MOVACOLOR MC-Balance

Instruction Manual
FOR SOFTWARE VERSION : V3.0 and higher.
MANUAL VERSION : V1.6

June 2005

Sales/Service/Distribution by:

INDEX
1. GENERAL INFORMATION _________________________________________________________ 3
1.1

Warranty______________________________________________________________________ 3

1.2

Safety_________________________________________________________________________ 3

2. METERING PRINCIPLE ____________________________________________________________ 4

3. DOSING CYLINDERS ______________________________________________________________ 5
4. INSTALLATION ___________________________________________________________________ 6
4.1 Transport________________________________________________________________________ 6
4.2 Mechanical Installation ____________________________________________________________ 6
4.3 Electrical Connections _____________________________________________________________ 7
5. OPERATION _______________________________________________________________________ 8
5.1 The Interface _____________________________________________________________________ 8
5.2 Service Menu ____________________________________________________________________ 9
5.3 Calibration Procedure ____________________________________________________________ 11
5.4 Weight Check Menu: _____________________________________________________________ 12
5.5 Consumption registration (optional): _______________________________________________ 12
5.6 Configuration Menu: _____________________________________________________________ 13
5.7 Production Menu: _______________________________________________________________ 14
5.8 Function Hopper empty detection _________________________________________________ 15
5.9 Function Fast Calibration:_________________________________________________________ 15
5.10 Filling Systems (optional) ________________________________________________________ 16
6. SYSTEM PERFORMANCE _________________________________________________________ 19
7. TROUBLESHOOTING _____________________________________________________________ 21
APPENDIX A - Wiring Schematics _____________________________________________________ 23
APPENDIX B - Wiring Scheme Multiple Dosing Units ___________________________________ 24
APPENDIX C - Function of the Keys ___________________________________________________ 25
APPENDIX D - Technical Overview ___________________________________________________ 26
APPENDIX E - Quality Checklist ______________________________________________________ 27
APPENDIX F - Declaration of Conformity ______________________ Error! Bookmark not defined.

1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Thank you for purchasing a Movacolor metering device. This manual is addressed to operators
and specialized personnel taking care of the metering of dry additives. If you have any questions
about our products, please contact your local agent or Movacolor.

1.1

Warranty
*

Movacolor guarantees all work/goods delivered by us to be free from defects in material or

workmanship under normal use and service.

Movacolor obligation under this warranty being limited to making goods at its factory
any Movacolor product(s) which shall within three (3) years after delivery to the original
purchaser be returned intact to Movacolor in the Netherlands.

Our liability under this warranty will extend only to equipment that is returned to our
factory PREPAID.

1.2

Safety
*

Use the equipment only for what it is designed for. The metering of dry additives!

Before switching on the unit for the first time, ensure that the main power voltage being
applied is set on the voltage selector at the main power entry.

Always switch off the Movacolor control cabinet and disconnect from electrical power
before performing maintenance.

The
symbol certifies that the machine conforms to the European Union regulations on
minimum safety standards.

Make sure all parts are securely fixed to your extruder or injection molding machine.

2. METERING PRINCIPLE
Movacolor metering devices use the dosingcylinder. This unique metering system combined
with a very precise adjustable stepping motor gives an accurate and regular additive output.
Movacolor provides different neckpieces to suit your particular application. The most common
mounting of the neckpiece is in between the production machine and its hopper. The picture
below shows a cut through of the standard type B neckpiece.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Neckpiece
Dosing cylinder
Cover plate
Virgin material
To production
machine

During operation the virgin material runs from the machine hopper through the neckpiece into the
machine. Inside the neckpiece the virgin material flow is divided into two streams by the cover
plate. In the space below the cover plate, the rotating cylinder is dosing additive.
Additive is added direct to the center of the virgin material flow, just before it enters the
production machine. This is a great advantage over metering devices that use batch pre-mixing
because pre-mixing can actual cause material separation. Separation of materials results in an
irregular additive flow into the production machine.

