their placement
on the cell end plates will affect the actual readings.
NEGATIVE (-) SIDE POSITIVE (+) SIDE
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
16
The cell cable leads are labeled as follows:
Label Color Description
I + Red Positive current
I - Black Negative current
V + Red Positive whole voltage sense
V - Black Negative whole voltage sense
Aux + White Positive auxiliary voltage sense
Aux - Green Negative auxiliary voltage sense
SOC + Red Positive SOC voltage sense
SOC - Black Negative SOC voltage sense
Two-terminal Cells: Connect the negative (I-) and positive (I+) cell current leads to the negative
and positive end plates (current collector) of the flow cell or stack. Connect the whole cell
negative voltage (V-) and whole cell positive voltage (V+) sense leads to the negative and
positive end plates (current collector) of the flow cell or stack. The Auxiliary sense leads are not
used in this configuration and should be connected to the cell along with the V- lead.
Figure 4 - Configuration for a 2-terminal cell connection using only the current leads and
the whole voltage sense leads. The auxiliary sense leads are not used in this configuration.
The SOC leads may be attached to a separate cell for SOC measurement.
- +
I-
(black)V-
(black)I+
(red)V+
(red)
SOC + (red)SOC - (black)Aux + (white)Aux - (green)
857 Cell Cable
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
17
Three-terminal cells: Some cell configurations may incorporate a reference electrode, therefore
permitting 3-electrode measurements. In addition to whole cell measurement between the
negative and positive end-plates or electrodes, the reference electrode permits half-cell
measurements of either the negative electrode reactions or the positive electrode reactions.
As for the 2-terminal connection, connect the negative (I-) and positive (I+) cell current leads to
the negative and positive end plates (current collector) of the flow cell or stack. Connect the
whole cell negative voltage (V-) and whole cell positive voltage (V+) sense leads to the negative
and positive end plates (current collector) of the flow cell or stack.
Connect the negative auxiliary voltage sense (Aux –) to the reference electrode. Connect the
positive auxiliary voltage sense (Aux +) to the end plate (current collector) of the negative or
positive side of the cell, depending on the electrode of interest.
Figure 5 - Configuration for a 3-terminal cell connection with reference electrode located
on the negative side of the cell for half-cell measurements of the positive side electrode.
CAUTION: The potentiostat has a MAXIMUM VOLTAGE rating at its terminals and
should not be subjected to input voltages (applied to the current or sense
terminals) in excess of ±3 V. Damage not covered by warranty may result to
the potentiostat.
- +
I- V- I+V+
SOC + (red)SOC - (black)
Aux+Aux-
Ref
857 Cell Cable
Chapter 3 System Specifications & Hardware Installation
18
Chapter 4 System Components
19
CHAPTER 4 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS
4.1. System Components
A basic setup to test a flow cell requires the following items:
A reactor or cell, commonly referred to as a flow cell, single cell or stack.
A supply of reactants and control of the flow of those reactants to the cell.
A method of sourcing (charging) and sinking (discharging), controlling and
measuring, electrical energy and power to and from the cell.
A data acquisition system to capture all the flow cell operating parameters.
System software for controlling the test system and all of its components.
4.2. Terminology – Polarity Convention and Designations
By definition, electrochemical oxidation takes place at an anode and electrochemical
reduction reaction takes places at a cathode. Therefore, during operation of a flow cell both the
negative electrode and the positive electrode are anode and cathode, depending on the mode of
operation, i.e., during charging vs. discharging. The negative electrode is an anode during
discharging and a cathode during charging. Likewise, the positive electrode is a cathode during
discharging and an anode during charging. For this reason, we avoid calling the electrodes the
anode and cathode as is commonly done with fuel cells.
Electrode Operation Reaction
Negative Electrode Discharge (Anode) A A+z
+ ze-
Charge (Cathode) A+z
+ ze- A
Positive Electrode Discharge (Cathode) B+y
+ ye- B
Charge (Anode) B B+y
+ ye-
Species A and B and their various oxidation states are specific to the flow battery of
interest. Note that species A and B maybe complexes, negatively or positively charged, or
electrically neutral.
The convention used by for the 857 and FlowCell software are that positive currents
indicate charging of the system (energy put into the cell/reactants) and negative current
discharging of the system (sinking energy from the cell).
Based on this convention, on charging via application of a positive current, the cell
voltage increases (becomes more positive) relative to the open circuit voltage (OCV). Likewise,
the cell voltage decreases (becomes less positive) relative to the OCV upon discharging through
application of a negative current.
4.3. Reactants and Flow Control - Figure 6
In a flow cell, liquid reactants must be delivered to the two halves of the cell. To facilitate
this, the 857 Flow Bench includes two (2) independently-controlled peristaltic pumps, of which
Chapter 4 System Components
20
the direction (forward or clockwise, and reverse or counter-clockwise) and rate are controlled
through the FlowCell software. The pumps are connected to the 857 Controller through the
Pump Interface Connector located on the back 857 Controller.
4.4. Purge Gas
The 857 Flow Bench includes provisions for a purge gas (e.g., N2) for de-aeration and
purge gas blanketing of the electrolytes. The purge gas flow rate is controlled by manually-
operated rotometers located to the right of the electrolyte reservoirs. The rotometer flow rate
scale is shown in Table 1 and the data sheet is reproduced in Appendix A.
Purge gas inlet and outlet ports use check valves to prevent back-flow of gas into the
purge gas source and ingress of air through the purge gas vent.
The purge gas outlets are labeled “To Vent” and should be connected to suitable tubing
and properly vented. Vent gas may be passed through a trap to collect hazardous components as
necessary.
Purge gas can be pumped through cell and flow path tubing and through the electrolyte in
the tank for active de-aeration. See the FlowCell software manual for how to operate the 857 unit
for active purging of the reactants with the purge gas.
Table 1. Rotometer flow rate vs. scale reading.
Scale Reading Flow Rate (mL/min)
65 522 60 483 55 446 50 403 45 365 40 322 35 279 30 239 25 196 20 156 15 119 10 86 5 60
4.5. Potentiostat
A method of extracting and dissipating electrical power from the cell under test during
discharging is needed. Typically this is a resistive device that will cause current to flow when
connected to the terminals of the flow cell. A method of delivering electrical power to the cell
under test during charging is also needed. A high-current potentiostat is used to accomplish both
charging and discharging. The potentiostat consists of a power amplifier, voltage and current
measurement circuits, and control and data acquisition electronics. Most potentiostats, including
that of the 857, are microprocessor-controlled and interface with a host computer. The
Chapter 4 System Components
21
potentiostat must have maximum current (amperes), voltage (volts), and power (watts) ratings
adequate for the flow cell to be tested.
4.6. Data Acquisition
A data acquisition system is needed to measure all of the desired operating parameters of
the flow cell under test and present this data in graphic and numerical form for the user. The use
of a PC permits the flow cell parameters to be monitored, controlled, and stored for later
analysis.
Typical operating parameters that may be measured and/or calculated are whole cell
voltage, half cell voltage (if an internal reference electrode is available), iR-corrected potentials
can cell internal (ohmic) resistance, cell current, cell power, reactant flow rate and temperature,
and cell temperature.
The 857 test system also includes provisions for electrochemical state-of-charge
measurement. The 857 cell cable includes dedicated voltage sense leads that can be used with an
electrically-isolated monitoring cell that is exposed to the same electrolytes that the operating
flow cell is subjected to. The open circuit voltage of the monitoring cell can be used as a measure
of the state-of-charge with a suitable user-generated calibration curve (e.g., SOC vs. OCV for the
system under investigation). The SOC-OCV calibration curve is specific to the chemistry and
conditions of interest (concentration of reactants and supporting electrolyte species, pH, and
temperature).
4.7. System Software
The FlowCell test system software for controlling the test system and all of its
components is required for the PC as well as an interface to the various parts of the test system.
This will provide the focal point for experiment definition and setup, experiment control, flow
cell monitoring for safe operation, data logging, data display and graphing test results.
The operating software should have provisions for controlling all of the operating
conditions of the flow cell, menus to input the characteristic parameters for the cell, (e.g., cell
active area), operating temperature, reactant flow rate, etc. Provisions should be made for safety
shutdown of the flow cell and test termination, if maximum and/or minimum cell ratings are
exceeded, such as maximum current, power or temperature, minimum cell potential, loss of fuel
supply, electrical power, etc.
See Chapter 9 for a description of FlowCell software.
Chapter 4 System Components
22
Figure 6 – 857 Flow Diagram.
N2
+-
T
NEGATIVE SIDE POSITIVE SIDE
Cell
T Thermocouple
Heater
Pump
Check Valve
PURGE
P
To Vent
3-way valve
Lower
Valve
Upper
Valve
P
Negative
Electrolyte
Tank
P
To Vent
Lower
Valve
Upper
Valve
Positive
Electrolyte
Tank
T
Rotometer
Flow in 1 direction only
Flow direction depends
on pump direction
MODEL 857 FLOW DIAGRAM
Pressure
regulator
45-70 PSI
Chapter 5 Getting Started & Operation
23
CHAPTER 5 - GETTING STARTED & OPERATION
Chapter 5 deals with initial start up of the 857 Redox Cell Test System and the FlowCell
software. This includes application of the flow cell electrolytes, electrical and mechanical
connections to the flow cell test fixture (cell electrodes or current collectors, electrolyte feed and
return lines), applying AC power to the test system hardware and starting the FlowCell program
to control the test system and collect data.
