User Instruction & Installation Manual: FX560 2 Kilowatt Xenon Searchlight
User Instruction & Installation Manual: FX560 2 Kilowatt Xenon Searchlight
User Instruction & Installation Manual: FX560 2 Kilowatt Xenon Searchlight
FX560
2 Kilowatt Xenon Searchlight
1 - Introduction
2 - Safety Precautions
3 - Technical Information
5 - Electrical Installation
6 - Operating Instructions
7 - Fault Finding
Thank you for specifying a product from the Francis Searchlights range. All Francis products are
designed to give complete customer satisfaction and are manufactured to the highest engineering
standards in order to ensure optimum performance and service life.
The Francis Xenon range combine features proven over many years service in the most hazardous
conditions in both marine and land installations.
In order to prolong the life and performance of your product, we recommend that you only specify
Francis Searchlights spare parts. This will also ensure that any warranties on your equipment will
not be invalidated. Information on spares ordering and parts is provided in this manual.
Should you ever need to contact Francis Searchlights Ltd. regarding your equipment, please quote
the Product Serial Number at all times.
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2 - Safety Precautions
The following instructions must be adhered to, in order to ensure a safe working environment and
the safety of the user.
Note: When unpacking or manoeuvring the searchlight into its fixing position, suitable
lifting points must be used in order to prevent damage to the equipment or personal injury.
Because of the high internal pressure within the lamp, there is a risk of explosion in either a hot
or cold state;
During operation this lamp emits intense UV radiation which is harmful to the eyes and skin.
Suitable protection should be worn;
The high luminance of the arc can cause severe damage to the eye if viewed directly.
ALWAYS wear suitable protective goggles when viewing the lamp;
Always use protective jackets supplied with the lamp;
Should it be necessary to examine the lamp with the front bezel removed, always use a
protective shield and wear goggles to ensure a safe working environment;
Searchlights get hot. Never touch the unit when lit and always allow 15 to 20 minutes for
cooling down after turning the searchlight off;
Never place anything on or cover the searchlight when in use;
Ensure the lamp has cooled sufficiently before removal;
If undue force appears necessary to remove the lamp, the equipment should be inspected by a
competent person or contact the manufacturer;
When disposing of lamps there are several options available:
Return the lamp, via the supplier, to the lamp manufacturer in its complete
packaging
Because of the cold internal pressure of the lamp is approximately 8 bar, the
lamp must first be depressurized before disposal. Place the lamp, in its
protective jacket, in a plastic bag and drop from a height of 1 to 2 metres onto
a hard surface;
XBO lamps do not contain materials which are harmful to the environment and thus are not
subject to special waste disposal regulations;
Due to the vast range of lamps available it may appear possible that more powerful lamps can
be used in the equipment than for which it was designed. Even when the unit will physically
accept a higher wattage lamp, this substitution is not recommended and is dangerous. This
action will also void any warranties on the equipment.
Always refer to the lamp manufacturers technical data when dealing with lamps.
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3 - Technical Information
This product has been designed to operate in accordance with the product specification. The
FX560 2000 watt searchlight has the following features:
In order that the searchlight operates correctly it is imperative that competent personnel are
responsible for the installation, operation and servicing of this equipment. Failure to adhere to this
advice may cause premature failure or incorrect operation of the searchlight, which may damage
the equipment or cause personal injury.
Technical information on the Xelamp Power Supply Unit and Irem Ignitor are included overleaf. For
more detailed information please contact the manufacturer.
General Description
Warning
Caution
When this appears in this text, it indicates a procedure which can result in equipment damage if not
properly accomplished.
The units are shipped with the power supply bolted to a shipping skid and enclosed in a heavy
cardboard cover held in place by banding. Physical damage to the container or its contents should
be reported to the carrier immediately.
Unpacking
Cut the banding strips and lift the cardboard cover off of the unit. Remove the four bolts holding the
power supply to the skid. Place the unit in the location selected for installation.
The power supply is convection cooled and the location selected should provide a minimum of 6”
clearance around the case. The area should have free movement of air to dissipate the heat
generated by operation of the power supply. Provide a space large enough to allow service of the
unit if required.