3. DOSING CYLINDERS
Depending on the application a different dosing cylinder might be needed.
Use the following table to roughly determine the best system for the application. For more detailed
information please contact your agent or Movacolor.

Cylinder type

Granular materials* Powder materials**

Accuracy

Max. output ***

YES

YES

GL

YES

NO

++

NO

YES

++

A-21
Feed screw

YES

YES

+/-

40 kg/h

A-30
Feed screw

YES

YES

+/-

150 kg/h

25 kg/h
2 kg/h
2 kg/h

* Granular material can either be normal or micro but has to be free flowing and non-static.
** Powder material must be free flowing, not sticky and non-static.
*** Max output is strongly relating to bulk density, the mentioned values are average.
Each dosing cylinder has a code, which indicates the type.
G cylinders
GN
GK
GNL
GBK
GKL
GKBL
GS

code
4
6
8
1
2
0
G

H cylinders
HN
HK
HBK
HS

code
5
7
3
H

Code

4. INSTALLATION
4.1 Transport
To protect the Movacolor unit against damage during transport, the unit is packed in a cartboard
box filled with polyurethane foam. In the event of damage to the unit, please contact your local
agent or Movacolor immediately. Delivery terms are Ex-Works Sneek, The Netherlands. Buyer is
responsible for the transport. Movacolor cannot be hold liable for any damage during transport.

4.2 Mechanical Installation

All mechanical parts are pre-assembled, making installation quick and simple.
1. Disconnect the hopper assembly from weighing platform by loosening the screw at the side
and pulling the hopper assembly backwards.
2. Install the neckpiece directly on top of the entrance of the production machine. Make sure
that the complete unit is mounted horizontally and fixed securely. Handle the weighing
platform with care!
3. Connect the hopper assembly back to the weighing platform. Also assure that the
earthwire from the hopper loader hose is connected to the load frame.
4. Assure proper earthing from the unit to the neckpiece, normally this is assured by making
the connection with the bolds.

Hopper assembly

Weighing platform

Mount the unit in a 90degree angle to the

machine barrel. As shown
in the picture

4.3 Electrical Connections

The MC-Balance needs an input signal from the production machine in order to operate.
Three different input signals can be used to control the MC-Balance.
1. A potential free relay contact.
Use the white and brown wire for the potential free contact.
2. A relay signal up to 24 Volt DC.
Relay signals can be used for an injection molding machine or an extruder that has not
tacho signal. In case of a powered relay signal connect the white wire to +24 VDC and the
yellow wire to - side.
3. A tacho signal up to 24 Volt DC.
This is used when the MC-Balance needs to be connected to an extruder that has a
generator that produces a voltage linear to the extruder speed. When using a Tacho
generator signal, shorten the white and brown wire, connect green to +24 VDC and yellow
to other contact of the generator. See Paragraph 5,5 for information about the configuration
of the tacho parameters.
The only other electrical installation necessary is connecting the cables to the control cabinet.
CAUTION
Make sure the right voltage is applied to
the control cabinet. The control cabinet has
a sticker to indicate the voltage setting.

See APPENDIX A and B for wiring schematics.

5. OPERATION
5.1 The Interface
In this manual a button will be depicted as follows [name of button].
The software in the balance has an easy to use menu structure. To switch between the different
menus press [MENU]. The [<<] and [>>] can be used to browse the menu. Questions in the menus
should be answered with [YES] or [NO]. The numerical keyboard is used to enter other data. To
move the cursor from one place to the other when entering data with the numerical keyboard us
the [], [], [] and [] buttons. Whenever using the numerical keyboard press [E] to confirm the
changes. Use [C] to discard warning messages from the screen. [ON] is used to switch the motor
on or in standby position and [OFF] to switch the motor off.

MC-Balance interface
Appendix C is a list of all buttons and button combinations and their functions.

