418M

1108P
Oxygen Combustion Bomb
Operating Instruction Manual
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 2
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Scope
These instructions cover the procedures to
be followed when using a Parr 1108P Oxygen
Combustion Bomb to determine caloric values
of solid or liquid combustible material in a Parr
calorimeter, or when using an 1108P bomb in a 1901
Oxygen Bomb Apparatus to prepare solid or liquid
samples for chemical analysis. The user should
study these instructions carefully in order to obtain
a complete understanding of the capabilities and
limitations of an 1108P bomb, and to be well aware
of the precautions to be observed in its operation.
Calorimeter operations and the operation of various
oxygen bomb accessories are described in separate
instruction manuals listed below, copies of which
are available upon request.
Related Instructions
No. Description
201M Limited Warranty
207M Analytical Methods for Oxygen Bombs
230M Safety in the Operation of Laboratory
and Pressure Vessels
483M Introduction to Bomb Calorimetry
Table of Contents
Scope 2
Related Instructions 2
Operating the 1108P Oxygen Bomb 3
Precautions 3
Special Alloy Construction 3
A Chlorine-Resistant Bomb 3
Other Special Purpose Bombs 3
Allowable Sample Size 3
Attaching the Cotton Thread 4
Liquids in the Bomb 4
Closing the Bomb 4
Filling the Bomb 5
Firing the Bomb 5
Recovering the Combustion Products 6
An Optional Recovery Procedure 6
Samples and Sample Holders 7
Particle Size and Moisture Content 7
Combustion Aids 7
Sample Pellets 7
Combustion Capsules 7
Foodstuffs and Cellulosic Materials 8
Coarse Samples 8
Corrosive Samples 8
Liquid Samples 8
Gelatin Capsules 9
Tape-Sealed Sample Holders 9
Heavy Oils 9
Explosives and High Energy Fuels 9
Operating Suggestions 10
Poor Combustion 10
Oxygen Charging Pressure 10
Maintenance and Safety Instructions 10
Bomb Maintenance 10
Bomb Repairs and Proof Tests 12
1108P Maintenance Checklist 13
1108P Parts Diagram Key 14
Parts for the 1108P Oxygen Bomb 15
Parts for the 2901 Ignition Unit 16
Parts for the 1825 Oxygen Filling Connection 17
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 3
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Operating the 1108P Oxygen Bomb
Precautions
Combustion with oxygen in a sealed bomb is a very
effective and reliable method for releasing all heat
energy obtainable from a sample and for preparing
hydrocarbon compounds and carbonaceous
materials for analysis, but there are certain
precautions which must always be observed when
using this equipment. In particular:
Do not overcharge the bomb with too much
sample or with a sample which might react with
explosive violence.
Do not overcharge the bomb with too much
oxygen. The initial charging pressure should not
exceed 40 atm (590 psig).
Do not re the bomb alone on an open bench
without providing a protective cooling medium.
The bomb should be completely submerged in
water during ring.
Do not re the bomb if gas bubbles are
released from any point on the bomb when it is
submerged in water.
Do not ignite a volatile sample without using
one of the sealed sample holders described on
page 9 or the tape technique.
Stand away from the bomb during and do not
handle the bomb for at least 6 minutes after
ring.
Keep the bomb in good condition at all times.
Any parts that show signs of weakness or
deterioration must be replaced promptly.
Read the maintenance and safety instructions
beginning on page 10 before starting to use the
bomb, and urge all operating personnel to re-
read these instructions often.
Screw caps and cylinders are stamped so that
each cylinder and screw cap can be identied as
a matched set. We recommend that you maintain
the match of cylinders and screw caps for your
safety and ease of use.
Special Alloy Construction
The standard 1108P Oxygen Bomb is made of a
special columbium-stabilized stainless steel selected
for its excellent resistance to the mixed nitric and
sulfuric acids generated in a bomb combustion. It is
a superior alloy which will withstand the conditions
generated in almost all fuel testing applications,
yet neither it nor any other stainless steel will
resist the corrosive atmospheres produced when
burning samples containing halogen compounds.
For these applications, Parr offers the 1108PCL
bomb described below. It should be noted that all
instructions for the 1108P bomb apply equally to the
1108PCL bomb as well.
A Chlorine-Resistant Bomb
The 1108PCL bomb is the same as the standard
1108P model, but with a head and cylinder made
of an alloy with superior corrosion resistance to
the free chlorine and halogen acids released when
burning chlorinated samples. Users who analyze
waste materials and combustible solvents are
urged to select the 1108PCL bomb instead of 1108P
for its longer service life under extreme corrosive
conditions. Bomb maintenance is also improved.
In most cases, 1108PCL bombs returned to the
factory for scheduled maintenance can be restored
to optimum nish by polishing instead of having to
rebore the cylinder to remove pits.
