Several Issues Needing Attention When Using Gas Detectors
1. Pay attention to regular calibration and testing.
Similar to other analytical and detection instruments, toxic and hazardous gas detectors also use the relative comparison method for measurement. First, the instrument is calibrated with a zero gas and a gas of standard concentration to obtain a standard curve, which is then stored in the instrument. During measurement, the instrument compares the electrical signal generated by the concentration of the gas to be measured with that of the standard - concentration gas, and then calculates the accurate gas concentration value. Therefore, zero - calibrating the instrument at any time and regularly calibrating it are essential for ensuring the accuracy of the instrument's measurement. It should be noted that many current gas detectors can have their detection sensors replaced. However, this does not mean that a detector can be randomly paired with different detector probes. Whenever the probe is replaced, in addition to the necessary activation time for the sensor, the instrument must also be recalibrated. Additionally, it is recommended to conduct a response test on the instrument with a standard gas before using various types of instruments to ensure that the instrument can truly play a protective role.
2. Pay attention to the detection interference between different sensors.
Generally speaking, each sensor corresponds to a specific gas to be detected, but no gas detector can be completely specific. Therefore, when selecting a gas sensor, one should try to understand the detection interference of other gases on this sensor to ensure its accurate detection of the specific gas.
3. Pay attention to the lifespan of various sensors:
All kinds of gas sensors have a certain service life. Generally, in portable instruments, the LEL sensor has a relatively long lifespan, usually about three years; the photo - ionization detector can last for four years or more; the lifespan of electrochemical specific - gas sensors is relatively shorter, generally ranging from one to two years; the oxygen sensor has the shortest lifespan, approximately about one year. The lifespan of an electrochemical sensor depends on the drying up of its electrolyte. So, if it is not used for a long time, sealing it and storing it in a lower - temperature environment can extend its service life to a certain extent. Since fixed - type instruments are relatively larger in size, the sensors in them also have a longer lifespan. Therefore, sensors should be tested regularly, and they should be used within their valid periods as much as possible. Once they fail, they should be replaced immediately.
4. Pay attention to the concentration measurement range of the detection instrument:
All types of toxic and hazardous gas detectors have their fixed detection ranges. Only when the measurement is carried out within this range can the instrument measure accurately. Measuring beyond the measurement range for a long time may cause permanent damage to the sensor.
