Instruction Manual

Tablet
Hardness Tester
TBH 125
Document version: 4.3
Date: 2018-01-22
Firmware version: from 1.45
Document No.: 21039
File name: TBH 125_Manual_21039_En_V4.3
Language: English
Number of pages: 36

Version table
Document
Date version* Amendment
2012 1.0
2015-02-26 2.0 AutoCal 2.0
2015-09-18 2.1 Editorial revision
2016-01-28 3.0 Firmware version increase; new Document No.
(old No.: 690-309-0001), new format (11/15)
2016-02-22 3.1 Editorial revision
2016-11-23 4.0 TBH 125P cancelled
2017-03-07 4.1 Editorial revision
2017-12-08 4.2 Editorial revision
2018-01-22 4.3 Editorial revision
* When the document version X.Y was changed, X means a technical change and Y – a document amendment only.

Copyright
The material in this document is the intellectual property of ERWEKA. Any copy or reproduction of this
document or its parts without the written permission of and reference to ERWEKA is prohibited and will
be prosecuted according to the law. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Copyright© 2017 by ERWEKA

Instruction Manual
Tablet Hardness Tester
TBH 125
Table of Contents

1 – Introduction 5
1.1 – About this instruction manual 5
1.2 – Service 5
1.3 – Hints and symbols 6
1.4 – Protection of the environment 6
9 – Calibration 22
9.1 – Diameter calibration 22
9.2 – Hardness calibration 23
9.2.1 – Static calibration 23
9.2.2 – Dynamic calibration 24

2 – Safety 7
2.1 – Safety instructions 7
2.2 – Intended use 7
3 – Overview 8
3.1 – Description 8
3.2 – Device types 8
3.3 – Type label 8
3.4 – Construction 9
3.5 – Operation elements and connections 9
3.5.1 – Keypad and display 10
3.6 – Technical data 11
10 – Control 24
10.1 – Diameter 25
10.2 – Hardness 25
10.2.1 – Control of the static hardness calibration 25
10.2.2 – Control of the dynamic hardness calibration
26
11 – Performing the Measurements 27
12 – Results 28
13 – Statistics 28

4 – Installation 12 14 – Cleaning 29
4.1 – Storage and transport conditions 12 14.1 – Instructions for cleaning 29
4.2 – Unpacking and checking 12
4.3 – Setup 12 15 – Inspection and Maintenance 29
4.3.1 – Positioning 12 15.1 – In longer standstills 29
4.3.2 – Acclimatization 12 15.2 – Spare parts 29
4.3.3 – Required installation environment 13
4.4 – Connecting and switching the device on 13 Appendix 31
Example printouts of the protocols 31
5 – Configuration 15
5.1 – The SETT menu 15
5.2 – Pause 16
5.3 – Calibration position 16
5.4 – Hardness units 16
5.5 – Diameter and thickness units 16
5.6 – Hours 16
5.7 – Minutes 16
5.8 – Day 17
5.9 – Month 17
5.10 – Year 17
5.11 – Newton Factor 17
5.12 – Language 17
5.13 – Version 17
5.14 – Date format 18
5.15 – Method 18
5.16 – Terminology 18
5.17 – Automatic determination 18
5.18 – Printer 19
5.19 – Printer language 19
5.20 – Automatic measurement 19
5.21 – Data output 19
5.22 – Hardness 20
5.23 – Diameter 20
5.24 – Thickness 20

6 – Setting the Speed 20

7 – Setting the Force 21

8 – Switching the Printer on/off 21

TBH 125 – Introduction 5

1 – Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the ERWEKA tablet hardness tester TBH 125 series!

1.1 – About this instruction manual

This instruction manual supports you in work with your ERWEKA device. It describes the device, its operation and
gives you useful tips on its handling. Furthermore, read descriptions of installation and setting as well as detailed
step-by-step work operations in the present manual. Pictures facilitate the understanding of processes described
here.

Read this manual completely before using the device and make sure you understand its content. The
instruction manual is a part of the product. Keep this manual in a safe place so that it will be available
for any questions at a later date. This is important for long-term and accurate function of the corres-
ponding device.

The editorial team of ERWEKA appreciates your feedback regarding the present manual. Just send
an e-mail to quality@erweka.com with your topic and “technical documentation” as a subject. Your
feedback will also help us to meet our own high quality requirements.

1.2 – Service

Contact ERWEKA at support@erweka.com to receive the firmware updates, order the spare parts, in case of technical
troubles or possible repairs. Please supply the following information:

• Type of the device (on the type label)

• Serial number of the device (on the type label)
• A short description of the case

21039 - 4.3
6 TBH 125 – Introduction

1.3 – Hints and symbols

WARNING indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in moderate or
minor injury.