5.2 Service Menu

To make the service menu available, keep [MENU] pressed while switching the main power on.
All data entered in the Service menu is saved in the memory and remains in the memory even
when the unit is shut off or unplugged.
1. Press [MENU] until the service menu appears.
2. Press [>>] to enter the menu.
3. Language code screen shows. Fill in the desired language code and press [E].

CODE

LANGUAGE

01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08

English
Francais
Deutsch
Espaol
Nederlands
Portugus
Trke
Italiano

4. The MC-Balance software version will appear. Press [>>].

5. Factory default screen shows. Changing to factory defaults will reset the memory of the EEPROM. Answer [NO] unless you are sure to clear all previous setting.
6. Filling System screen shows. Press [YES] or [NO] to enable or disable a filling system.
7. If the previous question is answered with [YES] the filling system type has to be selected.
Press [NO] to switch between MV and ME system. Press [YES] to confirm one of the
systems. An extra filling system menu will be enabled.
8. Motor configuration screen. Motor type 315 is automatically set. Press [YES] or [>>] to
continue. When 30 mm feed screw is selected in the configuration menu, the unit will
automatically change to motor type 580.
10. Alarm connector output can be set. Press [NO] to switch between Alarm and Dosing. Press
[YES] to confirm one of the options. When set to alarm, 24 Volt is applied to this connector
to power an external alarm signal. Dosing mode is only used if you demand a "motor
running control signal". This signal is equivalent to the motor control LED on the front of
the control cabinet and gives you a 24 Volt DC output signal.
11. Device address setting: In the case of using a PC to communicate with your MC-Balance,
enter the communication address of your MC-Balance. Acknowledge the setting by
pressing [E]. By default the address is set to 01.

12. Fast calibration screen: In most circumstances you should answer this question with [No].
Only in certain rare cases when working in injection molding mode where output is
extremely low it should be answered with [YES]. If answered with [YES] an extra function
will be activated in the production menu.
This function will enable the user to perform a fast offline calibration. See Paragraph 5.8 for
detailed information about this function.
13. Switch main power off and on again to make the service menu unavailable to unauthorized
personnel.

10

5.3 Calibration Procedure

Always perform a calibration after the machine is installed. To make the calibration menu
available, keep [MENU] pressed while switching the main power on. For an accurate calibration
make sure that the MC-Balance is powered on for at least 15 minutes and that the system is stable
during calibration. Perform the calibration with an empty hopper, the motor and lid in place.
1. Press [MENU] until calibration menu appears.
2. Press [>>] to enter the menu.
3. The current weight is being displayed. Press [>>].
4. Press [YES] to start calibration.
5. After approximately 60 seconds the Start mass is fetched.
6. Place the Movacolor reference weight of 500 grams on top of the hopper. Press [YES] to
start the second part of the calibration procedure.
7. After approximately 120 seconds the Calibration will be completed. Remove the reference
weight from the hopper.
8. Your MC Balance is calibrated. Press [YES] to continue.
9. Switch main power off and on again to make the calibration menu unavailable to
unauthorized personnel.
You can check the unit for proper calibration with the weight check function.(see chapter 5.4)
NOTE. Movacolor advises to recalibrate the unit once every 6 months to maintain proper
operation.

11

5.4 Weight Check Menu:

With the weight check function you can check the correct function of the MC-Balance weighing
system. It also gives you the opportunity to weigh objects up to 8 kilogram. This is useful to
determine a shot weight.
1. Press [MENU] until the weight check menu appears.
2. Press [>>] to enter the menu.
3. Acknowledge that you want to weigh an object by pressing [YES].
Please wait while the unit tare his weight.
4. Place the object on the hopper or platform and the weight will be shown on the screen.
The upper line shows the weight of the object.
The line below shows the weight of the material inside the hopper.
5. Press [MENU] to leave the weight check menu or [<<] to weigh another object.
NOTE. The reference weight result should be 500 grams 2. After removing the reference weight
the display should read 0 grams 2. If this is not the case calibration may be wrong or it indicates
some problem with the weighing platform. Refer to the troubleshooting section if needed.

