Connecting and disconnecting the air source

About this topic

Compressed air is used to move parts inside the BenchCel Microplate Handler. This topic explains how to connect the BenchCel Microplate Handler to the air source and check the connections for leaks before use.

Before you start

Make sure you have the supplied air tubing.

 

WARNING  Working with open, charged air lines can result in injury. Turn off the compressed air line when disconnecting or reconnecting devices that use compressed air. Contact your facilities department or Automation Solutions Technical Support with questions about setting up the air line.

Connecting the air source

To connect the BenchCel Microplate Handler to the air source:

1	Turn off the air at the source (house, cylinder, or pump).

2	Connect one end of the air tubing to the air source (house, cylinder, or pump), and then connect the free end of the tubing to the quick disconnect fitting at the air-input port.

To connect the tubing, push the end of the tubing into the quick disconnect fitting at the air source and on the back of the BenchCel Microplate Handler.

Figure. Air tubing connection on the back of the BenchCel Microplate Handler

 

Checking the air connections

To check the air connections:

1	With the air source turned off, gently tug the air tubing at each connection.

If you feel resistance at the connection, the tubing has been properly installed.

2	Turn on the air at the source (house, cylinder, or pump).

3	Listen near each connection for hissing sounds that might indicate a leak.

If you hear hissing sounds, turn off the air at the source, check and tighten the connections, and then turn on the air again. If the problem persists, contact your facilities department or Automation Solutions Technical Support.

Disconnecting the air source

Before moving or shipping the BenchCel Microplate Handler and before performing maintenance or cleaning, disconnect the air tubing.

 

CAUTION Do not pull the tubing out of the orange quick-disconnect fitting. Doing so can damage the fitting.

To disconnect the air tubing from the BenchCel Microplate Handler

1	Turn off the air at the source (house, cylinder, or pump).

2	Push and hold the locking collar against the fitting, and then gently pull the air tubing out.

Note: Alternatively, you can use the SMC Pneumatics tool (TG-2) to aid in this task. See the manufacturer’s documentation for use instructions. Contact your local SMC parts supplier for ordering details.

Figure. Quick-disconnect fitting (close-up view)

 

Related information

 

For more information about...	See...
Air-source requirements	Verifying laboratory requirements
How to set up the BenchCel Microplate Handler	Setup Workflow
How to operate the BenchCel Microplate Handler	Workflow for operating the BenchCel Microplate Handler