5.1. Preparation of Reactant, Gas and Electrical Connections
Locate the system test equipment, the 857 Redox Cell Test System and the PC used to
control and monitor the flow cell tests, in a suitable lab environment. The user is responsible for
determining and implementing all safety requirements. Refer to the READ ME FIRST – Model
857 Installation Procedure document in this manual and attached to the 857 to connect the
purge gas supply, AC power, and USB communications cable to the equipment. See CHAPTER
8 - for details on using Swagelok fittings.
When the user has connected the appropriate fuel and purge gas sources to the test system
gas inputs, ALL fuel gas regulators, fittings, connections, gas tubing, and valves should be leak
tested for safety. User must provide for adequate ventilation of fuel gasses exiting the flow cell.
DO NOT place or operate the 857 Controller or 892e Data Expansion Module in a
fume hood.
The 857 Flow Bench passes a comprehensive leak down check before it leaves the
factory. The installer is responsible for checking all user connected fittings, hoses, tubing,
and other connections.
Observe all safety precautions associated with the electrolytes and gases in use.
When in doubt, consult the material supplier’s material safety data sheets (MSDS).
At this time, the purge gas tank valve (normally N2) and its regulator should be opened to
verify that the purge flow is present.
5.2. Check List Before Proceeding: 1. Inspect all purge gas connections
2. Leak check purge gas connections
3. Examine all cable connections between the test equipment and the flow cell
4. Install FlowCell software but do not start it at this time.
5.3. Apply AC Power
Connect the 857 power cord to a power outlet. If the available line voltage is not 120
volts, 50-60 Hz, and the 857 is not built with the 220 V option, see section 3.5 on using a step-
down transformer.
Chapter 5 Getting Started & Operation
24
Apply AC line power to the Model 857 by placing the ‘POWER’ switch in the ‘ON’
position. The cooling fan in the 857 should start and the front panel display and temperature
controllers should illuminate. The temperature controllers should display, “SELF TEST” for
several seconds and then revert to their default set points. The default set point is 15 °C for all
three temperature controllers.
A note about the temperature controllers: DO NOT use the front panel controls on the
temperature controllers to adjust the temperature set points! The set point values should
ALWAYS be entered from the FlowCell software menus. If the controllers display other than 15
°C set point (green display) when 857 power is applied (before starting the FlowCell software),
reset them to 15 °C.
5.4. Storage and Shipping
Do not ship, store, or position the 857 Controller or 857 Flow Bench on its side or
any other orientation than normal/upright when solution is in either of the tanks.
Remove all solution from tanks and flow path, and thoroughly flush with water before
shipping or preparing for long term storage. Cap all inlet and outlet fittings before storage.
Chapter 6 Detailed Specifications
25
CHAPTER 6 - DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS
The Model 857 Flow Cell Test System is an advanced, fully-integrated flow battery test
system. The system consists of a main electronics unit (857 Controller with potentiostat and
flow controls), liquid handling system (857 Flow Bench), and optional multi-channel data
acquisition module (892e Data Expansion Module).
6.1. Features
Complete electronics for charge, discharge, electrolyte flow control, temperature control,
and data acquisition.
Complete flow path including pumping and storage for anode and cathode electrolytes.
Uses a potentiostat for charge and discharge operation in constant-current or constant-
voltage mode.
Three current range potentiostat for accurate charge and discharge current measurement
EIS and HFR during charge or discharge.
Voltage scanning for CV and LSV experiments.
Sense input for whole-cell measurements including EIS and HFR.
Auxiliary voltage input for half-cell DC and EIS/HFR measurements.
State-of-Charge (SOC) voltage input for real-time reactant SOC measurement.
Integrated constant-voltage, scan voltage, constant-current, and scan current, open circuit,
voltage EIS, and current EIS experiments in software with battery/fuel cell polarity
conventions for automated charge/discharge cycling, testing and diagnostics, data
readable in FCView.
User-defined experiment termination/reversal, e.g., voltage or current limit.
Inputs for anolyte and catholyte state-of-charge electrodes
Safety features: shutdown on E-stop or potentiostat over voltage/current fault
6.2. Specifications
Cell Connections 4-terminal (main and sense leads) plus
differential Auxiliary voltage and SOC
inputs
Charge and Discharge Modes (Potentiostat Control):
Full Scale Current Ranges: ±7 A, ±700 mA, ±70 mA
(nominal, not including over-range)
Current Range Selection: Manual
Resolution: 488 A (7 A range) to 4.88 A (70 mA
range)
Limit of Error: ±1.5% of range
Set and Read Voltage vs WE: > ±3.000 V
Current: ±7000 mA (Short Circuit Protected)
Cell Voltage Sense Leads: Differential with driven shields
Voltage Measurement Resolution: 152 V
Sense Lead Input Resistance: 1.0 GΩ
Chapter 6 Detailed Specifications
26
Modes of Operation: Constant or scan current or voltage
Data Acquisition Rate: 10 points/sec
Impedance Measurement:
Internal Impedance Analyzer Type: Single sine, two gain/phase measurement
channels, one generator output channel
Internal Analyzer Frequency Range: 1 mHz to 10 kHz
Measurement Types: Sweep EIS and single-frequency HFR
real-time measurement, whole or Aux
User Controls and Connections:
Front Panel: Cell cable connector (main current and
voltage sense leads, Aux, SOC leads), cell
heater receptacle, cell thermocouple jack,
E-stop button Power and Cell indicators,
Power switch; temperature controllers
(Anode/Negative, Cathode/Positive, Cell)
Rear Panel: AC power in, USB port, thermocouple
jacks (Anode/Negative, Cathode/Positive),
connectors for pump control and
heater/pump power, power and serial
interface for 892e Data Expansion Module
Cell and Electrolyte Handling:
Construction: Nonmetallic flow path components
Pumps: Individual, variable speed (software
controlled)
Flow Rate Range: 1 to 1,000 L/min per pump (max flow rate
may be limited by solution viscosity
and/or flow path hydraulic resistance)
Anolyte & Catholyte Temperature Range: Ambient to 50 oC
Cell Temperature Range: Ambient to 50 oC, heated/cooled with
temperature controller
Negative (Anolyte) and Positive
(Catholyte) Solution Reservoir:
975 mL each; heated with temperature
controllers; N2 blanket and purge; solution
level visible
N2 Purge: Low-pressure N2 supply and vent/purge of
reservoir, tubing and cell
Reservoir Drain: Pumped, manually controlled with valves
Cell and Flow Path Flush: Pumped, manually controlled with valves
Additional Data Acquisition (with Optional 892e Data Expansion Module):
Number of Channels: 16
Type: 8 x Temperature (Type K or T
thermocouple); 8 Voltage (±5 V) or other
Physical and Environment:
Operating Temperature: 5 to 35 oC
Chapter 6 Detailed Specifications
27
Operating Humidity 0 to 90% RH, non-condensing
Power Source: 100-120 VAC 50/60 Hz
(220-240V model available)
Dimensions and Weight:
857 Controller
857 Flow Bench
15 cm H x 48 cm W x 66 cm D; 8.2 kg
(6” H x 19” W x 26” D); 18 lb.
66 cm H x 48 cm W x 66 cm D; 24 kg
(26” H x 19” W x 26” D); 52 lb.
Chapter 6 Detailed Specifications
28
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting
29
CHAPTER 7 - TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTE: Recommended operating systems are Windows 2000, XP Pro, Vista, and
Windows 7 (32-bit version). Operation from Windows 95, 98, ME or XP Home is not
recommended.
7.1. Communication Problems
See FlowCell Software Manual for more information.
“Could Not Find Instrument” error on startup of FlowCell or SAI857 OLE window pops
up with error messages during operation: Ensure that latest version of FlowCell is installed
on a computer with the one of the above recommended operating systems. Ensure that USB
cable is properly connected from computer to 857. If a USB hub is used, try a direct connection
to see if the hub is the problem. Close and restart FlowCell.
If the problem persists, turn off the 857 and open Windows Device Manager (from Control Panel
or Control Panel > System, menus vary with Windows version). Expand the list of HID/Human
Interface Devices. Turn on the 857, the list should update and add a new “HID Compliant
Device” and “USB Human Interface Device” or “USB Input Device”. “New Hardware Found”
or similar messages should appear. Turn off the 857 and the items added to the list should go
away. Note that these are general text descriptions and vary with Windows version.
If the USB cable and the computer’s USB port are good (works with other USB devices when
the same cable is used), the instrument is properly connecting to the computer and there may be a
problem with proper configuration of FlowCell such as the “flowcell.ini” file. This can be
remedied by renaming “flowcell.ini” and reinstalling the latest version of FlowCell. This will
install the latest software with a new “flowcell.ini” file. The menu settings in this case should be
reviewed since previous user settings will have been erased.
If the above items do not add to the list in Device Manager when the 857 is turned on, there
could be a problem with the 857 hardware. If the problem persists, cut and paste the text of any
errors and email with a problem description to [email protected] for further
assistance.
