How to Ensure the Operational Stability of Multi‑Gas Detectors
For multi‑gas detectors, service life is mainly determined by their sensors. As is known, no single sensor can detect all gases and meet every requirement. Different sensors are used for different gases and working environments. They can be roughly divided into sensors for measuring toxic‑gas concentrations and sensors for detecting explosive concentrations of combustible gases.
Most sensors for toxic‑gas measurement are electrochemical sensors operating based on electrochemical principles. Their service life is largely governed by the electrolyte. After 2‑3 years, the electrolyte will be depleted and the sensor can no longer function normally. Therefore, the service life of electrochemical sensors is 2‑3 years.
Most sensors used for combustible‑gas detection are catalytic‑combustion sensors with a service life of 3‑5 years.
A multi‑gas detector is a flexibly configurable instrument for single‑gas or multi‑gas detection. It can be equipped with an oxygen sensor, a combustible‑gas sensor, plus either two optional toxic‑gas sensors, four optional toxic‑gas sensors, or a single optional gas sensor. It boasts fast response, good stability, high sensitivity, compact size, light weight and easy portability. During operation of the multi‑gas detector, users shall comply with the following requirements to guarantee stable equipment performance:
① When not in use, store the multi‑gas detector in a dry and well‑ventilated place. Keep it away from corrosive substances, which may accelerate aging and shorten the service life of the gas detector.
② Check the gas flow rate, normally set at 30 L/h. Excessively high or low flow will greatly affect analysis results.
③ Replace filter paper: stop the sampling pump and drain water from the filter canister.
④ Inspect the gas path system for air leakage. Check whether the sampling pump diaphragm is damaged, whether the sealing ring of the sampling probe is cracked, and whether the four‑way valve and condenser are defective.
⑤ Clean the sampling probe and clear blockages in sampling holes and pipelines.
⑥ Verify normal operation of the condenser; its temperature is normally adjusted to around 3 °C.
⑦ Check whether the measuring chamber is contaminated and clean it in a timely manner.