Caution
Do not allow anything to be placed upon the power supply case; the perforated top is for
ventilation and must not be obstructed.
Try to select a location as close to the lamphouse as practical. Many users install the power supply
adjacent to the searchlight where space is available and local codes permit.
Caution
Much future grief can be avoided by having a competent electrical contractor install and
connect this unit.
Caution
We make suggestions in this manual as to minimum wire sizes to be used. Refer to, and
conform to the codes applicable in your area.
Caution
Observe polarity of the conductors which carry the D.C. output of the power supply to the
lamphouse. Reversed polarity will immediately destroy the xenon bulb upon application of
power.
Warning
When the electrical installation is complete there are two sources of primary power within
the unit. Turn off all power when adjusting or servicing the power supply.
Warning
This unit can run warm to very hot. Allow at least 15 minutes after turning off the power for
the unit and its components to cool down before attempting any service procedures.
Holes are provided in the end section of the power supply case for conduit entries. Install conduit in
a manner which allows some movement for service if required. Refer to drawings for connection
information.
Model 8502 Primary line: (240v) #10 gauge minimum (110v) #8 gauge minimum; 30 ampere
breaker or fuse (240v) 40 ampere breaker or fuse (110v).
D.C. output: #4 gauge minimum.
Warning
The power supplies have two sources of power. Disconnect (turn off) primary power before
making adjustments or service procedures.
Output power adjustment
Warning
The power supply stores energy after primary power is switched off. Wait a minimum of two
minutes for the capacitor charge to bleed off.
Taps are provided on TB1 to alter the output of the power supply. Small current changes may be
made by moving the tap from H to M to L. Highest current is on H; the lowest is on L. Larger
current changes may be made by moving the tap from 4 to 5 to 6. Highest current is on 4; the
lowest is on 6. One input line must be on H, M or L. The second line must be on 4, 5 or 6. When
the primary line is high (120/240 VAC), tap 5 or 6 should be used. For 110/208 VAC use any tap, 4,
5 or 6. When changing taps, do not insert wire into the connector so far as to clamp on the
insulation rather than the bare wire. Be sure to tighten the connector screws.
Routine maintenance
Warning
The power supply has two sources of power. Turn off power before servicing the unit.
Warning
This unit can run warm to very hot. Allow at least 15 minutes after turning off the power for
the unit and its components to cool down before attempting any service procedures.
At 6 month intervals, clean dust out of the unit. Inspect all electrical connections. Look for
discoloration due to overheating. Be sure all components are clean and tight.
Troubleshooting
Much data can be obtained from the volt-ammeter built into the lamphouse control panel. In
addition, the following instruments will be needed to perform all trouble-shooting operations that
can be done in the field:
Portable volt-Ohm-ammeter (VOM) – must be capable of supplying current to forward bias a silicon
diode on R X 1 range. (Some digital instruments cannot; consult operator’s manual for instrument
concerned.)
Clamp-on A.C. ammeter capable of ¼ ampere or better resolution.
Xenon lamp power supplies have two stages of operation:
1) Before igniting the bulb – At this time, the voltage at the power supply output terminals
reaches “open circuit” value (110 VDC or greater).
2) After igniting the bulb – At this time, the voltage at the power supply output is determined
by the load placed on the power supply by the xenon lamp (18-30 VDC).
Power supply difficulties can be separated into one of three areas for purposes of diagnosis and
repair:
Power to the power supply is supplied from the sub-panel. The PSU power contactor, K1, will
operate when the lamphouse is switched on in the absence of primary power to K1. If there is D.C.
voltage out of the power supply as indicted on the lamphouse voltmeter you have primary power. If
there is no lamphouse voltmeter, use your VOM. If there is no DC. output voltage and K1 operates,
check the primary line with a VOM to locate the point of failure.
Loss of the open circuit voltage due to boost circuit problems will result in the following:
Ignitor will not fire in the AUTO mode.
Bulb will not light.
