Notes on the Concentration Measurement Range of Gas Detectors
All types of toxic and hazardous gas detectors have a fixed measurement range. Accurate readings can only be guaranteed when measurements are carried out within the rated range. Long-term operation beyond the measurement limit may cause permanent damage to the sensor.
For example, an LEL detector may suffer complete sensor burnout if accidentally operated in an environment exceeding 100% LEL. Similarly, toxic gas detectors will be damaged under prolonged exposure to high gas concentrations. Therefore, if a fixed detector triggers an over-range alarm during operation, cut off the measuring circuit immediately to protect the sensor from permanent failure.
In summary, toxic and hazardous gas detectors are powerful equipment for safeguarding industrial safety and the health of on-site personnel.
The appropriate gas detector shall be selected according to the actual working environment and required functions. Currently available options cover various combinations: fixed type / portable type, diffusion sampling / pump suction sampling, single-gas / multi-gas detection, inorganic gas / organic gas monitoring, and so on. Only by choosing the right gas detection instrument can we achieve twice the result with half the effort and eliminate potential hazards in advance.
All gas sensors have a limited service life. Generally speaking, for portable instruments, LEL sensors have the longest lifespan of approximately three years; photoionization detectors can last four years or more; electrochemical specific gas sensors have a relatively shorter service life ranging from one to two years; oxygen sensors have the shortest service life, roughly around one year.
The service life of electrochemical sensors is determined by the evaporation of internal electrolyte. Therefore, sealing them and storing in a low-temperature environment during long-term idle periods can extend their service life to a certain extent. Fixed detectors feature a relatively larger structure, so their sensors also enjoy a longer service cycle. For this reason, sensors should be inspected regularly, used within their valid period as much as possible, and replaced promptly once they fail.