5.5 Consumption Registration (optional)

The consumption menu will be visible when the ME or MV filling system is enabled in the service
menu. Without use of the optional ME or MV filling system, accurate working of the consumption
registration is not supported.
With the Consumption function it is possible view the total quantity of material dosed by the MCBalance. The consumption is saved in the memory and remains in the memory even when the unit
is shut off or unplugged.

1. Press [MENU] until the Consumption menu appears.

2. Press [>>] to enter the Consumption menu. The total quantity of dosed material is shown.
3. To reset the consumption registration to zero, press [>>] and answer the question with YES.

12

5.5 Configuration Menu:

Configuration data is normally entered once and it remains the same for subsequent operation.
Configuration data can only be changed when the motor is switched off. A warning will be
displayed when there is an attempt to change the configuration data when the motor is running.
Just press [C] to discard the warning. All data entered in the Configuration menu is saved in the
memory and remains in memory even when the unit is shut off or unplugged.
1. Press [MENU] until the Configuration Menu appears.
2. Press [>>] to enter the configuration menu.
3. Select the type of cylinder used. Press [NO] to switch between the available options. Press
[YES] to confirm the selection. Choosing the right option lets the MC-Balance reach the
desired setpoint faster. See Chapter 3 for the available cylinder options.
4. Select the type of material used. Press [NO] to switch between the available options. Press
[YES] to confirm the selection.
5. Set the type of production. Switch between Injection molding and Extrusion by pressing
[NO]. Press [YES] to confirm the selection.
6. Set the input signal mode. Switch between Relay, Timer and Tacho* by pressing [NO].
Press [YES] to confirm the selection.
If Relay is selected in the Injection Molding mode, the next screen will show the Input
signal Filter. In case the relay-time of the Injection Molding machine is fluctuating, this
function will calculate the average relay time of the entered number of shots. The calculated
average relay-time will be automatic used as metering time. The average relay-time can be
calculated of min. 3 shots and max. 50 shots. Advised is to use the (standard) factory
default of 3 shots.
7. Select the way the motor is controlled. Press [NO] to switch between RPM and Gravimetric.
The gravimetric mode allows direct entry of the additive percentage that needs to be dosed.
Calibration is not needed because the unit automatically adjusts its speed based on loss in
weight information. This is the preferred mode. The RPM mode can be used when there is
something wrong with the weighing system.
8. Press [YES] when ready to exit the configuration menu.
* Tacho
If tacho is selected the next screen will show the tacho parameters. Volt DC represents the voltage
at which the extruder has maximum output. Output represents the maximum output of the
extruder in kg/h. Set the values with the numerical keyboard and acknowledge with [E]. The
maximum voltage that can be applied to the MC-Balance is 24 volt DC. If the tacho generator has a
higher then 24 V DC voltage output at the maximum extruder output capacity, the tacho voltage
has to be reduced to 24 volt DC. See the diagram.
C-pin +
Input
connector

Resistor (Rx)

Tacho
generator
EXTRUDER

A-pin Rx (kilo-Ohm) = 3,7 x (Max. tacho output VDC 2,5) 80,6

If the extruder stops when connected to the metering unit, an isolated signal converter is needed.
Contact Movacolor for more information.
13

