What to Do If Your BOT-3000E Reference Tile Is Not Aligning
Quick Answer
If your BOT-3000E reference tile is not aligning with the value shown on the tile, the issue is usually caused by sensor reconditioning, sensor wear, tile contamination, surfactant preparation, or a worn validation tile. Start by reconditioning the sensor carefully, cleaning the tile with denatured alcohol, and confirming the SLS dilution is correct. If the readings still fall outside the ANSI A326.3 tolerance, the device may need to be inspected by a certified technician.
Why BOT-3000E Reference Tile Validation Matters
Accurate validation is essential for reliable slip testing. If the BOT-3000E reference tile does not align with the value shown on the tile, it means something in the testing setup, preparation, or equipment may be affecting the result.
Per ANSI A326.3, the average of two consecutive runs on the tile must be within:
- ± 0.03 for wet DCOF
- ± 0.04 for dry DCOF
These tolerances are based on the value specified under the tile. If your results fall outside that range, the unit should be troubleshooted before continuing with testing.
What It Means If Your Average Readings Are Higher Than the Tile Value
When your average readings are higher than the specified value on the reference tile, the most common cause is improper sensor reconditioning.
Recondition the sensor again
Improper sanding is one of the most frequent reasons for high readings. Follow every step of the sensor reconditioning process carefully and repeat the procedure several times if necessary. In some cases, multiple cycles are needed before the readings return to the correct range.
Use fresh sandpaper and replace it often
Always begin with new sandpaper and change it frequently during reconditioning. Worn sandpaper may not condition the sensor surface properly.
Remove sanding dust correctly
Brush away all dust exactly as instructed during the reconditioning process. Any remaining dust can interfere with accurate validation.
Check the sensor for wear
If your sensors are 2.5 mm thick, they may need to be relined or replaced. Also inspect the sensor surface for visible wear. A worn sensor can cause the BOT-3000E reference tile reading to drift out of range.
Try another sensor
If one sensor continues to produce high readings, test with a different sensor to help determine whether the issue is sensor-specific.
Confirm the wet testing setup
If you are testing wet, make sure you are using a generous amount of SLS surfactant diluted to 0.05% and that it is spread properly with the brush. Incorrect wet test preparation can affect the result.
Clean the tile thoroughly
Clean the validation tile with denatured alcohol before testing again. Surface residue can contribute to inconsistent or elevated readings.
Seek technical support if the issue continues
If none of these steps resolve the problem, the device may need to be inspected by a certified technician.
What It Means If Your Average Readings Are Lower Than the Tile Value
When your BOT-3000E average readings are lower than the value shown on the tile, the issue is often related to residue build-up, incorrect SLS dilution, or wear on the validation tile itself.
Clean the tile with denatured alcohol
Lower DCOF values are often caused by residue, especially SLS build-up on the tile surface. Thorough cleaning should be the first step.
Check the SLS dilution
Make sure your SLS solution is diluted to 0.05%. Follow the mixing instructions provided with your SLS vial purchase. A mixture that is too strong or too weak can affect the results.
Inspect the validation tile for wear
If the tile has been used heavily, it may no longer provide the correct reference value. In that case, it may need to be replaced.
Contact support if troubleshooting does not correct the reading
If cleaning the tile, confirming the SLS dilution, and checking tile wear do not solve the issue, the BOT-3000E may need service or inspection.
Most Common Causes of BOT-3000E Reference Tile Alignment Problems
If your BOT-3000E reference tile is not aligning correctly, the cause is usually one of the following:
- Improper sensor reconditioning
- Worn or damaged sensors
- Incorrect SLS dilution
- Poor surfactant distribution during wet testing
- Dust or residue left on the tile
- A worn validation tile
- A device that requires inspection by a certified technician
When to Contact Technical Support
If you have repeated the troubleshooting steps and your readings still do not meet ANSI A326.3 tolerance, it may be time to have the device inspected.
For additional support, contact:
Phone: 1-866-964-9255
Email: info@walkwaymg.com
Final Thoughts
When a BOT-3000E reference tile is not aligning, the issue is often correctable with proper reconditioning, careful cleaning, and verification of the wet testing setup. The key is to work through each step methodically before assuming the device itself is at fault.
Accurate validation is critical to dependable slip testing, so it is worth taking the time to correct the issue fully before moving forward.
FAQs
What does it mean if the BOT-3000E reference tile is not aligning?
It means the average reading from the BOT-3000E is falling outside the acceptable ANSI A326.3 tolerance compared to the value shown on the validation tile. This usually points to an issue with sensor preparation, surfactant setup, tile condition, or equipment wear.
What is the ANSI A326.3 tolerance for BOT-3000E validation?
The average of two consecutive runs must be within ± 0.03 for wet DCOF or ± 0.04 for dry DCOF of the value specified under the tile.
Why would a BOT-3000E reading be too high?
High readings are most often caused by improper sensor reconditioning, worn sensors, poor cleaning, or issues with wet test preparation.
Why would a BOT-3000E reading be too low?
Low readings are commonly caused by SLS build-up on the tile, incorrect surfactant dilution, or a worn validation tile.
How should I clean the BOT-3000E validation tile?
The tile should be cleaned thoroughly with denatured alcohol before retesting.
When should I replace the sensor or tile?
You should consider replacing the sensor if it shows wear or has reached 2.5 mm thickness. The validation tile may need replacement if it has been used heavily and no longer provides reliable reference performance.
Leave a comment