HAZARD of electric shock! Indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not avoided, can lead
to injuries due to electric shock.

This symbol indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not avoided, can lead to the equipment
damage.

This symbol indicates information that will ensure smooth work processes.

This symbol provides you with additional useful information.

1.4 – Protection of the environment

Note that product residues must be properly disposed of in accordance with the respective valid environmental legis-
lation. According to the valid EC directives all the electrical parts (electrical scrap) must be disposed of appropriately.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Safety 7

2 – Safety
2.1 – Safety instructions

To guarantee the health and safety, read the following safety instructions before using the device.

WARNING
Wear the personal protective outfit and glasses, if necessary!

HAZARD of electric shock! Electric devices are to be plugged into safety sockets only. Use the
delivered power cable. The voltage of the existing current supply is to be compared to the indications
on the type label.
Before installation works always switch the corresponding device off and disconnect it from the rear
panel.

ERWEKA devices should be operated by qualified and trained personnel only.

Pay attention to the on-site safety instructions for work in the laboratory and with the laboratory equipment!

2.2 – Intended use

The ERWEKA hardness tester type TBH 125 should be used only for performing hardness tests (optional diameter
and thickness measurements), associated verification and quality control of tablets. The requirements for installation
environment defined by ERWEKA shall be met.

ERWEKA devices should not be used for processing:

• Products that are easily flammable or explosive

• Products that develop vapours which may create flammable or explosive mixtures in combination with air
• Products that release harmful or poisonous substances

The device should be operated and maintained only as intended and in accordance with the instructions presented
in this manual.

21039 - 4.3
8 TBH 125 – Overview

3 – Overview
3.1 – Description

The ERWEKA hardness tester type TBH 125 series is a compact device for the automatic measurement of hardness
and optionally diameter and thickness of tablets and similar dosage forms.

The hardness test of tablets plays an important role in their formulation and production. The hardness test can be
performed with the TBH 125 based on two different measurement principles (constant speed, constant force).

The device has been developed for customers who require robust design and easy handling. It is equipped with a
membrane keypad and two LED-displays. During a test run up to 100 tablets can be tested.

The tablet hardness tester can be calibrated easely using the menu.

A printout of test reports from the device is possible through a printer (option).

3.2 – Device types

Function TBH 125 TBH 125 D TBH 125 TD

Hardness test + + +

Diameter measurement - + +

Thickness measurement - - +

3.3 – Type label

The type label is placed on the rear panel of the device and looks as follows:

Typ: Device type

ERWEKA
D-63150 Heusenstamm / Germany
R
GmbH
Serial No: Serial number*
PN: Normal output in volt-ampere [VA]
IN: Nominal current in ampere [A]
Typ: Serial No: xxxxxx.xxxx U: Voltage in volt [V]
PN : VA IN : A U: V F: Hz F: Frequency in hertz [Hz]

* The last 4 digits of the serial number show the calendar week (CW) and the year of manufacture of the device, e.g. xxxxxx.3217 means that the device has
been manufactured in the 32th CW 2017.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Overview 9

3.4 – Construction

2
1

1 Measurement station
2 Control panel
3 USB connections

3.5 – Operation elements and connections

A
B

E
F C

Device front panel Device rear panel

A Mains switch D Power supply

B Measurement station E USB connections
C Collection container (optional) F Keypad with two displays

21039 - 4.3
10 TBH 125 – Overview

3.5.1 – Keypad and display

Pict: Keypad with left and right LED display

Key symbol Description/Function

Arrow keys; to scroll the menus or submenus and select the values

The Stop/Exit key; to abort or stop a test as well as exit the current menu

The Start/Enter key; to start a test and open a selected menu

All data inputs are confirmed with a beep tone.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Overview 11

3.6 – Technical data

TBH 125 series

Dimensions:
Height 160 mm
Width 310 mm
Depth 300 mm
Weight:
6 kg
Display/ keypad:
2 x 4 digit 16-segment LED display,
touch foil keypad
Measuring principle:
Load cell with strain gauge, constant speed (0.5 – 3.1 mm/s) or constant force (10 – 200 N/s)
with stepper motor, setting of automatic diameter measurement
Throughput:
1 – 100 samples per test, selectable
Hardness measurement station:
10 – 300 N (optional 10 – 500 N)
Accuracy: ± 1 N, Newton, Kilopond or Strong Cobb selectable
Diameter measurement station (optional):
2 – 28.00 mm
Accuracy: ± 0.05 mm, mm or inch selectable
Thickness measurement station (optional):
0.10 – 28.00 mm
Accuracy: ± 0.05 mm, mm or inch selectable
Power supply:
100 – 240 VAC ± 10 % / 50 – 60 Hz / 100 W
Safety:
Protection class: I / EN 61140
Protection type: IP 21 / IEC 529
Fuses:
115 V / 250 V, 2 x 3.15 A
Interfaces:
USB A for printer connection, USB B for updating via PC,
optional RS 232 for data output
Printer:
Compatible printer available upon request
Calibration:
Completely menu guided, weights (static calibration)
Optional: AutoCal 2.0 (dynamic calibration)
Documentation:
Available through printer

21039 - 4.3
12 TBH 125 – Installation

4 – Installation
4.1 – Storage and transport conditions

The device should not be exposed to punches and vibrations.