5.6 Production Menu:

Production data entered in the Production menu can be altered when the motor is running. All
data entered in the Production menu is saved in the memory and remains in memory even when
the unit is shut off or unplugged.
1. Press [MENU] until the Production Menu appears. This screen also shows the type of
cylinder and material used. Check if this is the correct configuration.
2. Press [>>] to enter the Production Menu.
3. Fill in all necessary production data using the numerical keyboard and press [E] to
acknowledge the data. If the unit is configured to run extrusion with tacho input you have
to fill in the additive percentage and extruder output capacity. If configured to run
extrusion with a relay input the extruder capacity and the percentage additive has to be set.
If configured to run injection molding with a relay input the shot weight and the additive
percentage has to be set. It is not neccesary to set the time in relay mode unless the Fast
calibration function is used. When timer is used, the dosing time has to be set too.
4. Switch on the motor by pressing [ON].
5. The Dosing cylinder filled? question will appear if this is the first time [ON] is pressed
after the MC-Balance system has been reset. Filling the cylinder before a production start
will make the unit adjust to the desired setpoint faster.
6. In case the system is waiting for an input signal the green LED flashes. If the LED is lighted
continuously the stepping motor is running.
7. Your MC-BALANCE is in operation now.
8. Within a few minutes, actual production data is displayed in the production menu screens.
NOTE 1. It is advised to monitor the unit the first few minutes after a start-up to check proper
operation.
NOTE 2. It is advised to switch the system [ON] when the extruder or injection molding machine
is running at the desired speed or cycle time.
NOTE 3. Changing one parameter in the production menu will cause the balance to adjust to the
changes but it will not reset totally. Changing both production parameters within 10 seconds after
each other will cause the Balance algorithm to reset. This is necessary for the system to adjust
quickly to these big changes in the settings. Switching the power off and on will also cause the
algorithm to reset. Pressing [OFF] will only cause the algorithm to pause.
NOTE 4. A Capacity deviation alarm will occur when the system is not running within
specification for some period of time. When a capacity deviation alarm occurs it can be stopped by
pressing the [Function] followed by [1]. Check the troubleshooting section for causes and possible
solutions.

14

5.7 Function Hopper empty detection

The system will give an Hopper empty alarm if there is less then 700 grams of material in the
hopper. For this system to work correctly it is necessary that calibration is done with an empty
hopper and the hopper lid in place. This system will always be active.
When a hopper empty alarm occurs it can be stopped by pressing [Function] followed by [1]. It is
not necessary to stop production. Make sure to refill the hopper to make the empty detection
active again.

5.8 Function Fast Calibration:

In some circumstances where the dosing rate is extremely low, the fast calibration option may be
useful because it allows the MC-Balance to calibrate faster and without the need of the production
machine producing products that are not within spec. The fast calibration procedure is as follows:
1. Fast calibration should be enabled in the service menu.
2. After Dosing cylinder filled? in the production menu, a fast calibration options appears.
When using fast calibration in combination with relay mode, make sure that the dosing
time has been set in the production menu.
3. Answer [YES] if you want to perform a fast calibration.
4. The Pull machine back for offline dosing. Ready? Y question will appear in the screen. It
is advisable to do the calibration offline to prevent the dosing of additive into the
production machine during calibration. Place the unit at 90 on the weighing platform and
press [YES] when ready. The unit will start calibrating towards the desired output.
5. When the calibration is ready, mount the dosing unit in the production position. And press
[YES] to continue. The unit will automatically start the production as soon as there is an
input signal.

15

5.9 Filling Systems (optional)

The balance can be used with a Movacolor MV or ME automatic filling system. The control cabinet
has to be fitted with two extra connectors to connect the filling system in order to operate the
system. Contact your local agent or Movacolor for more information about the filling systems. To
enable the filling system, select the system of choice in the service menu. A new filling system
menu will come available.
ME-system, pneumatic ejector hopper loader for dust free granules, configuration:
1. Press [MENU] until the ME Menu appears.
2. Press [>>] to enter the ME Menu.
3. Set the Fill Alarm time. Use the numerical keyboard and press [E] to acknowledge.
4. Set the Fill time. Use the numerical keyboard and press [E] to acknowledge. During this
time the ME system is transporting material.
5. The ME switched off during alarm? question appears. Press [YES] or [NO].
6. Switch the system off or on by pressing [YES] or [NO].

System set-up and connections for MC-Balance

Hose:
25x3.8mm
L=63cm

Output connector

2
1

Compressed
air outlet
Pneumatic valve

Compressed air
inlet
Hose:
6x1mm

Hose:
32x3.9mm
L=3mtr

ME coupling

25x3.8 L=25mm inserted to make

connection with ejector pipe.