Other Special Purpose Bombs
Although the 1108P and 1108PCL bombs will handle
a broad range of test samples, Parr also offers other
special purpose combustion bombs, including: a
high pressure bomb for explosives, an oversize
bomb for large samples and a semi-micro bomb for
small samples. Separate operating instructions are
issued for these special bombs.
Allowable Sample Size
To stay within safe limits, the bomb should never
be charged with a sample which will release more
than 8000 calories when burned in oxygen, and
the initial oxygen pressure should never exceed
40 atmospheres (590 psig). This generally limits
the mass of the combustible charge (sample plus
benzoic acid, gelatin, ring oil or any combustion
aid) to not more than 1.1 grams. When starting
tests with new or unfamiliar materials it is always
best to use samples of less than 0.7 of a gram,
with the possibility of increasing the amount if
preliminary tests indicate no abnormal behavior.
To avoid damage to the bomb and possible injury
to the operator, it should be a standing rule in each
laboratory that the bomb must never be charged
with more than 1.5 grams of combustible material.
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 4
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Attaching the Cotton Thread
A cotton thread (845DD2) is used as an auxiliary
fuse to ignite the sample. Ten centimeters of thread
is recommended for this auxiliary thread which is
looped over the heating wire, doubled on itself,
twisted to form a single strand and fed into the
sample cup to lay on the sample.
When contact is made through the heating wire,
the thread will ignite, drop into the sample cup and
ignite the sample.
Liquids in the Bomb
Most bomb combustion procedures call for a small
amount of liquid to be placed in the bottom of the
bomb as a sequestering agent and absorbent. If
the amount and type of liquid are not otherwise
specied, add 1.0 mL of distilled or deionized water
from a pipet.
Closing the Bomb
Care must be taken not to disturb the sample when
moving the bomb head from the support stand
to the bomb cylinder. Check the sealing ring to
be sure that it is in good condition and moisten it
with a bit of water so that it will slide freely into the
cylinder; then slide the head into the cylinder and
push it down as far as it will go. For easy insertion,
push the head straight down without twisting
and leave the gas release valve open during this
operation. Set the screw cap on the cylinder and
turn it down rmly by hand to a solid stop. When
properly closed, no threads on the cylinder should
be exposed. If the screw cap tends to bind to the
cylinder at this point, indicating that it might be
difcult to open the bomb after it has been red,
turn the screw cap back slightly but only a few
degrees enough to release the binding, since the
bottom thread must remain fully engaged. It is not
necessary to use a wrench or spanner on the screw
cap. Hand tightening should be sufcient to secure
a tight seal.
A38A Bomb Head Support Stand
Set the bomb head on the A38A support stand
when attaching the fuse and arranging the sample.
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 5
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels

1825 Oxygen Filling Connection
Filling the Bomb
The instructions below describe a manual system
using the 1825 Oxygen Filling Connection furnished
with other Parr apparatus.
Oxygen for the bomb can be drawn from a standard
commercial oxygen tank. Unscrew the protective
cap from the tank and inspect the threads on the
valve outlet to be sure they are clean and in good
condition. Place the ball end of the connection into
the outlet socket and draw up the union nut tightly
with a wrench, keeping the 0-55 atm gage in an
upright position.
The pressure connection to the bomb is made with
a slip connector on the oxygen hose which slides
over the gas inlet tting on the bomb head. Slide
the connector onto the inlet valve body and push it
down as far as it will go. If it does not slide easily,
a drop of water spread around the inlet valve will
lubricate the sealing rings.
Close the outlet valve on the bomb head; then
open or crack the oxygen tank valve not more
than one-quarter turn. Open the lling connection
control valve slowly and watch the gage as the
bomb pressure rises to the desired lling pressure
(usually 30 atm., but never more than 40 atm.); then
close the control valve. The bomb inlet check valve
will close automatically when the oxygen supply
is shut off, leaving the bomb lled to the highest
pressure indicated on the 0-55 atm. Gage. Release
the residual pressure in the lling hose by pushing
downward on the lever attached to the relief valve.
The gage should now return to zero. If the pressure
drops slowly and a large amount of gas escapes
when the pressure relief valve is opened, the check
valve in the bomb head is not operating properly.
This trouble will have to be corrected before the
bomb can be used. If too much oxygen should
accidentally be introduced into the bomb, DO NOT
proceed with the combustion. Detach the lling
connection; exhaust the bomb; remove the head
and reweigh the sample before repeating the lling
operation.
2901 Ignition Unit

Firing the Bomb
The electric current for ring the bomb should be
drawn from a Parr 2901EB Ignition Unit connected
to an 115V 50/60Hz grounded electrical outlet. (For
230V 50/60Hz use a 2901EE Ignition Unit). Connect
one of the lead wires from the calorimeter to the
10 cm binding post on the ignition unit and the 2nd
wire to the middle or common terminal.