Temperature and humidity should not exceed or fall below the values defined by ERWEKA (see
4.3.3 – Required installation environment).

4.2 – Unpacking and checking

After receipt of the delivery, check the packaging and the device for transport damage.

On some packages you can see indicator labels, which change their colors in case of improper transporting. Check
these labels for discoloration.

If undue transporting or any damage is evident, take a photo of this and send it to our
ERWEKA Service immediately.

4.3 – Setup

4.3.1 – Positioning

Position the device on a horizontal, plane, stable surface, e.g. on a laboratory table, and pay attention not to displace
it during operation.

For ease-of-use and accessibility, when positioning the device ensure that there is sufficient distance
towards walls, cabinets or other fixed components of the facility.

Keep the device away from the following influences:

• Heat (heating, insolation)

• Direct draft through open windows, doors or air conditioning and ventilation systems
• Vibrations
• Dampness

The currently valid directives / standards for room air in the laboratory must be observed.

Do not position any objects onto the device.

4.3.2 – Acclimatization

If a cold device is moved to a warm environment, condensation may occur. Therefore you should allow the device to
acclimatize for approximately two hours at room temperature, leaving it unplugged.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Installation 13

4.3.3 – Required installation environment

Ambient temperature in operation: +10°C up to +30°C

Storage and transport temperature: -10°C up to +55°C
Relative humidity: 25-80% no condensation
Max. operating altitude (for balances): 3000 m above NN

4.4 – Connecting and switching the device on

Connect the device (connection on the device’s rear panel) with a safety socket. For this purpose use the delivered
power cable.

HAZARD of electric shock! Electric devices are to be plugged into safety sockets only.
The voltage of the existing power supply has to meet the requirements of the type label!

ERWEKA accepts no liability in case of wrong connection.

Defective devices are to be opened by the authorized staff only.

In case of using an external printer, connect it to the USB A interface of the device.

Switching on

For switching on set the main switch on the device rear panel to the I position (on).

After successful device initialization the splash screen is shown.

21039 - 4.3
14 TBH 125 – Installation

Zeroing

The device must be zeroed after each switching on.

The splash screen is shown. Press the Start/Enter key to start the procedure of zeroing. “ZERO” is shown.

CAUTION
Squashing! While zeroing the test jaw moves. Do not touch the test station.

To zero the device, press the Start/Enter key.

The jaw moves to the counter-jaw, takes the zero point and returns to its initial position.

After successful determination of the device’s zero point (automatic repetition of zeroing in case of error), the number
of the last measurement is displayed, see example:

This display means also that

• the device is ready for operation

• the device can be calibrated
• the device can be configured as needed

Scroll the menus using the arrow keys on the left.

Menu Function
REST Display of the test results.
STAT Display of the evaluations or statistics.
SPED Setting of the constant speed in mm/s.
FORC Setting of the constant force in N/s.
PRIN Switching the printer on/off or repeating a printout.
CALI Calibration of the hardness and diameter test stations
(depending on the device option, see calibration).
CONT Control measurements for calibration.
SETT Configuration of the device.

Switching off

For switching off set the mains switch to the 0 position (off).

More information on the configuration and test performance you will find in the following chapters of
this instruction manual.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Configuration 15

5 – Configuration
5.1 – The SETT menu

This menu guides you through the device configuration. In the menu items you can set the corresponding parameters.

To enter the SETT menu:

1. Using the left arrow keys select SETT on the ready-for-operation device.

2. Press the Start/Enter key for at least 8 seconds.

Scroll through the configuration menu with the left arrow keys.

Menu item Function

PAUS Pause
CPOS Calibration positions
UNIH Hardness units
UNID Diameter and thickness units
HOUR Hours
MINU Minutes
DAY Day
MONT Month
YEAR Year
NFCT Newton factor
LANG Language
VERS Version
DATF Date format
METH Measurement method
TERM Terminology
AUTO Automatic determination
PRIN Printer
PRLG Printer language
AUME Automatic measurement
DOUT Data output
HARD Hardness
DIAM Diameter
THIC Thickness

Read the information on each menu item below.

