Troubleshooting

Sometimes problems arise which are easily solved with some key information and operating tips. Below are some of the questions that have been asked in the past, with some information on each one that will help you to diagnose and rectify your issues. If you can't see your issue, or if you need additional support with your equipment, please use the form at the bottom of this page to request help.

How is my Caleva equipment supported?

Caleva equipment is covered by a 12-month warranty from the date of delivery.

You can find details of what the warranty covers on our website here.

For equipment no longer under warranty please refer to Caleva’s support policy [link to support policy]

Why am I getting a Torque Overload error message on my Multi Lab Scientific (MLS) or Multi Lab Classic (MLC)?

The torque limiter function is designed to prevent damage occurring to your machine. In the event of a torque overload error, you may see the following error on the screen: "Drive fault torque overload"

Troubleshooting Tips

Are you using the latest software?

Check which software version your equipment is running and make sure the software is up-to-date. Software updates are free and quick to install. Find out the latest software version and how to check which version your machine is running.

Have you tried different processing parameters for your formulation?

Try mixing or extruding at different RPM speeds to prevent blocking, or adding liquid binder more quickly.

Are you working with a very thick or viscous chemical formulation?

It is recommended to use the Chemical Extruder Kit when working with these types of materials. Specifically designed for challenging or tough formulations, the Chemical Extruder has a grooved extrusion barrel which improves material transfer through the extruder, helping to prevent blockages.

Is the material backing up behind the die plate?

Have you considered experimenting with different die plates, to see if die hole size, shape and depth prevent the torque limiter issue? There are a range of different dies available for the Multi Lab systems.

Is the torque limiter error happening while using the mixer attachment?

Sigma blades are recommended when working with demanding, or viscous, formulations. Learn more about the Sigma mixing blades.

There is some corrosion on the front drive of my equipment

The front drive component is made of steel. It should be kept clean and dry to prevent corrosion, and it should not be exposed to corrosive materials.

If your environment is particularly corrosive then a light coating of oil or grease may be applied as a barrier. WD-40 or a grease containing MoS2 are compatible.

A small amount of surface corrosion will not affect the function of the drive shaft.

Why am I unable to reset the safety relay?

If the plastic guard is removed for cleaning you must ensure it is properly fitted and aligned when replacing it.

If the guard is not properly aligned the safety relay will not allow you to reset the equipment and you will not be able to operate the equipment.

This applies to the Multi Lab Scientific, Multi Lab Classic, and the Mixer Torque Rheometer.

Why is the Torque Limiter Tripped During the Multiple Addition Test on a Mixer Torque Rheometer 3 (MTR3)?

The torque limiter is triggered to protect the machine from damage.

In the event of the torque limiter being tripped, the machine will stop operating and you may see a ‘torque limiter’ error displayed on the screen.

Troubleshooting Tips

Is your formulation thick or viscous?

It is recommended to use the sigma blades for the mixing bowl when working with viscous formulations.

More information on the sigma mixing blades can be found here.

Why does the fines catcher on my Variable Density Extruder not fit properly?

The fines catcher fits onto the Variable Density Extruder's (VDE) Radial Screen Extruder to collect any fine, dry material which passes through the extrusion workhead. However if the VDE extruder generates extreme heat while processing materials the fines catcher may not fit securely and could detach.

Allow the equipment to cool to room temperature and you will be able to fit the fines catcher.

General Help Topics

USB Devices

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USB Network Adaptors

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Update

Caleva provide software updates for the [new dev] free of charge. Software updates enhance functionality, correct bugs and increments the CLS software application version.

For more help with software updates visit: https://www.caleva.com/software-update

Upgrade

It is possible to upgrade a Multi Lab Classic to a Multi Lab Scientific. An upgrade reconfigures the Software Access Level which controls feature availability.

It is possible to remotely implement an upgrade after sales, but some physical items may accompany some upgrades.

Upgrades run from a function within the UX (Settings and maintenance screen).

Upgrades are typically chargeable.

To enquire about upgrade for your Multi Lab Classic, please contact our sales team on sales@caleva.com and include the serial number and software version of your equipment.