When using the bomb in a calorimeter, insert the
421A lifting handle into the two holes in the side of
the screw cap and lower the bomb partially into the
calorimeter water bucket. Press the banana plugs
on the two ignition wires rmly into the terminal
sockets on the bomb head before the head is
completely immersed in the water. After connecting
the wires, lower the bomb into the bucket with its
feet spanning the circular boss in the bottom of the
bucket. Remove the lifting handle and shake off any
drops of water back into the bucket. Be careful not to
remove any water from the bucket with the ngers.
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 6
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
When using the bomb alone for analytical purposes
it should be connected to the ignition unit as
described above and held submerged in an A387A
or similar water bath during ring.
In all operations, check the bomb for leaks before
ring. If any gas leakage is indicated, no matter
how slight, DO NOT FIRE THE BOMB. Instead
remove it from the water bath; release the pressure
and eliminate the leak before proceeding with
combustion test. If no leakage is indicated, then
stand back and press the ring button on the
ignition unit to re the charge.
Caution:
Do not have the head, hands or any parts of the
body directly over the bomb during the ring
period and do not go near the bomb for at least
20 seconds after the ring.
Fire the charge by pressing the ring button on the
ignition unit, keeping the circuit closed for about 2
seconds. The indicator light will come on when the
button is depressed and will remain on while the
button is depressed.

If the indicator light does not come on when the
ring button is pressed there is either a fault in the
2901 or an open circuit in the system. Check for
voltage between the 10 cm and common terminals
of the 2901. Approximately 23 VAC should be
measured. If there is no voltage present, check the
fuse inside the 2901. An open circuit can usually
be located with an ohmmeter. Flex the lead wires
during any continuity check as the wires may be
broken and making only intermittent contact. If the
red indicator light glows during ignition but the
bomb fuse does not burn, check the system for a
voltage leak to ground, most likely in the insulated
electrode on the bomb head. Check the electrode
using the high impedance scale on an ohmmeter
and replace the electrode insulator and seal if
leakage is indicated.
Recovering the Combustion Products
Let the bomb stand in the calorimeter or water bath
for at least 3 minutes, then lift it out of the water
and wipe with a clean towel. Open the valve knob
slightly to release all residual gas pressure before
attempting to remove the screw cap. Gas release
should proceed slowly over a period of not less than
one minute to avoid entrainment losses. After all
pressure has been released, unscrew the cap; lift the
head out of the cylinder and place it on the support
stand. Do not twist the head during removal. Pull it
straight out to avoid sticking. Examine the interior of
the bomb for soot or other evidence of incomplete
combustion. If such is found the test will have to be
discarded. Wash all interior surfaces of the bomb
and the combustion capsule with a jet of distilled
water and collect the washings. If any precipitate
or residue is present, remove it with a rubber
policeman. Do not lter the washings as this might
remove valuable constituents. Titrate the washings
and measure the unburned fuse wire as required for
caloric tests, then analyze the washings for sulfur
and other elements, if required.
An Optional Recovery Procedure
If desired, a luer tting, 518A, can be attached to the
bomb to provide a means for washing the bomb
and recovering the combustion products with a
syringe without opening the bomb and removing
the bomb head. To use this procedure, remove the
standard A420A valve needle and replace it with
an A420A2 needle to which a syringe, 244C, can be
attached.
To recover the combustion products via a luer
tting, let the bomb stand in a cooling bath for at
least 3 minutes after ring to allow for complete
condensation of all residual vapor. Then remove the
bomb from the water and attach only the barrel of a
244C syringe to the luer tting. Open the valve and
release the pressure at a slow rate, using at least
a full minute to bring the bomb pressure back to
atmospheric. The attached syringe barrel will help to
retain any condensate spray that might be carried
out of the valve during the exhaust period.
Add 30 mL of distilled water to the attached syringe
barrel and use the syringe plunge to force the water
into the bomb, then close the valve while holding
the plunger down. This will develop sufcient
pressure within the bomb to seat the inlet check
valve and provide enough positive pressure to
help remove the washings. Agitate and rotate
the bomb in a horizontal position to wet all inner
surfaces, then turn the bomb upside down over
a 600 mL beaker and open the valve to discharge
the washings into the beaker. Tilt the bomb slightly
toward the valve to get as much of the water out as
possible. Repeat this back-ushing procedure two
times, collecting a total of 90 to 100 mL of washings,
then open the bomb and recover any liquid that
may remain in the cylinder. The three complete back
ush and rinse cycles should recover better than 99
percent of the combustion products.
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 7
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Samples and Sample Holders
Particle Size and Moisture Content
Solid samples burn best in an oxygen bomb when
reduced to 60-mesh, or smaller, and compressed
into a pellet with a Parr Pellet Press. Particle size
is important because it inuences the reaction
rate. Large particles may not burn completely and
small particles are easily swept out of the capsule
by turbulent gases during the rapid combustion.
Compression into a pellet is recommended since a
pellet burns less vigorously than a loose sample,
resulting in fewer incomplete combustions.