“Temperatures read -999” Communications with the temperature controllers have been lost.
Allow at least 10 seconds after power up of the Model 857 before starting the FlowCell program
to allow the temperature controllers to initialize. Display of this message can indicate the failure
of one of the temperature controllers. Contact the factory for assistance.
7.2. Hardware Problems
1) There is no power when unit is turned ON; the displays do not light. AC power is
not available to the Model 857.
The fuse on the rear panel of the control unit may be blown. Replace it with a 10A, 3AG
size, time delay type fuse. Determine the cause of the failure before proceeding.
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting
30
2) The unit alarms when the ‘FLOW ON’ button is pressed in the software.
The ‘EMERGENCY STOP’ switch is activated, or cell voltage, current, or temperature
or tank temperature is outside limits configured in the Setup Cell and Setup Flow menus
as described in the alarm message that appears.
3) The reported cell voltage is incorrect or extremely noisy.
The sense leads (V+ and V-) are reversed or not connected. The sense leads are required
to measure the flow cell voltage and should be connected at the cell independent of the
load current carrying leads. These will measure the actual value at the cell plates. The
instrument will not operate if these are not connected correctly. Connect the “Aux+”,
“Aux-”, “SOC+”, and “SOC-” inputs to the cell with the “V-” sense lead if not used. See
page 13 for more information.
Note: Ensure that the cell is completely electrically isolated (insulated) from earth ground
or metal equipment chassis to prevent measurement errors, noise, and possible equipment
damage. The best way to ensure this is to operate the cell in the 857 Flow Bench’s drip
pan and observe precautions listed in Chapter 3 for cell and cell heater (if used)
construction.
4) Over temperature shut down.
Check for any cooling airflow restrictions. The rated operating temperature of the 857
Controller electronics is 5 to 35oC. Prolonged over temperature operation may damage
the 857 Controller electronics.
Chapter 8 Swagelok Tube Fitting Instructions
31
CHAPTER 8 - SWAGELOK® TUBE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS
This section describes use and installation of Swagelok fittings to attach gas supply lines
he Model 857. Swagelok fittings are used to attach the purge gas line to the 857 Flow Bench.
CAUTION
Do not mix or interchange Swagelok parts with those of other manufacturers. Swagelok
tube fittings are manufactured to exacting tolerances. The critical interaction of precision parts as
designed is essential for reliability and safety. Interchanging and intermixing tube fitting
components of different designs or made by different manufacturers may result in leaks, tube
slippage, and may be dangerous in critical applications.
8.1. Assembly Instructions for Standard Swagelok Metal Tube Fittings
These instructions apply to traditional metal fittings and fittings with the advanced back-
ferrule geometry.
(a) (b) (c )
Figure 7 – Installation of standard Swagelok fitting. Images © 2006 Swagelok Company.
1. Insert tubing into the Swagelok tube fitting – Figure 7(a).
2. Make sure that the tubing rests firmly on the shoulder of the tube fitting body and that the
nut is finger-tight.
3. Scribe the nut at the 6 o’clock position – Figure 7(b).
4. While holding fitting body steady, tighten the nut 1-1/4 turn to the 9 o’clock position -
Figure 7(c).
Note: For 1/16, 1/8, and 3/16 inch and 2, 3, and 4 mm tube fittings, tighten the nut 3/4
turn to the 3 o’clock position.
8.2. Gageability
Chapter 8 Swagelok Tube Fitting Instructions
32
On initial installation, the Swagelok gap inspection gauge assures the installer or
inspector that a fitting has been sufficiently tightened. The inspection gauge is available from
Swagelok.
Position the Swagelok gap inspection gauge next to the gap between the nut and body.
• If the gauge will not enter the gap, the fitting is sufficiently tightened.
• If the gauge will enter the gap, additional tightening is required.
8.3. Reassembly Instructions
Swagelok tube fittings can be disassembled and reassembled many times.
1. Insert tubing with pre-swaged ferrules into the fitting body until the front ferrule seats.
2. Rotate the nut with a wrench to the previously pulled-up position. At this point, a
significant increase in resistance will be encountered.
3. Tighten slightly with a wrench.
Note: Do not use the gap inspection gauge with reassembled fittings.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
33
CHAPTER 9 - FLOWCELL SOFTWARE INSTRUCTIONS
This section provides an overview of the FlowCell software used to operate the 857
Redox Cell Test System.
The FlowCell software installation is for use with ONE 857 Redox Cell Test Station.
9.1. Software Installation
The FlowCell Software CD or USB Memory Stick contains an installation program to
install the necessary software to operate the 857 series Redox Cell Test Systems.
Do not try to directly copy the files onto a hard disk as they are compressed and will not
run. The CALIBRATION disk will be requested by the FLOWCELL installation program if is
required.
The installation program installs all programs to a subdirectory c:\flowcell\.
It also creates a subdirectory for data under the name c:\flowcell\data\.
The installation also creates a Program Group under the name ‘FlowCell’.
The installation creates a FlowCell startup icon on the desktop.
To properly install software on a PC with Windows 2000, XP Pro, VISTA,
or Windows 7 you MUST log on using an account with Administrator rights. If you
do not have administrator rights for the computer, the setup programs will display an error
message and will not install. Consult your computer system administrator for more information
on user account types.
9.1.1. Installing FlowCell Software:
1) Insert the Scribner Associates, Inc. disc into the CD drive or the thumb drive in to
the USB port. If the setup program does not automatically start, run the SETUP
program on the CD.
2) Click once on the FuelCell Button to start the installation. Follow the instructions
in the installation screens.
3) Change the selected drive from the Destination Directory screen if you would
like to install the program to a drive other than C:
4) Select the Model - Power and Current ratings are listed on the back panel of the
857 Controller.
5) Click “Finish” to complete the installation.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
34
9.2. Starting the FlowCell Software On completing the installation there should be one new icon on the desktop named
“FlowCell”. Double click on this icon to start the FlowCell software.
When the program is started, an additional monitoring program called SAI 857 OLE
Load Control will be started and remain running to indicate the connection of the FlowCell
software. Do not close the SAI 857 OLE Load Control program while FlowCell is running; it
may be minimized to the Windows taskbar.
9.3. Setup Cell Menu When FlowCell is first started, the Setup Cell menu will appear. The purpose of this
menu is to select the cell operating parameters. The default values in the flowcell.ini file will be
loaded.
There are several physical and
electrical parameters to be defined for
operation of the cell, including surface area
and cell fixture temperature, and maximum
and minimum control and shut-down current
and voltage limits. There is also a check box
for an audible beep (from the PC speaker)
upon a limit condition.
You may change any of the values in
this menu or leave them at their defaults if
they match the cell. All values in this menu
can be altered later under the Setup | Cell...
menu. When you are satisfied with the
values, click OK. If you have changed some
values and then wish to discard them and
accept the defaults, click Cancel.
The Surface Area and Number of
Cells in Stack cannot be modified in the
Change Cell experiment. These values can only be modified through the Background Cell
settings.
The Cell Temperature setpoint controls the heaters in the fuel cell fixture. These are
powered by the connector on the front panel. To provide a safety unit for cell temperature, which
may rise due to iR heating, the system will shut down if the Maximum Temperature value is
exceeded. The Maximum Temperature must not exceed 50 oC.
The next six lines define the maximum and minimum allowable values for Current (I)
and Voltage (E), measured in Amperes (A) and Volts (V), respectively.
The system will not permit operation of the cell at values greater than the Maximum or
less than the Minimum control values set in this menu.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
35
If the Shut Down Min Voltage (E) or Shut Down Max Voltage (E) is detected, the
system will enter a safe-mode by turning OFF the potentiostat (load), flows and temperatures.
9.4. Set-up Flow Menu Next the Setup Flow menu will
appear. The purpose of this menu is to select
the electrolyte solution and flow parameters
for the flow cell. The default values in the
flowcell.ini file will be loaded.
There are two basic parameters to be
selected for both the Negative and Positive
Electrolytes: flow rate (mL/min) and tank
temperature.
The system will shut down if the
measured temperature exceeds the Maximum
value.
Values in this menu can be altered later under the Setup | Flow... menu. When you are
satisfied with the values, click OK. If you have changed some values and then wish to discard
them and accept the defaults, click Cancel.
The menu is divided into 2 identical parts, one for the Negative Sided Flow and the other
for the Positive Side Flow.
9.5. Main FlowCell Window When the Setup Cell and Setup Flow selections are complete, the main screen of
FlowCell will open. If it is not already full size, maximize this window by clicking on the
maximize icon in the upper right corner of the FlowCell window. The FlowCell screen is divided
into several sections as shown below.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
36
9.5.1. Control Buttons In the top-left corner of the window are three large buttons: Apply Flow, Apply Load
and Apply All Temp. A BLUE button it indicates that the action is not engaged (OFF); a RED
button indicates that the action is engaged (ON). These buttons operate as follows:
Apply Flow - Clicking on this button starts the pumps and flow of the solutions at the
rate specified in the Setup Flow menu. Once the flow is activated, this button becomes red and
displays the message Stop Flow. Clicking on the button will stop the pumps and solution flow,
and turn the button back to its original state. If the load is applied when you click on the Stop
Flow button, the load will be removed.