21039 - 4.3
16 TBH 125 – Configuration

5.2 – Pause 5.5 – Diameter and thickness units

In the PAUS menu item the time between the measu- In the UNID menu item set the measurement unit for dia-
rement cycles is set. The operator needs a certain time meter and thickness.
between the measurements to clean the test station and
restock it with a new sample. 1. Using the left arrow keys select the UNID item in the
SETT menu.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the PAUS item in the
SETT menu.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required mea-

surement unit.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required pause
time [s]. You can select millimeter (MM) or inch (INCH).

Adjustment range of pause time: 0 - 10 seconds 3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

5.6 – Hours

5.3 – Calibration position The HOUR menu item belongs to the time setting. Set
the hours here.
In the CPOS menu item the calibration position is set.
ERWEKA recommends setting 0. 1. Using the left arrow keys select the HOUR item in the
SETT menu.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the CPOS item in the
SETT menu.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required value

for hours.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required calibra-
tion position. 3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

5.7 – Minutes

5.4 – Hardness units The MINU menu item belongs to the time setting. Set the
minutes here.
In the UNIH menu item set the measurement unit for
hardness. 1. Using the left arrow keys select the MINU item in the
SETT menu.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the UNIH item in the
SETT menu.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required value

for minutes.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required mea-
surement unit. 3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

You can select Newton (N), Strong Cobb (SC) or Kilo-

pond (KP).

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Configuration 17

5.8 – Day 5.11 – Newton Factor

The DAY menu item belongs to the date setting. Set the In the NFCT menu item you can read the Newton factor,
day here. but not change it!

1. Using the left arrow keys select the DAY item in the 1. Using the left arrow keys select the NFCT item in the
SETT menu. SETT menu.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required day. 2. Press Stop/Exit to return to the SETT menu.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

The Newton factor is an internal calibra-
tion factor for the load cell and electro-
nics. This value is saved after each cali-
5.9 – Month bration in the device‘s memory.

The MONT menu item belongs to the date setting. Set

the month here.

1. Using the left arrow keys select the MONT item in the 5.12 – Language
SETT menu.
In the LANG menu item you can select German or Eng-
lish as a menu language.

1. Using the left arrow keys select the LANG item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required month.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required

5.10 – Year language (GERM or ENGL).

The YEAR menu item belongs to the date setting. Set the 3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
year here.

1. Using the left arrow keys select the YEAR item in the
SETT menu. 5.13 – Version

In the VERS menu item you can read the firmware version
number, but not change it!

1. Using the left arrow keys select the VERS item in the
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required year. SETT menu.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

2. Press Stop/Exit to return to the SETT menu.

21039 - 4.3
18 TBH 125 – Configuration
5.14 – Date format
In the DATF menu item you can select the European or
American date display format.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the DATF item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required date
format.
(EURO = Day:Month:Year = DD.MM.YYYY or
USA = Month:Day:Year =MM/DD/YYYY)
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
5.15 – Method
In the METH menu item you can set the measurement
method for hardness.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the METH item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required measu-
rement method.
(SPED = constant speed or FORC = constant force)
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
21039 - 4.3
5.16 – Terminology
In the TERM menu item you can select between calibra-
tion/control and justification/calibration. The terminology
change is shown in the corresponding device menus and
protocols.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the TERM item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required termi-
nology.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
5.17 – Automatic determination
When using the automatic determination function you do
not need to enter the nominal thickness and diameter
before the test because the device determines them au-
tomatically.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the AUTO item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to
switch this function on.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
TBH 125 – Configuration 19
5.18 – Printer
In this menu item select the printer type according to
the used printer. Select between internal (built-in) and
external (conventional, e.g. HP® LaserJet or portable,
e.g. Martell) printer. The printed protocols differ (see
Appendix).
1. Using the left arrow keys select the PRIN item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required printer
type.
(INT = internal or EXT = external)
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
5.19 – Printer language
In this menu item select the printer language according
to the used external printer. For a conventional printer
(e.g. HP® LaserJet) select PCL and for a portable printer
(e.g. Martel) select ASCII.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the PRLG item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the required printer
language.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
5.20 – Automatic measurement
In this menu item activate or deactivate the automatic
measurement for each tablet.
This function is available for devices of
TBH 125 TD type only.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the AUME item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to
activate this function.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
When activating this function the pause
in the PAUS submenu is set to 0 (see
5.2 – Pause).
5.21 – Data output
The data transfer from the device to a PC is optionally
possible. In case of this option a RS 232 interface is avai-
lable on the rear panel of the device.
In this menu item activate the RS 232 interface for data
output.
1. Using the left arrow keys select the DOUT item in the
SETT menu.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to
activate this function.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
For the data transfer the PC must be
connected with the device through the
RS 232 interface on the rear panel of the
device. If the RS 232 interface (option) is
not available on the device, deactivate
the DOUT menu item.
21039 - 4.3
20 TBH 125 – Setting the Speed

5.22 – Hardness 3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

Activate this function to enable the hardness measure-

ment. Activate the function of automatic
measurement in the AUTO sub-
1. Using the left arrow keys select the HARD item in the menu not to enter the nominal thick-
SETT menu. ness during the measurement (see
5.17 – Automatic determination).