Materials such as coal burn well in the as-received
or air-dry condition, but do not burn bone-dry
samples. A certain amount of moisture is desirable
in order to control the burning rate. Very dry
samples may burn so rapidly that a ame might
reach the seals or the soft valve seat in the bomb
head, igniting these parts and possibly causing
a serious burn-out through the head. Moisture
contents up to 20% can be tolerated in many cases,
but the optimum moisture is best determined
by trial combustions. If moisture is to be added,
drop water directly into a loose sample or onto
a pellet after the sample has been weighed; then
let the sample stand for awhile to obtain uniform
distribution.
Combustion Aids
Some samples may be difcult to ignite, or they
may burn so slowly that the particles become
chilled below the ignition point before complete
combustion is obtained. In such cases benzoic
acid, white oil or any other combustible material
of known purity can be mixed with the sample.
Ethylene glycol, butyl alcohol or decalin may also
be used for this purpose. It must be remembered,
however, that a combustion aid adds to the total
energy released in the bomb and the amount of
sample may have to be reduced to compensate
for the added charge. If benzoic acid is added as a
combustion aid, it must be added in a pellet form, .2
gm pellets. Never combust benzoic acid in powder
form.
2811 Pellet Press
Sample Pellets
One of the most useful techniques for handling
powdered samples is to compress the material into
a tablet or pellet before it is weighed. Pellets are
easier to handle than loose samples and they burn
slower in the bomb, thereby reducing the chances
for incomplete combustion. The Parr pellet press
offers a convenient means for preparing samples
in this manner. Pellets produced in this press are
ejected into a stainless steel receiver from which
they can be lifted and handled easily with a pair of
forceps. Most pellets for use in the 1108P Oxygen
Bomb are made in a one-half inch diameter size,
but smaller diameters can be produced in the same
press using interchangeable punch and die sets.
Complete pellet making instructions are furnished
with each press.
Combustion Capsules
Non-volatile samples to be tested in Parr oxygen
bombs are weighed and burned in shallow capsules
measuring approximately 1 diameter and 7/16
deep. These are available in stainless steel, fused
silica and platinum alloyed with a 3-1/2% rhodium.
Stainless steel capsules are suitable for all tests
except those in which a non-metallic (fused silica)
holder is desired or where the superior corrosion
resistance of a Pt-Rh cup is required. Fused silica
capsules should be used for samples containing
dissolved metals which can ignite a stainless steel
capsule and cause serious bomb damage.
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 8
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Stainless steel capsules will soon acquire a dull
grey nish after repeated use in an oxygen bomb
due to the formation of a hard, protective oxide
lm. This dull nish not only protects the capsule
but it also promotes combustion and makes it
easier to burn the last traces of the sample. It is
recommended, therefore, that capsules be heated
in a mufe furnace at 500C for 24 hours to develop
this protective coating uniformly on all surfaces.
This treatment should be performed after a capsule
has been polished with an abrasive to remove any
ash or other surface deposits. Heating in a mufe
is also a good way to destroy any trace of carbon
or combustible matter which might remain in the
capsule from a previous test. After heating, place the
capsules in a clean container and handle them only
with forceps when they are removed to be weighed
on an analytical balance.
Capsules should be monitored for wear. Do not use
the capsule if the wall or base thickness is less than
0.025.
Foodstuffs and Cellulosic Materials
Fibrous and uffy materials such as vegetable
bers may have to be packed into the combustion
capsule and moistened to slow the burning rate, but
foodstuffs and cellulosic samples generally burn
with little difculty. Partial drying may be necessary
if the moisture content is too high to obtain ignition.
But if the sample is heat sensitive and cannot be
dried, a water soluble combustion aid such as
ethylene glycol can be added to promote ignition.
Coarse Samples
In most cases it may be necessary to burn coarse
samples without size reduction since grinding or
drying may introduce unwanted changes. There
is no objection to this if the coarse sample will
ignite and burn completely. Whole wheat grains
and coarse charcoal chunks are typical of materials
which will burn satisfactorily without grinding and
with no additives or special procedure.

Corrosive Samples
Although the Parr bomb is made of corrosion
resistant alloys, repeated use with high sulfur
samples or with samples containing over 20
mg of chlorine may corrode the metal surfaces
and produce a dull lm on the inner walls of the
bomb. Materials containing appreciable amounts
of caustic; such as dried black liquor from a pulp
mill, may also damage the bomb, with the caustic
attacking the alloy capsule and causing the metal
capsule and the bomb electrodes to ignite and burn.
These corrosive attacks on the bomb can be reduced
by using smaller samples and by increasing the
amount of liquid placed in the bottom of the bomb.
If a corrosive lm develops on the bomb surfaces
it should be removed by proper polishing before it
grows to a point where deep pitting occurs.
Liquid Samples
Non-volatile samples are treated in the same
manner as solid materials. Oils and other liquids
which are not volatile at room temperature can be
weighed directly into open combustion capsules.
The cotton thread should be positioned just slightly
above the surface of the sample or just touching the
surface.