Apply Load – Clicking on this button turns the potentiostat on and applies the
background load (current or voltage) condition. Note: Prior to activating this control make
certain that the cell is connected to the 857 Controller through the 857 Cell Cable and that the
current and sense leads are properly connected. Failure to do this may result in damage to the
857 Controller or the cell under test.
The potentiostat cannot be enabled unless the flow button has been activated first, and an
error message will result if you attempt to apply the potentiostat without flow enabled. Once the
potentiostat is engaged, the button turns red and displays the message Stop Load. Clicking on
this will disengage the potentiostat from the cell and turn the button back to its original state. The
cell will drift to its open circuit voltage.
Apply All Temp - Clicking this button applies the temperature set-points defined in the
Setup Cell and Setup Fuel menus. Individual temperatures can be applied using the check boxes
to the right of this button. When any temperature is applied, the button turns red and displays the
message Stop All Temp. Clicking on this will apply the Standby Temperature Set-point defined
in the Instrument Configuration screen.
Control Buttons Experiments Opens Flow Selection window
Data Values
Background Graphs
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
37
9.5.2. Data Values
Below the apply buttons appear four large display meters. The Current and Potential
meters have fixed functions and always display total cell current and total cell voltage. The User
meter may be modified to display any of the measured values.
The right side of the main FlowCell window displays the complete list of measured
values.
Very Important: The check boxes next to each value select the values which will be
saved in data files. If the box is checked, the value will be saved. If the box is not checked, the
value will not be saved. When data acquisition is in progress, the selected values cannot be
changed. Because data files can be very large, it may be important to save only the necessary
values.
9.6. Background FlowCell has two different control modes: Background and Experiments. The
Background mode allows immediate manual control of the cell conditions. Background may be
thought of as a 'steady state' mode, since the cell is in operation at a fixed control point.
Experiments are used to perform a predefined (usually dynamic) sequence of events.
When the system is started, it initially operates in the Background mode. It also reverts to
the Background conditions after an
Experiment sequence has been
completed. If the Background conditions
are changed while an Experiment
sequence in progress, the new
Background conditions will be applied
after the sequence is completed.
Selecting the Cell icon opens the Setup Cell window and is used to define conditions
such as the cell size, potential and current limits, and cell temperature. The Setup Cell screen is
also displayed during program startup. This allows the background conditions to be set before
the system is started.
Selecting the Flow icon opens the Setup Flow window for modification of the flow rates
or tank temperature set points. The Setup Fuel screen is also displayed during program startup.
This allows the background conditions to be set before the system is started.
The Recording icon is used to adjust the data acquisition rate used when the instrument
is operating in the Background mode. The Start icon is used to specify a data file and start
acquisition. While Background data acquisition is in progress, the Record icon can be used to
change measurement rates, the Pause button can be used to temporarily stop acquisition, and the
Stop button ends acquisition. If an Experiment sequence is started, the Background acquisition is
normally halted and resumes after the Experiment sequence finishes. The Record button can be
used to modify this behavior so that the Background data file receives data during Experiments.
The cell may be controlled using constant current or constant voltage Control Modes. The
Control Value may be specified by typing a new value and clicking on Apply, or by moving the
Control Scrollbar. The control range or limits of the scrollbar are defined by the minimum and
maximum limits defined in the Cell setup screen.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
38
The Record and Control spinners indicate which functions are active. For example,
when an experiment is being performed, the Background Control spinner will stop and a
Control spinner in the Experiments section of the screen will be displayed indicating that the
load is being controlled by the experiment and not by the background setting.
9.7. Graphs The lower portion of the screen is used to display graphs of the measured data. Any
number of graphs may be displayed at the same time.
New graphs are created using the Graphs Menu. Select the X-axis type, and then select
the Y-axis from the available options. Note: Only the parameters which will be saved in data
files are available as graph axes.
After a graph is created, other configuration options are available by clicking on the
graph using the Right Mouse Button and selecting Setup....
Use the Windows | Tile options to rearrange to the graphs on the display.
Each graph may display either Background Data or Experiment Data. Separate time
values are maintained for each mode.
Background Data: The data is graphed with both red dots and blue lines.
The red dots are displayed every second, independent of the data acquisition rate and
show the last 1,000 seconds of operation. They provide a continuous, live display of the cell
conditions.
Blue lines connect data points that are being saved to the Background data file. Only the
last 10,000 data points are displayed. Other data many be contained in the data file, but not
displayed on the graph. If background data is not being saved, the blue lines will not be
displayed.
The time axis is reset to zero when Background data acquisition is started (using the
Background Start button). Starting and stopping Experiments does not reset the Background time
axis to zero.
The Pause and Continue functions do not reset the time axis.
Experiment Data: The data is graphed with both red dots and blue lines. Both dots and
lines are displayed at the rate specified by the experiment being performed. If no data file is
specified for the experiment, the red dots will be displayed, but not the blue lines.
The time axis is reset to zero when an Experiment sequence is started (using the Run
button). Time is not reset to zero between experiments in a sequence. For example, if two
experiments are run in a sequence, and the first experiment lasts 100 seconds, the data from the
second experiment will start at t = 100, not at t = 0.
Scaling Graphs: Graphs can be rescaled using several different methods.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
39
To specify fixed axes limits, Right Click on a graph and select Setup....
To autoscale the graph so that all data points are visible, Right Click on the graph and
select AutoScale.
To autoscale all graphs, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+A.
To create a scrolling axis, Right Click on the graph and select AutoScroll. The current
span of the x-axis will be maintained and the axis will scroll to the left as new data is aquired. To
change span of the scrolled x-axis, use Setup... to manually select an axis range and then select
AutoScroll. Alternately, use the Zoom feature described below to select a span of data and then
select AutoScroll.
To Zoom the axis to examine data more closely, click on a graph, hold down the mouse
button and drag the mouse to select an area of data. Data inside the rectangle will be expanded to
fill the graph. After zooming, the axes will be fixed and may not display new data. Use
AutoScale or AutoScroll to resume automatic scaling.
9.8. Flow Select Menu Click on the Flow Select button to open the Flow Selection window.
Operations such as filling and draining the tanks,
purging the cell, and flushing the cell are performed from
within the Flow Selection window. Note that temperatures
and the potentiostat (load) cannot be turned on when in
the Flow Selection mode.
The Flow Selection mode is intended for start-up and shut-down of the flow cell and test
system and for maintenance operations such as transferring the electrolytes to their tanks for
storage, actively purging the cell and solutions with purge gas (e.g., for de-aeration), as well as
draining the cell and flushing it with water prior to disconnecting it from the 857 Flow Bench.
The RIGHT side of the Flow Selection window pertains to actions performed by or on
the right tank and pump of the 857 Flow Bench and is reserved for the Positive Electrolyte.
Likewise, the LEFT side of the Flow Selection window pertains to actions performed by or on
the left tank and pump of the 857 Flow Bench and is reserved for the Negative Electrolyte.
Operations performed on the Negative (left) and Positive (right) electrolytes are
independent.
The direction and speed (flow rate) of the pump is controlled through FlowCell. The
operator should not manually operate the pumps.
It is recommended that low flow rates are used initially until the operator confirms proper
operation of the flow system. Ensure that all connections and flow path elements are in-place,
connected and that the valves are in the correct state (valve position) prior to starting the pumps.
Click “Stop Flow” to stop both pumps.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
40
The five (5) flow selection modes are described below.
Note that only when the 857 Flow Bench is in the Operating Mode is the operator
permitted to exit the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
41
9.8.1. Purge System / Drain Cell - Figure 8
This mode is used to drain the cell of electrolyte, placing the solution in the tank.
Continued use of this mode after draining the cell will cause gas in the tank to be pumped
through the flow loop, cell and tank thus actively purging the flow path and electrolyte.
In this mode the pump operates in the counter-clockwise direction. The upper and lower
valves are positioned as shown in Figure 8.
Note that active purge of the solution in this mode is only effective if the purge gas flow
rate exceeds the pump flow rate and the tank volume has previously been expunged of unwanted
species (such as oxygen). Verify inert gas flow using the rotometers.
Figure 8 – Purge System / Drain Cell mode in the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
42
9.8.2. Fill Tanks – Figure 9
This mode is used to pump solution into a tank from an external source. To do this,
connect a tube to the lower valve fitting. Place the free-end of that tube into the solution to be
pumped into the tank. Place the valves in the indicated state.
The pumps will operate in the clock-wise direction, drawing solution from the source
vessel, through the flow path and cell and into the tank via the upper valve.
Click Apply to start the pumps.
Figure 9 – Fill Tanks mode in the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
43
9.8.3. Operate Mode - Figure 10
This mode must be entered before exit of the Flow Selection window is enabled (un-
greyed). Make sure to place the valves in the state indicated before exiting the Flow Selection
window.
To prepare to operate the flow cell, place the valves in the position shown and click
Apply.
The pumps will operate in the clockwise direction drawing solution from the tank,
through the flow path and cell and back into the tank through the upper valve.
Figure 10 – Operate mode in the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
44
Drain Cell and Tank - Figure 11
Figure 11 This mode is intended for draining of the electrolyte from all components of the
system, including the cell, tank, and flow path.