2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to
activate this function.
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
6 – Setting the Speed
In the SPED menu set the measurement speed of the
movable jaw. The selected measurement speed is prin-
ted out in the test protocol.

Adjustment range: 0.5 - 3.1 mm/s

5.23 – Diameter
The default value is 2.3 mm/s.
Activate this function to enable the diameter measure-
ment.
Precondition for the use of this menu is
1. Using the left arrow keys select the DIAM item in the the selection of the “constant speed”
SETT menu. measurement method in the METH item
of the SETT menu (see 5.15 – Method).

1. Using the left arrow keys select SPED on the

ready-for-operation device.
2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to
activate this function.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

Activate the function of automatic

measurement in the AUTO sub-
menu not to enter the nominal dia-
meter during the measurement (see
5.17 – Automatic determination).

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required speed.

5.24 – Thickness
3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.
Activate this function to enable the thickness measure-
ment.
Comparability of the product break
1. Using the left arrow keys select the THIC item in the results is only ensured when using the
SETT menu. same settings of the speed.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to

activate this function.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Setting the Force 21

7 – Setting the Force 8 – Switching the Printer on/off

In the FORC menu set the force of the hardness mea-
surement. The selected force is printed out in the test
protocol.
Adjustment range: 10 - 200 N/s
In PRIN menu switch the connected printer for printing
the test protocols on/off.
1. Using the left arrow keys select PRIN on the
ready-for-operation device.

The default value is 20 N/s.

Precondition for the use of this menu

is the selection of the “constant force”
measurement method in the METH item
of the SETT menu (see 5.15 – Method).

1. Using the left arrow keys select FORC on the

ready-for-operation device.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the ON option to

activate the printer.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

4. Press Start/Enter to repeat the last printout during

the device operation.

2. Using the right arrow keys select the required force.

3. Confirm your selection with Start/Enter.

Comparability of the product break

results is only ensured when using the
same settings of the force.

21039 - 4.3
22 TBH 125 – Calibration

9 – Calibration
The device must be calibrated regularly. The user must
define the interval for this.
The zeroing process is being performed. At that the jaw
moves to the counter-jaw, takes the zero point and re-
In case of high or unexpected measu- turns to its initial position.
rement deviations a calibration must
be performed immediately, even if it is
outside the interval.

The CALI menu contains the DIAM and HARD items to 4. Insert the 10 mm gauge block.
calibrate the corresponding measurement stations.
5. Start the measurement with the Start/Enter key. The
If a printer is connected and the PRIN menu is activated, movable jaw moves to the gauge block and registers
on completion of a calibration cycle the calibration pro- the second calibration point.
tocol is printed out automatically. The calibration proto-
col contains nominal and actual values, current control Three different control measurements follow in
units and date. succession to test the accuracy of the measurement sta-
tion.
1. Using the left arrow keys select CALI on the
ready-for-operation device and confirm your selecti-
on with Start/Enter.

6. Insert the 5 mm gauge block.

7. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is

shown on the display.

8. Insert the 10 mm gauge block.

9. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is

2. Using the right arrow keys select the diameter (DIAM) shown on the display.
or hardness (HARD) to calibrate the corresponding
measurement station.

The calibration procedures are described in the following

sections.
10. Insert the 15 mm gauge block.

11. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is

9.1 – Diameter calibration shown on the display.

1. Select the DIAM item from the Calibration menu. 12. Press the Start/Enter key to return to the Calibration
menu.

2. Clean the movable and fixed jaws with a dusting

brush.

3. Press the Start/Enter key.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Calibration 23

9.2 – Hardness calibration

WARNING
9.2.1 – Static calibration Falling object! Insecure positioning
can lead to damages. Be careful when
The static hardness calibration is done by weighing a ca- placing the control weights so that they
libration weight (30 kg is recommended). Then control do not fall!
measurements follow.

1. Select the HARD item from the Calibration menu. 7. Carefully place the required weight (30 kg is recom-
mended).

2. Press the Start/Enter key.

8. Press Start/Enter to confirm the weight. The new
calculated Newton factor will be shown during ca.
2 seconds.

The linearity of the load cell is verified with 3 different

3. Mount the justification adapter onto the jaw. control weights now (CON1: 30 kg, CON2: 20 kg, CON3:
10 kg).

9. Place the 30 kg weight.

10. Press the Start/Enter key for the confirmation. The

current value is shown on the display.