43A6 Combustion Capsule with
Adhesive Tape Seal
3601 Gelatin Capsules
43AS Combustion Capsules
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 9
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Gelatin Capsules
Volatile liquid samples to be burned in an oxygen
bomb can be handled conveniently in Parr 3601
Gelatin Capsules. These 0.9 mL capsules consist of
two cups which telescope together with a friction
t adequate to retain most liquids. Corrections
must be made for the heat of combustion of gelatin
(approximately. 4600 cal/g) if the capsules are
used for calorimetry, and for the sulfur content
of the gelatin (approximately. 0.35%) if used for
sulfur determinations. Blank tests must be run to
determine the exact amounts. Gelatin capsules
should always be stored in sealed bottles and
handled with due regard for their hygroscopic
nature.
The blank tests should be repeated at frequent
intervals since values determined on a weight basis
will change if there are variations in the moisture
content of the gelatin.
Tape-Sealed Sample Holders
Volatile samples can be handled in a standard 43AS
combustion capsule with a at top rim, or in a 43A6
platinum capsule with a spun rim by covering the
top of the capsule with a disc of adhesive plastic
tape. To seal a capsule; stretch a piece of tape across
the top and press it rmly against the rim with a
at blade, then trim the excess with a sharp knife.
The seal obtained in this manner will be adequate
to retain most volatile samples. The tape used for
this purpose should be free of chlorine and as
low in sulfur as possible. Borden Mystic Tape
No. M-169-C, or 3M Transparent Tape No. 610 are
recommended for this purpose. Equivalent tape
can be obtained from Parr under Part No. 517A.
The weight of the tape disc must be determined
separately and a correction applied for any
elements in the tape which might interfere with the
determination. This can be done by running a blank
test with the tape alone using a sample weighing
about 1.0 gram. Tape should always be stored in a
sealed container to minimize changes in its moisture
content.
Use the following procedure when lling and
handling any of these tape-sealed sample holders;
Weigh the empty cup or capsule; then cover the top
with tape, trim with a knife and press the trimmed
edge rmly against the metal rim. Also cut and
attach a small ag to the disc; as illustrated at the
top of the page. Puncture the tape at a point below
the ag, then reweigh the empty cup with its tape
cover. Add the sample with a hypodermic syringe;
close the opening with the ag and reweigh the
lled cup. Set the cup in the loop electrode and
arrange the cotton thread so that it touches the
center of the tape disc.
Just before closing the bomb, prick the disc with
a sharp needle to make a small opening which
is needed to prevent collapse of the disc when
pressure is applied. Fill the bomb with oxygen to the
usual charging pressure, but add oxygen slowly so
that the tape will not collapse into the cup. Fire the
bomb and complete the test in the usual manner.

Low volatile samples with a high water content,
such as urine or blood, can be burned in an open
capsule by absorbing the liquid on lter paper pulp
or by adding a combustion aid, such as ethylene
glycol or by freeze drying the sample.
Heavy Oils
Oils and other liquids which are not volatile at room
temperature can be weighed directly into open
combustion capsules. The cotton thread should be
positioned just slightly above the surface of the
sample or just touching the surface.
Several precautions must be observed when testing
heavy oils because of the intense heat which they
develop. If the wall of the metal combustion capsule
is thin, or if some of the sample happens to have
been spread on the thin rim of the capsule, it is
possible that the metal may become heated to the
point where it will ignite. This condition is serious
because of the excessive heat liberated when metal
burns in oxygen. Also, the molten metal oxides may
damage the interior of the bomb. In extreme cases
the bomb electrodes may also ignite and burn with
similar results. For these reasons, be sure that any
capsule holding a heavy oil is in good condition
and not worn thin from prior usage. Also, bend the
straight electrode so that it does not project over
the cup where it will receive the full ame from
the sample. It is always desirable to tilt the capsule
slightly in the loop holder so as to direct the ame
away from both electrodes. Some operators prefer
to use a 10 to 13 mL platinum crucible for holding
heavy oil samples because the added depth in a
crucible promotes slower combustion and a milder
ame.
Explosives and High Energy Fuels
Special precautions must be observed when testing
materials which release large volumes of gas upon
ignition, or which detonate with explosive force.
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 10
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Although most slow-burning gun powders and
rocket propellants can be tested in the conventional
1108 bomb, the user must understand that this
bomb is not designed to withstand the shock
pressures produced by primers and high explosives.
It is much safer to test these materials in a Parr 1104
high pressure oxygen bomb.
Operating Suggestions
Poor Combustion
The difference in combustion characteristics
of the wide variety of materials which may be
burned in an oxygen bomb make it difcult to
give specic directions which will assure complete
combustions for all samples. However, two
fundamental conditions may be stated. First, some
part of the sample must be heated to its ignition
temperature to start the combustion and, in burning,
it must liberate sufcient heat to support its own
combustion regardless of the chilling effect of the
adjacent metal parts. Second, the combustion must
produce sufcient turbulence within the bomb to
bring oxygen into the fuel cup for burning the last
traces of the sample.