Disable the lamphouse ignitor by removing primary power to the ignitor. Connect your VOM to the
power supply D.C. output. Observe polarity. Turn on the power supply. If you read 110 VDC or
more, the boost circuit is operating. If the D.C. voltage is low, on the order of 50 volts, it is likely
that diodes 5 and/or 6 have failed. Current limiting resistor R1 may be open.
To test a diode it must be disconnected from the circuit in which it is used. In many failure modes,
the diode failure can be tentatively identified by discoloration of the bright surface because of
excessive heat. You will still have to disconnect the diode and make further checks to verify failure.
After disconnecting the diode, sue your VOM on the R x 1 scale. With the meter leads connected in
one direction, the reading should be zero or close to it; reversing the meter leads, the indication
should be a very high resistance. If the diodes does not exhibit these characteristics, replace it. If
you have removed a diode from its heatsink or you are installing a new diode, observe the
following instructions: Clean the area of the heaksink in which the diode is to be installed.
Warning
You must use heatsink compound. It is caustic in nature. Do not use for fingers; keep it
away from your eyes; and do not ingest. Follow instructions on the container in which the
compound is packaged.
You may obtain heatsink compound at your local electronics dealer. Apply the compound with a
wood or plastic spatula; a popsicle stick will work well. A thin layer of compound is adequate. Use
internal star washers as opposed to split washers. When tightening the diodes in the model 8502
power supply, the torque should be 90 in.lbs., 125 in.lbs. In replacing diodes, observe polarity.
Model 8502 – diodes 1-3 are 1N3291R types, diodes 2-4 are 1N3291S types.
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4 - Unpacking and Installation Instructions
The following instructions should be read and fully understood prior to installing the equipment to
ensure that the correct procedures are followed and all safety precautions are observed.
Note: If the equipment has been in storage for a considerable amount of time, it is advisable
to conduct a routine maintenance check on all parts before installation.
Safety Precautions
This equipment should not be connected to an electrical supply before being installed. Installation
procedures should be adhered to in order to ensure a safe working environment and reduce the
risk of damage or personal injury.
Mark out and drill the fixing holes through the deck. Fit the ‘O’ ring in position and bolt the
searchlight base securely. On an uneven surface it is necessary to use a suitable sealant, such as
silicone in order to ensure a weatherproofed joint. If anti-vibration mounts are to be fitted, the fixing
holes for the mounts should also be marked out and drilled. Prior to manoeuvring the searchlight
into its’ fixing position, the AV mounts should be fitted to the base. When in the desired position,
bolt the searchlight firmly down.
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5 - Electrical Installation
For safety purposes, only competent personnel should perform the electrical installation. All
equipment should be installed to current Electrical Regulations and Standards.
In order to obtain the maximum light output from the searchlight, it is essential that the full
operating voltage of the lamp fitted be applied to the lampholder contacts.
The PSU should NOT be positioned no more then 5 meters away from the Searchlight.
The following table below indicates the maximum length of cable to be used for the AC supply
cable, from the control panel to the searchlight:
4) Whenever possible cable terminations should be made below deck and with approved terminal
devices;
5) If a spare auxiliary fuse or circuit breaker is not available, one of the correct type and rating
should be fitted and connected to a positive supply. It is advisable to locate a bus bar or main
connection and avoid any direct connection to the supply:
6) For 110/220v AC products, the following colour coding system should be used for the customer
supply cable:
Brown - Live
Blue - Negative
Green/Yellow - Earth
7) For ease of use, a single pole switch, of the appropriate rating should be fitted in a convenient
location. All cable lengths should be kept to a minimum.
Installation Guidelines
Referring to wiring diagram C23114, a supply is fed to the PSU, which then provides a common
feed to all other functions and equipment.
Basic Operation
When the searchlight is switched on a supply is fed to the PSU and linked to the ignitor. Also from
the PSU, a dc output is fed to the lamp.
The ignitor ionises the gas within the lamp and this strikes the light.