11. Place the 20 kg weight.

4. Place the device carefully onto the side so that the 12. Press the Start/Enter key for the confirmation. The
justification adapter would be at the top. current value is shown on the display.

Ensure that there is no LAN-cable in the

port on the right side of the device.

13. Place the 10 kg weight.

5. Press the Start/Enter key. 14. Press the Start/Enter key for the confirmation. The
current value is shown on the display.

The current weight, which acts upon the load cell, is

shown (not exactly zero because of the justification 15. When the calibration is finished, remove the plate and
adapter’s weight). place the device upright again.

6. Zero the weight by pressing the left arrow key. 16. Press the Start/Enter key to return to the Calibration
menu.

21039 - 4.3
24 TBH 125 – Control

9.2.2 – Dynamic calibration

The dynamic hardness calibration is done with Erweka

AutoCal 2.0 Windows® XP.
1. Plug the Erweka AutoCal 2.0 Windows® XP USB stick
into the USB port.
2. Select the HARD item from the Calibration menu.
11. Press the Start/Enter key.
12. Wait until the third control point (nominal value 100 N)
is measured. The force measured by the load cell is
displayed from the left and the force measured by the
AutoCal – from the right.

The deviation between the force measu-

red by the load cell (device) and by the
3. Press the Start/Enter key. AutoCal can differ in the range of max.
± 1 N. Otherwise you must repeat the ca-
libration. For example:

4. Place the AutoCal control unit onto the measurement 106 N is the force measured by the load
station. cell. 106.8 N is the force measured by the
AutoCal shown 10 times more precisely.
5. Press the Start/Enter key. The deviation constitutes only 0.8 N.

6. Wait a few seconds. The force measured by the load

cell is displayed from the left and the force measured
by the AutoCal – from the right.
10 – Control
The test jaw will move and stop at the In this menu the device calibration is checked. The con-
point, when the value is approximately trol is done similar to the calibration.
reached.
For example: If you have selected 300 N, The CONT menu contains the DIAM and HARD items to
the device will be calibrated somewhere control the calibration of the measurement stations.
in between 280 to 290, the force applied
will be displayed and device will be ca-
librated on that force instead of 300 N.
1. Using the left arrow keys select CONT on the
ready-for-operation device and confirm your selecti-
on with Start/Enter.

7. Press the Start/Enter key.

8. Wait until the first control point (nominal value 300 N)

is measured. The force measured by the load cell is
displayed from the left and the force measured by the
AutoCal – from the right.

2. Using the right arrow keys select between diameter

9. Press the Start/Enter key.
10. Wait until the second control point (nominal value
200 N) is measured. The force measured by the load
cell is displayed from the left and the force measured
by the AutoCal – from the right.
(DIAM) or hardness (HARD) to control the calibration
of the corresponding measurement station.
The control procedures are described in the following
sections.

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Control 25

10.1 – Diameter 10.2 – Hardness

1. Select the DIAM item from the Control menu. 10.2.1 – Control of the static
hardness calibration

The control of the static hardness calibration is done by

weighing calibration weights.

2. Clean the movable and fixed jaws with a dusting 1. Select the HARD item from the Control menu.
brush.

3. Press the Start/Enter key.

2. Press the Start/Enter key.

3. Mount the justification adapter onto the jaw.

The zeroing process is being performed. At that the jaw
moves to the counter-jaw, takes the zero point and re-
turns to its initial position.

Three different control measurements follow in successi-

on to test the accuracy of the test station.

4. Insert the 5 mm gauge block.

5. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is

shown on the display.

4. Place the device carefully onto the side so that the

justification adapter would be at the top.

6. Insert the 10 mm gauge block. Ensure that there is no LAN-cable in the

port on the right side of the device.
7. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is
shown on the display.

The hardness calibration is verified with 3 different cont-

rol weights (CON1: 30 kg, CON2: 20 kg, CON3: 10 kg) in
succession.

8. Insert the 15 mm gauge block.

WARNING
9. Press the Start/Enter key. The measured value is Falling object! Insecure positioning
shown on the display. can lead to damages. Be careful when
placing the control weights so that they
10. Press the Start/Enter key to return to the Control do not fall!
menu.