To do this, connect the upper valve fitting to a collection tank with tube, place the valves
in the position shown, and click Apply.
The pumps will operate in the clockwise direction drawing solution from the tank,
through the flow path and cell and out the upper valve into the collection vessel.
Figure 11 – Drain Cell and Tank mode in the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
45
9.8.4. Flush Cell and Pump - Figure 12
This mode is intended for flushing of the cell, flow loop and pump tubing with water or
other flushing solution.
To flush the cell and flow path, connect the lower valve fitting to a suitable collection
container. Connect a tube to the upper valve fitting. Place the free end of that tube in a container
of the flushing solution such as deionized water. Place the valves in the position shown and click
Apply.
The pumps will operate in the counter-clockwise direction drawing solution from source
flush solution container and pumping it through the flow path and cell and out the lower valve
into the collection vessel.
Figure 12 – Flush Cell and Pump mode in the Flow Selection window.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
46
9.9. Experiments Experiments are used to define a sequence
of control and data acquisition events. A
short description of each experiment in the
sequence is displayed in the experiment
list.
Edit... is used to modify the settings for
the highlighted line in the experiment list.
New... inserts a new experiment into the
list. Note that the new experiment is
inserted before the line that is highlighted.
To add an experiment to the end of the
list, highlight the blank line at the end of
the list.
Delete removes a line from the experiment list.
The Up and Down buttons are used to change the order of the experiments in the experiment list.
Run All starts the experiment sequence. All of the experiments in the list will be performed.
Run Sel begins the experiment sequence. Only the highlighted experiments are performed.
While experiments are in progress, two options are available. Stop will end the experiments and
return the system to the Background mode. Skip will end the current experiment and proceed to
the next experiment in the list.
The following experiment types are available:
Open Circuit Measures the Open Circuit Potential for a specified amount of
time.
Constant Current Applies a Constant Current for a specified amount of time.
Constant Voltage Applies a Constant Potential for a specified amount of time.
Scan Current Sweeps the Applied Current between specified set-points.
Scan Voltage Sweeps the Applied Voltage between specified set-points.
Current Impedance Performs a current-controlled Impedance measurement
Voltage Impedance Performs a voltage-controlled Impedance measurement
Change Cell Changes the Cell parameters such as the cell temperature and
alarm limits.
Change Flow Changes the Flow conditions such as flow rate and tank
temperature
Run External Utility Runs a user-written external program.
Repeat Loop Inserts a loop into the experiment list. Experiments that are placed
within the loop will be repeated a specified number of times.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
47
9.9.1. Open Circuit
Measures the Open Circuit voltage for a
specified amount of time.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will be
warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd
will be used. If however, you specify
tutor1.abc, the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file.
The time, date, and all measurement parameters displayed in this window are automatically
saved in the data file, so you do not need to write these into the comment lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment:
Duration determines the total length of the experiment.
Data Acquisition:
If Fixed Rate is chosen, the acquisition rate in seconds/point is specified.
The delta-E method is specified by three parameters. Data is measured by the instrument at the
rate specified by Minimum Time/Point, but not all of this data is saved. If the cell voltage
changes (compared to the last point saved) by more than the V/Point setting, a new data point is
saved. If the signal is not changing, the data is saved at the rate specified by the Maximum
Time/Point. Using this method allows FlowCell to collect large numbers of data points when the
signal is changing quickly and relatively few points when the signal is stable. Before using
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
48
delta-E, you may wish to use a ‘Fixed Rate’ experiment to get a feel for the noise level of the
cell. This will help in selecting an appropriate value for V/Point.
Termination:
If all Use boxes are unchecked, the experiment will be performed for the time specified by
Duration.
If Use dV/dt is checked, the experiment is automatically terminated before the Duration period
if the rate of drift in the voltage goes below that specified by dV and dt. The data is averaged
over periods of dt. If the average voltage changes by less that dV over two successive periods of
dt, the experiment is terminated. Note that a slope of 6 mV/minute can be specified several ways.
If dV = 0.1 mV and dt = 1 second, the termination will not be performed correctly. The noise
level of the instrument is larger than 0.1 mV and will interfere with the termination. Only when
data is averaged over a long period of time can a slope termination be used.
If Use V < is checked, the experiment is automatically terminated before the Duration period, if
the whole cell voltage goes below the specified value. If Use V > is checked, the experiment is
automatically terminated before the Duration period, if the whole cell voltage goes above the
specified value. The termination voltages are tested for each saved data point, as specified by the
data acquisition rate.
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
49
9.9.2. Constant Current
Applies a constant current for a specified
amount of time.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will be
warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd
will be used. If however, you specify
tutor1.abc, the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file.
The time, date, and all measurement
parameters displayed in this window are
automatically saved in the data file, so you do
not need to write these into the comment
lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment:
The Applied Current is the total current applied to the cell. If Absolute is used, the entered
current will be applied. If vs. Previous is used, the current is changed relative to the current just
prior to the experiment. For example, if the previous experiment was ‘Controlled Voltage’, and
at the end of this experiment the current was 1.5 Amps, selecting 0 vs. Previous would change
the unit to ‘Controlled Current’, but the current would stay at 1.5 Amps.
Duration determines the total length of the experiment.
Data Acquisition:
If Fixed Rate is chosen, the acquisition rate in seconds/point is specified.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
50
The delta-E method is specified by three parameters. Data is measured by the instrument at the
rate specified by Minimum Time/Point, but not all of this data is saved. If the cell voltage
changes (compared to the last point saved) by more than the V/Point setting, a new data point is
saved. If the signal is not changing, the data is saved at the rate specified by the Maximum
Time/Point. Using this method allows FlowCell to collect large numbers of data points when the
signal is changing quickly, and relatively few points when the signal is stable. Before using
delta-E, you may wish to use a ‘Fixed Rate’ experiment to get a feel for the noise level of the
cell. This will help in selecting an appropriate value for V/Point.
Termination:
If all Use boxes are unchecked, the experiment will be performed for the time specified by
Duration.
If Use V < is checked, the experiment is automatically terminated before the Duration period, if
the whole cell voltage goes below the specified value. If Use V > is checked, the experiment is
automatically terminated before the Duration period, if the whole cell voltage goes above the
specified value. The termination voltages are tested for each saved data point, as specified by the
data acquisition rate.
I Range can be used to change the current range used during the experiment step. The default
setting is No Change, which will leave the current range at its existing setting (typically selected
in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
51
9.9.3. Constant Voltage
Applies a constant voltage for a specified
amount of time.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will be
warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd
will be used. If however, you specify
tutor1.abc, the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file.
The time, date, and all measurement
parameters displayed in this window are
automatically saved in the data file, so you do
not need to write these into the comment
lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment: The Applied Potential is total voltage applied to the entire stack. If Absolute is used, the
entered potential will be applied. If vs. Open Circuit is chosen, the specified potential is added
to the open circuit potential of the cell. For example, -0.1 vs. Open Circuit would apply a
potential 0.1 Volts below the measured open circuit potential. Note that the OCP is sampled
whenever the system is at open circuit. If a load has been applied to the cell, the old OCP may
not reflect new cell conditions. The Open Circuit experiment may be used to update the value
used when calculating vs. Open Circuit potentials.
If vs. Previous is used, the potential is changed relative to the potential just prior to the
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
52
experiment. For example, if the previous experiment was ‘Controlled Current’ and at the end of
this experiment, the current was 0.65 Volts, selecting 0 vs. Previous would change the unit to
‘Controlled Potential’, but the potential would stay at 0.65 Volts.
The Control parameter selects which voltage is controlled. When E is selected, the total cell
voltage is controlled. When E Compensated is selected, the iR corrected voltage is controlled.
Duration determines the total length of the experiment.
Data Acquisition: If Fixed Rate is chosen, the acquisition rate in seconds/point is specified.
The delta-I method is specified by three parameters. Data is measured by the instrument at the
rate specified by Minimum Time/Point, but not all of this data is saved. If the cell current
changes (compared to the last point saved) by more than the mV/Point setting, a new data point
is saved. If the signal is not changing, the data is saved at the rate specified by the Maximum
Time/Point. Using this method allows FlowCell to collect large numbers of data points when the
signal is changing quickly, and relatively few points when the signal is stable. Before using
delta-I, you may wish to use a ‘Fixed Rate’ experiment to get a feel for the noise level of the
cell. This will help in selecting an appropriate value for A/Point.
Termination: If all Use boxes are unchecked, the experiment will be performed for the time specified by
Duration.
If Use V < is checked, the experiment is automatically terminated before the Duration period if
the whole cell voltage goes below the specified value. If Use V > is checked, the experiment is
automatically terminated before the Duration period if the whole cell voltage goes above the
specified value. The termination voltages are tested for each saved data point, as specified by the
data acquisition rate.
I Range can be used to change the current range used during the experiment step. The default
setting is No Change, which will leave the current range at its existing setting (typically selected
in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made. Cancel exits
the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost. Help accesses the
on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
53
9.9.4. Scan Current
Sweeps the applied current between
specified setpoints.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will
be warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd
will be used. If however, you specify
tutor1.abc, the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file.