An incomplete combustion in an oxygen bomb is
nearly always due to one or more of the following
causes:
Excessively rapid admission of gas to the bomb 1.
during charging, causing part of the sample to
be blown out of the cup.

Loose or powdery condition of the sample which 2.
will permit unburned particles to be ejected
during a violent combustion.
The use of a sample containing coarse particles 3.
which will not burn readily. Coal particles which
are too large to pass a 60-mesh screen may not
burn completely.
The use of a sample pellet which has been made 4.
too hard or too soft. Either condition sometimes
causes spalling and the ejection of unburned
fragments.
The use of an ignition current too low to ignite 5.
the charge.
Insertion of the cotton thread below the surface 6.
of a loose sample. Best results are obtained by
barely touching the surface or by having the
cotton thread slightly above the sample.
The use of insufcient oxygen to burn the 7.
charge, or conversely, the use of a very high
initial gas pressure which may retard the
development of sufcient gas turbulence within
the bomb.
Insufcient space between the combustion 8.
cup and the bottom of the bomb. The bottom
of the cup should always be at least one-half
inch above the bottom of the bomb, or above
the liquid level in the bomb, to prevent thermal
quenching.
Excessive moisture or non-combustible material 9.
in the sample amounts to approximately 20
percent or more of the charge it may be difcult
to obtain complete combustion. This condition
can be remedied by adding a small amount of
benzoic acid or other combustion aid.
Oxygen Charging Pressure
Operators sometimes disagree as to the most
desirable oxygen charging pressure. As a rule, it is
best to use the lowest gas pressure that will give
complete combustion. Lower pressures permit
higher gas temperatures and greater turbulence,
both of which help to secure better combustion. The
range of charging pressures for Parr oxygen bombs
usually falls between 25 and 35 atmospheres, and it
should never exceed 40 atmospheres.
Maintenance and Safety Instructions
Bomb Maintenance
Under normal usage Parr oxygen bombs will
give long service if handled with reasonable
care. However, the user must remember that
these bombs are continually subjected to high
temperatures and pressures which apply heavy
stresses to the sealing mechanism. The mechanical
condition of the bomb must therefore be watched
carefully and any parts that show signs of weakness
or deterioration should be replaced before they fail.
Otherwise, a serious accident may occur.

Do not re the bomb if gas bubbles are observed
anywhere indicating a possible gas leak.
Disassemble the parts and install new seals
immediately. The bomb head parts which require
closest attention and most frequent replacement
are: the 230A O-ring head gasket, all the 238A
sealing rings, the 415A O-ring and the 20VB PCTFE
valve seat in the needle valve.
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 11
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
When replacing the 230A head gasket, stretch the
new O-ring and let it snap into place to be sure that
it moves freely in its groove and is not twisted.
The 20VB valve seat in the needle valve deteriorates
with use, not only in the needle area but on the
underside of the seat as well. Leakage and a
possible serious burn-out can result from a worn
or damaged seat if it is not replaced promptly. As
a basic rule, the 20VB valve seat and the two 238A
O-rings on the valve needle should be replaced after
every 500 rings or every six months, whichever
occurs rst. If the bomb is used for samples
containing chlorine, these parts should be replaced
after every 250 rings.
To replace the valve seat, unscrew the 397A
compression nut; remove the valve stem and the
old seat, and disassemble all of the parts. Drop
a new 20VB valve seat into the body and push it
down into place. Slide a 7VBCM Monel washer,
two 238A O-rings and the 378A packing cup onto
the A420A valve needle assembly with the needle
pointed upward; then adjust the parts on the needle
so that the tip of the needle is ush with-or slightly
recessed into-the bottom of the packing cup. Insert
this assembly into the 396A outlet valve body and
press it rmly against the valve seat by tightening
the 397A compression nut to 100 inch-pounds of
torque.
A Parr 475A Service Clamp offers a convenient
means for clamping the bomb head rmly in a vise
without damaging the head when replacing any of
the bomb head parts.
Keep the 397A compression nut on the valve needle
tightened rmly at all times. Frequent tightening
is important. This nut, if slightly loose, may allow a
leak to develop during the rapid pressure rise upon
ignition. This type of leak may not be detectable
before ring; but if it develops, the hot gases can
ignite the 20VB valve seat and burn through the
head.
Do not use extreme force when closing the needle
valve. A moderate but rm turn on the valve knob
should be sufcient to stop all gas ow. Excessive
needle pressure will deform and possibly close the
gas passage. If this happens, unscrew the valve
body and replace the 20VB valve seat. Accumulated
salt deposits may also clog the gas passage, making
it difcult to release pressure at the end of a run.
To avoid this, clean the passage through the valve
needle and deector nut with a small drill.