Ejector pipe

Specifications
Compressed air supply: 4-8 bar [58-116 psi]

16

Air consumption: 15-25 m3/h [250-417 L/min]

Description
The ME (Movacolor Ejector) system is designed to transport dust free masterbatches, regrind and
other additives. The ME system uses an compressed air ejector to create suction and transport the
material. All Movacolor hoppers come equipped with a connection pipe to which the material
transport hose can be connected. Supplied with the ME system is a special hopper lid with a
perforated plate sieve. The sieve is necessary to let air escape from the hopper. The ME system is
NOT suitable for free flowing POWDER alike materials.
General installation instructions
Use oil-free compressed air at 4 to 8 bar.
Before starting production fill the hopper at least to 1/3 of its capacity to prevent material from
being blown through the dosing cylinder the first time the ME system starts.
With the MC-Balance (software version 2.6 and later) the hopper empty detection is based on
the hopper weight. In order for this system to work correctly the loadcell has to be calibrated
correctly and with all hardware (hoses, lid , etc.) attached to an empty hopper.
Good grounding of the parts is required to ensure proper operation.
Setting filling time and filling alarm.
Filling time
Function: When it is detected that the hopper is running empty the filling system is switched on.
The filling system will start loading when the weight in the hopper is 800 grams or less
The filling time determines the duration of filling after the level of 800 gram is reached.
This means that if the filling time is set to zero the loading system is only switched on as long as
the weight of the hopper is less than 800 grams. When the filling time is set to 10 seconds the
loading system will continue to transport material for the duration of 10 seconds after the level of
800 gram of material is reached.
Setting: The filling time setting depends on several parameters. Advised is to start with 10 seconds
and adjust the time if necessary.
Filling alarm
Function: The function of the filling alarm is to warn the operator that the hopper is not being
filled although the hopper loader system is switched on. An empty material drum or loss of air
pressure are possible causes of a filling alarm.
Setting: The filling alarm should be set 2 to 3 seconds longer than the filling time.

17

MV-system, pneumatic vacuum hopper loader for powder like materials, configuration:
4. Press [MENU] until the MV Menu appears.
5. Press [>>] to enter the MV Menu.
6. Set the Vacuum time. Use the numerical keyboard and press [E] to acknowledge.
7. Set the Empty time. Use the numerical keyboard and press [E] to acknowledge. This is
the time needed for the cyclone to empty itself.
8. Set the Alarm after nr. of cycles parameter. Use the numerical keyboard and press [E] to
acknowledge.
9. Switch the system off or on by pressing [YES] or [NO].
The Hopper loader empty alarm should be switched off by pressing [FUNCTION] followed by
[1].
Refer to the manual of the filling system for installation instructions.

18

6. SYSTEM PERFORMANCE
System performance can be characterized by the time it takes the unit to reach the desired setpoint,
the accuracy of the setpoint and the regularity of the material output.
The algorithm is self-adjusting to the conditions and because the conditions vary, it cannot be
predicted how long it will take the unit to adjust itself and reach a setpoint with certain
accuracy.
The following variables influence system performance:
1. Material properties. Easy flowing, non-sticky and non-static material that comes in the
form of small granules or powder can be dosed very accurate and regular. The accuracy
and regularity of material output drops with increased granule size. However this is only a
problem with extreme low outputs.
2. Periodical cleaning of the dosing cylinder and seals is necessary for proper operation.
3. Extreme vibrations and shocks influence system performance noticeably. Normally the
system will be able to compensate for vibrations and shocks.
4. The MC-Balance algorithm needs a certain time to weigh material loss and adjust the RPM
accordingly. This time depends largely on the setpoint and the above mentioned two
variables. The table below shows minimum times that the unit needs to come, guaranteed,
within 10% of the setpoint for different setpoints. The time mentioned is the time that
motor is running and that the unit is metering additive. The system constantly adjusts itself
to reach the best possible accuracy for current conditions. Over time it can reach an
accuracy within 1%.
Setpoint in grams per second
0,2
0,5
0,8