Fitting instructions for the 2Kw xenon lamp
1) Unfasten the ten latches (A) on the front and rear of the searchlight;
2) Remove the front bezel (B) and rear bezel (C) assemblies;
3) Unscrew the two M6 hexagon screws (D) from the front lampholder mounting block (E) and
remove the front lampholder assembly from the mounting bracket;
4) Loosen the knurled screw on the front (F)and rear (G) lampholder assembles;
5) The lamp can now be inserted, make sure that the negative (cathode) end of the lamp is
towards the rear of the searchlight;
6) Tighten the knurled screw (G) on the rear lampholder assembly to hold the lamp in
position;
7) Fasten the front lampholder mounting block back in position, it will be necessary to pull the
front socket against its spring to fit over the lamp. When in place tighten the front knurled
screw (F);
8) Fasten the front and rear lampholder leads as wiring diagram, ensuring the connections
are secure;
The PSU should be housed below deck/in doors. Never leave the PSU exposed to weather
conditions.
The searchlight can be positioned using the elevation and base lockwheels. When in the desired
position the lockwheels must be securely fastened to prevent damage.
The beam of the searchlight can be adjusted to give a variety of beam types. By turning the focus
lockwheel positioned on the rear dome clockwise/anti-clockwise the lampholder mechanism moves
through spot to flood positions. When in the desired beam is achieved simply release the
lockwheel.
The heaters specified on this equipment are self-regulating and will shut off when they reach the
dew point temperature.
This product should not be used for any purpose other than for which it was designed. Any
modifications to the product should not be undertaken without consulting the manufacturer.
Setting to Work
Safe service in use necessitates the strict observance of the following precautions.
Any article fabricated from quartz or glass is inherently fragile and care should
therefore be taken, at all times, when handling lamps;
Eye protection must be worn when handling lamps that have been removed from their
packaging materials. The protective jacket should not be removed from the lamp for
safety reasons, as there is a remote possibility of the lamp shattering violently,
especially if it is subjected to mechanical shock or vibration;
Ensure that the power rating of the Xenon lamp to be fitted is suitable for the
lamphouse and power supply equipment (rectifier);
Always isolate the equipment from the supply before inserting a lamp;
Before inserting the lamp ensure that all contacts are clean. Contacts must be
renewed at the slightest sign of corrosion. Sanding or filing down corroded areas is not
recommended as this will only make the conducting surface between the pin and
lampholder smaller, thus causing the lamp to overheat;
The inert gas (Xenon) used in XBO lamps is under a pressure of several bar even
when the bulb is cold. FOR SAFETY REASONS THE LAMP MAY ONLY BE
INSERTED INTO THE LAMPHOUSE WITH THE PROTECTIVE JACKET FITTED;
Do not twist or bend the fused quartz bulb when fitting the lamp as mechanical
stresses MUST be avoided;
Ensure that the spring contacts firmly surround the pins on the cap of the lamp. Do not
apply unnecessary force when tightening the screws;
After inserting the lamp, ensure that there is sufficient axial play in the lampholder. The
lamp must be capable of unimpeded expansion when it warms up to operating
temperature. Mechanical forces must not be applied to the fused quartz bulb;
Electrical leads must be arranged in such a way that there is a sufficient air gap
(approximately 40mm) between them and the lamphouse, in order to prevent
flashovers from the ignition voltage. All flexible leads must have strain-relieving
clamps;
Before putting the lamp into service for the first time, check the polarity of the electrical
connections. INCORRECT POLARITY WILL CAUSE IMMEDIATE DESTRUCTION OF
THE LAMP;
Before the protective jacket is removed, suitable protection must be worn i.e face mask
and gloves with wrist protection;
Never touch the quartz bulb with bare hands, as fingerprints will make the glass cloudy
and cause a severe loss of light. This may also cause recrystallisation and thus
weaken the bulb material. Should the bulb be inadvertently touched, remove
fingerprints with methylated spirit and a clean, soft paper towel. The bulb should then
be wiped with distilled water. NOTE: ALWAYS WEAR MASK AND GLOVES DURING
CLEANING);
All packaging and the protective jacket must be retained for re-use. Whenever
removing a lamp, the protective jacket must always be used for safety reasons;
Notes:
1) XBO lamps are designed for dc operation only. The dc current may only be varied within the
limits of the current control range. An XBO lamp operates best at rated current; over the life of
the lamp, the current may be increased to its maximum value to compensate for loss of light.