The 238A sealing ring in the insulated electrode
should be replaced with the same frequency as the
20VB valve seat. Also, keep the 411A terminal nut
tight at all times. As the 238A sealing ring ages and
hardens it becomes a partial electrical conductor,
permitting misres and producing unwanted
heating effects. Periodic replacement will eliminate
this potential problem.
The threads on the screw cap should be checked
routinely for any burns or other deformity. After
long use, the threads on the screw cap may become
worn to the point where they will no longer provide
a safe closure for the bomb, and the screw cap will
have to be replaced. The following procedure can be
used to check the extent to which the threads have
become worn:
Assemble the bomb with the head in the cylinder
and count the number of turns required to bring
the screw cap down rmly against the head. Then
open the bomb; remove the head and replace the
screw cap, but turn it down to only one-half of the
turns previously counted. This will usually be about
four turns. With the screw cap in this position, use
a dial gage to measure the vertical deection when
lifting the screw cap upward. If this measurement
exceeds 1/32 inch (0.030), the screw cap is unsafe
and should be discarded. The cylinder can then be
returned to the factory for inspection. If the threads
on the cylinder are in good condition, a new screw
cap can be custom-tted to the cylinder.
Never under any circumstances use oil on the
O-rings which seals the bomb head or on any of the
valves or ttings which handle compressed oxygen.
This precaution applies to all of the oxygen bombs
parts to the oxygen lling connection as well.
Although Parr oxygen bombs are made from alloys
which will withstand most corrosive gases, these
bombs will not resist chlorine, uorine or bromine
in the presence of moisture. If samples yielding
appreciable amounts of these elements are burned
in a Parr bomb, the interior surfaces may become
etched or corroded. In such cases the bomb should
be emptied and washed as quickly as possible after
each combustion.
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 12
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
If the interior of the bomb should become etched
as mentioned above, the resistance of the metal
to further attack can be improved by restoring the
surface to its original highly polished condition.
Bombs needing repolishing or other repair work can
be returned to the factory. A periodic overhaul and
test at the factory will help to keep any Parr oxygen
bomb in rst-class condition.
Bomb Repairs and Proof Tests
The 20VB valve seat, 230A, 415A, and the four 238A
O-rings should be replaced after every 500 rings,
or every six months, whichever occurs rst. If the
bomb is used for samples containing chlorine, these
repairs should be made after every 250 rings.
Parr oxygen bombs can be returned at any time for
repair and testing. A factory test is recommended
after every 5000 rings, or after any of the following
conditions; (a) red with an excessive charge, (b)
ignition of any internal components, (c) machined
by any source other than the factory, (d) damaged
by corrosive vapors that might have exceeded 80%
of the corrosion allowance, or (e) any changes in the
threads on the bomb cylinder and/or screw cap.
When returning a bomb to the factory, ship it to:
Parr Instrument Company
Attn: Repair Department
211- 53rd Street
Moline, Illinois 61265
A purchase order covering the repair work should be
included with the shipment or mailed to the same
address as no repairs will be started without specic
instructions. Be sure to include a return shipping
address and the name and telephone number
of the individual to be contacted if questions
arise concerning excessive repair costs or other
problems. Individual repair parts can be ordered
from any Parr dealer or direct from the factory.
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 13
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
1108P Maintenance Checklist
Refer to page 10-11 & 14-15 of the 1108P Operating Instruction Manual for assembly instructions and parts
diagram.
50 to 100 Test Maintenance
Date Date Date Date
Replace 8400DD2
Heating Wire
Clean electrodes
500 Test Maintenance
Replace the following:
Date Date Date Date
230A
415A
238A (4)
143AC
20VB
Examine and replace if worn or cracked.
143AC
401A
96AC
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 14
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
1108P Parts Diagram Key
Key Item Description
1 103A Screw Cap
2 230A O-ring 2-3/8 ID Buna-N
3 394A18
394A18CL
Bomb Head, Bare
Bomb Head for Chlorine Service
4 101A
101ACL
Bomb Cylinder
Bomb Cylinder for Chlorine Service
5 395A2 Inlet Valve Body
6 415A O-ring 7/16 ID Buna-N
7 238A (4) O-ring 3/16 ID Buna-N
8 403A Check Valve
9 411A Terminal Nut
10 143AC Insulator, Delrin
12 388A Spacer
13 SC1932SC10 Socket Head Set Screw
14 655DD Electrode Spacer
15 404A2 Deector Nut
16 1095DD Electrode
17 1095DD2 Electrode, Insulated
18 656DD Reducer Bushing
19 401A Sleeve Insulator
20 96AC Electrode Insulator
21 653DD Electrode Nut
22 906DD Capsule Holder
23 407A Valve Knob
24 398A Lock Nut
25 400A
420A
Valve Needle
Valve Needle with Knob
(Nos. 23, 24, 25)
26 397A Compression Nut
27 396A Outlet Valve Body
28 7VBCM Washer Monel
29 378A Packing Cup
30 20VB Valve Seat Kel-F
31 PA1332RD04 6-32 x 1/4 RHMS
32 840DD2 60" Ignition Wire (2.5" Per Use)
Item Complete Assemblies
AA101A Bomb Cylinder with 103A Screw Cap
AA101ACL Bomb Cylinder for Chlorine Service with 103A Screw Cap
A416A5 Bomb Head Assembly
A416A5CL Bomb Head Assembly for Chlorine Service
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 15
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Parts for the 1108P Oxygen Bomb
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 16
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Parts for the 2901 Ignition Unit
200F6
R2 ADDED 200F5; 03-25-08 PCW
APPROVED
BY
BY
SCALE
DWG NO. DATE
DRAWN
DESCRIPTION
REVISIONS
FOR
DATE
WIRING DIAGRAM, 115 VOLT
05-19-07
NTS
MAW
SIZE
C
2901EB
UNLESSOTHERWISE SPECIFIED
R1 ADDED REF[EC4321];10-26-07 DRM
VGM 05-31-07
SHEET1 OF 2
PARR INSTRUMENTCO.