10% time in seconds

147
57
36

5. Under normal circumstances the unit will be more accurate than 10% after the first
adjustment of the RPM.
6. Before the unit makes its first RPM adjustment it might be running already very close to the
desired setpoint because it uses a cylinder and material reference system to determine the
first RPM setting. This accuracy however can not be guaranteed because material
properties can vary substantially from material to material.
7. With injection molding the shot to shot accuracy depends, besides the variables mentioned
so far, on the shot time. If big and heavy granules have to be dosed in a very short time this
will influence the shot accuracy and repeatability because one granule can make a
difference of a few percent to the shot weight.

19

8. An unstable relay or tacho signal has a negative effect on the accuracy, repeatability and
speed of the system because it will adjust to these parameter changes.
9. A long cycle time combined with low dosage per shot can result in a slow system.
Capacity deviation alarm!
A Capacity alarm will occur when the system is not running within specification for some period.
When a capacity deviation alarm occurs it can be stopped by pressing the [Function] followed by
[1]. Check the troubleshooting section for causes and possible solutions.

20

7. TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem : The balance does not come into specification or a capacity deviation alarm occurred.
Possible causes:
1. Check if all cables are connected correctly.
2. Check if the hopper assembly is fixed tightly to the weighing platform and that the
neckpiece is fixed tightly to the production machine.
3. Check if the dosing cylinder is tightly fixed to the motor shaft.
4. Excessive build up of material on the dosing cylinder may have impact on proper dosing.
To avoid this, be sure that the seals and dosing cylinder are clean.
5. Check if there is no tension on the cables connected to the weighing platform.
6. Use the weight check function with the reference weight to determine the correct function
of the weighing system.
7. If the weight check gives the correct result, check if the material flow into the cylinder has
been blocked.
8. Another cause may be an obstruction to the weighing system. Check if there is at least
1mm space between all the pointed screws and the loadcell frame or platform and that
there is no material or dirt blocking the movement.
9. In case of a water cooled neckpiece, check if there is material build up around the dosing
cylinder and the water cooled pipe that can obstruct the free movement of weighing
system.
10.. If none of the above seems to be the problem, recalibrate the system and try the weigh
check again.
Problem : The balance does come into specification but seems to be slow.
Possible causes:
1. Extreme vibrations and shocks to the system.
2. Extreme low setpoint. See Chapter 6 : SYSTEM PERFORMANCE.

21

Frequently asked questions

Question : The alarm is displayed on the screen but no alarm signal is given? E.g: Motor on
while trying to change configuration data.
9 Answer : Go into the Service Menu and switch Output mode to alarm.

Question : The keyboard is locked. How to unlock the keyboard?

9 Answer : Press [Function], release and press [0] to unlock the keyboard.

Question : How to make an alarm from the MC-BALANCE audible or visible?

9 Answer : Use the connector Alarm on the control cabinet to provide a signal of 24 V DC to any
device that can produce a visible or audible alarm.

Question : The Configuration menu is not displayed. How to enable the configuration menu?
9 Answer : Press [Function] release this key and then press [6] to unlock the configuration menu.

Question : How to disable the fast calibration option?

9 Answer : Change the setting in the service menu.

Question : Help!
9 Answer : For all technical questions please contact your local agent, or Movacolor.

22

APPENDIX A - Wiring Schematics

(optional)

A
B
D
E

=
=
=
=

Brown
Yellow
Green
White

Motor

Input
(Start signal)
A
C
E
F

=
=
=
=

Yellow
Green
Brown
White

B = E = +24 Volt DC

B = E = +24 Volt DC

23

Output Valve
(optional)

Alarm light
(optional)

APPENDIX B Wiring Scheme Multiple Dosing Units

INPUT Wiring Scheme:

For connection of multiple dosing units to the Tachogenerator of an

Extruder.