The time, date, and all measurement
parameters displayed in this window are
automatically saved in the data file, so you
do not need to write these into the comment
lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop,
it will be performed multiple times. The data from each repetition may be saved in a Single File
(with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be saved in Separate Files. When separate files
are used, new file names are automatically generated to distinguish each repetition. For example,
if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd,
tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment: Up to 4 separate currents can be applied during the experiment. The experiment starts at the
Initial Current, sweeps to Vertex #1, to Vertex #2, and then to the Final Current. Click on the
Used boxes to turn on and off the Vertex #1 and Vertex #2 setpoints. If a vertex’s Used box is
not checked, that segment of the sweep will be skipped. For example, if only Vertex #1 is
checked the sweep Initial --> Vertex #1 --> Final is performed. If neither vertex is checked,
Initial --> Final is performed.
If Absolute is used, the entered current will be applied. If vs. Previous is used, the current is
changed relative to the current just prior to the experiment. For example, if the previous
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
54
experiment was ‘Controlled Voltage’ and at the end of this experiment, the current was 1.5
Amps, selecting 0 vs. Previous would change the unit to ‘Controlled Current’, but the current
would stay at 1.5 Amps. If vs. Initial is used, the current is in reference to the Initial setpoint of
this experiment.
A Linear Sweep, Linear Stair-Step or Logarithmic Stair-Step can be performed.
If a Linear Sweep is used, the current will be swept in a smooth ramp, defined by Scan Rate
(mA/second). The Data Rate can be specified as a Fixed Rate (Seconds/Point), or as delta-I
(mA/point).
A Linear Stair-Step scan will step the current
between discrete levels, and hold the current at
value for the specified Step Time.
A Logarithmic Stair-Step scan will step the
current between discrete levels, and hold the
current at value for the specified Step Time. The
current is incremented in logarithmic steps, where the specified number of steps are performed
for each decade of current (factor of 10 of current).
For Stair-Step scans, the Data Rate is specified as either a Fixed Rate (Seconds/Point), or as a
number of Points/Step. If Point/Step =1, the Average % value determines when the data point is
measured during the step. If Averaging=10%, the data point is the average signal during the final
10% of the time at each current step.
I Range can be used to change the current range used during the experiment step. The default
setting is No Change, which will leave the current range at its existing setting (typically selected
in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
Termination/Reversal: Select Reverse Scan, if you want to scan from small currents to larger currents, and then reverse
when the potential drops below the Potential < value or above the Potential > value. When the
reverse scan is triggered, the scan proceeds to the Final Current.
Select Terminate Scan, if you want to scan from small currents to larger currents, and terminate
the scan when the potential drops below the Potential < value or above the Potential > value.
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
55
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
56
9.9.5. Scan Voltage
Sweeps the applied voltage between
specified setpoints.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will
be warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd
will be used. If however, you specify
tutor1.abc, the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file.
The time, date, and all measurement
parameters displayed in this window are
automatically saved in the data file, so you
do not need to write these into the comment
lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment: Up to 4 separate potentials can be applied during the experiment. The experiment starts at the
Initial Potential, sweeps to Vertex #1, to Vertex #2, and then to the Final Potential. Click on
the Used boxes to turn on and off the Vertex #1 and Vertex #2 setpoints. If a vertex’s Used box
is not checked, that segment of the sweep will be skipped. For example, if only Vertex #1 is
checked the sweep Initial --> Vertex #1 --> Final is performed. If neither vertex is checked,
Initial --> Final is performed.
If Absolute is used, the entered potential will be applied. If vs. Open Circuit is chosen, the
specified potential is added to the open circuit potential of the cell. For example -0.1 vs. Open
Circuit would apply a potential 0.1 Volts below the measured open circuit potential. Note that
the OCP is sampled whenever the system is at open circuit. If a load has been applied to the cell,
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
57
the old OCP may not reflect new cell conditions. The Open Circuit experiment may be used to
update the value used when calculation vs. Open Circuit potentials.
If vs. Previous is used, the potential is changed relative to the potential just prior to the
experiment. For example, if the previous experiment was ‘Controlled Current’ and at the end of
this experiment, the current was 0.65 Volts, selecting 0 vs. Previous would change the unit to
‘Controlled Potential’, but the potential would stay at 0.65 Volts.
If vs. Initial is used, the potential is in reference to the Initial setpoint of this experiment.
Scan Type:
A Linear Sweep or Linear Stair-Step can be performed.
If a Linear Sweep is used, the voltage will be swept in a smooth ramp, defined by Scan Rate
(mV/second). The Data Rate can be specified as a Fixed Rate (Seconds/Point), or as delta-E
(mV/point).
A Linear Stair-Step scan will step the voltage between discrete levels, and hold the voltage at
value for the specified Step Time.
For Stair-Step scans, the Data Rate is specified as either a Fixed Rate (Seconds/Point), or as a
number of Points/Step. If Point/Step =1, the
Average % value determines when the data point
is measured during the step. If Averaging=10%,
the data point is the average signal during the final
10% of the time at each voltage step.
I Range can be used to change the current range
used during the experiment step. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the current
range at its existing setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
Termination/Reversal: Select Reverse Scan if you want to scan from high voltage to low voltage, and then reverse
when the current goes above the Current > value or below the Current < value. When the
reverse scan is triggered, the scan proceeds to the Final Potential.
Select Terminate Scan, if you want to scan from large voltage to low voltage and terminate the
scan when the current goes above the Current > value or below the Current < value
.
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
58
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
59
9.9.6. Controlled Current Impedance
Performs an Impedance Sweep using
controlled current conditions.
NOTE: Normal operation of the control
system will be suspended during impedance
measurements. For example, the HFR (High
Frequency Resistance) function used to
measure iR drop in the cell must be
suspended during an impedance sweep
measurement.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will be
warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd will be used. If however, you specify tutor1.abc,
the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file. The time, date, and all measurement parameters
displayed in this window are automatically saved in the data file, so you do not need to write
these into the comment lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment: Note: The DC cell conditions must be stabilized before performing impedance measurements.
Insert other experiment types into the experiment prior to the impedance experiment to select the
steady state cell conditions. The ‘Impedance’ experiment will maintain the DC conditions
applied by the previous experiment.
The AC Amplitude may be specified in Amps, or as a percentage of existing DC current. If the
amplitude is too large, the impedance data may be distorted because of the non-linear E vs. I
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
60
behavior of the cell. If the amplitude is too small, the impedance data may be noisy. When a
large DC current is present, an AC Amplitude of 10% of the DC current is appropriate. At low or
zero DC current, an AC current that produces ~10mV of AC voltage is suggested. The low
frequency cell resistance can be used to calculate the relationship between AC current and AC
voltage.
A frequency sweep can be performed using Linear or Logarithmic spacing between the
frequencies, or a List of frequencies can be manually selected.
For most impedance experiments, a Logarithmic Sweep, using 10 Steps/Decade is best. This
will produce 10 data points between 1000 Hz and 100 Hz, 10 points between 100 Hz and 10 Hz,
etc.
The Initial Frequency is normally the highest frequency measured, and the Final Frequency is
the lowest.
The Frequency List allows exact frequencies to be selected.
Termination: If Use V < is checked, the experiment is automatically
terminated before finishing the frequency sweep if the
whole cell voltage goes below the specified value. If
Use V > is checked, the experiment is automatically
terminated if the whole cell voltage goes above the
specified value. The termination voltages are tested for each saved data point.
I Range can be used to change the current range used during the experiment step. The default
setting is No Change, which will leave the current range at its existing setting (typically selected
in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
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9.9.7. Controlled Voltage Impedance
Performs an Impedance Sweep using
controlled voltage conditions.
NOTE: Normal operation of the control
system will be suspended during impedance
measurements. For example, the HFR (High
Frequency Resistance) function used to
measure iR drop in the cell must be
suspended during an impedance sweep
measurement.
When the experiment is performed, the data
will be saved in the file specified by Data
File. The Directory button can be used to
display a list of all directories and files. This
is particularly useful, if you forget the file
names you have already used. Before
FlowCell begins performing the first
experiment in the experiment list, you will be
warned, if the file already exists.
FlowCell automatically appends the suffix
‘.FCD’ to data files, if you do not enter one.
Thus, if you specify tutor1, the file tutor1.fcd will be used. If however, you specify tutor1.abc,
the file tutor1.abc will be used.
The Comments text is saved in the data file. The time, date, and all measurement parameters
displayed in this window are automatically saved in the data file, so you do not need to write
these into the comment lines.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it will be performed multiple times. The data from
each repetition may be saved in a Single File (with multiple data sets in a single file), or it can be
saved in Separate Files. When separate files are used, new file names are automatically
generated to distinguish each repetition. For example, if the file name tutor1.fcd is selected, data
files named tutor1_rp01.fcd, tutor1_rp02.fcd, tutor1_rp03.fcd... will be created.
When an experiment is inside a repeat loop, it is not necessary to save the data from all
repetitions. If 100 repetitions are chosen, and Save Every n’th Cycle is 10, only the data from
cycles 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 will be saved.
Experiment: Note: The DC cell conditions must be stabilized before performing impedance measurements.
Insert other experiment types into the experiment prior to the impedance experiment to select the
steady state cell conditions. The ‘Impedance’ experiment will maintain the DC conditions
applied by the previous experiment.