The output of the lamp can be reduced by operating the lamp at minimum current but this does
not prolong the life of the lamp;
2) For safety reasons, XBO lamps should be replaced once they reach the end of their average
lamp life, and not later than 1.25 times their average lamp life. After this time there is an
increased risk of the lamp exploding;
3) The anode (positive cap marked ‘+’) must be on top when the lamp is inserted in the vertical
position. If the anode is incorrectly inserted the arc will be unstable, the bulb will blacken more
quickly and the lamp will prematurely fail;
4) The HT lead from the high voltage terminal of the ignitor, must be connected to the cathode
(negative cap marked ‘-‘). If the lamp is connected with the wrong polarity it will be irreparably
damaged after a very short time.
5) In all circumstances the lamp manufacturers data should be referred to when dealing with
lamps.
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7- Fault Finding
All fault finding must be conducted by a competent person or qualified Electrical Engineer.
Please refer to the following table for the trouble-shooting of Xenon lamps.
In the event of the xenon lamp failing to light the following steps should be taken:
1) Check that the mains supply is connected to the input of the PSU. On operating the switch, if
the lamp does not light, switch off mains supply and check all fuses;
2) On pressing remote starting switch the lamp still does not ignite, check the searchlight head.
On your command get an operator to activate the starting switch for approximately 10 seconds.
During this time listen for any noise (cracking or hissing) coming from within the barrel. If this
arcing is heard switch off the supply at the mains. Remove the rear bezel to expose the two
supply leads to the xenon lamp. Using a dry cloth wipe these leads to remove any dust,
moisture or condensation that may have formed around the inside of the barrel. Replace the
rear bezel, ensuring the latches are securely fastened, and perform the check again, listening
for the cracking. If the lamp still fails to ignite, switch off at the mains and replace the xenon
lamp in accordance with the safety procedures within this manual and the manufacturers
information.
Any further tests to be carried out with regards to lamp failure must be conducted by a
competent electrical engineer and should not be carried out in an explosive atmosphere.
3) Before a xenon lamp will ignite, the electrically insulated gas between the electrodes must be
ionised. This is done by the ignitor which produces a high frequency voltage (up to 30,000 volts
or higher). The ignitor is activated by switching the lamp on and a crackling or hissing noise
should be heard. The ignitor is housed within the rear of the searchlight barrel. This is a totally
encapsulated unit and repair is not advised. If found to be faulty a new ignitor must be fitted.
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8 - Maintenance and Servicing
In order to prolong the service life and performance of your searchlight, the following maintenance
guidelines are recommended:
Maintenance checks should be conducted before very voyage or at least every three months;
Before checking, disconnect the equipment from the supply;
Visually inspect the condition of the equipment;
Any major or minor structural damage should be rectified immediately in order to reduce
sympathetic wear;
After inspection it may be necessary to clean the inside of the searchlight. The following
procedure should be adhered to:
Remove the front bezel;
Clean the front glass inside and out using a proprietary glass cleaner or metal
polish;
Clean the reflector if required;
Check the reflector mounting gaskets. If signs of corrosion or damage are
evident, replace as necessary;
Ensure that the lampholder is free from corrosion or other damage;
Check earthing point for conductivity;
It is advisable to check all seals and gaskets for signs of degradation. Renew if necessary;
Upon completing all maintenance requirements the searchlight should be tested for full working
order ( approximately 20 minutes).
Every six months the external movement mechanism i.e. lockwheels, elevation & pan
mechanism should be lightly lubricated.
If in any doubt as to the correct servicing procedures to adopt please contact your
distributor/agent or the manufacturer who will be able to advise the best course of action for
your product.
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9 – General Assembly & Wiring Diagrams
PSU Schematic
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10 - Spare Parts List
The following spare parts can be ordered directly from the manufacturer:
In order to prolong the life and performance of your product, we recommend that you only specify
Francis Searchlights spare parts. This will ensure that any warranties on your equipment will not be
invalidated.
When ordering spare parts please contact the Sales Department at Francis Searchlights Limited.
Please quote searchlight model and serial number at all times. This will enable a fast response to
your spares’ requirements.
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