Unit 1:

C = Green
F = White
E = Brown

Tachogenerator
0-24 VDC !

A = Yellow
Unit 2:

C = Green
F = White
E = Brown
A = Yellow

Unit 3:

C = Green
F = White
E = Brown
A = Yellow

Unit x:

C = Green
F = White
E = Brown
A = Yellow

INPUT Wiring Scheme:

For connection of multiple dosing units to an Injection Molding Machine

or Extruder use potential free relay contacts.

24

Unit 1:

Unit 2:

Unit 3:

Unit x:

E = Brown (+24V)

E = Brown (+24V)

E = Brown (+24V)

E = Brown (+24V)

F = White ( 0V )

F = White ( 0V )

F = White ( 0V )

F = White ( 0V )
(max. 10 units)

APPENDIX C - Function of the Keys

[Yes] [No]

Yes and No

[Menu]

Switches between the several Menu modes like Production,

Configuration, Service or Filling systems.

[>>] [<<]

Next-previous screen in the current menu.

[On]

Motor running or in standby mode.

[Off]

Motor Off

[Function] + [0]

Keyboard lock, repeat for unlock

[Function] + [1]

Reset Alarm.

[Function] + [4]

Fill Dosing cylinder (10 seconds at 50 RPM)

[Function] + [6]

Production Menu only on

[Function] + [7]

Production Menu only off

[Function] + [8]

Lock Configuration menu

[Function] + [9]

Unlock Configuration menu

[C]

Correction, RESET warning on display.

[E]

Entering of data

NOTE :
[Function + key] means first press [Function], release this key and then press within one second
the other key !!

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APPENDIX D - Technical Overview

General:
Controls
Motor
Input
signal(s)
Injection molding
Extrusion
Communication
Hopper
Machine flange
Volt / frequency

Digital control via keyboard with back-lid LCD display.

Stepper-motor (brush less) max 2 A.
Potential-free contacts (relay)
24 VDC contacts (relay)
Tacho generator input V DC (extruder)
Setting of additive % and shot weight.
Automatic metering time adjustment to injection cycle.
Setting of additive % and Tacho synchronization
RS-232 and 485 port
Removable, stainless steel 6-liter
Standard type B.
110 Volt 60 Hertz 220 Volt 50 Hertz

Weighing
Loadcell
20 kg max, automatic temperature compensated, IP-63
Weighing, electronics 20 bits resolution A/D converter with full digital filtering
Optional parts:
Filling systems
Machine flanges
Extra connectors

ME for normal and micro pellets. (ejector system)

MV for powder material and micro pellets. (vacuum system)
Water cooled type(s) for PET applications
Multi-machine type(s)
Level sensor input.
Alarm output (24 VDC)
Extra output (24 VDC)

The Netherlands
www.movacolor.com

TYPE NO.
SERIAL NO.

the BALANCE
Patent nr: 1015439

26

APPENDIX E - Quality Checklist

MOVACOLOR MC-BALANCE QUALITY CHECKLIST
Date of production
Movacolor order number
Controller serial number
Motor serial number

:
:
:
:

/ 2006

Check original order with internal packing list.

Ordercode :
Cylinder check
Type G/GL/H/auger21/auger30
Check for cylinder wrench
Steppermotor check
Check motor rotation direction
Check cable and connectors
Check sealing rings (2x)
Dosing house check
Check slide valve
Check fitting of hopper clamp
Check sealing ring
Hopper check
Check sightglass
Check lid in combination with fasteners
Neckpiece check
Check sightglass
Check fitting of dosing house
Perform max capacity load cell test
Check fastening of all calibration pins and LOCKTITE them
Controller check
- Service menu configuration
Check software version:
Check language:

Check communication address: (01 =default)

Functional test
Perform calibration
Perform functional test with motor
Check weight check menu for correct display of reference weight
Check output/alarm on controller
Complete unit check
Check appropriate mains cable ..
Check Voltage Selector setting ..
Check input cable
Check appropriate users manual
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