21039 - 4.3
26 TBH 125 – Control
5. Place the 30 kg weight.
6. Press Start/Enter for the confirmation. The current
value is shown on the display.
7. Place the 20 kg weight.
8. Press Start/Enter for the confirmation. The current
value is shown on the display.
9. Place the 10 kg weight.
10. Press Start/Enter for the confirmation. The current
value is shown on the display.
11. When the control measurements are finished, remove
the plate and place the device upright again.
12. Press Start/Enter for the confirmation. The jaw re-
turns to the initial position.
10.2.2 – Control of the dynamic
hardness calibration
The control of the dynamic hardness calibration is done
with Erweka AutoCal 2.0 Windows® XP.
1. Plug the Erweka AutoCal 2.0 Windows® XP USB stick
into the USB port.
2. Select the HARD item from the Control menu.
3. Press the Start/Enter key.
4. Place the AutoCal control unit onto the measurement
station.
21039 - 4.3
The test jaw will move and stop at the
point, when the value is approximately
reached.
For example: If you have selected 300 N,
the device will be calibrated somewhere
in between 280 to 290, the force applied
will be displayed and device will be ca-
librated on that force instead of 300 N.
5. Press the Start/Enter key.
6. Wait until the force on the first control point (nominal
value 300 N) is measured. The force measured by
the load cell is displayed from the left and the force
measured by the AutoCal – from the right.
7. Press the Start/Enter key.
8. Wait until the force on the second control point (nomi-
nal value 200 N) is measured. The force measured by
the load cell is displayed from the left and the force
measured by the AutoCal – from the right.
9. Press the Start/Enter key.
10. Wait until the force on the third control point (nominal
value 100 N) is measured. The force measured by the
load cell is displayed from the left and the force mea-
sured by the AutoCal – from the right.
The deviation between the force measu-
red by the load cell (device) and by the
AutoCal can differ in the range of max.
± 1 N. Otherwise you must repeat the ca-
libration. For example:
106 N is the force measured by the load
cell. 106.8 N is the force measured by the
AutoCal shown 10 times more precisely.
The deviation constitutes only 0.8 N.
TBH 125 – Performing the Measurements 27
11 – Performing the Measurements
The NUMB menu is shown on the display of the switched on
device (see 4.4 – Connecting and switching the device on).
1. Specify the number of samples.
You can enter up to 100 samples. The number of samles
entered by you is fixed and applies to all measurements
that will be performed after this step.
2. Confirm the specified number of samples with Start/
Enter.
Step 3 for TBH 125 TD devices only
3. Specify the approximate thickness of samples. You
can enter values from 0.10 to 28.00 mm. Confirm
your entry with Start/Enter.
Step 4 for TBH 125 D and TD devices only
4. Specify the approximate diameter of samples. You
can enter values from 2.00 to 28.00 mm. Confirm
your entry with Start/Enter.
Steps 3 and 4 are omitted when the
function of automatic determination
in the Settings menu is enabled (see
5.17 – Automatic determination).
5. Press the Start/Enter key to zero the test station.
CAUTION
Danger of squashing! During the zeroing
procedure and the measurement the jaw
moves. Do not touch the test station!
6. Place a sample right against the fixed test jaw ver-
tically and as centered as possible to measure its
thickness.
7. Press the Start/Enter key. The thickness is being
measured.
The tablet thickness will not be measu-
red if this option in the Settings menu is
disabled (see 5.24 – Thickness).
8. Place a sample right against the fixed test jaw hori-
zontally as centered as possible to measure its hard-
ness and diameter.
9. Press the Start/Enter key. The hardness and diame-
ter are being measured.
The dust produced in the test process
and left on the test station can lead to
false measurements. Therefore, it should
be removed after each sample. Apply the
delivered dusting brush for this purpose.
Hardness and diameter will not be mea-
sured if these options in the Settings
menu are disabled (see 5.22 – Hardness
and 5.23 – Diameter).
The number of measurement repetitions (steps 6 - 9) de-
pends on the specified number of samples.
Start/Enter must not be pressed
after each tablet if the function
of automatic measurement in the
Settings menu is enabled (see
5.20 – Automatic measurement).
21039 - 4.3
28 TBH 125 – Results

12 – Results 13 – Statistics
In the REST menu you can view the listed measurement In the STAT menu you can view the statistic evaluations
results of the last test. of the current test.

The measurement results will be stored until the device is The statistic evaluations will be stored until the device is
switched off or a new test is performed. switched off or a new test is performed.

1. Using the left arrow keys select REST on the 1. Using the left arrow keys select STAT on the
ready-for-operation device and confirm your selection ready-for-operation device and confirm your selection
with Start/Enter. with Start/Enter.

2. Using the left arrow keys scroll the listed results. 2. Using the left arrow keys scroll the statistic values.

The table below represents the specific statistic values

for hardness, thickness and diameter of the sample.