The AC Amplitude is specified in mV.
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62
A frequency sweep can be performed using Linear or Logarithmic spacing between the
frequencies, or a List of frequencies can be manually selected.
For most impedance experiments, a Logarithmic Sweep, using 10 Steps/Decade is best. This
will produce 10 data points between 1000 Hz and 100 Hz, 10 points between 100 Hz and 10 Hz,
etc.
The Initial Frequency is normally the highest frequency measured, and the Final Frequency is
the lowest.
The Frequency List allows exact frequencies to be
selected.
Termination: If all Use boxes are unchecked, the experiment will be
performed for the time specified by Duration.
If Use I < is checked, the frequency sweep is automatically terminated if the current goes below
the specified value. If Use I > is checked, the experiment is automatically terminated if the
current goes above the specified value. The termination currents are tested for each saved data
point, as specified by the data acquisition rate.
I Range can be used to change the current range used during the experiment step. The default
setting is No Change, which will leave the current range at its existing setting (typically selected
in the Background settings).
The Bandwidth selection can be used to control the speed and frequency response of the
potentiostat. The default setting is No Change, which will leave the bandwidth at its existing
setting (typically selected in the Background settings).
FlowCell displays a one-line description of each experiment in the experiment list. If a
Description is entered, it will be used in the list. If no description is entered, FlowCell will
create a description from the experimental parameters.
If AutoPrint Graphs is selected, after the experiment is finished, any graphs that are displaying
experiment data will be printed.
The OK button exits the setup window and saves any changes you may have made.
Cancel exits the setup window. Any changes you may have made to the parameters are lost.
Help accesses the on-line help information on the setting up of this experiment.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
63
9.9.8. Change Cell
Changes the cell definition parameters. The cell
parameters include the cell temperature and
alarm limits.
The Surface Area and Number of Cells in
Stack cannot be modified in the Change Cell
experiment. These values can only be modified
through the Background Cell settings.
The Cell Temperature setpoint controls the
heaters in the cell fixture. These are powered by
the connector on the front panel. To provide a
safety unit for cell temperature, which may rise
due to iR heating, the system will shut down if
the Maximum Temperature value is
exceeded. The Maximum Temperature must
not exceed 50 oC.
The next six lines define the maximum and
minimum allowable values for Current (I) and
Voltage (E), measured in Amperes (A) and Volts (V), respectively.
The system will not permit operation of the cell at values greater than the Maximum or less than
the Minimum control values set in this menu.
If the Shut Down Min Voltage (E) or Shut Down Max Voltage (E) is detected, the system will
enter a safe-mode by turning OFF the potentiostat (load), flows and temperatures.
If the Beep box is checked, FlowCell will produce a beep from the computers speaker if the
minimum or maximum limits are exceeded.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
64
9.9.9. Change Flow
Changes the pump flow and tank heaters.
There are two basic parameters to be selected
for both the Negative and Positive
Electrolytes: flow rate (mL/min) and tank
temperature.
The system will shut down if the measured
temperature exceeds the Maximum value.
Chapter 9 FlowCell Software Instructions
65
9.9.10. Run External Utility
Runs a user-written external program.
This experiment does not perform any
measurements. It is used to launch external
utility programs written by the user. For
example, if the user wrote a small program in
Visual Basic to set the temperature on a
temperature controller, this experiment could
be used to run the program to change a valve
not directly controlled by FlowCell.
Program Name should the path and filename
of the user-written program to be run. The Directory button may be used to see your drives and
directories and will help locate the desired program file.
The Command Line Options is text that will be given to the utility program. FlowCell does not
interpret the command line information in any way, but simply passes it on to the utility. The
utility can be written to interpret the command line information. For example, a utility program
to set the temperature on a temperature controller could interpret the command line: 50 10 to
mean that it should set the temperature to 50 °C and wait for 10 minutes before exiting (to let the
temperature stabilize).
If Wait for External Utility to Exit is selected, FlowCell will wait for the utility to close before
proceeding to next experiment in the list.
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9.9.11. Repeat Loop
Inserts a loop into the experiment list.
Experiments that are placed within the loop
will be repeated a specified number of times.
This experiment puts a pair of Repeat
(Begin) and Repeat (End) lines into the experiment list. Any experiments that are positioned
between the Begin and End will be repeated the specified number of times.
In this experiment list, ‘Constant Current’ and ‘Scan Voltage’
experiments are positioned between the Repeat (Begin) and
Repeat (End) lines. When run, the sequence would be repeated
10 times.
Chapter 10 FlowCell Data and File Formats
67
CHAPTER 10 - FLOWCELL DATA AND FILE FORMATS
10.1. Data Value Definitions
The following list describes the source of each type of data value. Some values are
directly measured and others are calculated from other measured values.
Current
Amps: Measured total current
mA/cm2: Amps × 1000 ÷ Surface Area per Cell
Power
Watts: Amps × Stack Voltage
Watts/cm2: Watts ÷ Surface Area per Cell ÷ Number of Cells in Stack
Potential (Volts)
Stack: Measured Full Stack Voltage
Cell Avg.: Stack ÷ Number of Cells in Stack
Ref1: Measured between Aux. Reference Inputs
iR Comp. Potential (Volts)
Stack: Stack Potential + (Current × HFR)
Cell Avg.: iR Compensated Stack ÷ Number of Cells in Stack
Ref1: Ref1 Potential + (Current × HFR)
iR Drop (Volts)
Stack: Current × HFR
Cell Avg.: Stack iR Drop ÷ Number of Cells in Stack
Ref1: Current + HFR
Cell
Temp (°C): Measured Cell Temperature
SOC (V): Voltage from State of Charge electrodes
SOC (%): Calculated State of Charge
Negative Side
Temp (°C): Measured Negative Side Temperature
Flow (l/min): Flow signal from Negative Side Pump Controller
Positive Side
Temp (°C): Measured Negative Side Temperature
Flow (l/min): Flow signal from Positive Side Pump Controller
Impedance
Chapter 10 FlowCell Data and File Formats
68
HFR (mΩ): Most recently measured high-frequency resistance. This value is not
scaled by the cell stack number or surface area. It is only available with
test systems containing an internal 880 Frequency Analyzer.
Freq: Applied AC Frequency
Real (Ω): Total measured Real impedance (Z’). The value is not scaled by the cell
stack number or surface area.
Imag (Ω): Total measured Imaginary impedance (Z”). The value is not scaled by the
cell stack number or surface area.
Mag (Ω): Total measured impedance magnitude (|Z|). The value is not scaled by the
cell stack number or surface area.
Angle (Deg): Measured Phase Angle.
Control Signals Note: The control signals record the set-points for each control condition,
not measured values.
Control Status: 0 = flow off, load off; 1 = flow on, load off, 3 = flow on, load on
Ctrl Mode: 0 = Open Circuit; 1=Ctrl Current; 2 = Ctrl Voltage
Ctrl Value: Control Setpoint in Amps, Volts
Cell Temp: Cell Temperature Setpoint
Neg. Temp: Negative side Temperature Setpoint
Pos. Temp: Positive side Temperature Setpoint
Neg. Flow: Negative side Flow Rate setpoint (negative values indicate
counterclockwise flow)
Pos. Flow: Positive side Flow Rate setpoint (negative values indicate
counterclockwise flow)
10.2. Data File Format
The right edge of FlowCell displays the complete list of measured
values.
Very Important: The check boxes next to each value select the values
which will be saved in data files. If the box is checked, the value will be
saved. If the box is not checked, the value will not be saved. When data
acquisition is in progress, the selected values cannot be changed.
Because data files can be very large, it is important to save only the
values which are necessary.
The UP button to the left of the list will compress the list so that only
the saved values are displayed. A compressed list may be expanded
using the DOWN button. The SIZE button will expand the list to use
the full height of the FlowCell window.
An example data file is shown on the following page.
The Header text lists the parameters of the experiment used to measure
the data. The length of the header will vary depending on the
experiment, but the final line of the header will always be “End Comments”.
Chapter 10 FlowCell Data and File Formats
69
All data values are separated by tabs.
Use With Spreadsheets
When you save data from an experiment, FlowCell stores your data in a format that is
compatible with most spreadsheet software (for example, Microsoft Excel). If you open a data
file in Excel, a Text-Import Wizard starts that attempts to read the data and understand its
format. In this Text-Import Wizard, select Delimited for the file format, and click Finish. You
can also open any data file as a text file in a word processor or other spreadsheet program.