211 53rd STREET
MOLINE, ILLINOIS61265
DO NOTSCALE DRAWING
TOLERANCES
IN INCHES
COMPANY.
DRAWN IN 3rd ANGLE PROJ ECTION OR BETTER
64
MACHINED SURFACES:
UNMARKED RADII .03"
ANGULAR... 1/ 2
.000 .... .003
.00 .... .010
1/ X .... 1/ 64
PROPRIETARY
NEITHERTHEDRAWING
NORINFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN
MY BECOPIED,
REPRODUCED, OR
OTHERWISEUSED
WITHOUTWRITTEN
PERMISSION FROM
PARRINSTRUMENT
R3 CHANGED 200F5 TO 200F6; 04-17-08 PCW
(3) TN1332HL
190F
2005E
34E2
SEE NOTE 2
1576E
1575E
REF
86F
2014E
(10 cm)
(COMMON)
(3) A59A2
COVER
A3299HC
(7 cm)
MOUNTTRANSFORMER
W/ (4) UP18DM04
2000E
REF
TN1632HL
1574E
1557E REF
GROUND SYMBOL
SEE NOTE 1
A1580E
CHASSIS
A3299HC
REF
A3299HC
1157E
2) TIGHTEN (3) TN1332HL NUTS TO 12 IN POUNDS OF TORQUE
ASSEMBLY VIEW REF
END OF 474E COVER
WITH PUSH ON CONNECTORS CLOSESTTO
NOTE:
1) MOUNTA1580E CIRCUITBOARD ASSEMBLY
NOTES:
W/ TERMINALS AS SHOWN
MOUNTTRANSFORMER
ASSEMBLY
IGNITION BOX
139E2
174F
ISO WARNING SYMBOL
REF
(LOAD)
12
12V
12V 115V
115V
12
11
8
7
1
2
5
6
4
3
5
4
3
1
2
2
1
6
7
7 11
11
12
10 10
9
8
9
6
8
Item Description
A1673E2 Kit Electric Parts for 2901EB/EE
1203EEE Cord 10A/220V Cont Europe Plug
1202EEE Cord 13A/220V BS Plug
2000E Transformer, 120/240 VAC 24V
XB0010 1/8ID Shrink Tubing Black
34E2 Cord w/ 115VAC Plug 18-3SJT
A3299HC Box Assembly, Ignition Unit 115V
A3299HC2 Box Assembly, Ignition Unit 230V
2005E Strain Relief Pigtail Black
2005E2 Strain Relief Pigtail Black, for 230V
139E2 Fuse Fast/Act 1.5 Amp 3AG 250V
139E6 Fuse Fast/Act 1 Amp 250V
1157E Fuse Holder, 3AG x 1/4 Tab
SA1332RP04 6-32 x 1/4 RHMS Phillips 18-8
Warning:
For continued protection against possible hazard, replace fuses with same type and rating of fuse.
w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 17
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
Parts for the 1825 Oxygen Filling Connection
Item Description
4VB3 Packing gasket
6VBBB Packing cover, brass
8VB2 Packing nut
9VB1 Union nut, brass, CGA540
20VB Valve seat, PCTFE
21VBBB Lantern ring, brass
53A Oxygen gage, 3-1/2, 0-60 atm
112VB4AK Valve needle
124VB Union nipple, brass, CGA540
A140VB Toggle relief valve
A150VB Valve knob
188A2 Filling connection body, bare
243VB Tube connector, male
438VB Elbow connector, 45, male
A476A3 Slip connector with O-rings
394HCJE O-ring for A476A3 slip connector (2 required)
HX0012TB024 Pressure tubing, 1/8 OD, Nylon, 5-ft
P a r r I n s t r u m e n t C o m p a n y 18
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
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w w w . p a r r i n s t . c o m 19
1108P Oxygen Combustion Vessels
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Revision 08/26/11