Designation Explanation
HMIN/TMIN/DMIN Minimum value of measurement
HMAX/TMAX/DMAX Maximum value of measurement
HM M/TM M/DM M Difference between maximum
and minimum value
Values on the left side indicate the number of tablet and HAVR/TAVR/DAVR Average value
measurement parameter (H for hardness, T for thickness HSTA/TSTA/DSTA Standard deviation
and D for diameter). The measurement results are dis- HREL/TREL/DREL Relative standard deviation
played on the right side.

For example, the measurement result for 01T (thickness Interpretation of the first letters in designations:
of the first sample) is 3.93 mm.
• H = hardness (break resistance)
• T = thickness
• D = diameter

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Cleaning 29
14 – Cleaning
To guarantee the failure-free operation, it is recommended
to clean the device regularly. The device is to be cleaned
after each test. The dust must be removed thoroughly.
Read the following instructions before you begin with the
cleaning.
HAZARD of electric shock when
cleaning the electric devices! Disconnect
the mains supply for cleaning the electric
devices! Switch the device off and
unplug it for cleaning! Clean the electric
devices without liquids.
Note that product residues must be
properly disposed of in accordance with
the applicable environmental regulations.
14.1 – Instructions for cleaning
1. Disconnect the mains supply and, if available, the
printer.
2. Clean the surfaces of the measurement stations to
remove the tablet debris.
Do not use an excessively damped
cloth but slightly damped one. Do not
add any chemical cleansing agents to
the cleaning water. For the lacquered
housing parts use no cleansing agents
which attack this material.
For thorough cleaning ERWEKA recom-
mends to exhaust the surfaces or apply
a soft brush.
3. Wipe the device with a soft and slightly damped cloth.
Inaccurate measurement results.
Shaking and vibrations can displace the
measuring devices. Clean the device
carefully.
Pay attention that no particles collect in
the guide rails, grooves and chinks.
If needed, e.g. in case of serious dirtying, use a damp
cloth and blot the cleaned surface dry.
15 – Inspection and Maintenance
HAZARD of electric shock!
Installation works are to be performed
with the unplugged device only.
Ensure that the device is regularly inspected and each
time is clean.
Let the device be maintained each year or in case of
frequent operation each half year.
To ensure a long lifetime of your devices
and systems we recommend regular
maintenance performed by our speciali-
zed staff.
15.1 – In longer standstills
• Switch the device off.
• Disconnect it from the power supply.
• Disconnect all device connections.
• Dismount additional components.
• Clean the device thoroughly.
• Store the device, its components and instruction ma-
nual. See the storage conditions defined by ERWEKA
in 4.3.3 – Required installation environment.
Non-compliance with the instructions
given above can lead to damages.
15.2 – Spare parts
Electronic and mechanical replacements
are to be made by the ERWEKA
personnel or approved by ERWEKA.
Only original spare parts or components released by
ERWEKA should be used. Only repairs or changes on
the device performed by the ERWEKA technicians or
approved explicitly by ERWEKA are to be made.
21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Attachment 31

Appendix
Example printouts of the protocols

In this chapter you can find the examples of protocols printed from the device.

Calibration protocol

Check protocol

21039 - 4.3
TBH 125 – Attachment 33

Measurement protocol

In this example the measuring principle of constant speed (here: 2.3 mm/s) was used.

21039 - 4.3
Certificate of Compliance for
Konformitätserklärung für

Hardness Tester,
Type TBH 125
We, ERWEKA GmbH, declare under our sole responsibility that the product to which this declara-
tion relates is in conformity with the following EU-Directives and harmonized standards:

■ Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014 / 35 / EU

■ Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use; EN 61010-1
■ Electromagnetic Compatibility, (EMC) Directive 2014 / 30 / EU
■ Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use; EN 61326-1

Wir, die ERWEKA GmbH, erklären in alleiniger Verantwortung, dass das Produkt, auf das sich die-
se Erklärung bezieht, mit folgenden EU-Richtlinien und harmonisierten Normen übereinstimmt:

■ Niederspannungsrichtlinie 2014 / 35 / EU
■ Sicherheitsbestimmungen für elektrische Mess-, Steuer-, Regel- und Laborgeräte; EN 61010-1
■ Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit, EMV-Richtlinie 2014 / 30 / EU
■ Mess-, Steuer-, Regel- und Laborgeräte, EN 61326-1

Heusenstamm, 22.02.2016

Manfred Koller
-CTO-

ERWEKA GmbH · Ottostr. 20-22 · 63150 Heusenstamm · Germany · Tel: +49 6104 6903-0
Fax: +49 6104 6903-40 · E-mail: info@erweka.com · www.erweka.com
Managing Director & CEO: Werner G. Müller, Claudia Müller, Manfred Koller · District court Offenbach HRB 2382
ERWEKA GmbH · Germany
E-mail: info@erweka.com
www.erweka.com