FLOWCELL DATA
FlowCell: Version 1.0
Time: Friday, February 02, 2002 9:20:33 AM
DateTime: 36924.3892713889
This text was entered into the comments section of and experiment
Begin Experiment: Scan C: 0 A; 1 A; 0 vs Initial; 10 Sec/Pt; 0.05 A/Pt
Exp Name
Data File: C:\FlowCell\example data.fcd
Data Append: 0
Comment Lines: 1
Data Comment #1: This text was entered into the comments section of and experiment
Save N: 1
Save Multiple: 0
AutoPrint: 0
Duration: 10
Duration Type: 0
Pol1: 0
Pol2: 1
Pol3: 0
Pol4: 0
Pol1 Type: 0
Pol2 Type: 0
Pol3 Type: 2
Pol4 Type: 2
Pol2 Use: 1
Pol3 Use: 0
Scan Type: 0
Pol Delta Linear: 0.05
Pol Delta Log: 5
Slope Delta Pol: 0.005
Slope Delta Time: 10
Slope Delta Use: 0
Terminate Type: 0
Terminate Pol: 0.3
End Experiment: Scan C: 0 A; 1 A; 0 vs Initial; 10 Sec/Pt; 0.05 A/Pt
DataColumnCount: 11
DataColumn1: 0
DataColumn2: 1
DataColumn3: 5
DataColumn4: 11
DataColumn5: 12
DataColumn6: 41
DataColumn7: 51
DataColumn8: 52
DataColumn9: 53
DataColumn10: 61
DataColumn11: 62
Time (Sec) I (A) Power (Watts) E_Stack (V) E_Avg (V) E_iR_Stack (mOhm) Temp_Cell (C) Temp_Neg (C) Temp_Pos (C)
Flow_Neg (l/min) Flow_Neg (l/min)
End Comments
10.15 0.0000E+00 0.0000E+00 6.4220E+00 6.4220E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7500E+01 1.5300E+01 1.6500E+01 1.9903E-02 1.9666E-02
20.15 5.0026E-02 3.1418E-01 6.2804E+00 6.2804E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7600E+01 1.5300E+01 1.6500E+01 1.9907E-02 1.9676E-02
30.05 1.0001E-01 6.1869E-01 6.1865E+00 6.1865E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7700E+01 1.5300E+01 1.6600E+01 1.9910E-02 1.9673E-02
40.05 1.5003E-01 9.1421E-01 6.0934E+00 6.0934E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7700E+01 1.5400E+01 1.6600E+01 1.9910E-02 1.9693E-02
50.05 2.0000E-01 1.2000E+00 6.0000E+00 6.0000E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7800E+01 1.5400E+01 1.6700E+01 1.9911E-02 1.9693E-02
60.05 2.4997E-01 1.4766E+00 5.9070E+00 5.9070E-01 0.0000E+00 1.7900E+01 1.5400E+01 1.6700E+01 1.9913E-02 1.9691E-02
70.05 2.9998E-01 1.7440E+00 5.8137E+00 5.8137E-01 0.0000E+00 1.8000E+01 1.5400E+01 1.6700E+01 1.9916E-02 1.9698E-02
80.05 3.5004E-01 2.0023E+00 5.7202E+00 5.7202E-01 0.0000E+00 1.8000E+01 1.5500E+01 1.6800E+01 1.9913E-02 1.9691E-02
90.05 4.0000E-01 2.2508E+00 5.6270E+00 5.6270E-01 0.0000E+00 1.8000E+01 1.5500E+01 1.6900E+01 1.9918E-02 1.9710E-02
100.15 4.4999E-01 2.4903E+00 5.5342E+00 5.5342E-01 0.0000E+00 1.8100E+01 1.5600E+01 1.7000E+01 1.9915E-02 1.9705E-02
110.15 5.0000E-01 2.7202E+00 5.4403E+00 5.4403E-01 8.9623E+02 1.8200E+01 1.5800E+01 1.7000E+01 1.9920E-02 1.9700E-02
120.05 5.4996E-01 2.9409E+00 5.3474E+00 5.3474E-01 2.1296E+03 1.8200E+01 1.5800E+01 1.7000E+01 1.9920E-02 1.9695E-02
130.05 5.9999E-01 3.1523E+00 5.2539E+00 5.2539E-01 2.1143E+03 1.8300E+01 1.5900E+01 1.7100E+01 1.9922E-02 1.9713E-02
140.05 6.5000E-01 3.3541E+00 5.1602E+00 5.1602E-01 2.1067E+03 1.8400E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9929E-02 1.9717E-02
150.05 6.9999E-01 3.5466E+00 5.0666E+00 5.0666E-01 2.1013E+03 1.8400E+01 1.5900E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9936E-02 1.9717E-02
160.05 7.5000E-01 3.7298E+00 4.9731E+00 4.9731E-01 2.0904E+03 1.8400E+01 1.5900E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9929E-02 1.9725E-02
170.05 8.0000E-01 3.9035E+00 4.8793E+00 4.8793E-01 2.0849E+03 1.8400E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9919E-02 1.9727E-02
180.05 8.4997E-01 4.0672E+00 4.7851E+00 4.7851E-01 2.0776E+03 1.8500E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9937E-02 1.9730E-02
190.15 9.0002E-01 4.2221E+00 4.6912E+00 4.6912E-01 2.0709E+03 1.8600E+01 1.5900E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9936E-02 1.9730E-02
200.15 9.5000E-01 4.3670E+00 4.5969E+00 4.5969E-01 1.9818E+03 1.8600E+01 1.5900E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9937E-02 1.9725E-02
210.05 1.0000E+00 4.5027E+00 4.5025E+00 4.5025E-01 1.9792E+03 1.8600E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9931E-02 1.9756E-02
220.05 9.4996E-01 4.3657E+00 4.5957E+00 4.5957E-01 1.9839E+03 1.8700E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7200E+01 1.9936E-02 1.9744E-02
230.05 9.0002E-01 4.2200E+00 4.6888E+00 4.6888E-01 2.0740E+03 1.8800E+01 1.6000E+01 1.7300E+01 1.9940E-02 1.9737E-02
240.05 8.4996E-01 4.0649E+00 4.7824E+00 4.7824E-01 2.0808E+03 1.8800E+01 1.6100E+01 1.7300E+01 1.9944E-02 1.9725E-02
250.15 7.9999E-01 3.9004E+00 4.8755E+00 4.8755E-01 2.0901E+03 1.8800E+01 1.6100E+01 1.7300E+01 1.9931E-02 1.9744E-02
260.15 7.4999E-01 3.7268E+00 4.9691E+00 4.9691E-01 2.0991E+03 1.8800E+01 1.6100E+01 1.7300E+01 1.9937E-02 1.9732E-02
270.05 7.0000E-01 3.5435E+00 5.0622E+00 5.0622E-01 2.1066E+03 1.8900E+01 1.6200E+01 1.7400E+01 1.9936E-02 1.9732E-02
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280.05 6.4999E-01 3.3512E+00 5.1557E+00 5.1557E-01 2.1166E+03 1.8900E+01 1.6200E+01 1.7400E+01 1.9942E-02 1.9742E-02
290.05 6.0002E-01 3.1497E+00 5.2494E+00 5.2494E-01 2.1255E+03 1.8900E+01 1.6200E+01 1.7400E+01 1.9952E-02 1.9761E-02
300.05 5.5002E-01 2.9386E+00 5.3427E+00 5.3427E-01 2.1356E+03 1.9000E+01 1.6200E+01 1.7400E+01 1.9953E-02 1.9761E-02
310.25 4.9998E-01 2.7180E+00 5.4362E+00 5.4362E-01 8.5970E+02 1.9100E+01 1.6200E+01 1.7400E+01 1.9937E-02 1.9756E-02
320.15 4.4997E-01 2.4880E+00 5.5293E+00 5.5293E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9100E+01 1.6300E+01 1.7500E+01 1.9943E-02 1.9754E-02
330.05 4.0004E-01 2.2496E+00 5.6234E+00 5.6234E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9100E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7500E+01 1.9941E-02 1.9744E-02
340.05 3.5000E-01 2.0007E+00 5.7164E+00 5.7164E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9100E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9947E-02 1.9752E-02
350.05 2.9996E-01 1.7428E+00 5.8099E+00 5.8099E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9200E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9949E-02 1.9747E-02
360.05 2.5005E-01 1.4762E+00 5.9036E+00 5.9036E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9200E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9935E-02 1.9734E-02
370.15 2.0001E-01 1.1994E+00 5.9968E+00 5.9968E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9200E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9943E-02 1.9732E-02
380.15 1.5000E-01 9.1358E-01 6.0907E+00 6.0907E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9200E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9944E-02 1.9734E-02
390.05 9.9988E-02 6.1830E-01 6.1838E+00 6.1838E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9200E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7600E+01 1.9949E-02 1.9756E-02
400.05 5.0008E-02 3.1394E-01 6.2778E+00 6.2778E-01 0.0000E+00 1.9300E+01 1.6400E+01 1.7500E+01 1.9951E-02 1.9744E-02
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10.3. Analyzing Impedance Data
Impedance data can be graphed and analyzed using the ZView program. ZView must be installed
separately, from the software CD. ZView provides several tutorials on the graphing and analysis
of impedance data.
ZView Notes:
To display impedance data while measurements are being performed, start ZView and locate the
item in the toolbar that shows ‘No Active Data’. Click on the drop down box and select
~FlowCell 3 to display the live data as it is being measured by the FlowCell program.
- Use Ctrl+A or Option | AutoScale All Graphs to rescale the graphs to match the data.
- To load FlowCell data files that contain impedance measurements, select File | Data Files...
and select FuelCell +FlowCell Files (*.fcd) as the file type.
Chapter 10 FlowCell Data and File Formats
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Appendix A Rotometer Data Sheet
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APPENDIX A – ROTOMETER DATA SHEET
Appendix A Rotometer Data Sheet
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