HM330SN / VT650ST / VT170SO - device combination
Hydrogen Content & Density Index Analysis


This IDECO HM & VT device combination contains three systems that are connected to each other in a modular way ("modular principle"):

The IDECO Hydrogen-Analyser HM330SN, the VAC-Test System VT650ST and the Density Index Analysis System VT170SO. The measurement results are automatically read in and stored in a local database together with an individual sample identification via the integrated PC system; at the same time, the system also satisfies requirements for Foundry 4.0.

The Hydrogen-Analyser for determining and documenting the hydrogen content in aluminium melts works according to the principle of the first bubble. Within the framework of the process, a sample crucible in the crucible chamber is filled with approx. 80 gr. of the melt to be tested. A vacuum is then created and when the first bubble rises, the caster acknowledges this by visual inspection and the software determines the corresponding hydrogen content on the basis of the criteria: Alloy, temperature, vacuum and time.

  • All measurements are identified and documented.
  • Quick and easy determination of the melt quality by the caster in less than 30 seconds
  • The sample crucibles are reusable.
  • The thermal sensors used are characterised by long service lives, meaning that each sample costs just a few cents.
  • Measuring range >0.1 ml/100 gr and <0.50 ml/100 gr.
  • The technology is calibrated by IDECO as standard with a certificate and seal.
  • It is designed as a mobile device for flexible use in production operations.
  • The IDECO Hydrogen-Analyser is network-compatible as standard and therefore offers every possibility for integration into the in-house QA system and for further processing of the data (e.g. with the IDECO "QS-Master" software) to facilitate evaluation of the measurements in even greater detail (see also Quality Management / Software).

The IDECO VAC-Test & Density Index device is a system for simple determination of the overall pore potential of liquid aluminium alloys. In order to determine the actual pore potential, a sample is taken from the melt to be tested using a sampling ladle. After casting in two special sample crucibles, one sample solidifies at atmospheric pressure and one at 80 mbar absolute pressure.

Once the samples have cooled down, the density index is determined on the Density Index Analysis System according to Archimedes' principle. The density index represents the percentage density difference of the two samples created.

  •  Quick and easy determination of the melt quality by the caster
  •  The sample crucibles are reusable.
  •  Combining the VAC-Test System for sample preparation and the Density Index Analysis System in one device enables quick and centralised operation.
  •  Fan cooling of the sample crucibles to room temperature guarantees consistent testing success
  •  Infinitely variable working vacuum for precise vacuum setting.
  •  The scales and vacuum technologies are calibrated by IDECO as standard with a certificate and seal.
  •  It is designed as a compact and mobile device for producing "density index" samples, and is ideal for flexible use in production operations.
  •  Optional vacuum monitoring is possible

Tabular overview of the current measurements with sample identification and measurement result.

User-related identification of each measurement (e.g. "article", "customer", "batch", "furnace", "alloy", etc.) with plausibility check

Self-configurable selection or validation lists can simplify sample identification and avoid input errors.

Automatic measured value identification for frequently recurring entries, e.g. for follow-up measurements 

During the measurement process, the relevant parameters (vacuum, temperature, time) are recorded and simultaneously displayed on the monitor. 

The results of the hydrogen measurement (vacuum, temperature, duration, H2 content ccm/100 g) - together with the sample identification - are stored in a local database.

Search and filter function for all stored measurements

Hydrogen measurements can be subsequently supplemented with additional data (e.g. VAC-Test) and a comment

VAC-Test measurements can also be documented separately (without hydrogen measurement)

Printout of measurements on a local or network printer (if available)

Customised software adaptations are of course possible

Secured system ("kiosk mode"). No access to the operating system for the operator

Manual backup of measurements on USB data carrier

Further individual functionalities are possible when connected to a network, e.g.:

  •  Import of master data to facilitate or secure identification input
  •  Import of alloy-related or article-related min./max. target values for results evaluation
  •  Automatic transfer of additional data from other devices (e.g. spectral analysis)
  •  Automatic export of measurement results to a CSV file
  •  Automatic data backup to a network folder

Oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pump with vacuum compensation control

Vacuum chamber with sight glass

Heating element for warming up the vacuum chamber to assist slow cooling of the melt

Casting ladle rack included

Fanless industrial PC: Intel ATOM CPU, SSD, Windows 10 IoT LTSC

Compact keypad with wipeable dust protection membrane

15" LED monitor

Interfaces: USB, Serial D-Sub, Network RJ45

CE conformity

Tested according to DGUV provisions

Oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pump

Precision double capsule vacuum gauge 100 - 1 mbar / calibrated

Vacuum chamber with sight glass

Fan drawer for cooling the sample crucibles to room temperature

Casting ladle rack included

Container for cooling the "Density Index" samples

CE conformity

Tested according to DGUV provisions

Acrylic glass door

Simple immersion of samples via sliding system with level adjustment

Dust-proof and splash-proof

Anti-vibration mat

CE conformity

Tested according to DGUV provisions

  • Double-encapsulated PC for protection against aggressive ambient air
  • Networking with QS Master software for further documentation and analysis

  • Design Mobile combination system produced from a powder-coated steel structure and anodised aluminium cladding and racks. With industrial fixed and swivel rollers with brake
  • Dimensions approx. W: 1100 x D: 630 x H: 1480 mm
  • Weight         approx. 230 kg
  • Energy
    • 230V / 50Hz
    • 115V / 60Hz
    • 127V / 60Hz
    • and more

We provide a 24-month warranty. The prerequisite for this is annual servicing by IDECO GmbH. (12-month warranty with 3-shift operation)

  • Coated sampling ladle
  • Coated sample crucible
  • Rack or suspended support for sampling ladle
  • Crucible tongs
  • Lab beaker
  • Replacement vacuum fluid for vacuum pump
  • Operating manual